Hotel Zima

We stayed there in July 2005. We were tired when we got into San Isidro, and we looked at a few places to stay, feeling pretty exhausted. Went for dinner and thought things over.

We made the right choice. Our host and hostess were really nice and friendly. Everything worked, and everything was clean. This was before the pool was added, and it was excellent even then. It was like a secluded little norteamericano motel from the 1960s.

At the time, we were told many of the guests were regulars—traveling salespeople. It is not a "tourist" motel so much as the genuine Costa Rican lifestyle and friendliness. Had a wonderful conversation with a guest on a Harley, who knew all about Costa Rican birds (my specialty)!

All the people there seemed magical. Just very, very nice. Quiet, considerate, friendly. I think our hosts were responsible for it being such a good atmosphere. Almost like something from a John Steinbeck novel. We booked in for a night, and stayed for five!

People there were into the annual car show, on at the same time, but if you're more of the bird-watching type, they were helpful in that regard too! This is a surprisingly good place for birders to stay—an unexpected treat.