Miss Junies Lodge — Hotel in Colorado

This is a review for the best guide on Tortuguero, Cloied Taylor, based at Miss Junie's. I did not stay there, but what a beautiful hotel and grounds and right next to the Sea Turtle Conservancy (STC), I'd be happy to stay here if I return. We were guided through the first national park of Costa Rica by one of the first families in Tortuguero--Cloied Taylor (WhatsApp 506.8450.4609). What a phenomenal experience. I saw my first turtle laying eggs at night (after a failed attempt elsewhere), and he provided easy to understand and comprehensive information in clear English. Cloied works hard from morning to night dedicated to the education and protection of all the local fauna and flora in Tortuguero. His father was a jaguar hunter and he helped turn him into a conservationist. I think he's a shaman. He's a very active guide finding many things and making it fun. Thoroughly loved our canoe tour and walks through the Park and beach. Don't go by motor boat--make the trip to Tortuguero and go by canoe--better for you and the environment. He met us at another hotel in town and we walked a short distance to and through the park--he was even ready in the rain (our visit in October). You can't find a better guide and I enjoyed our trips with small groups from...

The property is located exactly where you want to be. Lagoon on one side, ocean on the other, and steps from the vibrance of the village. We arrived early for check-in and were allowed to leave our bags in the lobby and served fresh, cold juice. It seemed like we had surprised them by arriving early and the young person who served us juice was the first and last pleasurable interaction with staff aside from the person who cleans the pool. We did not eat at the lodge so we cannot speak to the food. The rooms are rustic and we were grateful for the fan that had been provided. If you suspect you are going to struggle with the heat and humidity, this is not the place for you. The setting is quiet and maintained. The pool is lovely although the pool furniture was sparse and had seen far better days. Do not lose your key as they charged us to replace the door handle instead of honoring the posted rate for key replacement. They also left us waiting outside of our locked room for an hour when the whole time the door could have been opened using a credit card, then chastised us for getting their outdoor walkway wet while we waited. It was bizarre and uncomfortable for us. We would not go back, but can see why...

We just spent two nights at Miss Junie's Lodge last week. The accommodations were clean and air conditioning a welcome relief. Cloied, the son of Miss Junie, the first founding family in that area. He took us out on a few tours - night walk, kayak tour of the canals and a tour of the town. We really enjoyed learning about the animals, insects and plants of the rainforest and all about the town and it's history. Cloied has so much enthusiasm and knowledge as a guide. He did his tour for us in English and Spanish, since we are learning Spanish, and couldn't understand everything in Spanish. His sister, who runs the lodge led our turtle tour also had a lot of expertise and patience helping us get an opportunity to see a majestic 125 year old turtle laying her eggs up close. It was magical to observe that process. The pool at the lodge is also a huge plus. Clean, refreshing, big enough to actually swim and relax in. Tortuguero is a very interesting destination - not a resort, but a fascinating place to come and experience wildlife and see a small Caribbean community, especially if you are lucky enough to hang out with Cloied. If you can, kayaking into deep into the canals is a super cool way to check...