La Dolce Vita — Hotel in Parrita

Based on the glowing reviews, the price (for Costa Rica) and the misleading website I was expecting something much nicer and was very disappointed.  Have always had good luck with Trip Advisor reviews so am totally mystified by this.  First off, the website is inaccurate on a couple of points. It says all rooms have patios and two do not.  Also mentions “lush tropical gardens” and while this could be a bit subjective the only thing remotely resembling a garden is a three foot wide strip of common vegetation along the walkway in front of the rooms. Quite a stretch to call it a lush garden.  The room we had reserved had a ratty lumpy futon couch covered with a bed sheet (!), an old threadbare bedspread, huge rusted area on fridge etc.  We were able to “upgrade” to a different room for the first three of the five nights we had reserved. This room was slightly better due to having a balcony with ocean view, better couch and bedspread and newer fridge. But it was still just generally shabby and sorely in need of remodeling.   I have traveled extensively through Costa Rica and Mexico and do not stay in fancy places. There is a difference between basic/simple and run down/poorly maintained.  Reminded me of a very low budget motel on a deserted highway in the western US except it was priced higher.  I don’t blame the couple managing this place--they keep it clean and serve a nice breakfast. They probably have little or no say about what the owner chooses to do in terms of upgrades.  Actually with a modest investment in cosmetic improvements this place could be cute but as it currently is it is depressing.  After sticking it out for three nights we simply left and forfeited the remaining two nights we had...

The bus left us about 500 yards from the gate and i thought what have I got myself into.The property is about 500 yards from the road and the walk in was sketchy but thats where my worries ended. I missed meeting the owner he was back in Italy. The staff being a young couple were great, security was a priority. The grocery store and butcher shop are both conviently located, the pool is small but I am no olyimpic swimmer. The public beach is a stones thow away and there is a bit of night life. We got freindly with our neighbors and had a great time. The air conditioning worked the fridge kept the beer cold. Don't miss the mermaid a great place to explore and your not far from the national...

this is such paradise. i dont even know where to start. nice big clean rooms filled with all the amenities you would need, beautiful clean pool, fall asleep with the sounds of the ocean right outside your door and wake up to the glorious sounds and sights of macaws perched in the tree right outside. beachfront access but very private. wonferful breakfast served every morning by amazing hosts. i can't even say enough about the hosts... They went above and beyond and helped when we had vehicle troubles, not once but SEVERAL times!!! i would recommend this place to anyone, and i hope to get the...