Costa Rica Vacation Review: Quetzal, Monteverde, Corcovado National Park, Hiking, Birding, Wildlife

We would had to start planning a little earlier since we went in the busiest season in Costa Rica. Some of the areas we went to, there was no accommodation in the better lodges and we understand that we had to compromise for lesser quality. We did not mind paying more for better accommodation and that might have been discussed better between us and the travel agency. We felt that at least 2 of the lodges were subpar and would have been happy to pay more for better conditions. The Corcovado lodge was perfect. No problems there. The Monteverde lodge - rooms smelled horrible and there was no way to air them. Staff was mostly indifferent. The Puntarenas villa - some of the staff was great and some plain rude. The AC worked ok but was located over the main bed and water from AC dripped on our head and main light fixture when turned on, so we had to move the bed away and not use the light in fear of electrocution. Location and food were great. The hotel in Quetzal was great location but cold, no heat in room, food terrible, staff did not speak English. We were glad for staying there only 2 nights and if we had to stay there longer we would have probably left anyway. We would have preferred to pay more and stay in Savegre lodge.