I have tried to use my satellite phone in CR and the service is very poor. I have rented phones there, and they work very well, but are expensive. I finally got a GSM phone from T-Mobile, here in the states, and had them put me on their international plan. My phone works great in CR anywhere there is cell service. The minutely rate is high, but for the amount I use it when I am there it works out well.
I have stayed in Hotel Girasol, which is right on the beach in Jaco. Nice and clean AC in the bedroom only. Nice pool.
I just stayed in AparHotel Vista Pacifico. On the hill overlooking Jaco. Absolutly Excellent!! Great owners, nice pool, nice rooms, AC in some, but on the hill it was always cool even when it was 90+ during the day. Here is their web address http://www.vistapacifico.com/
Enjoy,
Tom
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