We had planned to stay in downtown Retalhuleu. I missed the turn-off and pulled into the long, tree-shaded driveway of the Hotel Costa Real. The place looked really comfortable. Instead of getting back on the highway, we checked in. The receptionist was very friendly. I paid with a credit card (all major cards are accepted) and was asked to sign for the remote control and towels. When paying cash, a small refundable deposit is required. As I was handed the key, a bus jam-packed with teenagers arrived. We were informed this was a favorite destination for youth groups from inland cities. We cringed a little and followed the man carrying our bags.

The hotel is set up motel-style, with various one-story buildings surrounding the grounds and parking at the front door. We were shown our room. It was large, with basic furnishing consisting of two double beds, a nightstand, a desk, and a couple of chairs. There was an air-conditioner that worked reasonably well and a fan that did not. The telephone only worked within the hotel. To place a long-distance call, I had to go to reception. The small TV hung from the wall. There were three local channels to choose from, and although we had heard that Guatemalan programming left a lot to be desired, we found it entertaining. The built-in closet was large, so none of our stuff cluttered the space. The bathroom was basic and clean, but with a slightly funky smell coming from the pipes. The water was lukewarm--we didn’t really need hot--and the pressure was good. We had a good night’s sleep. The beds were old but reasonably comfortable, and we didn’t hear a sound from the nearby highway or the busload of teenagers.

The grounds are large and are set up for family entertainment. Day passes are sold for use of the hotel facilities. The whole area is covered with grass. Swings and hammocks hang from the large trees. There are volleyball courts and a half basketball court. Further along are a few small cages with some sad monkeys and raccoons. There is a large and very clean swimming pool and a kiddie pool. Children seem to love the place because of the various swingsets, slides, and teeter-totters scattered around the grounds. Near the lobby are a ping-pong table and various other games. The restaurant, which is often booked for events, has good food and is open for all meals.

We enjoyed the hotel. The parking seemed fairly secure, with a gate closed at night and an employee keeping an eye on things. We had originally stayed here to visit the nearby ruins of Abaj Takalik. We stayed here again on our way out of Guatemala just because we liked the place. The price was Q225 the first time but went up to Q260 the second time because of a local celebration. The hotel is located on the highway, one kilometer south of downtown entrance.