If you're looking for an unforgettable lodging experience in the city of San Jose, Costa Rica, there may be no more perfect place than the Hotel Grano de Oro. Hotel Grano de Oro Terrace — Photo courtesy of Hotel Grano de Oro

Recognized as one of only nine “Small Distinctive Hotels of Costa Rica,” the Hotel Grano de Oro was originally built as a Victorian mansion, and each of the slightly different 40 rooms retained is tastefully, but lavishly furnished and updated with modern amenities like flat screen televisions and marble bathrooms. Located just off of Paseo Colon, San Jose’s bustling main street of shops and restaurants, Hotel Grano de Oro is smack dab in the middle of a great neighborhood, and it's within walking distance of Mercado Central, La Sabana Park and the Costa Rican Art Museum.

Nearly all the rooms open onto lushly landscaped courtyards with tropical foliage and flowing fountains, and the hotel’s rooftop terrace with two jacuzzis is a divine place to relax after a long day of sightseeing. Hotel Grano de Oro Cafe — Photo courtesy of Hotel Grano de Oro

While the hotel’s design and architecture are undeniably impressive, it’s the attached café that has helped put El Grano de Oro on the map in a big way; French Chef Francis Canal brings together tropical ingredients and European style to produce some of the country’s best food, served in a delightful garden setting that surrounds a stone fountain. “Corvina a la Macadamia” is a signature entrée, a sea bass filet breaded with toasted macadamia nuts and served with a an orange herb sauce, and a crème brulee for dessert is as dreamy as can be.