Okay, second place I stayed in Costa Rica...
Pension Santa Elena. First off, Omi's blog suggested it, and the folks at Pangea, as well as some folks I met there said you MUST stay there while in the Monteverde area.
I got in around 11:30 am, rediculously hungover, and naturally, there were a whole ton of Tico's hawking for various hostels and cabinas around the area. I played it smart, calling the day ahead to let them know I was coming into town. Granted, they don't specifically take reservations, as most of the places don't, but it was nice to get some directions from the bus stop, and let them know I was coming in.
From the bus stop, umm, turn left, go about 10 meters, turn right at the Banco Nacional, and go down about 25 meters. Its on your left. Can't miss it, its got a hammock outside.
Once I got there, i checked in, and somehow or another wound up with a private room. For the princely sum of $8 a night.
Actually, after the hungover bus ride and all, a private room was in order. (Sound familiar, Omid?)
Took about an hour or so nap in the hammock out front, and then set about seeing the town. Struck up some conversations with some folks staying there.
Anyway, the Americans that own the place are great. Ran and his crew, "The Gang" kicked maximum ass. They were helpful to point out what to do and not to do, and what was worth it and not, and let me contact my next destination no problem. Booking excursions and tours through them is cheaper than doing it at the other places, and lots of folks staying at other places go to PSE to book their stuff.
They offered web access, at about 400 colones for the first 30 minutes and 600 for an hour.
Kitchen, community fridge, board games, TV, and lounge area is available from 5am to 10pm. If you do leave beer in the fridge and want it post-10pm, tough luck!
The road it is on is right on the Santa Elena Triangle, so sometimes during the day its a bit noisy, but otherwise its a great spot.
www.pensionsantaelena.com is the url. Check 'em out!