SAN JOSE GRAND TARA HOTEL (San José)

The Grand Tara offers plenty of places to unwind from a day of business negotiations or sightseeing. Guests can lounge by the pool or Jacuzzi, enjoy a cocktail on the veranda or take in the view on the terrace. The on-site spa offers a variety of treatments, including massages, facials, manicures and pedicures. Cosmetic surgery can also be scheduled after a personal consultation with the on-site doctor.

The spacious, stylishly appointed guest rooms feature king or queen-size beds and old-fashioned charm, but with modern amenities such as mini fridges, flat-screen televisions and wireless Internet. Rooms differ in size, but all have views of either the Central Valley or the mountains. A few rooms contain immense walk-in closets. 

The aptly named Grand View Restaurant, headed by an executive chef, whips up inventive international fare and is open to the public for breakfast, lunch and dinner, although reservations are recommended. The restaurant offers 'prime rib Fridays” and a Sunday brunch buffet, and the bar promotes a two-for-one happy hour Monday through Friday from 5 to 7:30 p.m.