Hold'em at the Horseshoe Casino in Costa Rica

NOTE: Recently we have had a report that this casino may not be the place you want to try your luck. There is no gaming commission in Costa Rica and casinos are allowed to do pretty much as they please. Use caution and common sense.

In downtown San Jose, Costa Rica, the only poker game is at the Horseshoe Casino and Card Room. Texas Hold'em is spread seven nights a week in the upstairs cardroom

Where the Action Is

In September, 2005, they were running a $100-$200 buy-in No Limit game with $1-$2 blinds. The room has three tables, though at this time only one is going every night. And the Horseshoe, in addition to having the only poker game in downtown San Jose, is also the only one in the area with $25 match play coupons for the casino games.

Though the match play coupon obviously cannot be used in the poker game, management has been passing out $105 for $100 buy-in coupons, and occasionally offers other incentives. Beer is free for the players

The Card Room

The Horseshoe card room features agreeable, comfortable surroundings with a view of the action on the street. It has a no smoking policy, but you can step over to the bar for a cigarette -- or an authentic Cuban cigar, if you want. Downstairs, a full casino offers craps and blackjack as well as Tute (a variation of Blackjack), Caribbean Poker, Roulette and the usual slots.

Standard Vegas rules apply. They rake a whopping 10%, up to $4 max, and nothing is there is no flop. Two dealers (one shuffles a second deck) while the other deals) generates a lot more hands per hour than in most games

Who's in the Poker Game?

At this time, you'll see about 60% locals (mostly North Americans) and 40% tourists from the Hotel del Rey or Hotel Morazan across the street. It is also just around the block from Hotel Presidente, which is the hotel that we recommend if staying and playing downtown. Plus, the owner/manager is frequently at the table.

The action starts around 6-6:30 PM every day. On Friday and Saturday, it can last through 3 AM; the rest of the week, 1 AM has been typical during off season. We expect to see at least one more table running when high season kicks off in December.

Things to Do While Not Playing Poker at the Horseshoe

The neighborhood is nightlife central for San Jose, rife with bars, night clubs, an upscale strip joint called Casablanca. Excellent restaurants abound, including several spots featuring sushi from $6 up! Seafood is also exceptional

You can also find two sports books a block away.

You can also take a day off from poker to catch your own on a fishing trip to Quepos or Jaco Beach (marlin and sailfish practically jump into the boat from December through April). And there are plenty of day tours to nearby volcanoes, white water rafting trips, zip-line canopy rides and other adventure tours.