I was in Costa Rica in February this year and started in San Jose staying in Sportsmens Lodge. I have read on the Rica Ticas forum that Del Rey is a shadow of its former glory and I also found Sportsmens a bit run down.
However in the evening it was full of women and the staff were very friendly and I felt completely safe there. Typical price seems to be $100 for full service although you may get lower. I had a few drinks and a good time and then left early the next day to explore the country.
I'm going back next year and staying in Taormina which looks and sounds a bit more modern and lively with plenty of women each night. There are also massage places offering FS in San Jose. Monicas is often mentioned as worth a visit but I didn't have time.
San Jose is not the most attractive city and I would definitely recommend getting out and exploring. La Fortuna / Arenal is a great area, the pacific coast around Tamarindo or further south through Jaco beach and Manual Antonio national park.
