Arenal Travel Forum

Hi
My husband and I are going to be travelling to CR end of Jan08. For the Areanal area we choose the 'Arenal Observatory Lodge' as our base! Can anyone, who has recently stayed there, let me know what they thought of it. Also, is it very out of the way and far from the surrounding 'towns' and things to do? We were thinking of staying at the Tobacon, but I thought that's a bit too 'Manicured' to choose as a place to stay in CR.
I will welcome any comments.
Thanks,
J

Hello,
I am planning a trip down to the Arenal Volcano area for November, and I understand the ride from the airport is a 3 hour drive.
What I'm more concerned about is the safety of the drive.
Does the route out to the Arenal/ La Fortuana area involve alot of steep roads, with no barriers and sharp turns...that sort of thing.
I like to think I'm a pretty intrepid traveler, but I do get uncomfortable driving in treacherous conditions...
I know the roads down there aren't great...but would anyone call them...hazardous? Please be honest...
Any thoughts from those who have gone that way...
Thanks,
Amy

Hello,
I am planning a trip down to the Arenal Volcano area for November, and I understand the ride from the airport is a 3 hour drive.
What I'm more concerned about is the safety of the drive.
Does the route out to the Arenal/ La Fortuana area involve alot of steep roads, with no barriers and sharp turns...that sort of thing.
I like to think I'm a pretty intrepid traveler, but I do get uncomfortable driving in treacherous conditions...
I know the roads down there aren't great...but would anyone call them...hazardous? Please be honest...
Any thoughts from those who have gone that way...
Thanks,
Amy

Whaddaya think? How long and how difficult would this be? I'm having a dilemma with my flight and luggage weight. Thanks.

I'm looking for activities for two days around Tabacon Resort. I'm thinking hiking, rafting, anything else exciting ...I know about the hot springs. We like to hike independently, any trail tips?

any advice on route ,time and weather .. yes i have 4wd :)

I am arriving in Costa Rica at Liberia Airport on 11/6 and will be staying the first 2 nights near Arenal, then 5 nights in Tamarindo. I have found inexpensive shuttle transfers for everything except Liberia to Arenal. Interbus leaves at noon and my flight does not arrive until 1 p.m. Is transportation pretty to arrange once you arrive or will I be stuck paying $180 for a private transfer? Does anyone know of another shuttle service?