Costa Rica is a wonderful country with lots of amazing sights and activities for the entire family. Arenal specifically is a must-visit, if only to see an active volcano in all its glory. However, my wife and I would NEVER suggest anyone stay at the Arenal Country Inn. The breakfasts there were tasty and the bird-watching was one of a kind, but the staff was less than knowledgable about the area and we had serious problems with hot water.

In fact, after 4 days of having to tough through freezing cold showers (we would continuously complain, the desk would 'send someone over' yet nothing would be fixed), we decided to check out early. The desk worker said this was fine, and we paid for our nights there.

However, now that we're back in the states, the hotel has charged my card for 3 additional nights. After repeated emails explaining the situation (they no longer even reply) and a dispute with our credit card, the hotel refuses to settle the issue - they are forcing us to pay for nights we did not stay.

For $120/night, you can do much better. Heck, we had hot water and great service just around the block at La Fortuna Inn - for only $12 per person!