I developed a severe itchy armpit area fungus that I attribute from the hotsprings and naturally dried towels, it was a nasty uncontrollable itch that I didin't understand, until my doctor told me there was a fungus growing on my skin, probably from the unchlorinated 'natural' pools at Baldy hot springs or the air dried towels. Anyhow, it has plagued me for almost 6 months - don't use the pools or the towels....I have been informed!

the volcano is awsume, we stayed at the cerro chatto lodge la fortuna. miguel the owner drove us any where we wanted and showed us some secrets about the volcano park and where to go.and some of the surrounding areas.
if your going to veiw the volcano you see it daily from the cerro chatto lodge. you just have to look up the lodge no email is allowed on this post

I only spent one night in Arenal, and I wish I could have been there longer. At night we went to a hot springs that was owned by a resort. It was amazing. the surrounding town is also nice, but nothing special. The volcano is also nice, but the top is often blocked by clouds, so if you only have a little time to spend there, you'll have to get lucky if you want to get some good views.

Arenal is a one-of-a-kind treat for everyonel!

We just got back from Costa Rica and had a great time. We spent a couple of days in the Arenal area and several days in Quepos (Manuel Antonio Park area). I've been all over the world and I must say that seeing Arenal when the sky is clear, day and night is truly spectacular. It was nice to relax in the hot volcanic water pool at our hotel and drain down an Imperial (beer) or two while watching the volcano blow smoke rings. No lie. At night we went around to the observatory to get a glimpse of the hot rocks tumbling out of the top of the volcano. The observatory area is supposedly safe because there's a valley of sorts between the bottom of the volcano and the observatory. They say it's safe because if Arenal blew it's top, the valley would offer some protection from the rivers of fiery lava. That's what they say. But, of course it won't erupt while you're there. So don't worry. Really. Enjoy it.

The rainforest and river trips are all good at Arenal.

In Manuel Antonio Park we snorkeled and surfed. Granted, the surfing ain't exactly Waimea Bay, HI, but for aging surfrats like me, 3-4 ft sets were just about right. We were fortunate to have had great weather during the rainy season in Aug-Sep.

A few last thoughts - the people are about the friendliest and most helpful I've ever encountered. Also, be sure to venture out from the hotel for local food-it's cheaper and much better. Go and have fun!