We booked online 3 months in advance....after reading LOTS of reviews of MANY places in Arenal Area. SUPER friendly staff, affordable accommodations and picture-perfect. Roomy Casitas, very clean and comfy. WE booked (2) two bedroom suites. Both had either a lap pool or a spa....warm or cold...just let them know. Food on the premises was great: fresh fruits, juices, omlette chef, lots of coffee and plenty of choices. Pool/Bar guys were great, too. Fun, friendly, drinks were reasonable. We shopped snacks, cold drinks, wine and stuff for each room. I would have LOVED to have a hot plate or little stove (but no). We ventured out every day to a new place. They offered a GUIDE for everything but we declined...our group of 8 are a little daring and love to risk the mom-n-pop places. The Tabacon Hot springs were fantastic (but the free jungle hot springs had about a hundred 'visitors' to the area which was cool) GO TO THE WATER PARK! (Even if you don't have kids..its a HUGE place for about $20 all day. Food and drinks available there! GO AND SEE hte nature reserve and Hanging Bridges..FUN! La Fortuna has a couple of nice sushi bars and local coffees and chocolates. In facet, maybe add a night in La Fortuna to enjoy the local people :)