According to forum posts, several car rental agencies operate in La Fortuna, including Alamo and Adobe. Adobe, although its direct office in La Fortuna is closed, offers a delivery service from its Ciudad Quesada office with minimal drop-off fees.

Some travelers mentioned that renting a 4WD car is advisable due to the challenging road conditions in areas surrounding La Fortuna, like Monteverde and Tenorio. Additionally, it's recommended to bring a letter from your insurance company to avoid mandatory collision coverage charges, enhancing affordability.

Travelers have called out that while the main roads are manageable, the more remote areas feature steep and bumpy roads, making a powerful engine and 4WD vehicle a prudent choice for navigating effectively.

According to forum posts, travelers have recommended several dining options in La Fortuna that offer a mix of local Costa Rican dishes and international cuisine. Popular spots include Don Rufino, known for a more upscale dining experience, and Soda La Parada for a casual, authentic local dining experience.

Some travelers mentioned that many restaurants in La Fortuna do not offer scenic views but focus more on the quality of food. For those looking for dining with a view, La Mansion Inn and Nayara were suggested, although visibility can be affected by weather conditions such as fog.

For vegetarian visitors, there are several restaurants with vegetarian-friendly menus. The TripAdvisor forum listed places like My Coffee and Vegabondo, indicating that finding vegetarian food in the area is quite manageable.

Travelers have called out that while some hotel restaurants can be pricey, the food quality generally justifies the expense. Others have advised that exploring local sodas (small restaurants) can provide delicious meals at a more reasonable cost.

Some travelers recommended specific adventure activities in La Fortuna, such as ziplining with Sky Treck, which offers long lines with views of Arenal Lake and Volcano. Another suggestion was white-water rafting with Desafio Adventures, noted for their professionalism and safety focus.

For those interested in hiking and nature, a day pass to the Arenal Observatory Lodge was suggested, offering trails, wildlife, and views of Arenal Volcano. Additionally, the lodge is close to Sky Adventures Park, allowing visitors to combine hiking with other adventure activities.

For families or travelers interested in wildlife, the Proyecto ASIS Wildlife Refuge was recommended for its entertaining and informative tours, ideal for engaging children and adults alike.

According to forum posts, engaging directly with local tour operators like Mundo Aventura can enhance the experience, providing closer proximity to attractions and potentially better deals than through third-party bookings.

Some travelers recommended the Arenal Paraiso for its beautiful property, although it is not close to town. Hotel Kokoro, Arenal Oasis Ecolodge, and Lomas del Volcan were favored for their central locations and amenities like onsite restaurants and in some cases, hot springs.

For those willing to stay further from La Fortuna, the Tree House Hotel and La Mansion Inn on Lake Arenal received positive mentions. These locations offer a more secluded experience, which could be perfect for travelers looking for peace and quiet near nature.

For visitors specifically looking for accommodations with hot springs, options like Hotel Kokoro were highlighted. It offers smaller, more private thermal pools available only to guests. Another recommendation was the Arenal Observatory Lodge, known for its extensive grounds and nature trails, although it does not have onsite hot springs.

Families and budget-conscious travelers might consider the Arenal Springs Resort, known for its good views, privacy, and family-friendly amenities like large hot springs and a swim-up bar. This resort was particularly noted for being enjoyable for older teens and offering a good breakfast buffet.

According to forum posts, Tabacon Hot Springs offers various day pass options which include meals. For children aged 11 and under, the price ranges from $28 to $38 depending on the chosen time block and includes a meal. Adults pay between $70 and $85 for similar options. These day passes provide access to the hot springs at designated times.

Some travelers noted that the day passes are inclusive of access to the hot springs during specified hours, with options to include either lunch or dinner. The full-day pass allows access from 10 am to 10 pm.

For a group of four, the cost of day passes can be almost as expensive as staying overnight at Tabacon, where hot spring access is included in the room rate. This makes staying overnight a potentially more economical choice if visitors are planning to fully utilize the hot springs.

According to forum posts, Tabacon is highly recommended for its natural setting and quality spa, while The Springs Resort is favored for its extensive amenities and beautiful landscapes. Eco Termales is appreciated for its relaxing atmosphere and limited admission, ensuring a more private experience.

Travelers have called out that while Tabacon and The Springs Resort are on the pricier side, they offer a more luxurious and comprehensive experience. Eco Termales, on the other hand, is noted for offering a serene environment with fewer crowds due to controlled entry, which could be more cost-effective for those seeking tranquility.

For families, Los Lagos comes recommended due to its child-friendly facilities, including waterslides and a variety of pools. It's considered a good balance between enjoyment for children and relaxation for adults.

Some travelers said that while free hot springs are available, concerns about safety and water quality make the commercial options more appealing for a secure and enjoyable visit.