Arenal Volcano and the Hot Springs...

On Monday July 6 we had our first real Costa Rican activity. We loaded up in a van and drove a couple hours to the active volcano, Arenal. On the way we saw our first, and last, Tucan.

Not quite the same as the Fruit Loops mascot, Tucan Sam, but close enough...

When we got near the volcano we stopped first to experience the rain forest. We had a good guide that really knew the place and explained more than I could ever recall.

Our guide explained that this was a plant that could be used to poison people, and was often used on Mother-in-laws. Rob took careful notes...

Along the way we stopped at a traditional hut. I don't think any of our party knew previously about a small group of indigenous people within Costa Rica called the Maleku. It is almost like the Native Americans for the U.S. They live in separate villages through the country and have a language and culture all their own. This hut was typical of their dwellings.

A fire constantly lit in the hut produces smoke that keeps bugs at bay and drys the roof allowing them to keep it usable for as much as 40 years.

These masks are carved out of balsa wood and are custom made for the individual to give others a glimpse into the owner's personality.

The masks were not worn over the face, but attached like a hat, which is why they chose the ultra light balsa wood.

Following the nature walk we drove to a new fancy resort called "The Springs" at the foot of Arenal Volcano.



At this resort there are many pools of naturally heated spring water. Before we got in the water we ran into a three-toed sloth which we had to gape at for a while.



This resort had more than nice pools, it also had a slide which was piped with the same hot spring water.





And since we were in such a picturesque place, we had to do an impromptu photo shoot with Anna.







As it got dark we cleaned up and went to the resort's balcony where we ate a delicious meal with a gorgeous view of the volcano, as you can see below.



Following dinner we drove around the volcano to see the red hot lava squirt out of the side in small flashes of light. We saw some moments of action, but not much and were not able to get a good shot on camera. Oh well. As we drove the couple of hours back to our rooms we wondered how the fancy resort we had just left and the mediocre resort we were returning to could be the same star rating. We returned late and very tired from the day's trip and slept like babies.