La Fortuna, COSTA RICA
Airing Date: May 5th, 2003
Located in Costa Rica's north-west is La Fortuna, the town that has Arenal Volcano breathing down its neck every single day. La Fortuna is just a 15 minute drive to Arenal Volcano National Park. Entry to the park costs just $10 and once you're inside the park, you'll be right up close to 1633 metres of volcanic rock.
The Arenal Volcano, the only volcano in Costa Rica, has been active since its horrific and spontaneous eruption in 1968. It wiped out two villages at the time and has been continuously active since, producing huge ash columns, explosions and glowing red lava almost every day.
As you move closer to the volcano, you'll bear witness to the mushroom-shaped clouds spitting large boulders from the volcano's dark, fiery core. With these boulders reaching the size of houses, you certainly don't want to be in the wrong place when one of them comes crashing down at 60 kilometres per hour.
In the middle of this volcanic extravaganza is Tabacon Resort Hot Springs, located in Arenal. The springs not only feature stunning views of Arenal Volcano but also offer the pleasurable experience of bathing in the volcano's byproduct, the hot springs.
The constant energy of Arenal volcano, the warmth of flowing thermo mineral rivers and the surrounding lush tropical rain forest provide a supreme experience. At the main part of the springs is a spectacular waterfall where you can sit and let the hot water massage your neck and shoulders.
Otherwise, there's also the large main pool with a swim-up bar, or a number of other smaller pools hidden in the gardens with built-in lounges, little waterfalls, and cozy tubs. You could spend a steamy afternoon here, or head to the Iskandria Spa for a volcanic body wrap, using a mixture of ash as a skin mask.
If you're looking for a dinner and show like no other, don't go past the Tabacon Resort's restaurant. The restaurant serves delicious meals in an outside setting that offers one of the best dining views in the world. The resort is right in front of the massive Arenal Volcano. At nightfall the beast shows its true colours by producing a spectacular bright red lava show.
The facts:
Travelworld packages to Costa Rica with Adventure World start from $3848 per person twin share from the east coast. This includes flights with Qantas and TACA, transfers, accommodation, breakfasts, day tours featuring the Arenal Volcano, and the Tabacon Hot Springs tour including dinner.
Quad biking through Arenal National Park costs $90 for two and a half hours.
Travelworld
Tel: 13 14 35
Adventure World
Tel: 02 9955 5000
Costa Rica Tourist Board
Tel: 0011 (506) 223 1733 (ext. 267)
Montaa de Fuego
Tel: 0011 (506) 460 1220
