Arenal
One of the must-see places in Costa Rica is its most active volcano and youngest of all mountains, el volcán Arenal. This volcano was presumed extinct until it erupted in 1968. The explosion killed 87 people and wiped out the small town of Arenal. Since then, the volcano has remained in constant activity, with frequent but modest eruptions. I’ve always wanted to witness the nocturnal spectacle of red hot lava shooting out from the top, but once again, didn’t. In fact, I didn’t even see the volcano in its entirety for it was enveloped by clouds the whole weekend. It usually is. This region is known as “broken sky” because it always rains, no matter the time of year. So it’s a rare treat to see the top of the volcano or witness any volcanic activity. Then again, the “broken sky” allows the lush vegetation to flourish and that is what visitors should look forward to seeing: trees, plants, orchids, ferns, all growing on top of each other in one big verdant orgy. It’s a steamy scene, literally. People’s faces incessantly glow either from the humidity or from the hot springs heated by the volcano. There are three hot springs resorts in Arenal: Tabacón (well-known and very expensive), Baldí (reasonably priced and family-friendly), and Eco Termales (small and quiet). Like other visitors, I like to go to Arenal to soak in its hot springs, I leave there with the image of its verdant orgy, and plan to return to see the volcano do its pyrotechnic show, because next time, yes next time, I’ll get to witness it.
Monday, February 16, 2009