What is the weather like in the Arenal area?
Our home is located on the hillside of Lake Arenal with the elevation of approximately 1,300 feet. With some of our property within the rain forest you can expect some rain intermittent with sunshine practically every day of the year!
What type of wildlife will I see while staying at your home?
It is highly likely you will be awakened by the howler monkeys or the parrots. Whether you prefer to hike or horseback ride you will enjoy identifying many types of birds (including toucans), butterflies, monkeys and bugs (the leaf cutter ant is amazing to watch).
Are the horses available to the guests?
Yes, we welcome our guests to ride; it is a wonderful way to enjoy the area. Our caretaker, Alex, will accompany you on your rides. Please be sure to let him know what level rider you are as well as when you would like to ride so that he will have the horses saddled and ready.
What kind of clothes should I pack?
It is the rain forest so we strongly suggest a rain poncho. We generally have a few extra at the house but suggest that you purchase a few disposables before you arrive. If you plan to ride or to hike; closed toe shoes or boots are recommended. Because it can get cool in the evening a light jacket or sweatshirt along with some long pants/jeans are also recommended. It is more common to see women in shorts in Costa Rica; however not in the churches. “Clean and casual” could be a way to describe the Costa Rican dress code.
Is the electrical voltage the same as the United States?
Yes, therefore you do not need an adapter.
Are linens provided?
Yes, all bed and bath linens are provided.
How can I exchange money/get cash?
In most cases the American dollar will be accepted and they will provide you with change in local currency (colones). There is a bank machine (that accepts most major credit cards) located in Nuevo Arenal (approximately 3 km). You can also exchange money at either international airport when you arrive.
How can I communicate with my family at home?
We do have internet service; however you would need to bring your own laptop, tablet, or cell phone. We do not have a desktop computer in the home. The telephone numbers for calling card access are posted by our phones in the home. Generally the connection is quite clear. The home phone number for Villa Paradise is 506 (country code) 2694-4772. When calling from the United States you must dial 011 prior to the above noted numbers.
Is their a medical facility near your home?
Yes, we have a medical clinic in Nuevo Arenal (approximately 3 km) and a hospital is located outside of Cañas (approximately 1 hour away).
The meal plan does not include alcoholic beverages; is there a store nearby that we can purchase these beverages?
Yes, most grocery stores (which are open seven days a week) sell beer as well as hard liquor and wine.
Do you have cable television?
Yes, we have direct television in the TV room. In addition, we have transformed the den into a DVD/Video room. We have many DVD’s in our library which include movies for children and adults. We also have developed a fairly large reading library over the years. We just ask that if you borrow a book that you have not finished, please leave a new one for the library.
Can you arrange excursions once we arrive?
Yes, we have a file of information on local excursions at the house. Please let Michelle (our caretaker and owner of the macadamia farm) know what activities you would like to book and she will make the reservations. If you are thinking about traveling to the beach and want to go fishing; please let us know in advance so that we can confirm availability.
Which airport shall I fly in to?
Liberia is a shorter drive (2 hours); however sometimes our clients find better airfare flying into San Jose (4 hours). It is highly recommended that you do not drive at night if you are not familiar with the roads. Dependent upon the season, the condition of the roads can be dangerous.
What is the tipping policy?
Our goal is that you have a wonderful and relaxing vacation and our staff will do everything they can to make you comfortable. Alex, Gisela, and Michelle certainly appreciate the gratuities. Information regarding the tipping is provided at the house.
Is it possible to hire transportation in Nuevo Arenal?
A local firm “Trans Balo” may be hired to drive you in Costa Rica. Their contact information is: transbalo@gmail.com or you can call/WhatsApp (Costa Rican number) (506) 8388.3015.