A couple recent trips to Costa Rica took me to Playa Grande on the Pacific coast and to Volcano Arenal in the mountains. The places I stayed in each were exceptionally nice, reasonably priced and staffed by friendly helpful people. If you head to Playa Grande near Tamarindo email Kai at [email protected] for info. If your travels take you to La Fontana at Volcano Arenal the Hotel Cerro Azul Arenal has killer new casitas available, they can be reached at [email protected]. There's swell in the forecast over the next couple days. We'll keep you posted.