May 22, 2008 - Fortuna - lava and crocs

Fortuna is a busy tourist town, the main attraction being Volcano Arenal - one of the most active in Central America. The volcano is often shrouded in cloud but the weather gods must have been smiling on us as we had some great views of the smoking cone. The highlight was an evening trip to the far side of the volcano where we could see and hear red hot lava spewing out of the top of the caldera. No night time photos as unfortunately we couldn´t get the setting right on the camera - far too technical! Did another morning canoe trip, this...

May 3, 2008 - The Volcano Arenal at Fortuna

We have had a great day today. Since the distance to be covered was not huge we didn’t have to hurry unduly. I spent a while on the terrace of our room firstly watching the wildlife and secondly catching up on the official report. I saw several interesting birds – yellow breasted, brilliant red and black and pale blue as well as a passing heron – and saw fish move in the lake. Diana spotted an iguana outside her room. Last night I almost trod on a snake on the way to dinner! The frogs were active and we could hear howler monkeys in the...