After spending two nights in the Central Valley, it was time to move on to the Costa Rican highlands around Lake Arenal, which is another hotbed of retirement.

The plan was to go first to La Fortuna for lunch and a nice visit, and then across the north shore of the lake to our AirBNB near the heavily German town of Tilaran.

We left San Pedro de Poás, driving through a cloud forest mist and actually right by the entrance to La Paz Waterfall Gardens where the new teachers had gone on a daytrip in October. The roads were windy and wet and we drove slowly, while having our doors blown off by the Ticos passing us right and left.

Just beyond La Paz Waterfall Gardens a number of cars were pulled onto the shoulder, everyone taking photos of a band (that's the name of a group) of pizotes.

La Fortuna is a touristy town that grew up around hot springs spouting from ground heated by volcanoes. We had lunch at Restaurante Tierra Mia, sitting outside under the patio while a heavy rain fell. We walked a half a block to enquire about coming back on Christmas for a soak in a hot spring, only to be told that our AirBNB is actually a three hour drive away.

So, with the plan to get checked in before the 5:30 Costa Rican sunset, we abandoned La Fortuna and hit the road to Tilaran.

It did indeed take almost 3 hours to drive the distance and find the proper turnoff, but once there found a terrific 2BR cottage with well stocked kitchen, comfy living room furniture, hot water, and a friendly dog Bella who made the rounds every morning.