Volcanoes and Home-made Pasta?

Arenal Volcano awaiting next eruption!

That's right!  We traveled toward the middle of the country up to the Lake Arenal region.  We found a hostel online with a great view of the active Arenal volcano.  A hostel?  I am not only out of my box at this point, I cannot even see my box!!  Well, I was pleasantly surprised.  Although the rooms are basic (including shared bath and shower) they were spotless.  The first evening we arrived included all guests meeting in the chef's kitchen to make home-made pasta.   We had a blast - lots of laughter as there was wine involved - guests from Colorado, some newlyweds, etc.  The cooks finished the prep and we dined on a beautiful composed salad, the pasta we made and chocolate mousse.  For you foodies out there, they have a different basil here in CR.  Wonderful flavor, but with a hint of cinnamon - very interesting.  Fabulous banana pancakes and great coffee next morning.  All for $14 per person per night!! Food cost was modest, just a bit extra. Went horseback riding through farmland and jungle - to a waterfall - gorgeous.

The chefs making homemade pasta

Joe was the only one who had the cahoney's to swim under the waterfall.  Innkeeper shared that the volcano had been quiet for an unusually long time and they were expecting a big boom anytime, but all quiet while we were there. This place is filled with North Americans - US and Canadians abound.  Canada was not nearly so affected by our sub-prime meltdown and subsequent recession and they are buying up property in CR these days.