Tourists coming to Costa Rica for longer than 90 days

Tourists beware, you need to show an outbound ticket out of "Costa Rica" within 90 days. I live in Costa Rica and lately have faced the "Airlines" trying to force "Tourists" to buy round trip tickets at the counter, ifhttp://costaricabustickets.com/ you are traveling from the "United States" or maybe other places and do not have proof of leaving Costa Rica within 90 days. This can all be cured by purchasing an outbound ticket on http://costaricabustickets.com/

John the owner of this company has tried to no avail to have the "Airlines" comply and notify "International Tourists" that all that is required is proof of leaving Costa Rica within 90 days of arrival. I have used his service for my last 3 International Flights back to the "United States". John has been in business for 19 years, and he will save you alot of money, do not be forced to purchase a "Round Trip Ticket" you do not have too...

Here is an Article he just sent me, he is fast reliable and always there to help you.

Family Run Hostel Arenal Volcano Costa Rica

"Bright Clean Rooms"

"Private Porches"

"Volcano Views"

"Hostels" are a great inexpensive and affordable way to "Travel in Central America". Having lived in the "United  States" and relocated to "LaFortuna, Costa Rica", Home to "Volcano Arenal", I have gotten to know alot of Local Merchants. For those seeking "affordable hotels" , I suggest "Cabinas Las Palmas" in downtown La Fortuna. Volcano Hostel Costa Rica

This is a "Family Hostel" where "Franklin Valerio" speaks excellent English and has provided "Guided Tours" in LaFortuna for over 15 years.  Just one half block from the Church Square in Downtown LaFortuna. Secured Parking is available. Rooms range from $10.00 per person to 30.00 for a Room with 2 Double beds, Large Showers with Hot Water, Laundry on sight. Internet Access is free. Great Location, Guided Tours, affordable Accomodations . On the Bus Route, all rooms have a refrigerator,Tv and Air Conditioning. "Franklin will gladly arrange all Adventure Tours". "Franklin specializes in Volcano Horseback Rides, off the beaten Path" with his Own Horses.

For a Great Costa Rica Vacation contact laspalmasdelsol@hotmail.com or call from
"United States" 01150683679506. "For Combination Tour Packages" contact cocoavillage1@yahoo.com

"Church Square and Volcano"

"Rooms with a/c and TV"

"Private Tours"

"Costa Rica Misty Morning"

"Mist over Pastures"

"Toucans eating Palm Berries at Rain Forest "

Costa Rica  the Country we moved to over 2 years ago from the "United States". I just arrived back from "Florida" just 4 days ago, and this morning the Mist was covering "Arenal Volcano" and the Pastures that surround my "Costa Rica Cabin". 

Since returning from the "United States", I am glad to have sought my "Retirement" here in a perfect Home a "Real Estate" Bargain we found. Paradise is not a word is is a feeling, knowing you can relaxing on the Front Porch surrounded by "Wildlife of the Rain Forest Jungle" here at the base of "Arenal Volcano".

"Arenal Volcano Halo"

This and many other "Jungle Rain Forest Paintings" and Photographs are available at william-patterson.artistwebsites.com

From United States to Paradise

Having just arrived back from the "United States" on Wednesday, it has been an adjustment to relax and enjoy the "Nature" of the "Rain Forest Jungle" just outside my door. "Florida" has certainly faced it's challenges within the last 2 years since I last returned. I am glad to be back sitting on my Porch with "Toucans and other Wildlife".

My Husband surprised me with yet another of his "Jungle Landscape Paintings" this one of a "King Fisher". I expect alot of "Tourists" to come and enjoy the "Volcano Arenal" and protected Environment that surrounds this Majestic Natural Wonder.

My Mother is facing "New York Snow", "Florida has Tropical Storms", I will take my "Rain Forest Cabin" minutes from the number one "Tourist Destination" over the taxes and unpredictable weather in the "United States" any day.

So, give up the Turkey for "Thanksgiving" or treat yourself to a "Christmas" Vacation here in "Costa Rica".

For more "Rain Forest Jungle Photographs and Paintings" visit my website at william-patterson.artistwebsites.com

No Snow here just Nature, Animals and Adventures.

William Patterson

Wildlife Artist

La Fortuna Costa Rica

Between Butterflies and Birds in the Jungle

"Butterfly Dome Garden"

" Breakfast with the Birds"

"Rain Forest Trails"

"Private Rain Forest Cabin"

" Rain Forest Lodge" " Private Cabins" , this " Rain Forest"  "Jungle Habitat" just minutes from " Arenal Volcano" offers "Tourists" the ability to experience "Nature, Birds and the Green Rain Forests of Costa Rica" at an affordable price.

"Tropical Jungle Mot Mot"

 Minutes from "Volcano Arenal" this Green Jungle offers over 130 " B ird Species" , a "Birdwatchers" adventure. " Jungle Tours"  at Night with an experienced and educated "Guide" will give you a "Colorful Jungle  Adventure".
By Reservation Only..for there are only 7 cabins, Enjoy the "Bird Watching Guided Tour" and the "Jungle Night Tour".
" A Colorful Rain Forest Jungle Adventure" tailored to your needs. Private Guides will assist you with spotting the "Jungle Animals and Birds".
"The Jungle package includes a Private Rustic Rain Forest Cabin, Private Tour Guide for Bird Watching and Jungle Night Tours"
Breakfast and taxes, Transportation, are included for this " Green Jungle Adventure". Private Rain Forest Jungle Cabins
Or you may call Direct from the "United States" 01150683462245.
Pura Vida,
William Patterson
Wildlife Art and Photography
Costa Rica

Add caption

Recession Retirement and Rainforests

"Retirement and Recession", I cannot comprehend what is going on in the "United States". I left "Florida" and relocated to "La Fortuna" Costa -Rica in 2009. My Wife a "Real Estate Agent" in Cocoa, Florida" I was owner of a Small Business, left the "United States" for a Comfortable and secure "Retirement".

Some years ago, I saw the "Hand Writing on the Wall", a "Historic Home" with rising " Taxes and Insurance", I saw many people Living beyond their means. Our move to "Central America" , we found a home with a "Volcano View" 5 minutes to one of the top "Tourist" destinations in "Costa Rica". "Arenal Volcano and the Green Rain Forests" that surround her have given us the opportunity to "Live Outside" we have a wrap around porch and spend our days in the comfortable "Weather'.

The "Nature and Wildlife" give us an appreciation of the "Environment" and make us realize how lucky we are. So, we go to the Fruit Stand for fresh Produce, and then the "Butcher" yes they still exist... The Costa Rican People and Tourists we meet in "La Fortuna" are terrific.

With fear and pessimism on the News daily, or the "Reality Shows" tonite for example "The Kardashians" are on for 4 hours.....Life???

I will take "Retirement and Painting on my porch" over higher taxes, for mine are $400.00 a year, sure some "Lifestyle" adjustments have been made, yet I would rather be "Happy in Retirement" which gives me "Peace if Mind", and you cannot put a price on that...

William and Carol Patterson

Wildlife Art

La Fortuna, Costa Rica

Tours Personalized for You in Costa Rica

"Tours" when you go on "Vacation", especially to somewhere you have never been, you never know what to expect. This was my situation 10 years ago, my Husband  Bill and I traveled to "La Fortuna for the the first time. We were just here on "Vacation" to escape the heat of "Florida".

"Green Arenal Volcano"
The View we have now from our Home 

Well, we fell in love with this "Country of Green" kind of like Ireland. 

We were lucky enough to fine a Great "Eco-Lodge" with "Colorful" Flowers and a "Volcano View". Since "Retirement" from "Florida" we moved to "Costa-Rica" for an affordable Life.

The reason I am writing this Blog is for those "Tourists" seeking to "Vacation" in a "ecological" destination and not face the pitfalls that can be found online. I would like to introduce you to "Johan Peraza" a very good friend who has lived in "La Fortuna" for 15 years, he is experienced in "Nature, Adventures" but most of all he speaks perfect English and Spanish (of  course) for he has lived in the "United States" for years.

"Johan Peraza"
Personalized Tours

"Volcano Arenal"

If you are seeking a Guide for "Adventure Tours" tailored to your needs and budget, I highly recommend Johan. He will listen and advise you on what might be best for you, and meet you when you arrive at the home of "Arenal Volcano" and the "Green Rain Forest Jungles" that surround her.  Johan built cabins at an Eco-Lodge set in the Rainforest, or their is a Private Home with Spectacular Views available for you "vacation". Contact information is Direct from the "United States" 01150683462245 or naturalwondersarenal@gmail.com

Eco Tours Costa Rica Volcano Arenal Accommodations

"Eco-Tours" is ever more popular here in "Costa Rica. With "Rain Forests" surrounding "Arenal Volcano" in Central Costa Rica, adventure never ends. "Ecology" is the main them of the "Country of Green". After "Retirement" I left "Florida" and the stress of the " United States". For 2 years, I have enjoyed the "Costa Rican Animals" that I see daily, for my Home is 300 yards from the "Rain Forest" at the Base of "Arenal Volcano".

"Volcano Arenal"

"My Eco-Friendly Home"

I see "Tourists in Town daily, they are all looking forward to the "Wildlife Adventures" that are offered here in "Costa Rica". The "Rain Forests" are  so many different shades of Green during the day, you will be amazed. I am lucky enough to have found an excellent peice of "Real Estate" at the Base of  the "Volcano"  

Since, I am an American and have lived here for 2 years, I thought I would write this for all the "Tourists" and "Adventure" seekers thinking of taking a "Vacation" or enjoy the "Animals of Costa Rica"..

"Crimson fronted Parakeets"

"Howler Monkey Family"

"Private Cabins"

"Johan Peronal Tour Guide"

"Jose at Front Entry cabin"

"Vacations" you never know where to stay or what to expect, I have a suggestion for you for a "Family Friendly Ecological Lodge" with just 7 "Cabins" set in the "Rain Forest" and offering "Jungle Night Tours" this is an Clean, Affordable and Educational  experience for those "Nature Lovers"  /

Rainforest Cabin Accomodations  with so many things to see here, Zip Lines through the Rainforest, "Volcano Lava Tours", "Cano Negro Wildlife Refuge" the staff at "Arenal Oasis" can provide it all..Reservation are needed

from the "United States" call 0115062479-9526. We spend our days Enjoying the Weather here mid 80's to mid 70's at night...so pack those bags time for a Vacation.... for other pictures of the area visit my website at

Wildlife Prints and Paintings for Sale  check in "Lonely Planet" excellent Ratings...Pura Vida (The Good Life)  Carol and Bill Patterson

"The Green Nature of Costa Rica"

"Rain Forest Springs"

"Arenal Volcano Costa Rica"

"Green the colors of Costa Rica". "Nature surrounds me here everyday, whether it be from the be from the "Shades of Green"of "Arenal Volcano" . The "Colors"of Green are seen in every aspect of "Nature" here from the "Rainforests"  to the "Colorful Birds and Wildflowers in the Mountains and fields here in LaFortuna.

Since relocating after "Retirement" from "Florida" to "Costa Rica" we have found the weather is perfect, the People friendly and although we dont have a Walmart close by we are 5 minutes from the top "Tourist" destination for 90 percent of "Tourists"

"Toucan Triplets in a Tree"

"Tourists" flock to this region of "Costa Rica" for the enless attractions, Hot Springs, "Fishing" in "Lake Arenal", White water rafting, "Lava Tours" or "Birdwatchers" delight in the "Bird Species to be found here.....   For those of looking for a great "Vacation" from the stress of the "United States", you can have an affordable Adventure here. I have found the most Family Friendly Lodge of 7 private "Cabins" each on one quarter of an acre, all make of teak with Vaulted Ceilings and Handmade Rustic Furniture. "Arenal Oasis Eco-Lodge" is a "Wildlife and Birding Paradise"  Private Cabins and Jungle Walks Birders Paradise

"2 Bed Cabin & Kitchenette"

Offering a Bi-Lingual Guide, Tour Packages, you will enjoy the Endless Trails leading along with "River" with Century Old "Cocoa" trees, Birds all around. "With Jungle Night Hikes" you will see "Animals of the Forest". I live just 5 minutes from this Hidden Gem and never viewed the Hotel until a week ago, This is perfect for seniors, Families, or those who love Nature and Wildlife. Tour Packages are available stay for a night or a week, Restaurant on site in an open air Pavillion....yes you can afford a "Vacation" for you just might deserve it....Transportation provided from the Airport if needed. you may contact me at cocoavillage1@yahoo.com with any questions....here are some of our Images of "Costa Rica" since we moved here 2 years ago....Costa Rica Nature  Pura Vida (The Pure Life)

Bill and Carol Patterson

" Bi-Lingual Tour Guide in Costa Rica"

"Tropical Mott Mott"

"Volcano Arenal"

"Cabin built by Johan at Arenal Oasis"

"Tours" in "Costa Rica" are plentiful, if you desire a personalized Tour may I suggest Johan Peraza who will provide you with a true "Adventure" in "Costa Rica". Before relocating from "Florida" to "Costa Rica" we met Johan at "Arenal Oasis Eco-Lodge".http://arenaloasis.com/  . Johan though only 34 has lived in the "United States" yet loves "Costa Rica" for the "Wildlife" that is found here. Knowledgeable is all the "Bird Species to be found here for he lived next to the "Rainforest" of the House I now own. 

He loves to Specialize in "Tours for all ages, yet Senior Citizens are his specialty". Even though you are wearing a few years, that does not mean "Adventure" is impossible. For those that love "Nature", may I suggest "Arenal Oasis Eco-Lodge" for a Private Rustic Cabin, surrounded by Canopies of Trees, Fruits, "Bird Species of all kinds". 

For day Trips you and Johan can work out "Waterfalls, Volcano Night Tours, Canoe Trips" and much more including "Fishing" on Fabulous and Famous "Lake Arenal". The Tranquility of "Costa Rica" will relax you due to the stress I see daily going on in the "United States". Being from "Florida" I am glad Retirement brought me to LaFortuna, with perfect weather and fabulous people. The Country of "Green Forests" of which the Protected "Forests" have Animals, Birds and everchanging "Volcano" Views....

Personalized "Vacation" service for "Tourists" is his motto... phone from "United States" is 01150683462245, or you may contact me with question at cocoavillage1@yahoo.com.

For more pictures of the "LaFortuna" area on the the top tourist stops in Costa Rica visit my website at

Costa Rica Pictures and Paintings

From the United States To Paradise

Since Relocating to" Costa Rica" 2 years ago, I had not been back to the Albany," New York" Area in 5 years. I was dismayed at the Cost of everything in New York. I did get to spend time with Family and Old Friends. Upon return to Costa Rica, I used a private Transfer ServicePrivate Transfer Service for Tourists
A Safe Passage for my 2 hour trip to my Home in Central Costa Rica , John the owner of A Safe Passage offers Tourists an alternative to Renting a Car, this is a Excellent Service, 8 passenger Van, Music, Stops along the way, it is "Where you Travel at Your Own Pace".  I am living in Costa Rica yet John showed me sights along the way such as where he offers his travelers the opportunity to Zip Line through the Cloud Forests, prior to arriving in LaFortuna. He also knows all the Culture and little sights along the way such as the Local Woman who runs an Iquana Preserve, who gladly welcomes you onto her property to show you the Pools and trees that now offer this animal a Santuary.

Upon arriving Home, I was grateful for the Wonderful Ride which was totally relaxing, and to be back in my Cabin by the Rainforest, where my Husband had created another Wonderful Painting that we offer to Tourists with Custom Hardwood Frames.

So, if you happen to utilize John and A Safe Passage he will gladly bring you to our Rainforest Home on the side of Arenal Volcano and you can view artwork or enjoy the Rainforest. Costa Rica offers a Vacation like no other. The United States was full of Stress you won't find that here in Costa Rica.
Glad to be Back in Paradise
Carol Patterson
la Fortuna, Costa Rica

From Shipping Containter to Eco Friendly House in Costa Rica

I noticed a Large "Shipping Container" being placed on a Lot, in the small Cul de Sac, I live in next to

 the"Rainforest in Costa Rica".  I met Carlos and Avionics Engineer, who lives in"San Jose, Costa Rica".

Carlos explained, he wanted a "Retirement Home" for he is 10 years away from Retirement, yet he wanted to build it as cheaply as possible...
At first I was scared about a Shipping container as a House, yet the Tranformation has begun. I am going to Document this "Eco-Friendly" House for everyone. Why with all the need for Housing in the World, cannot everyone "Recycle" even Shipping Containers to a "Green House".
These pictures depict how Carlos removed the Flat Roof put in metal Trusses and is now in the process of installing a "Barrell Tile Roof of Recycled Plastic", in the States we call it Ondura. This is a great Roofing material, reflects sunlight, wont face and can withstand winds up to 130MPH, but this is "Costa Rica" all we have our earthquakes.
This fully sustainable "Green House" is possible for everyone...I will continue to document the progress for  I feel this is just a great and informative ideas, with" Real Estate" being in the condition it is, An Eco Freindly Transformation is a great alternative in the "Housing Market".
So amidst the Rainforest and River that runs off  of Volcano Arenal, there sits this "Great Green Housing Alternative"
The website will show you pictures of the area surrounding this Home, filled with "Wildlife, Volcano Views" and the Beauty of Costa Rica.
William Patterson  La Fortuna (Home to Volcano Arenal & Hot Springs)
Wildlife Artist and Enviromentalist

"recycled green house"

recycled Roof Energy Effecient



53foot Shipping Container Transforms into a Home

From Shipping Container to Eco Friendly and Affordable House