Best Hotel in Arenal
Nov 6th, 2004, 08:31 PM
#23
Join Date: Nov 2004
Posts: 9
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
To Toucan, I am the owner of The Lost Iguana Resort and find your very negative comments interesting. Especially since you must realize that the buildings are all built on what was a cow pasture, and that I have never touched the rainforest. The construction is over except for a new reception area, but you would not know that since the last time you were there was a year ago before we were divorced. I suggest you check out the web site lostiguanaresort.com to see what my resort looks like this year. By the way, for anyone interested, we have the best private balconies, and we have been able to watch lava almost every night for the past couple of months. I look forward to reviews by anyone who actually stays with me.
Nov 7th, 2004, 06:26 AM
#24
Join Date: Jun 2004
Posts: 2,220
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
LostIguana-- Can you remind me, please, where you are in relation to Observatory Lodge? I had the sense that LI was on the same "side" of the volcano as OL, the west side? And I thought that lava was flowing on the "other" side? e.g. so that it could be seen from places like Arenal Paraiso, etc. I'm confused (I don't know the geography at all.) Thanks...
Nov 7th, 2004, 07:28 AM
#26
Join Date: Nov 2004
Posts: 9
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
The resort is located just below Arenal Lodge with the same lava views. The photo on the front of the website lostiguanaresort.com is taken from a room. I am not on the same side as Observatory Lodge, I am pretty much on the North West side. The lava is flowing mostly to the North now, and we miss maybe 30% of the flows. But you can see the volcano from all of the beds, and since they all have private views on steep slopes (no main road in front of the room with cars or guards walking by with flashlights) you can leave your drapes open and check the volcano throughout the night. Really helps when the volcano is cloud covered at night and clears off at 4 am. Thanks for the positive feedback.
Nov 8th, 2004, 03:00 AM
#27
Join Date: Nov 2004
Posts: 9
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Poss, sorry, someone called and said I didn't answer your question. Observatory Lodge is on the (almost) opposite side as the cluster of hotels - Montan del fuego, Volcano Lodge, etc.
They have not been able to see the lava for a while. The volcano is growing to the west as it forms new cones, so when the lava is coming straight west, then it can be seen from OL. Now, most of the flow is going primarily west. I'm not great at geography either, so hopefully I got all the directions right.
They have not been able to see the lava for a while. The volcano is growing to the west as it forms new cones, so when the lava is coming straight west, then it can be seen from OL. Now, most of the flow is going primarily west. I'm not great at geography either, so hopefully I got all the directions right.
Nov 8th, 2004, 06:30 AM
#29
Join Date: Sep 2004
Posts: 336
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Lost Iguana Owner- As long as you are monitering this thread could you elabarate on the construction process and a few other questions?
Mainly, were steps were taken to minimize the envioromental impact of a large resort? ( for example Light pollution? sound pollution) What building materials were utilized and were renewable recources used when possible? What steps have you taken to minimize energy useage amoung staff and guests?(Plaques asking guests to turn off lights? Energy saving lights and appliances? Solar hot water? All natural cleaning products?)
What percentage of your management staff are Tico? Are there any Tico partners? What policies have you implimented to help insure quality of life for the staff above and beyond the average Hotel employee? and lastly- What contribution does Hotel Iguana make to the community of Fortuna and surrounding wildlife habitat?
I think you get the gist of my questions. Since I have stayed in hotels and lodges all around Costa Rica that can answer these questions and more I feel it is fair to ask you. Your hotel may have gotten an unfair shake from the get go. I too had heard that this huge place was being built with no reguard for the envioroment. Please try and set the record straight. We did not enjoy our stay at Tabacon and if we returned to Fortuna planned to stay in town but would love another option.
Thank you for your time.
Mainly, were steps were taken to minimize the envioromental impact of a large resort? ( for example Light pollution? sound pollution) What building materials were utilized and were renewable recources used when possible? What steps have you taken to minimize energy useage amoung staff and guests?(Plaques asking guests to turn off lights? Energy saving lights and appliances? Solar hot water? All natural cleaning products?)
What percentage of your management staff are Tico? Are there any Tico partners? What policies have you implimented to help insure quality of life for the staff above and beyond the average Hotel employee? and lastly- What contribution does Hotel Iguana make to the community of Fortuna and surrounding wildlife habitat?
I think you get the gist of my questions. Since I have stayed in hotels and lodges all around Costa Rica that can answer these questions and more I feel it is fair to ask you. Your hotel may have gotten an unfair shake from the get go. I too had heard that this huge place was being built with no reguard for the envioroment. Please try and set the record straight. We did not enjoy our stay at Tabacon and if we returned to Fortuna planned to stay in town but would love another option.
Thank you for your time.
Nov 8th, 2004, 12:33 PM
#30
Join Date: Aug 2004
Posts: 1,120
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
greenfieldhunter : You've sparked interest in the results of your inquiries. Can you share the answers provided?
"Since I have stayed in hotels and lodges all around Costa Rica that can answer these questions and more..."
"Since I have stayed in hotels and lodges all around Costa Rica that can answer these questions and more..."
Nov 8th, 2004, 12:44 PM
#31
Join Date: Jul 2004
Posts: 27
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
lostiguana,
we check in on the 18th (next week!) we are going to be on our honeymoon. I have been a little scared do to the things that I have been hearing about your hotel. Thanks for responding to the forum, I feel better now!! I was also reasured by our travel agent (Pat Hewitt, w/ Costa Rica Travel Exchange). I can't wait to get there. What do you suggest we see while we are there?
we check in on the 18th (next week!) we are going to be on our honeymoon. I have been a little scared do to the things that I have been hearing about your hotel. Thanks for responding to the forum, I feel better now!! I was also reasured by our travel agent (Pat Hewitt, w/ Costa Rica Travel Exchange). I can't wait to get there. What do you suggest we see while we are there?
Nov 8th, 2004, 01:09 PM
#32
Join Date: Sep 2004
Posts: 336
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Triple sec- I am not sure what you mean. When traveling in CR some lodges seemed really concerned with the impact of tourism on the community and the environment while others just provided a bed and a TV. I like to spend money at the former. Some of the lodges offered the information without being asked.
Do you want the specific places we have stayed that seem to care about the above or are you pulling my leg?
Meanwhile- I was hoping for some answers from the owner of the Lost Iguana as we plan to return to Fortuna someday.
Do you want the specific places we have stayed that seem to care about the above or are you pulling my leg?
Meanwhile- I was hoping for some answers from the owner of the Lost Iguana as we plan to return to Fortuna someday.
Nov 8th, 2004, 06:59 PM
#33
Join Date: Aug 2004
Posts: 1,120
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Greenfieldhunter : nope, not pulling your leg.
I may have misinterpreted your post to Lost Iguana Owner. The first time I read it, it looked like you had asked the same list of questions to several hotels. If you have, then I'm interested in hearing their replies. If you haven't, then I did misinterpret your post.
I may have misinterpreted your post to Lost Iguana Owner. The first time I read it, it looked like you had asked the same list of questions to several hotels. If you have, then I'm interested in hearing their replies. If you haven't, then I did misinterpret your post.
Nov 9th, 2004, 05:16 AM
#34
Join Date: Nov 2004
Posts: 9
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Hi, I really enjoy being part of this chat room, but I don't have as much time to respond as I'd like. I have no other partners. I am building this by myself on land I bought 13 years ago,. I cherish this land and have dreamed about building a special place for others to share what I consider a paradise for the last 13 years. I'm far from perfect when it comes to everything environmental, but I'm trying to give back more than I take. I don't know where you heard about some huge project - I know my ex has been writing lies on web sites, so maybe it came from him. When I am done I will have 42 rooms and a spa on my 110 acres. Is that considered a huge project? I could easily build 100, but I want it to remain small and personal. Each room will have perfect unobstructed, private views of the volcano. All construction is being done on what had been cleared to graze cows. I am putting nature trails in the jungle that are exclusive for my guests. For every tree (nothing big) that has been removed I have planted at least 50 more. I have a landscaper who is bringing in trees specifically that attract wildlife.
Right now I am frantically trying to landscape the new building and in front of where the reception is being built. No construction is in the view of any rooms, but what is there I need to have gone in 3 weeks when both buildings are full. I am working from 5am - 10pm. I'm tired but love every stressful minute.
How about this Greenfield, Give me a couple of months to get the reception finished and the spa started, and then come and visit me and give me suggestions how I can be better. O.K.?
Right now I am frantically trying to landscape the new building and in front of where the reception is being built. No construction is in the view of any rooms, but what is there I need to have gone in 3 weeks when both buildings are full. I am working from 5am - 10pm. I'm tired but love every stressful minute.
How about this Greenfield, Give me a couple of months to get the reception finished and the spa started, and then come and visit me and give me suggestions how I can be better. O.K.?
Nov 9th, 2004, 11:25 AM
#35
Join Date: Sep 2004
Posts: 336
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Lost Iguana/Elaine- DEAL! Thank you for your quick response. It sounds like you have a love for the land and are enjoying your project.
I must admit I was under the impression that The Lost Iguana was a corporate hotel project being built with little regard for the environment. I am not sure how I got this impression but I sure am glad it is not the case (can you say Papagayo resort). It sounds like you are very busy but very fulfilled by your mission. I look forward to seeing your Lodge and welcome the prospect of higher end lodging near Fortuna. I am hardly an expert in environmental sustainability but just the fact you are concerned speaks volumes. I think our next visit to CR will be before you finish your reception but I will contact you as we plan. Once again, thank you ( I think your 50 to 1 tree ratio is great!)
Shilmac, I have not asked the specific questions I asked of Elaine of every place we have visited but we have had these questions answered in one way or another.
For example- Si Como No proudly touts their commitment to the environment- Only cut down 1 tree to build the complex, composts all organic waste and uses it on the landscaping, used concrete in lieu of hardwood (some people hate the concrete railing made to look like bamboo) have plaques in all rooms asking guests not to crank the AC with the doors open and to maybe think about shutting the lights off when not in the room (sad the plaques are even necessary but we noticed fewer lit up empty rooms), and heat what water they can with solar power.
Punta Islita- Tico owned, built the church in the community, makes educational classes available to the staff (mainly English classes), flies in Doctors to the remote area as needed, educated guests on the issues facing the community, tried to show off the local culture, and overall seemed to take great care of their staff.( We kept hearing this from Ticos all over the country)
The Iguana Lodge- started the first library on the Osa, founded and staffed a turtle hatchery out of their pocket,(Nice feature as guests can walk the beach with the guards nightly). Aside from the owners the entire management staff is Tico. Again, when talking to locals we heard time and time again great respect for the owners and the opinion that not all lodges on the Osa had such a high commitment to the area.
Lapa Rios- consistently demonstrates a commitment to the environment through land preservation efforts.
Morgans Rock- built from sustainable forestry projects ect ..( I do realize this one is in Nicaragua)
How much of what I have heard can I believe? Who knows? I realize advertising is catered towards people like me who want to spend their money on ecological sounding endeavors and cannot always be believed but I still try and find out. I never got the impression that Tabacon cared about any of these issues but we went there anyway and their lack of concern showed, mainly through the staff.
One of the reasons we have steered away from renting cars in CR is to support the people who work as drivers or in transport as opposed to supporting US rental companies(yes-it was me who recommended the US chain owned Costa Rica Marriot but only to people looking for high end honeymoon luxury in San Jose). We live in an area where public transport is not an option and do lots of daily solo driving. When we have the option of keeping another car off the road we certainly think about it not to mention the fulfilling interaction with a driver/guide.
On a humorous note-
When on a canopy tour in MA I asked how often the ropes were replaced that are used to rappel down from the canopies. Lets just say that the ropes looked a lot older than ropes being replaced weekly as I was told.
I must admit I was under the impression that The Lost Iguana was a corporate hotel project being built with little regard for the environment. I am not sure how I got this impression but I sure am glad it is not the case (can you say Papagayo resort). It sounds like you are very busy but very fulfilled by your mission. I look forward to seeing your Lodge and welcome the prospect of higher end lodging near Fortuna. I am hardly an expert in environmental sustainability but just the fact you are concerned speaks volumes. I think our next visit to CR will be before you finish your reception but I will contact you as we plan. Once again, thank you ( I think your 50 to 1 tree ratio is great!)
Shilmac, I have not asked the specific questions I asked of Elaine of every place we have visited but we have had these questions answered in one way or another.
For example- Si Como No proudly touts their commitment to the environment- Only cut down 1 tree to build the complex, composts all organic waste and uses it on the landscaping, used concrete in lieu of hardwood (some people hate the concrete railing made to look like bamboo) have plaques in all rooms asking guests not to crank the AC with the doors open and to maybe think about shutting the lights off when not in the room (sad the plaques are even necessary but we noticed fewer lit up empty rooms), and heat what water they can with solar power.
Punta Islita- Tico owned, built the church in the community, makes educational classes available to the staff (mainly English classes), flies in Doctors to the remote area as needed, educated guests on the issues facing the community, tried to show off the local culture, and overall seemed to take great care of their staff.( We kept hearing this from Ticos all over the country)
The Iguana Lodge- started the first library on the Osa, founded and staffed a turtle hatchery out of their pocket,(Nice feature as guests can walk the beach with the guards nightly). Aside from the owners the entire management staff is Tico. Again, when talking to locals we heard time and time again great respect for the owners and the opinion that not all lodges on the Osa had such a high commitment to the area.
Lapa Rios- consistently demonstrates a commitment to the environment through land preservation efforts.
Morgans Rock- built from sustainable forestry projects ect ..( I do realize this one is in Nicaragua)
How much of what I have heard can I believe? Who knows? I realize advertising is catered towards people like me who want to spend their money on ecological sounding endeavors and cannot always be believed but I still try and find out. I never got the impression that Tabacon cared about any of these issues but we went there anyway and their lack of concern showed, mainly through the staff.
One of the reasons we have steered away from renting cars in CR is to support the people who work as drivers or in transport as opposed to supporting US rental companies(yes-it was me who recommended the US chain owned Costa Rica Marriot but only to people looking for high end honeymoon luxury in San Jose). We live in an area where public transport is not an option and do lots of daily solo driving. When we have the option of keeping another car off the road we certainly think about it not to mention the fulfilling interaction with a driver/guide.
On a humorous note-
When on a canopy tour in MA I asked how often the ropes were replaced that are used to rappel down from the canopies. Lets just say that the ropes looked a lot older than ropes being replaced weekly as I was told.
Nov 9th, 2004, 01:29 PM
#36
Join Date: Nov 2004
Posts: 1
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
To the Lost Iguana
Recently, I was fortunate enough to have visited a very unique location in Paradise. As I think some would try to describe it as a resort or a hotel, it is not. Every effort possible has been made to make the guests feel as if they were in their very own secluded setting. Immersed on the edge of the pristine jungle, with backdrops of the Arenal Volcano, and still with all the amenities of a "resort", what more could one ask of inland Costa Rica. Not much as I was concerned. Although the "Lost Iguana" is in the final stages of some additional improvements, as a building contractor myself in Arizona, I can appreciate the owners efforts to make each and every guests stay as comfortable as possible. With total respect for the surrounding jungle and with the completion of the final stages of the "resort" this will be one of the premier destinations in Costa Rica. I know for a fact that I will come back.
Recently, I was fortunate enough to have visited a very unique location in Paradise. As I think some would try to describe it as a resort or a hotel, it is not. Every effort possible has been made to make the guests feel as if they were in their very own secluded setting. Immersed on the edge of the pristine jungle, with backdrops of the Arenal Volcano, and still with all the amenities of a "resort", what more could one ask of inland Costa Rica. Not much as I was concerned. Although the "Lost Iguana" is in the final stages of some additional improvements, as a building contractor myself in Arizona, I can appreciate the owners efforts to make each and every guests stay as comfortable as possible. With total respect for the surrounding jungle and with the completion of the final stages of the "resort" this will be one of the premier destinations in Costa Rica. I know for a fact that I will come back.
Nov 9th, 2004, 09:24 PM
#38
Join Date: Jan 2004
Posts: 10,212
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
BTW, GreenFieldHunter,
While at Si Como No, did you by any chance admire the Patrica Erickson Caribbean art as we did? Man, I'd love to have one of those!
Just thought you might be interested to know that I came across a website for ordering greeting cards from her artword. I'll go ahead and post this and see if I can locate it for you.
While at Si Como No, did you by any chance admire the Patrica Erickson Caribbean art as we did? Man, I'd love to have one of those!
Just thought you might be interested to know that I came across a website for ordering greeting cards from her artword. I'll go ahead and post this and see if I can locate it for you.
Nov 9th, 2004, 09:26 PM
#39
Join Date: Jan 2004
Posts: 10,212
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Nov 10th, 2004, 12:05 AM
#40
Join Date: Aug 2004
Posts: 1,120
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Hmmmmm, Shillmac, maybe gfh meant me when addressing a reply to you above.
Also, the server must be down -or something- because I've tried the link you provided (as well as trying .net and hyphenating) with no success online.
Also, the server must be down -or something- because I've tried the link you provided (as well as trying .net and hyphenating) with no success online.
