The magical topiaries of Zarcero

August 31. We have looked at several promising properties in the San Ramon area and now it is time to take a leisurely drive to the Lake Arenal area by way of Zarcero. It's an easy drive that takes you through lush green forests, cloud forest and rolling pastures. As you drive toward the Church in the center of town you may mistakenly think you are in Disneyland. Then entire square in front of the Church is filled with whimsical topiaries. Each corner you turn reveals more and more of these magical plants.

Searching for a retirement home - San Ramon

August 30, 2007. Our second trip to Costa Rica to find the "perfect retirement home." We started in San Ramon which is just outside of San Jose in the Central Valley. We had scheduled an appointment to meet with realtors from http://www.american-european.net/. Through them we met and stayed with Stephanie and Wilbur of West Osaka Island Properties (http://www.american-european.net/ site #1740). What a fantastic introduction to this part of Costa Rica. We had a private 3-bedroom guest house with it's own jungle barbeque "rancho." The house had all the modern conveniences and is set on the banks of the Rio Barranca. In addition to an un-matched natural setting complete with waterfalls, the property includes a large tilapia pond for fresh fish frys, horses, swimming pool and more. Believe it or not, Stephanie only charges $400 per week for up to 4 people! Her email is curvette1@aol.com. I highly recommend a visit.