1

the areas where you will be traveling are very safe. just use common sense.

you can look here for typical rainfall patterns: http://costa-rica-guide.com/Weather/WeatherMap.html

the arenal area will have more rain than playa flamingo. if you can easily change your visit to the first part of december, the weather might be better. but - it could also be more expensive.

in a "typical" year (whatever that is with weather seeming so crazy these days), the "dry season" begins somewhere around the first of december, depending on where you are in the country. however, 3 or 4 days after the weather bureau predicted that the dry season was starting here in costa rica this past december, two storm systems moved in and it rained for two weeks.

another option in a drier area would be hotel borinquen near rincon de la vieja. instead of arenal and playa flamingo you could do rincon de la vieja and playa flamingo which would probably mean less rain.

2

October tends to be the worst month for rain, then it tapers off into Nov, and dry season begins in Dec, but as above said, every years its different, and each month can vary greatly in rainy season. Plan on afternoon showers, especially in the mountains at Arenal. Arenal is not currently active, but who knows by Nov 2012.

In regards to Playa Flamingo, this is the 3rd post in the last few days concerning the area, and I am not a big fan of it, especially for a honeymoon, it its not a very tropical charming rustic and authentic beach town, compared to many other places to enjoy the Pacific, nor is there any great lodging there IMO, typical sterile eyesore resorts IMO.

Not sure what your budget is, but what about the Capitan Suizo in Tamarindo, which offers a much more vibrant and interesting beach scene, nightlife and eating/cafes. Or the Sueno Del Mar B&B? Tamarindo is has more personality and surf town feel, than Flamingo, if not, stay in Playa Papagayo.

Playa Avellenas is a also a nice option of you want low key.

Also, renting a car is a great way to enjoy the beautiful scenery, mountains and country roads, one the best drives in the country is between Canas and Arenal around the lake, take your time, have a drink, a meal, enjoy the mountain breezes and roll the windows down, relax, and enjoy the new culture and vistas.

http://www.hotelcapitansuizo.com/index.php?english

http://www.sueno-del-mar.com/index3.html

3

I will be going to Costs Rica From November 15 to December 15/2012, travelling alone and renting a condo in the Samara area. This is the first time there but seams very interresting. Not very sure about the weather but the begenning of the dry season is starting, so hope you guys have a nice trip. And maybe meet for a drink.