air and water around Arenal volcano

[ergomus]

Can I get some information about the quality of air and water around the active volcanoes in CR? Although I am leaning toward buying a home around Heredia or Escazu, I haven't ruled out property near Arenal. One thing that would put the kabash on that thinking is if the winds would carry a sulphur odor or if the water had a funny taste. I assume the proximity is a large factor, as well as the direction relative to the cone (I'd guess that being east of the volcano would be more unpleasant). Could someone give me some advice?

Thanks much.

[Russ]

I have visited Arenal several times in the last few years (playing tourist guide for family) and I have never noticed any bad smells or anything funny with the water.   I think that, for safety reasons and zoning restrictions,  you won't be able to build or buy any home that is near enough to the cone for it to have any effect on the atmosphere. La Fortuna is the closest town to the volcano and that is several miles away from it.  Nuevo Arenal and the area around Lake Arenal is I think actually the area where more developments are and where more people buy residences.

You can contact Rico Realty for good information on the area and listings.