We've started our Costa Rica trips from the Hotel Bougainvillea in a San Jose suburb twice, and it has even gotten better. Its handsome entrance is a welcome sight.

The hotel and grounds are filled with historical artifacts and artwork. Leave some time to browse.

Acres of beautiful flowers, garden walks and lush vegetation make it a joy to wander through.

And, there are many surprises inside and outside, including free Wifi. (JD)

It's no wonder this is a favorite with the many who recognize Costa Rica as a primo birding destination. (JD)

Getting started with a good dinner. From left, David, Niño Miriam, Charlie, Ruth Marie, Mary, Jimmy, Jack

On the way out of San Jose, we got to visit Charlie's home, meet his daughter Laura and this charming pooch Mila and admired the gorgeous roses (below) that had been the pride of his mother.

Then it was up in the mountains to see the Irazu Volcano at the national park.

The stark lava fields are impressive.

But to see the real site, it is necessary to walk to the main crater, and wait for the fog to lift

If you care after seeing this mystical sight, the crater is 300 meters deep (985 feet)  and 1,050 meters (2/3 mile)  wide. (JD)

We were just finishing a great lunch at Buena Noche restaurant, when Niño wandered outside, soon to return yelling, "Quetzal!" We got several minutes of watching them play in distant trees.