Terry Moran is another good contact in Arenal for real estate. http://www.moranlakearenal.com
As far as back ups, are you referring to different regions? If so you should also check out the Central Valley, which is the area around San Jose, the capital. You’ll drive through this region from the airport in San Jose to Arenal. The altitude is at 3,000 feet and up so the climate is very temperate year-round. Mid 70s average. Cools down to the 60s at night often, especially at higher altitudes.
Ivo Henfling at GoDutchRealty.com is a good resource in the Central Valley.