All posts by Carl

Croc Convention

We literally stumbled on this group of crocodiles as we headed for the airport. Click the photo to make it larger and see how many you can find in the photo.

Pacific Farewell

It is the last day of the year and also our last day in Costa Rica. We say good by to the Pacific Ocean and gather sand to remind us of our adventures here.

White Water Survivors

It was a most enjoyable day for me with the kids. Maya had a marvelous first experience on white water and the boys showed some real skill in their paddling responsibilities. After a quick change into dry clothing we enjoyed a delicious meal at the take out point.

Nico on Point

 Nico switched places with Kyle at the front of the raft for the final third of the trip. Both boys did a great job of propelling the boat allowing our guide at the rear to set us up nicely for each rapid. Maya and Nico both opted to jump into the river on the flat water but no one fell out of the raft during the rough water.

Raindrops

Shortly after starting a gentle and warm rain began to fall. This was in nice contrast to the angry and cold water of the river.

Whitewater Crew

The river was a nice combination of Class II and III rapids with interspersed flat water affording an opportunity to enjoy the surrounding jungle. Initially, Maya opted to take a low position in the raft and not to paddle. By the end of the 13km run she was paddling like a pro and asking for more white water.

Skipping Stone Search

 Meanwhile Kyle and Nicolai search for ideally shaped skipping rocks.

Final Crossing

As bad as the roads are, the bridges are another story all together. We crossed this last one on foot and got a good look at the Savegre River which at this point seems quite well behaved.

Rescue Stop

During our transit to the put in point the guide described the day as Class V roads leading to Class III rapids. We traversed what can loosely be called roads that would terrify most mountain goats. When the white truck pictured here attempted to pass us on the single lane road, it lost traction, slid backwards, and nearly went over the cliff which is obscured in the photo by vegetation. We off-loaded our bus which then pulled the disabled vehicle off the ledge with a chain. It became very clear to me that our driver and equipment was superior to other operators and was thankful we had chosen well.

Father & Kid Outting

Today I took the kids white water rafting while Jeanine enjoyed the day on her own. You may recall that our last such adventure included a capsized raft that left Jeanine convinced she had no future interest in this type of adventure.

Local Artwork

After returning from the canopy tour we spent some time shopping by the beach in Manuel Antonio. In addition to the standard tourist fare, we discovered many beautiful objects fashioned by local artists.