Lakewood, CA: Will be in Costa Rica 12/1/06 -12/15/06. Going to Arenal, Manuel Antonio, Tortuguero, and Monte Verde, and staying at local hotels. Our family-- 56 yr. old woman, 43 yr. old man, 10 yr. old boy. My Dr. has asked which kinds of malaria strains are present, so she knows which pills to give us. Also, I'm reluctant to use mosquito spray with DEET. Will the botanical ones work, or not? Are there weight limits on the trams/aerial bridges, etc? One of the people in our group weighs 300 lbs. And what about the small boats to Tortuguero, will that be a problem? We are taking our 10 year old son. Any special words of caution or must-sees? And, are there any 1 or 2 rated rafting trips?

Rob Hodel: I would not suggest any malaria medication for two reasons. First there is almost no malaria in Costa Rica, if any at all although its considered in the "malaria zone." The other is the very sever risk of side effects that this medication can cause. I have seen it and its just not worth it. DEET supposedly has a rival in a new product by Cutters Advanced My partner at CentralAmerica.com swears by it Most canopy tours are rated to 250 lb capacity. You can still get the tree top experience by trying the walking bridges. The boats will not present a problem for you. There are a couple of level 1 and two rivers, the Corobici being the most gentle. Try http://centralamerica.com/cr/raft/aventuras.htmfor more options or RiosTropicales.com

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Beckley, WV: My brother and I will be traveling to Playa Herradura, Costa Rica Feb. 7-13, 2007. We enjoy the outdoors, and snorkeling and want to soak up all of the culture we can. We want to see and do as much sightseeing as possible to all the local attractions such as the rainforest. Can you recommend a reputable tour company to contact? Also, is there a specific taxi company you would recommend? Thanks so much!!! Gail

Rob Hodel: When you say Herradura I assume you mean Los Suenos. If so contact Joaquin at StayinCostaRica.com and tell him I sent you. They can handle it all for you in a professional way.

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Dumont, IA: What would you suggest to be a good area to base ourselves with only 4 or 5 nights to stay? Are Visa debit cards widely accepted, or is a credit card or trav. checks preferred? Should a person be vaccinated for malaria or anything similar to that?

Rob Hodel: If you have just four or five days I would suggest the Quepos/Manuel Antonio area for a base. Visa cards are accepted widely and so I would only take an emergency supply of Travelers Checks. Travelers Checks are sometimes tough to change and the exchange rate stinks. However, they are a lifesaver if you need them and since they are in dollars they never expire so you can keep them for your next trip. I have some over 21 years old! Forget the malaria concerns. You have a better chance of being eaten by a Polar Bear.

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 Toronto, Ontario, Canada: In Monteverde, please recommend the safest and best canopy tour for family of five: two adults, three children ages 8, 11 and 13. Will be there March 7-17, 2007. Thanks, Heather

Rob Hodel: I suggest Selvatura in Monteverde.

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