Abbyo

Thanks IVK. We'll definitely splurge on the photos! (like our very expensive video of "Swimming with Dolphins" near Playa del Carmen last year--worth every penny)

I was leaning towards the "Original canopy tour" in Monteverde because of what I read about ascending up the middle of an old fig tree. Will they have the "no brake" system like the "Sky Trek" does? Also, do you need to make a reservation for these tours and if so, from home or just once we get there?---we're going to be there right after Easter weekend so I think it's still pretty busy judging by the lack of room vacancies.

On another note, do we need to reserve a spot if we are wanting to take a tour of Cano Negro from La Fortuna, during the Easter week? And do you have to reserve to go into Tabacon Hot Springs?
Thanks again to all who so kindly give their great advice.

shillmac

Please keep in mind that my daughter got a little too fiesty for her britches! And that her glove protected her hand except for a wee pinch. Sometimes the guides tell you to turn loose and just do your thing (which she was attempting), but only on certain cables. She misunderstood. For the most part, (I, at least), NEVER turn loose of my light hold on the rope behind me regardless of what tricks are available for my upside down entertainment. I suspect your 8 year old will not be encouraged to do canopy tricks, and that he/she will dutifully follow instructions to maintain a light touch on the cable behind his head. It is very easy, then, to brake oneself by increasing pressure to the cable (pressing one's hand down on it) in order to brake. Of course, the guides are happy to help people across if they want to ride tandem. Not to worry!

Abbyo

Thanks Shillmac. I feel better. I assume it doesn't require a great deal of strength when you squeeze with the glove to slow down?
Shillmac, I've got a couple more questions under my original "Costa Rica" posting---any chance you could have a look and see if you can answer them?

Jille

jquentzel...do you recommend me going here for my honeymoon? Is Jaco near Arenal?

shillmac

Abbyo
You don't squeeze the cable, really, just pull it downward with your palm. You will brake in proportion to the amount of pressure you apply to the cable. You'll get a feel for it as you go. You don't want to brake in the middle of a cable, because you'll stop and have to haul yourself in hand over hand. If the speed worries you, then you can control that also with a little palm pressure. Just don't control it so much that you get too slow and come to a stop. In other words, allow yourself to "zip"! Personally, the faster I made it across, the happier I was!

shillmac

I'm sorry--where was the other post, Abbyo?