is in our itinerary. As I've never been on a small boat, started Googling. It is my impression, it's a long canoe with instructor in front, he's in command, and we, the poor sheep, are doing the paddling?

Would you recommend it for oder people? For those who can't swim? For those who get seriously sea sick?

Would it be physically demanding? How long are those rides? Will the safety vest feel too hot in hot Costa Rican weather?

Are the seats somewhat comfortable, or bare woodboards? What about people with bad backs - will they feel every move?

I'm thinking, maybe we should just skip it?

I think the answers can vary. Where are you doing the paddling? Some places are rough and others are smooth as glass. Can't they give you more details? Usually we get the length of the trip, location, etc. when we book an activity.

We've never done any water activities in Costa Rica without wearing a life jacket; they usually make you wear them for safety. Can you check to see if they're providing them? I'd just ask a few more questions.

I don't see any reason an older person couldn't paddle a canoe unless their doctor has told them not to. Paddling is not difficult. I imagine it could get tiring if you're going to be doing it for hours or in a rough current or something. Temps depend on where you're going as well. We've had weather in the 60s and weather in the 90s, rain, sun, fog - it really varies, and there's not enough info. here to really answer.

Costa Rica to me is all about embracing new things and trying them. I would go for it.

It says, Playa Agujas (Google: 20 km N of Jaco) and "ride along the coast" - this is a 10-day tour, so they don't give much details. On the photos people wear life jackets.

I guess, I will see what that is, and decide there if I'll have more beach time, or attempt to drown

Maybe something like this.

http://www.crsuntours.com/blog/outrigger-jaco/

My theory is you're paying them, so ask them any questions you want to know.

I was nervous about a lot of things in Costa Rica. I wouldn't even do a night hike when we first went, but now I raft, zipline, hike at night, pretty much everything. I've never ever regretted anything that we've done. Just made lots of happy memories. My mom is getting up in years, but she could totally kick butt in an outrigger.

I would stay at the bar and have cocktails and tapas.

"My theory is you're paying them, so ask them any questions you want to know."

Oh, I will, believe me Just don't know yet who to ask, the trip is sold by Road Scholar (former Elderhostel), provided by Holbrook travel - and most likely, local providers at each stop.

Michelle: too bad it's scheduled for morning

You'll probably get up at 5:30 a.m. so morning cocktails are totally acceptable!

You are on vacation. Drinking any time is allowed

"You'll probably get up at 5:30 a.m." - ain't payin' for not sleepin' in

Michelle, shh, don't tell Mr Again