Manuel Antonio Family trip to Manuel Antonio with Esther. - (62) more edit 2007-06-01 - rec# 45

SWMBO has a jinx with Manuel Antonio. The previous two times we were going to go she got sick. We had planned this time to to with Esther and I guess the third time is the charm. She made it. Manuel Antonio is the smallest park in Costa Rica and the one who receives the most visitors. It is in fact just a small jetty. Beach on each side and a large hill at the end of it. This park is home to a large band of White Face Monkeys, Squirrel Monkeys and lizards. On day one we did the "explore the park" thing. The guides are fantastic! It takes a couple of hours to take the guided tour and then you return to the beaches for sun. We all returned well baked. Esther wanted to return to the beaches on the second day so that we did. There is a loop around the hill part of the park takes you to several great view points. It's a long and steep trail with lots to see. About half way threw we heard lots of thunder. Before the end of the trail it began to rain (a little). By the time we got back to the beach it was a downpour and most everybody had evacuated the beach. We found an overhang to hide beneath and watch this downpour falling through the jungle. Animals scurrying around looking for shelter. We were soaked. Esther put on her swim suit to continue the walk. Probably the most appropriate wear for the trip. We returned soaked. Somehow the bus driver let us on. I suspect he's seen this sort of thing before. When we returned to the hotel there was a large band of Squirrel Monkeys in the trees playing and being feed bananas. They were great fun and Esther was delighted by all the activity. Next week it's off the the mountains in search of the quetzal. Then to the states for a couple of weeks. I wonder that THAT will be like...