Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
WHAT TO DO IF YOU'RE CAUGHT IN A RIPTIDE
Riptides account for the majority of ocean drownings, though a simple understanding of
how these currents behave can save your life. Rip currents are composed of three parts:
the feeder current, the neck and the head. The feeder current consists of rapidly moving
water that parallels the shore. When this water reaches a channel, it switches direction
and flows out to sea, forming the neck of the rip. This is the fastest-moving part of the
riptide, and can carry swimmers out to sea at a speed of up to 10km/h. The head is
formed past the breakers where the current quickly dissipates.
If you find yourself caught in a riptide, it's important to conserve your energy and not to
panic and fight the current - this is the principal cause of drownings. It's impossible to
swim directly back to shore. Instead, tread water and let yourself be swept out past the
breakers. Once you're in the head of the rip, you can swim parallel or diagonally to the
shore until you're out of the channel, then swim back to shore with the waves.
Rip currents usually occur on beaches that have strong surf, and there are indicators,
such as the brownish color on the surface of the water that is caused by swept-up sand
and debris. If you're ever in doubt about the safety of a beach, inquire locally about swim-
ming conditions. Remember, rips are survivable as long as you relax, don't panic and con-
serve your energy.
Sleeping & Eating
Playa Avellanas
If you prefer to sleep out under the stars, you'll find a few places to string a hammock or
pitch a tent at the southern end of Playa Avellanas.
Casa Surf
GUESTHOUSE
( 2652-9075;
www.casa-surf.com
; per person US$15; )
Casa Surf is looking tropically terrific after a recent makeover, featuring an all-new bam-
boo exterior and palm thatch roof. Inside, you'll find simple, clean rooms that share a bath-
room and kitchen. The casa offers an excellent-value room, board and board option, which
includes two meals daily and surfboard rental. Delicious filling meals (US$5 to US$7) are
