regarding your trip to nicaragua, the american embassy's website is nicaragua embassy.

it has a wealth of information that will save you a telephone call.

your relatives will know what will be safe - or not - for you to do.

keep in mind the american embassy or consulate is not a travel agency, is not a traveler's aid society, nor is their main, or even minor, purpose for our ( american citizens' ) benefit, and should be used in dire emergencies or as a last resort only.

yeah, i was surprised by that too.

be sure to bring extra batteries for your camera.

the kids will love the howler monkeys.

i'm sure you'll have a great time and the kids will bring home a lot of memories!