As many of my clients know I have spent a good portion of the past 20 or so years guiding and working on research projects in the rainforests of Central and South America, so I thought it would be appropriate to include a rainforest page on The Advance Pool Service website. In doing so I am hoping to encourage some of you to visit these beautiful ecosystems and to raise the awareness of the imminent peril to the future of these incredible forests. I am convinced that the only way to save these forests is through ecotourism.

Many people that I've talked with over the years hesitate to visit South or Central America because of concerns with their safety in these areas. It has always been my experience that these countries, (with the exception of Columbia), are remarkably safe. More so than many, even most cities in the U.S. Did you know that Miami is rated as one of the most dangerous cities in the world?

A visit to Ecuador or Costa Rica can be a wonderfully unforgettable experience for adults and children alike. The different indigenous cultures, the flora and fauna are so outside of our experience as U.S. citizens that it gives us a rich, healthy broadening of our world view. I've found that children or teenagers are particularly enriched by a visit to the New World Tropics.

Another benefit to a rainforest vacation can be felt in your wallet. A dollar, even in its present state, goes a long way in South America and if you ask my wife, the shopping is fantastic.

Just by visiting the rainforests of Central and South America you are helping to preserve them. They are so critical to the over all health of our planet in so many ways. I strongly urge all of you consider a trip to these precious forests. You'll never regret it.

I have included my article from the Orchid Hunter to get a taste of what it is like to explore these areas. I also have included a virtual tour of areas that I have visited. Begin by clicking on the photo of the waterfall to the left. Enjoy your journey...

These pages contain authentic sounds from the rainforest environment to enhance your experience. Turn your speakers on!
Also, if you are  using a dial up connection you may experience long page load times and certainly a long load time for the photo album movie. We suggested saving the movie file to disk and playing it locally.

Sam Crothers