Quick poll, what would you do?

I tend to do a lot of reading while in Costa Rica. It is a great way to spend time while waiting for the tide to change, winds to die or switch and do something that isn't part of "everyday normal." No TV where I stay. And it is usually 8pm lights out for this old man!

 

Bang on. Backing up is king. Also INSURE THE ASS OFF IT. LOTS.

 

I stayed at Backyard hotel at Playa Hermosa when I was there. Hermosa is a wave magnet. Excellent central point to alot of great breaks including Boca Baranca. They had all the internet gear there if I needed it. I never needed it but its nice to know its there. The vibe in CR is so amazing the last thing I wanted was to get on a computer. Day or night pending where you're staying.
The risk of having it stolen is huge. The idea of getting a touch Ipod is excellent. You can document your trip and still make your friends jealous and stoked with photos and updates. Plus its small enough to lock up in your room safe. When I travel I tend to find a way of forgetting where I'm from. then I know I'm really in the moment. Thats what vacations are for.