You're right, SeeBuyFly. Traveling somewhere and living somewhere are totally different experiences. I'm no stranger to heavy rain, and we're just coming off a very heavy rainy season in Costa Rica. I wasn't out trying to see the sights. *** That's the difference.

I've ordered Chasing the Monsoon. Looks like a good read. Thanks!

*** Most nature tours here go on rain or shine, and some of the most fun excursions I've had have been in the pouring rain. Tour operators provide ponchos and boots. You get soaked.