This week's episode opened up where we left it: in New Orleans (and yes, Phil was sure to do his whole "This is dedicated to the memories of the victims" bit before the opening credits). It was sad and creepy to watch footage of the once-vibrant city, but luckily, the "ick" factor was short-lived as teams learned they'd be heading to Central America. Woohooo! Finally! I have to admit, I was quite relieved. As the Bransens opened that first clue, I fully expected some stupid command like "Drive three miles and find the world's largest toothbrush." But no. Instead, they were to fly down to Panama City, Panama and then trek out to the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute. There, they'd have to take a boat out to an island and find a man in a hammock named Ricardo Diaz. Ooh, this sounds like a low-rent John LeCarré novel. Now all I have to do is read a John LeCarré novel to get my own reference!

Anyway, the Paolos were the second to leave the Pit Stop, and as they happily bounded to their car, we cut to an interview with matriarch Marion Paolo as she said, "My ideal situation by the end of this race would have DJ put his arms around me and say, 'I love you Ma.'" And with that, she choked up and let out such a sweet, loving hiccup of a noise, that I couldn't help sighing like an emotional housewife watching an Extreme Makeover: Home Edition marathon. Of course, I laughed too.

Oh Marion.

Having a less sentimental time was the Linz family, who hit the road all full of eager excitement. "I love high school spring break. I hope we can check out sixteen year old girls!" said Tommy.

"That's the wrong Panama City, isn't it?" corrected Megan.

"Not Florida," added another one of the brothers. It was a funny clip and all, but I personally was more amused that the Linz family seemed more preoccupied with Tommy's geographical errors rather than his apparent penchant for statutory rape.