We are asked on a regular basis about the amount of rain we receive here in the rain forest. Well obviously based upon the name you would think that we get loads and loads of rain. We do, but it is rare that the rain keeps us from doing anything for an extended period of time. What is my definition of an extended period of time? Several days in a row, all day long – enough time to make young children crazy and adults on vacation a bit cranky.
Normally during the rainy season we may have rain at night. Or we might have rain during the morning. Or we might have rain all afternoon. The deal is that rarely during this season do we get all three in one day: rain morning, noon and night. And even if it is raining – the weather is warm here. The rain cools you down on a hike through the jungle or on a kayak trip in the ocean.
What are the benefits of traveling during the rainy season? Fewer people. Your children are on vacation from school so you can schedule your trip as it best fits with your schedule not during a specific period of time when so many other people want to travel. So your international flights are less crowded, you can pick and choose your hotel in Panama City, and you have fewer people to contend with through the country of Panama.
Don’t let the term rainy season worry you – the amount of rain we have had here this summer barely compares to that which has been coming down on the USA. Go ahead -come on and enjoy our Panama beaches and our Panama islands – the water is warm.
Monday, August 6, 2007
Friday, April 13, 2007
Cliff snorkeling
Along one of the Zapatilla Cayes here in Bocas del Toro Panama you can go snorkeling along an ocean cliff. You can take a leisurely walk from the leeward side of the island over to the windward side and enter the water. You swim along the Panama Island until you reach the cliff. Once you reach the cliff you can dive down a bit and encounter a large variety of fish. We help you locate the spot to enter the water and then accompany you to the cliff itself.
We had a couple out there yesterday who visited several spots in Bocas del Toro during their vacation. They both said that this beach and this snorkeling experience were the best they have had in Panama so far.
The Zapatilla Cayes are on the outer edge of the archipelago and the Bastimentos National Marine Park. Many of the boat captains and tour guides from Isla Colon do not venture out to these beautiful islands. The guides which do go as far as the Zapatillas generally do not accompany their clients on to the island. They drop them off and anchor or circle the island for some period of time and then return to pick them up. Their clients will have a wonderful beach experience. Their snorkeling experience is dependent upon chance. As it is up to the clients to find the spots to snorkel on their own.
As a Bocas del Toro Hotel, we try not to leave anything to chance – if we can improve upon your vacation by advance planning and guiding, then we do so.
We had a couple out there yesterday who visited several spots in Bocas del Toro during their vacation. They both said that this beach and this snorkeling experience were the best they have had in Panama so far.
The Zapatilla Cayes are on the outer edge of the archipelago and the Bastimentos National Marine Park. Many of the boat captains and tour guides from Isla Colon do not venture out to these beautiful islands. The guides which do go as far as the Zapatillas generally do not accompany their clients on to the island. They drop them off and anchor or circle the island for some period of time and then return to pick them up. Their clients will have a wonderful beach experience. Their snorkeling experience is dependent upon chance. As it is up to the clients to find the spots to snorkel on their own.
As a Bocas del Toro Hotel, we try not to leave anything to chance – if we can improve upon your vacation by advance planning and guiding, then we do so.
Monday, April 9, 2007
Busy Season
During Semana de Santa, Bocas del Toro Panama might be described by the people who live here as crowded. Many people living in Costa Rica and Panama take advantage of the holiday time during that week and come for a visit. Our sleepy laid back archipelago is filled with visitors several times of year. Semana de Santa is one such time.
Semana de Santa marks the end of our busy season, which seems to begin earlier and end later each year. Bocas has a variety of different accommodations for each type of traveler. For the holidays each year, all of the accommodations are full. Reservations for the month of December are definitely required and if you want any options you need to begin early.
Last year, we had reservations for all of our cabanas for the December holidays by the end of September. This year I expect that it will be earlier. However, traveling during busy season is not for everyone. The experience is different during busy season as there are more people. Our natural surroundings are still the same and the number of people here is quite limited compared to other holiday destinations, but you do have to share with other people.
If you travel to Bocas del Toro during the non peak seasons you get the place to yourself (or almost so). So really, it depends upon how private a vacation you want to have. Really private – come some time between April and October. Semi private – head south between November and March.
Semana de Santa marks the end of our busy season, which seems to begin earlier and end later each year. Bocas has a variety of different accommodations for each type of traveler. For the holidays each year, all of the accommodations are full. Reservations for the month of December are definitely required and if you want any options you need to begin early.
Last year, we had reservations for all of our cabanas for the December holidays by the end of September. This year I expect that it will be earlier. However, traveling during busy season is not for everyone. The experience is different during busy season as there are more people. Our natural surroundings are still the same and the number of people here is quite limited compared to other holiday destinations, but you do have to share with other people.
If you travel to Bocas del Toro during the non peak seasons you get the place to yourself (or almost so). So really, it depends upon how private a vacation you want to have. Really private – come some time between April and October. Semi private – head south between November and March.
Saturday, April 7, 2007
Fish
One of the interesting things about being on an island is you never know when one of your neighbors is going to show up on your doorstep with something you might like to have.
Yesterday, our neighbor showed up with quite a large load of really nice snapper. We were pleased that he had been able to catch such a nice group of fish and purchased all that he offered. It was quite a bit of fish and took my husband and one of our kitchen assistant about 4 hours to clean the fish. Then we made fish stock and prepared the fish for the freezer. All of the cleaning took place in the afternoon and ran right into the dinner service. Fortunately we were able to get it all done and feed our guests dinner.
So it was with mixed feelings of appreciation and trepidation that I went to the door this morning when I was informed my neighbor was once again downstairs. This morning he brought an even larger load of fish.
We are one of the few Bocas del Toro hotels which are fortunate enough to have great neighbors who still go fishing. Our guests enjoy fresh caught snapper.
Yesterday, our neighbor showed up with quite a large load of really nice snapper. We were pleased that he had been able to catch such a nice group of fish and purchased all that he offered. It was quite a bit of fish and took my husband and one of our kitchen assistant about 4 hours to clean the fish. Then we made fish stock and prepared the fish for the freezer. All of the cleaning took place in the afternoon and ran right into the dinner service. Fortunately we were able to get it all done and feed our guests dinner.
So it was with mixed feelings of appreciation and trepidation that I went to the door this morning when I was informed my neighbor was once again downstairs. This morning he brought an even larger load of fish.
We are one of the few Bocas del Toro hotels which are fortunate enough to have great neighbors who still go fishing. Our guests enjoy fresh caught snapper.
Thursday, April 5, 2007
Yummy!
Coconut palms are abundant here in Bocas del Toro Panama. We have so many coconut trees growing here that young children learn at a very early age not to walk or loiter underneath a coconut tree. When asked why you don’t go under a coconut tree, my son at age two could tell you “Because coconuts bump you on the head.”
You can take the fruit of the coconut palm, which isn’t a nut at all, and use it for many different purposes. Only one of the usual uses of the coconut is for food. Whenever we have children visiting us, they like to go find a coconut or ask one of our employees to get them one. They love to watch our employees use a machete to get the fruit off the tree and then to open the big husk to get to the inner edible portion. Fresh coconut is not sweet like a pineapple, but does take well to sweet dishes. It is also used for many savory purposes.
One such dish is coconut rice. It is a staple here in Latin America. My younger brother who spent his first years in Louisiana wanted to know where the sauce for the rice was – I told him to taste the rice. Once he tasted it, he had a new appreciation for its flavor and agreed that it was delicious on its own.
We have so many different uses for coconut in our menu that we could almost serve it at every meal.
You can take the fruit of the coconut palm, which isn’t a nut at all, and use it for many different purposes. Only one of the usual uses of the coconut is for food. Whenever we have children visiting us, they like to go find a coconut or ask one of our employees to get them one. They love to watch our employees use a machete to get the fruit off the tree and then to open the big husk to get to the inner edible portion. Fresh coconut is not sweet like a pineapple, but does take well to sweet dishes. It is also used for many savory purposes.
One such dish is coconut rice. It is a staple here in Latin America. My younger brother who spent his first years in Louisiana wanted to know where the sauce for the rice was – I told him to taste the rice. Once he tasted it, he had a new appreciation for its flavor and agreed that it was delicious on its own.
We have so many different uses for coconut in our menu that we could almost serve it at every meal.
Wednesday, April 4, 2007
Little known banana facts
Did you know that the banana might be the world’s first fruit? Did you know that Malaysia was the first know banana jungle? Recent archeological evidence in Papua New Guinea suggests that bananas were grown as far back as 5000 BC and quite possibly as long ago as 8000 BC.
Did you know that nutritionally the banana is incredibly nourishing and can be eaten at any hour of the day due to its digestive properties? Each banana is full of proteins and the sugar provided within gives a lot of energy for those in need of endurance. Bananas also contain magnesium, selenium, iron, many different vitamins, and are recommended for low salt diets as they are low in sodium.
The banana is America’s number one fruit. Each American consumes an average of 28 pounds of banana a year. The market for bananas is nearly $5 billion per year.
There are nearly 400 varieties of banana plants. Ripe banana plants are sugary and are eaten raw. Plantains are unripe fruits which must be cooked before consumption. Plantains are more like a potato than a ripe banana.
Harvest for bananas begins when the plant is green. A banana that has had the opportunity to ripen on the vine has a much sweeter taste than one which has been harvested green.
Did you know that nutritionally the banana is incredibly nourishing and can be eaten at any hour of the day due to its digestive properties? Each banana is full of proteins and the sugar provided within gives a lot of energy for those in need of endurance. Bananas also contain magnesium, selenium, iron, many different vitamins, and are recommended for low salt diets as they are low in sodium.
The banana is America’s number one fruit. Each American consumes an average of 28 pounds of banana a year. The market for bananas is nearly $5 billion per year.
There are nearly 400 varieties of banana plants. Ripe banana plants are sugary and are eaten raw. Plantains are unripe fruits which must be cooked before consumption. Plantains are more like a potato than a ripe banana.
Harvest for bananas begins when the plant is green. A banana that has had the opportunity to ripen on the vine has a much sweeter taste than one which has been harvested green.
Tuesday, April 3, 2007
The real thing
Here in Bocas del Toro we have the real thing. You know that feeling they used to describe in the old Coca Cola commercials – the real thing.
But what is the real thing you ask? I think it is an amalgamation of so many little things. Beginning the day with a beautiful sunrise and a cup of Panamanian coffee. Drinking in the warm sunshine all day long. Gazing upon a deep blue sky dotted with cottony puffs of clouds. Looking into the clear ocean waters down to the coral and other ocean life below. Paddling about on a kayak. Snorkeling in the bathtub warm water. Fishing for dinner. Quirky Latin American challenges which keep the big guys out and keep the little guys in business. Eating delicious local cuisine that happens to go great with a Coca Cola or a cold beer. Watching the sun go down and the moon rise on a balcony overlooking the Caribbean Sea. Walking under the stars – yes you can actually see the stars. Listening to the rain on a metal roof. Falling asleep to the sounds of the jungle.
To me these are all the little things that when added together make the real thing. Don’t you want to experience them for yourself?
But what is the real thing you ask? I think it is an amalgamation of so many little things. Beginning the day with a beautiful sunrise and a cup of Panamanian coffee. Drinking in the warm sunshine all day long. Gazing upon a deep blue sky dotted with cottony puffs of clouds. Looking into the clear ocean waters down to the coral and other ocean life below. Paddling about on a kayak. Snorkeling in the bathtub warm water. Fishing for dinner. Quirky Latin American challenges which keep the big guys out and keep the little guys in business. Eating delicious local cuisine that happens to go great with a Coca Cola or a cold beer. Watching the sun go down and the moon rise on a balcony overlooking the Caribbean Sea. Walking under the stars – yes you can actually see the stars. Listening to the rain on a metal roof. Falling asleep to the sounds of the jungle.
To me these are all the little things that when added together make the real thing. Don’t you want to experience them for yourself?
Monday, April 2, 2007
Maritime forest
Many of the Panama islands which make up the archipelago of Bocas del Toro are surrounded by lush maritime forests. These mangrove forests are home to many different sea creatures and plants. It is these forests which allow so many of the fish and coral to prosper in our waters.
Traversing amongst these maritime forests in a kayak is an unique experience. You paddle along side of the islands and you feel that you have plenty of room to roam. You can take off into the open ocean if you so choose or you can stick closer to the islands and navigate in a mangrove tunnel.
If you keep your eyes to the different pockets within the mangrove you may spy a cayman or other tropical animal which makes its home on the edge of the ocean and the forest.
You can kayak in a hidden bay towards a group of caves. These caves are home to stalagmites, stalagtites and a large number of bats. Of course the choice to enter into the cave or not is entirely yours, but the paddle to get there is an amazing one.
Some people choose to take a fishing rod with them as they kayak along the mangrove. Casting into the mangroves is a opportunity you do not encounter on a regular basis.
Traversing amongst these maritime forests in a kayak is an unique experience. You paddle along side of the islands and you feel that you have plenty of room to roam. You can take off into the open ocean if you so choose or you can stick closer to the islands and navigate in a mangrove tunnel.
If you keep your eyes to the different pockets within the mangrove you may spy a cayman or other tropical animal which makes its home on the edge of the ocean and the forest.
You can kayak in a hidden bay towards a group of caves. These caves are home to stalagmites, stalagtites and a large number of bats. Of course the choice to enter into the cave or not is entirely yours, but the paddle to get there is an amazing one.
Some people choose to take a fishing rod with them as they kayak along the mangrove. Casting into the mangroves is a opportunity you do not encounter on a regular basis.
Sunday, April 1, 2007
Embraced by nature
Once you step off the boat onto the dock at almost any location here in Bocas del Toro Panama, you know you are being embraced by nature. You almost feel as if you are receiving a hug from Mother Nature herself. You are surrounded by plants and trees which make up the rain forest. You can almost feel the forest breathing. The insects and animals make room for you to share their space, but you never forget that you are a visitor here in the jungle.
The main reason you know you are in a beautiful foreign territory is because you are enveloped into this space where you are so diminutive in size compared to the trees which make up the rain forest canopy. Many of these plants and animals have been around much longer than you or I.
However at no point do you feel that you are intruding or that you are not welcome. You are in fact being embraced. It is as if you are the recipient of a great big hug from a wonderful new friend. A friend who will always be there for you and asks very little in return. It is important that we look out for our new friend as once we have made her acquaintance we are never the same.
The main reason you know you are in a beautiful foreign territory is because you are enveloped into this space where you are so diminutive in size compared to the trees which make up the rain forest canopy. Many of these plants and animals have been around much longer than you or I.
However at no point do you feel that you are intruding or that you are not welcome. You are in fact being embraced. It is as if you are the recipient of a great big hug from a wonderful new friend. A friend who will always be there for you and asks very little in return. It is important that we look out for our new friend as once we have made her acquaintance we are never the same.
Saturday, March 31, 2007
Sustainable?
Trees do a great deal to help the environment. If we preserve them and allow them to grow, they prevent erosion, provide a larger animal habitat and produce more oxygen. It is imperative that we remember the importance of the trees here in the rain forest. We all hear about the different medicines and other beneficial items which are discovered in the world’s rainforests.
The size of our rainforests is continually diminishing. With continued population growth, the spaces on earth covered with trees will continue to decrease. We need to try to keep the reduction in forest size to a minimum. Thus it is important for all of us to vote with our dollars.
Support business and locales which treasure natural resources and do what they can to ensure the natural resources will be around for future generations. This means that we should all do what we can to learn what it takes to support the environment. Does it mean going 100% green or does it mean supporting those businesses who have the longevity to keep going over time? Eco tourism is difficult to define. How eco can you demand a location be when at home you use large amounts of fossil fuels to support your day to day life? Or is it best to learn what is sustainable and what we can do to slow the reduction in the world’s rainforests?
The size of our rainforests is continually diminishing. With continued population growth, the spaces on earth covered with trees will continue to decrease. We need to try to keep the reduction in forest size to a minimum. Thus it is important for all of us to vote with our dollars.
Support business and locales which treasure natural resources and do what they can to ensure the natural resources will be around for future generations. This means that we should all do what we can to learn what it takes to support the environment. Does it mean going 100% green or does it mean supporting those businesses who have the longevity to keep going over time? Eco tourism is difficult to define. How eco can you demand a location be when at home you use large amounts of fossil fuels to support your day to day life? Or is it best to learn what is sustainable and what we can do to slow the reduction in the world’s rainforests?
Friday, March 30, 2007
Pineapple
Here in Bocas del Toro Panama we have an abundance of pineapples.
The pineapple is a member of the bromeliad family. It is a short herbaceous perennial with 30 or more trough-shaped and pointed leaves surrounding a thick stem. Its leaves may be all green or striped with red, yellow or off white down the middle of the leaf.
When the fruit blooms, the stem elongates and gets bigger and then blossoms a head of small brightly colored flowers. Each flower is accompanied by a single bract. The stem continues to grow and acquires a “crown” of short stiff leaves at is apex. As individual fruits develop from the flowers, they join together to form a cone shaped, juicy fleshy fruit up to 12 inches or more in height. The stem serves as a fibrous but fairly succulent core. The tough rind made up of hexagonal units may be various shades of green, yellow or reddish when the fruit is ripe. The fruit itself ranges from white to yellow.
The fruit was named pineapple due to is similarity in appearance to pine cones. In Spanish it is referred to as “pina”.
This tropical fruit and plant is native to Brazil, Bolivia, and Paraguay. Apparently the plant was domesticated by indigenous people and carried up from South America into Central America. Christopher Columbus and his crew saw the pineapple for the first time on the island of Guadeloupe in 1493 and then a second time in Panama in 1502.
The pineapple is a member of the bromeliad family. It is a short herbaceous perennial with 30 or more trough-shaped and pointed leaves surrounding a thick stem. Its leaves may be all green or striped with red, yellow or off white down the middle of the leaf.
When the fruit blooms, the stem elongates and gets bigger and then blossoms a head of small brightly colored flowers. Each flower is accompanied by a single bract. The stem continues to grow and acquires a “crown” of short stiff leaves at is apex. As individual fruits develop from the flowers, they join together to form a cone shaped, juicy fleshy fruit up to 12 inches or more in height. The stem serves as a fibrous but fairly succulent core. The tough rind made up of hexagonal units may be various shades of green, yellow or reddish when the fruit is ripe. The fruit itself ranges from white to yellow.
The fruit was named pineapple due to is similarity in appearance to pine cones. In Spanish it is referred to as “pina”.
This tropical fruit and plant is native to Brazil, Bolivia, and Paraguay. Apparently the plant was domesticated by indigenous people and carried up from South America into Central America. Christopher Columbus and his crew saw the pineapple for the first time on the island of Guadeloupe in 1493 and then a second time in Panama in 1502.
Thursday, March 29, 2007
Eco Adventure Extension
Here is a sample itinerary for a Four Night / Five Day Eco Adventure Extension from either Panama City or Costa Rica.
Day One:
Arrive Bocas del Toro Panama. Afternoon trip to beach
Unspoiled islands protected by the National Park and home only to a park ranger and a couple of seasonal research scientists studying sea turtles
Day Two:
Snorkeling trip throughout the archipelago to different reef formations
Reef encircles many of the islands with oceanic formations consisting of walls, freshwater caves, tunnels, pinnacles, coral spires and towers, groove and spur, ocean impact reef, sandy ledges and shallow protected patch reef.
Day Three:
Sea kayak trip around various islands
Rock cliffs jut abruptly out of the sea, each having its own unique array of geological formations. Some are undercut by ocean waves on one side with a miniature 30-foot beach and shallow water on the other. Others rise piercingly from the sea and have deeper water on all sides.
Day Four:
All day excursion to indigenous village and isolated beach
A dramatic peninsula covered in dense tropical forest and high peaks descends to the ocean from over 700 feet. A 15-minute walk through the jungle leads you to the longest stretch of white sand beaches in Panama.
Day Five:
Mid day departure from Bocas del Toro Panama.
Day One:
Arrive Bocas del Toro Panama. Afternoon trip to beach
Unspoiled islands protected by the National Park and home only to a park ranger and a couple of seasonal research scientists studying sea turtles
Day Two:
Snorkeling trip throughout the archipelago to different reef formations
Reef encircles many of the islands with oceanic formations consisting of walls, freshwater caves, tunnels, pinnacles, coral spires and towers, groove and spur, ocean impact reef, sandy ledges and shallow protected patch reef.
Day Three:
Sea kayak trip around various islands
Rock cliffs jut abruptly out of the sea, each having its own unique array of geological formations. Some are undercut by ocean waves on one side with a miniature 30-foot beach and shallow water on the other. Others rise piercingly from the sea and have deeper water on all sides.
Day Four:
All day excursion to indigenous village and isolated beach
A dramatic peninsula covered in dense tropical forest and high peaks descends to the ocean from over 700 feet. A 15-minute walk through the jungle leads you to the longest stretch of white sand beaches in Panama.
Day Five:
Mid day departure from Bocas del Toro Panama.
Wednesday, March 28, 2007
Ocean front access
Year-round oceanfront access. It can be yours.
What do you want to do with it? Do you want to launch a kayak and head out for a paddle in the calm waters? Or do you want to jump into the bathtub warm Caribbean and snorkel for a while? Perhaps you prefer to while away the afternoon from the dock overlooking the sparkling sea. Maybe if you look up at the right moment you will spot a few dolphins at play in the bay. Or perhaps you might take a boat ride for your guided excursion over to another island for a great hike through the jungle.
Really the choice is yours. You can do as much or as little as you want. It is your vacation and you can do whatever it is you like. You may choose to wake up early and enjoy the sunrise with a cup of delicious Panamanian coffee. Or you may choose to wake up with the sun and begin your day. Then there are those who choose to sleep in and catch up on some much needed sleep. Depending upon the length of your stay and the activities you would like to experience you may begin your day differently each day. You decide.
What do you want to do with it? Do you want to launch a kayak and head out for a paddle in the calm waters? Or do you want to jump into the bathtub warm Caribbean and snorkel for a while? Perhaps you prefer to while away the afternoon from the dock overlooking the sparkling sea. Maybe if you look up at the right moment you will spot a few dolphins at play in the bay. Or perhaps you might take a boat ride for your guided excursion over to another island for a great hike through the jungle.
Really the choice is yours. You can do as much or as little as you want. It is your vacation and you can do whatever it is you like. You may choose to wake up early and enjoy the sunrise with a cup of delicious Panamanian coffee. Or you may choose to wake up with the sun and begin your day. Then there are those who choose to sleep in and catch up on some much needed sleep. Depending upon the length of your stay and the activities you would like to experience you may begin your day differently each day. You decide.
Tuesday, March 27, 2007
Dirty secret v. Nice surprise
What is more important about the place you choose for your vacation? Its dirty little secret or any nice surprise you might find? I think it depends upon what the dirty little secret is and what the surprise might be.
For instance, is the secret that the airport bathrooms leave a bit to be desired? Because really, how much time do you spend in the regional airport when you arrive and before you return home? The bathrooms at the airport in Bocas del Toro do leave something to be desired. However, how different is that from many of the small airports in Latin America?
What if the surprise is that the food is way better than you ever expected it to be? When you go to a small Caribbean town you generally do not expect to find good food. Here we are fortunate in that we do have good food – really good food.
What if the dirty secret is that Bocas is experiencing a major drought? And then what if nice surprise was that your lodge didn’t get its water supply from the municipal water supply? Unfortunately Bocas is having problem with its water right now. The government is doing what it can to correct the problem in the short term as also determine a plan for a long-term correction. However, most of the lodges on the outer islands are self-sufficient so for anyone selecting any of the small personal accommodations on those islands the water supply isn’t a problem.
For instance, is the secret that the airport bathrooms leave a bit to be desired? Because really, how much time do you spend in the regional airport when you arrive and before you return home? The bathrooms at the airport in Bocas del Toro do leave something to be desired. However, how different is that from many of the small airports in Latin America?
What if the surprise is that the food is way better than you ever expected it to be? When you go to a small Caribbean town you generally do not expect to find good food. Here we are fortunate in that we do have good food – really good food.
What if the dirty secret is that Bocas is experiencing a major drought? And then what if nice surprise was that your lodge didn’t get its water supply from the municipal water supply? Unfortunately Bocas is having problem with its water right now. The government is doing what it can to correct the problem in the short term as also determine a plan for a long-term correction. However, most of the lodges on the outer islands are self-sufficient so for anyone selecting any of the small personal accommodations on those islands the water supply isn’t a problem.
Monday, March 26, 2007
Isla Bastimentos
Isla Bastimentos. Yesterday, we had a gentleman stop by who was writing an article on Isla Bastimentos. I find it interesting that someone who has never been to Bocas del Toro before decides to focus on one island within the archipelago. While we have 68 islands in the archipelago there are about ten which garner attention. Bastimentos is one of the ten.
Isla Bastimentos is a rather large island and has several population centers. Bastimentos town anchors the island on one end. Punta Viejo is one peninsula. Macca Bite is another peninsula. Salt Creek is one of the indigenous villages. Bahia Honda is another indigenous village in the interior of the island. There are several areas under development: Red Frog, a few other areas near Bastimentos Town, and Punta Viejo.
Attractions. There are multiple beaches on Isla Bastimentos. Red Frog Beach, Wizard Beach, Playa Larga. Bastimentos National Marine Park takes in about one third of the island and includes several outlying islands and marine areas in the archipelago. There are also caves, a butterfly farm and numerous hiking trails.
Personal lodging options. On Isla Bastimentos there are several places which are small personal lodges. Some have been around for a number of years and others are relatively new. Interestingly, most of them are owner operated which makes them a completely different experience than any other type of accommodation.
So actually, I guess it is easy to understand how someone would decide to focus on Isla Bastimentos. It has so much to offer its guests.
Isla Bastimentos is a rather large island and has several population centers. Bastimentos town anchors the island on one end. Punta Viejo is one peninsula. Macca Bite is another peninsula. Salt Creek is one of the indigenous villages. Bahia Honda is another indigenous village in the interior of the island. There are several areas under development: Red Frog, a few other areas near Bastimentos Town, and Punta Viejo.
Attractions. There are multiple beaches on Isla Bastimentos. Red Frog Beach, Wizard Beach, Playa Larga. Bastimentos National Marine Park takes in about one third of the island and includes several outlying islands and marine areas in the archipelago. There are also caves, a butterfly farm and numerous hiking trails.
Personal lodging options. On Isla Bastimentos there are several places which are small personal lodges. Some have been around for a number of years and others are relatively new. Interestingly, most of them are owner operated which makes them a completely different experience than any other type of accommodation.
So actually, I guess it is easy to understand how someone would decide to focus on Isla Bastimentos. It has so much to offer its guests.
Sunday, March 25, 2007
Island Options - 2
Let’s see, we have Isla Bastimentos, Isla Solarte and San Cristobal remaining with public housing.
On Isla Bastimentos, there are several different kinds of lodging available. In Bastimentos town there are a variety of basic hotels and hostels. There are a limited number of restaurants and bars, but no shortage of music. There are several other areas on Bastimentos with accommodations as well. These other accommodations are mostly all-inclusive as they are too secluded to allow you to get to a restaurant or bar in the evening. It is possible to get to and from Bastimentos town at night, but most of the other areas of Bastimentos do not have transportation available after dark.
Isla Solarte is mainly private housing but there is a bed and breakfast on the island that is operational some of the time. This island does not have any restaurants or bars for you to access for meals, etc. Depending upon the water taxi, you might be able to get a ride back to Isla Solarte in the evening, but you wouldn’t be able to find a ride from the island over to town without arranging such in advance.
San Cristobal is a rather small island with a few options for lodging. Like on Isla Bastimentos, most places are all inclusive as it is difficult to travel to and from other islands for you meals. Transportation to and from Isla Colon and the other islands is somewhat limited as there is not much business to draw from.
On Isla Bastimentos, there are several different kinds of lodging available. In Bastimentos town there are a variety of basic hotels and hostels. There are a limited number of restaurants and bars, but no shortage of music. There are several other areas on Bastimentos with accommodations as well. These other accommodations are mostly all-inclusive as they are too secluded to allow you to get to a restaurant or bar in the evening. It is possible to get to and from Bastimentos town at night, but most of the other areas of Bastimentos do not have transportation available after dark.
Isla Solarte is mainly private housing but there is a bed and breakfast on the island that is operational some of the time. This island does not have any restaurants or bars for you to access for meals, etc. Depending upon the water taxi, you might be able to get a ride back to Isla Solarte in the evening, but you wouldn’t be able to find a ride from the island over to town without arranging such in advance.
San Cristobal is a rather small island with a few options for lodging. Like on Isla Bastimentos, most places are all inclusive as it is difficult to travel to and from other islands for you meals. Transportation to and from Isla Colon and the other islands is somewhat limited as there is not much business to draw from.
Saturday, March 24, 2007
Island Options - 1
On your Panama adventure vacation, what do you expect from the lodging you chose? Do you want a main building with lodging in several private buildings? Do you want everything consolidated under one roof? Do you want to be right on the beach or do you want to have access to both beach and jungle? Do you want creature comforts inside or do you want to be in the open air? Do you want to lie in your bed and be able to check out a breath taking view?
Here on these Panama Islands there are several options for both the adventure traveler and the traveler seeking rest and relaxation.
Isla Colon which is the main island in the archipelago has mainly small hotels and hostels. About half of the smaller hotels have air conditioning and the other half have ceiling fans for ventilation. Most of these hotels have on demand hot water heaters which is as it sounds. Water heated upon demand and in some instances right at the shower head. A few of the hotels have beds with orthopedic mattresses. Isla Colon has quite a few restaurants and bars for its nightlife. Most excursions leave Isla Colon and head toward the outer islands.
Isla Carenero is about a two minute boat ride from Isla Colon. It has a few small accommodations which are similar to those found on Isla Colon. There are a few restaurants on Isla Carenero. It is possible to get to and from Isla Colon at night up until about 9:00 pm.
I will tell you more about the other islands tomorrow.
Here on these Panama Islands there are several options for both the adventure traveler and the traveler seeking rest and relaxation.
Isla Colon which is the main island in the archipelago has mainly small hotels and hostels. About half of the smaller hotels have air conditioning and the other half have ceiling fans for ventilation. Most of these hotels have on demand hot water heaters which is as it sounds. Water heated upon demand and in some instances right at the shower head. A few of the hotels have beds with orthopedic mattresses. Isla Colon has quite a few restaurants and bars for its nightlife. Most excursions leave Isla Colon and head toward the outer islands.
Isla Carenero is about a two minute boat ride from Isla Colon. It has a few small accommodations which are similar to those found on Isla Colon. There are a few restaurants on Isla Carenero. It is possible to get to and from Isla Colon at night up until about 9:00 pm.
I will tell you more about the other islands tomorrow.
Friday, March 23, 2007
KISS
KISS. Keep it simple stupid. A mantra followed by many different successful people over the years. We find that here on a Panama Island it is important to keep it simple. There are no stores to run over to if you have forgotten something. There are no repair people who can come over that day and correct your current problem. It makes one look at life and all its aspects a little differently.
Construction. Build it right the first time so that you do not have to do it a second time. If it is something that is going to require maintenance in the future build it so that it will be as painless as possible to maintain it. For example, all the trim work in our Bocas del Toro Hotel have been screwed in with stainless steel screws instead of being nailed in place. Why you ask? First because the wholes in which the fasteners were to be placed had to be drilled. We used local hardwoods for our trim work. We wanted to limit our use of such materials and we wanted to be sure that we were able to properly maintain what we had so that it would last a very long time. So since we wanted to be able to refinish the same wood at such time in the future as it would be necessary, we screwed the trim in place so it would be easy to get it down and into the shop to refinish it. We used stainless steel as we liken living in a tropical environment to living on a boat. We build for the elements.
Construction. Build it right the first time so that you do not have to do it a second time. If it is something that is going to require maintenance in the future build it so that it will be as painless as possible to maintain it. For example, all the trim work in our Bocas del Toro Hotel have been screwed in with stainless steel screws instead of being nailed in place. Why you ask? First because the wholes in which the fasteners were to be placed had to be drilled. We used local hardwoods for our trim work. We wanted to limit our use of such materials and we wanted to be sure that we were able to properly maintain what we had so that it would last a very long time. So since we wanted to be able to refinish the same wood at such time in the future as it would be necessary, we screwed the trim in place so it would be easy to get it down and into the shop to refinish it. We used stainless steel as we liken living in a tropical environment to living on a boat. We build for the elements.
Thursday, March 22, 2007
Favorite place
Where is your favorite place to visit? Is it a get away that your family has gone to for many years? Is it across the ocean far far away from your home. Are there beaches or mountains? Does your location include exotic scenery or did you have an emotional connection to the place that now makes it your favorite?
Maybe you do not have a favorite location just yet. Maybe you are on a search for a favorite location. There are many Panama Beaches and Panama Islands which might qualify for favorite status.
Our beaches and islands have many unique characteristics which include both exotic scenery and incredible hospitality. These characteristics may be the right ingredients for you to make an emotional connection with the area.
I cannot put my finger on it but there is definitely something about this place that makes it special above and beyond the gorgeous scenery and the captivating waters. Every time I leave Bocas del Toro for even the briefest period of time I am anxious to get back. My son feels the same way. He is always excited to take a trip and visit family and friends, but after only a short while he wants to return to our little retreat on Isla Bastimentos. Bastimentos is now home. It is my favorite place to visit.
Maybe you do not have a favorite location just yet. Maybe you are on a search for a favorite location. There are many Panama Beaches and Panama Islands which might qualify for favorite status.
Our beaches and islands have many unique characteristics which include both exotic scenery and incredible hospitality. These characteristics may be the right ingredients for you to make an emotional connection with the area.
I cannot put my finger on it but there is definitely something about this place that makes it special above and beyond the gorgeous scenery and the captivating waters. Every time I leave Bocas del Toro for even the briefest period of time I am anxious to get back. My son feels the same way. He is always excited to take a trip and visit family and friends, but after only a short while he wants to return to our little retreat on Isla Bastimentos. Bastimentos is now home. It is my favorite place to visit.
Wednesday, March 21, 2007
Rain in the rainforest
As a child I remember singing rain rain go away come again another day. Here in the rain forest, we have an appreciation for rain that only comes from understanding how important it is to the lifecycle for each plant and animal that exists in the jungle.
Obviously plants need water to grow. To grow as large and as fast as they grow here in the rainforest they need a lot of water. One of the wonderful things about living here is that you can just about stick any plant into the ground and it will grow as long as it gets protected from the various ants that want to eat it. When there is a lack of rainfall the plants feel it. Some of them get burned from the increased exposure to sunlight without water to hydrate them. Others seem to wilt on the vine.
The animals need the plants to be healthy and go through a complete lifecycle so that they produce the different fruits, etc. that the animals eat. They also need water to hydrate themselves.
Each plant and each animal has a different role to play in the healthy existence of the rainforest. As one plant grows taller, another one falls down and then makes room for the next one.
Obviously plants need water to grow. To grow as large and as fast as they grow here in the rainforest they need a lot of water. One of the wonderful things about living here is that you can just about stick any plant into the ground and it will grow as long as it gets protected from the various ants that want to eat it. When there is a lack of rainfall the plants feel it. Some of them get burned from the increased exposure to sunlight without water to hydrate them. Others seem to wilt on the vine.
The animals need the plants to be healthy and go through a complete lifecycle so that they produce the different fruits, etc. that the animals eat. They also need water to hydrate themselves.
Each plant and each animal has a different role to play in the healthy existence of the rainforest. As one plant grows taller, another one falls down and then makes room for the next one.
Tuesday, March 20, 2007
Welcome to the jungle
Welcome. Peaceful. Tranquilo if you will. This is how I feel each time I step into the jungle and let its enormity swallow me. It is almost impossible to feel anything but calm in the jungle. The vast amounts of flora and fauna surrounding you exude a type of serenity that is hard to describe.
We have a walkway that leads from the main building of our eco adventure lodge over to four of the cabanas which are up on a hill with views of the ocean and mountains beyond. The majority of this walkway is in the jungle. It gives one easy access to the benefits of the jungle. I have an eight-month old daughter. She is a bit high strung as babies sometimes are. Whenever she is crying and comforting her is proving to be a bit difficult, I walk on the walkway and into the jungle. She stops crying immediately as we enter the canopy. This is the kind of calm and serenity that one experiences.
Our guests have frequently mentioned similar experiences in the jungle. They cannot get over how you truly feel like you are a part of something much bigger than you by merely stepping into the canopy.
We have a walkway that leads from the main building of our eco adventure lodge over to four of the cabanas which are up on a hill with views of the ocean and mountains beyond. The majority of this walkway is in the jungle. It gives one easy access to the benefits of the jungle. I have an eight-month old daughter. She is a bit high strung as babies sometimes are. Whenever she is crying and comforting her is proving to be a bit difficult, I walk on the walkway and into the jungle. She stops crying immediately as we enter the canopy. This is the kind of calm and serenity that one experiences.
Our guests have frequently mentioned similar experiences in the jungle. They cannot get over how you truly feel like you are a part of something much bigger than you by merely stepping into the canopy.
Monday, March 19, 2007
Bocas del Toro Resort
We built our eco adventure lodge inside the rainforest overlooking the Caribbean Sea. Our location within the archipelago of Bocas del Toro allows us to explore some of the most biologically diverse areas within Panama. Bocas del Toro, Panama includes an archipelago of some 68 tropical islands that are excellent for beach combing, birding and exploring. Around the many reefs and inside the lagoons you may fish, snorkel and surf. There are beautiful spots perfect for sitting back and letting the cool ocean breeze wash over you.
Bocas del Toro hosts two national parks. Bastimentos National Marine Park, covers a large portion of the archipelago and is home to a variety of ecosystems which thrive at or around sea level. Palo Seco Nature Reserve is part of La Amistad which is a nature reserve crossing both Panama and Costa Rica and is designated as a world heritage site. Palo Seco Nature Reserve is on the mainland and reaches through the cloud forest up to and beyond the Continental Divide.
Our eco adventure lodge is your home base to explore the islands and highlands of Western Panama. Our guests unpack, settle in and experience our unique tropical location. We provide you with six deluxe air-conditioned cabanas, beautiful views, adventure activities, personal attention and fine cuisine.
Bocas del Toro hosts two national parks. Bastimentos National Marine Park, covers a large portion of the archipelago and is home to a variety of ecosystems which thrive at or around sea level. Palo Seco Nature Reserve is part of La Amistad which is a nature reserve crossing both Panama and Costa Rica and is designated as a world heritage site. Palo Seco Nature Reserve is on the mainland and reaches through the cloud forest up to and beyond the Continental Divide.
Our eco adventure lodge is your home base to explore the islands and highlands of Western Panama. Our guests unpack, settle in and experience our unique tropical location. We provide you with six deluxe air-conditioned cabanas, beautiful views, adventure activities, personal attention and fine cuisine.
Sunday, March 18, 2007
Bocas del Toro Food
Breakfast in Paradise. We serve breakfast each day beginning around 8:00 am until around 10:00 am. We will start breakfast early for any guests leaving on excursions early in the morning or for an early flight departing from Bocas del Toro.
Yummy French toast
Delicious breakfast tacos
Tasty banana pancakes
Fresh baked muffins or cinnamon rolls
Savory vegetable quiche
These are just some of the items we serve for breakfast here at Tranquilo Bay. We offer one breakfast entrée and one breakfast meat each day. We serve Panamanian coffee, a variety of fruit juices, tea and a selection of fresh fruits. You can always get eggs any style with toast or a various flavors of yogurt, cereal, or oatmeal.
Lunch – Home or Away. We prepare lunch for our guests departing on excursions each day and pack it into an igloo for whenever they are ready to eat. Generally our picnic lunches include a sandwich, fresh fruit, freshly baked cookies and a variety of beverages. We also will pack salads and other items as requested by our guests. Lunch on site frequently includes a salad with grilled chicken or a typico lunch with chicken guisada, rice, patacones and a small salad. We always have freshly baked cookies available. All baked items are made fresh daily in our kitchen.
Yummy French toast
Delicious breakfast tacos
Tasty banana pancakes
Fresh baked muffins or cinnamon rolls
Savory vegetable quiche
These are just some of the items we serve for breakfast here at Tranquilo Bay. We offer one breakfast entrée and one breakfast meat each day. We serve Panamanian coffee, a variety of fruit juices, tea and a selection of fresh fruits. You can always get eggs any style with toast or a various flavors of yogurt, cereal, or oatmeal.
Lunch – Home or Away. We prepare lunch for our guests departing on excursions each day and pack it into an igloo for whenever they are ready to eat. Generally our picnic lunches include a sandwich, fresh fruit, freshly baked cookies and a variety of beverages. We also will pack salads and other items as requested by our guests. Lunch on site frequently includes a salad with grilled chicken or a typico lunch with chicken guisada, rice, patacones and a small salad. We always have freshly baked cookies available. All baked items are made fresh daily in our kitchen.
Saturday, March 17, 2007
Clean Living
We do all that we can to preserve the land we inhabit and places we visit on a daily basis. We have purchased about 110 acres of land much of which is covered in secondary forest. We only use a small percentage for our facility. The rest is maintained in reserve for nature trails, wildlife observation, reintroduction of native species of flora, and native habit for fauna.
We are involved on several levels with the province of Bocas del Toro, the local people and Panama in regards to environmental issues, sustainable development, sustainable use of natural resources, local tour development, and the future of the archipelago.
We work with several indigenous communities developing touristic products that accentuate their natural culture, use of sustainable resources and environment. Several of the tourism projects we are developing now involve conservation organizations working in the area, local research scientists, indigenous communities, ANAM (Panamanian environmental agency) local NGO's and private sector eco-tourism companies. We feel that all parties that have a stake in the local community need to be involved for the projects to be successful. If all parties don't "buy in" non-sustainable practices will continue. Everyone needs an economic benefit for this to work long term.
We are also currently involved in conjunction with Salt Creek village (indigenous Ngobe Bugle) ANAM, and the Defensora de los Pueblos (Panamanian Govt. Agency) to secure a reserve adjoining the Bastimentos National Marine Park. This area is a refuge for flora and fauna, and also an important area for the harvesting of Penca's (palm leafs used for thatched roofs).
We are involved on several levels with the province of Bocas del Toro, the local people and Panama in regards to environmental issues, sustainable development, sustainable use of natural resources, local tour development, and the future of the archipelago.
We work with several indigenous communities developing touristic products that accentuate their natural culture, use of sustainable resources and environment. Several of the tourism projects we are developing now involve conservation organizations working in the area, local research scientists, indigenous communities, ANAM (Panamanian environmental agency) local NGO's and private sector eco-tourism companies. We feel that all parties that have a stake in the local community need to be involved for the projects to be successful. If all parties don't "buy in" non-sustainable practices will continue. Everyone needs an economic benefit for this to work long term.
We are also currently involved in conjunction with Salt Creek village (indigenous Ngobe Bugle) ANAM, and the Defensora de los Pueblos (Panamanian Govt. Agency) to secure a reserve adjoining the Bastimentos National Marine Park. This area is a refuge for flora and fauna, and also an important area for the harvesting of Penca's (palm leafs used for thatched roofs).
Friday, March 16, 2007
Panama Rainforest
How often do you get to experience silence? I mean complete lack of city noises: barking dogs, car alarms, sirens, etc. We experience it here all the time.
The sounds we hear are those of animals, birds and rain. Each morning the parrots fly overhead as they head out for the day. The Majestic Oropendola are also in residence. Each bird has its own special sound that it makes. These sounds are a far better alarm each morning than the buzzing of an alarm clock.
The jungle is alive with sound. Frogs create their own special sound. Plants rustle in the breeze. Lizards swish the leaves of the plants as they scurry about the rain forest floor.
On the days that it rains, we can either experience the soft patter of a drizzle on the metal roof or the drums of a downpour when the rain is crashing down. We can have storms that are so intense that you believe you have never heard anything like it before and then as quickly as it started it stops.
All of these sounds merge into a soundtrack that many people buy to play as white noise to block out the noises of the city. We do not need to purchase the soundtrack – we have it live each and every day.
The sounds we hear are those of animals, birds and rain. Each morning the parrots fly overhead as they head out for the day. The Majestic Oropendola are also in residence. Each bird has its own special sound that it makes. These sounds are a far better alarm each morning than the buzzing of an alarm clock.
The jungle is alive with sound. Frogs create their own special sound. Plants rustle in the breeze. Lizards swish the leaves of the plants as they scurry about the rain forest floor.
On the days that it rains, we can either experience the soft patter of a drizzle on the metal roof or the drums of a downpour when the rain is crashing down. We can have storms that are so intense that you believe you have never heard anything like it before and then as quickly as it started it stops.
All of these sounds merge into a soundtrack that many people buy to play as white noise to block out the noises of the city. We do not need to purchase the soundtrack – we have it live each and every day.
Thursday, March 15, 2007
Funny Rumors
I was just reading my March 2007 issue of Coastal Living and it included an article that referenced a rumor about the founder of a resort in the Caribbean wielding a machete to cut through the banyan trees or was it a guide wielding the machete? I of course found the article humorous because I definitely know of two guys who wielded machetes and worked without heavy equipment to carve out a piece of paradise in the jungle.
To have a dream to create something from nothing and then to share that dream with those who happen upon you is a special thing. We have done just that here. We wanted to walk away from the day to day life in the big city and make a different life for ourselves. However, we didn’t want to be stingy and keep it all to ourselves. We knew that not everyone could walk away from the big city for good but that there were a fair number of people who wanted to leave it behind while on vacation. So we have built a place that is magical in that you are both disconnected and connected right on an island in the Caribbean Sea in the midst of the rain forest.
Take a break from your reality and come see ours.
To have a dream to create something from nothing and then to share that dream with those who happen upon you is a special thing. We have done just that here. We wanted to walk away from the day to day life in the big city and make a different life for ourselves. However, we didn’t want to be stingy and keep it all to ourselves. We knew that not everyone could walk away from the big city for good but that there were a fair number of people who wanted to leave it behind while on vacation. So we have built a place that is magical in that you are both disconnected and connected right on an island in the Caribbean Sea in the midst of the rain forest.
Take a break from your reality and come see ours.
Wednesday, March 14, 2007
Panama Beach
Zapatilla Cayes. These islands are the most famous of all our islands here in Bocas del Toro. They are beautiful little islands which are included in the Bastimentos National Marine Park. As such they will never be inhabited but for a park ranger or a select group of people who stay on the islands for a brief period of time to help the turtles during nesting season.
Today we had a group of 13 people we took over to the first Zapatilla Cay. Besides us, I think there were maybe 15 other people there. Of those 15 other people, 6 of them were with a tour operator who parked near where we were and the other 9 people we saw as they took a walk around the entire island.
There are days when we take our guests out to these beaches and we do not see any other people. We have had several groups of guests ask to be dropped off at these beaches in order for them to play “Survivor” for a few hours at a time. Of course, we do send an igloo full of food and drinks, chairs, and a variety of other gear with them. So while it isn’t much of a trial at Survivor; it is a great day.
Today we had a group of 13 people we took over to the first Zapatilla Cay. Besides us, I think there were maybe 15 other people there. Of those 15 other people, 6 of them were with a tour operator who parked near where we were and the other 9 people we saw as they took a walk around the entire island.
There are days when we take our guests out to these beaches and we do not see any other people. We have had several groups of guests ask to be dropped off at these beaches in order for them to play “Survivor” for a few hours at a time. Of course, we do send an igloo full of food and drinks, chairs, and a variety of other gear with them. So while it isn’t much of a trial at Survivor; it is a great day.
Tuesday, March 13, 2007
Pleasant surprise
Humble exterior. Please do not be deceived by the humble exterior of our eco adventure lodge’s facilities. We designed the buildings to allow us to build them without heavy equipment using the local workforce. We also designed and built them to withstand Mother Nature. As such, some might say they have a rather humble exterior.
Step inside one of our cabanas or turn around and check out the view when you are standing on the porch of one of our cabanas and you will want to stay past your planned departure date. Each cabana is simply furnished. Most of the furniture was made especially for us from local hardwoods. The bathrooms have local granite countertops and large showers with full size hot water heaters. We provide both air conditioning and ceiling fans so that you can choose how to cool your cabana. Metal roofs allow you to enjoy the sound of the rain during our night time showers. We have a calm color palette in order to focus on what is going on outside the cabana.
The views from the cabana are spectacular. Look up and you see incredibly tall trees with a variety of birds and animals living amongst them. Look out and you can see the Talamanca range in the distance over the beautiful blue Caribbean waters. Look down and you might find a red frog or some other curious jungle animal.
As humble as our exterior may be, all of our guests are pleasantly surprised by what awaits them from within our eco adventure lodge. You will be too.
Step inside one of our cabanas or turn around and check out the view when you are standing on the porch of one of our cabanas and you will want to stay past your planned departure date. Each cabana is simply furnished. Most of the furniture was made especially for us from local hardwoods. The bathrooms have local granite countertops and large showers with full size hot water heaters. We provide both air conditioning and ceiling fans so that you can choose how to cool your cabana. Metal roofs allow you to enjoy the sound of the rain during our night time showers. We have a calm color palette in order to focus on what is going on outside the cabana.
The views from the cabana are spectacular. Look up and you see incredibly tall trees with a variety of birds and animals living amongst them. Look out and you can see the Talamanca range in the distance over the beautiful blue Caribbean waters. Look down and you might find a red frog or some other curious jungle animal.
As humble as our exterior may be, all of our guests are pleasantly surprised by what awaits them from within our eco adventure lodge. You will be too.
Monday, March 12, 2007
What makes a vacation great?
Is it the specific Panama island? Is it the size of the Panama resort at which you stay? Is it the little things? Or do all of the different aspects fall together to create a memorable vacation?
I think it is some combination of the different aspects which make things great. On my honeymoon in the Bahamas, we stayed at a nice place which was somewhat all-inclusive but small enough that they were able to actually take care of each guest. My husband got up early each morning and went fishing leaving me to sleep in. We met up mid-morning and then had the rest of the day together. I remember good food, a sweet Labrador retriever, gorgeous beaches and many intimate moments.
Many years later, we took a fishing vacation in Mexico under different circumstances where I happened to be the only woman staying at the lodge. I ended up trying yoga with some of the staff while my husband was out fishing. Yoga became a serious part of my life for many years to come. Ironically this vacation also includes memories of good food, gorgeous beaches, and many intimate moments.
When we set out to create our Bocas del Toro Hotel, we took all of these things into consideration. We wanted to make our eco adventure lodge a place where the different aspects of your vacation come together to create beautiful memories. So, we begin your trip to Panama by picking you up at the international airport with an English speaking guide and taking care of your ground transfer to the domestic airport. We ask you in advance about your food preferences. We send one of the owners of the lodge to pick you up at the airport in Isla Colon. We house you in deluxe private cabanas at our secluded island location. We make activities and excursions available to you. We introduce you to our family, friends and our community. Yet we maintain the private island feel and experience and we throw in a sweet Labrador retriever.
I think it is some combination of the different aspects which make things great. On my honeymoon in the Bahamas, we stayed at a nice place which was somewhat all-inclusive but small enough that they were able to actually take care of each guest. My husband got up early each morning and went fishing leaving me to sleep in. We met up mid-morning and then had the rest of the day together. I remember good food, a sweet Labrador retriever, gorgeous beaches and many intimate moments.
Many years later, we took a fishing vacation in Mexico under different circumstances where I happened to be the only woman staying at the lodge. I ended up trying yoga with some of the staff while my husband was out fishing. Yoga became a serious part of my life for many years to come. Ironically this vacation also includes memories of good food, gorgeous beaches, and many intimate moments.
When we set out to create our Bocas del Toro Hotel, we took all of these things into consideration. We wanted to make our eco adventure lodge a place where the different aspects of your vacation come together to create beautiful memories. So, we begin your trip to Panama by picking you up at the international airport with an English speaking guide and taking care of your ground transfer to the domestic airport. We ask you in advance about your food preferences. We send one of the owners of the lodge to pick you up at the airport in Isla Colon. We house you in deluxe private cabanas at our secluded island location. We make activities and excursions available to you. We introduce you to our family, friends and our community. Yet we maintain the private island feel and experience and we throw in a sweet Labrador retriever.
Sunday, March 11, 2007
What to bring for your stay
What should you bring for your stay in a Bocas del Toro hotel? Remember that if you are traveling on any of the domestic airlines that they have a 25 pound checked baggage limit per person. You can check bags weighing more than 25 pounds however you will pay for the excess weight – at about $.70 per pound.
Depending upon what you intend to do during your stay on a Panama island, you will need to come equipped with the right stuff. Life here is casual. Daytime attire is determined by the activity you have plannded for the day which frequently begins with a swim suit. Nighttime attire is pretty basic – most men wear shorts and a shirt for dinner and the women may wear the same or a casual sun dress.
Here is a list of things you might want to consider including in your suitcase:
• Rain jacket – we are in the rain forest and it does rain on occasion
• Sunscreen – you are going to be exposed to the sun quite a bit
• After sun lotion – inevitably you may still get too much sun as we are rather close to the equator
• Bug repellant – if you choose to spend time outside at either dawn or dusk there are two ways to keep the bugs at bay – use bug repellant or wear light weight long sleeve and long pants
• Water shoes or tennis shoes which can get wet – you are going to want to wear shoes to reach some of the most beautiful beaches in the world – and the path may be a bit wet along the way
• Long pants & lightweight long sleeve shirt for jungle hiking
• Lightweight long sleeve shirt for water activities – in case of too much sun
• Hat
• Sunglasses
• Surfboards or other gear specific for your planned recreational activities
Depending upon what you intend to do during your stay on a Panama island, you will need to come equipped with the right stuff. Life here is casual. Daytime attire is determined by the activity you have plannded for the day which frequently begins with a swim suit. Nighttime attire is pretty basic – most men wear shorts and a shirt for dinner and the women may wear the same or a casual sun dress.
Here is a list of things you might want to consider including in your suitcase:
• Rain jacket – we are in the rain forest and it does rain on occasion
• Sunscreen – you are going to be exposed to the sun quite a bit
• After sun lotion – inevitably you may still get too much sun as we are rather close to the equator
• Bug repellant – if you choose to spend time outside at either dawn or dusk there are two ways to keep the bugs at bay – use bug repellant or wear light weight long sleeve and long pants
• Water shoes or tennis shoes which can get wet – you are going to want to wear shoes to reach some of the most beautiful beaches in the world – and the path may be a bit wet along the way
• Long pants & lightweight long sleeve shirt for jungle hiking
• Lightweight long sleeve shirt for water activities – in case of too much sun
• Hat
• Sunglasses
• Surfboards or other gear specific for your planned recreational activities
Saturday, March 10, 2007
History of these Panama Islands
The province of Bocas del Toro, Panama is located on the western part of Panama only miles from the Republic of Costa Rica. The province includes an archipelago of some 68 tropical islands. The islands of Bocas del Toro Panama have been called the Galapagos of the Caribbean. This archipelago has an incredible combination of historical and cultural traditions, with a great variety of aquatic species, coral reefs, mangroves, beaches with crystal clear water and undisturbed jungles with tons of flora and fauna.
So far, the most famous visitor to this piece of paradise was the Admiral Christopher Columbus on October 6, 1502 on his fourth and last trip to the Americas. He entered with two vessels into a wide bay, now called Almirante Bay, took in provisions on the present Isla Bastimentos and careened a ship in the vicinity of Carenero Island.
Since Columbus the province has gone through several rounds of colonization. In the 19th century immigrants arrived from Jamaica and several islands in the West Indies. United Fruit Company began operations in the province in the 20th century. They established towns on the mainland and on several islands in the archipelago.
Some time in the 1990’s expatriates found the sleepy archipelago and began its current round of colonization.
So far, the most famous visitor to this piece of paradise was the Admiral Christopher Columbus on October 6, 1502 on his fourth and last trip to the Americas. He entered with two vessels into a wide bay, now called Almirante Bay, took in provisions on the present Isla Bastimentos and careened a ship in the vicinity of Carenero Island.
Since Columbus the province has gone through several rounds of colonization. In the 19th century immigrants arrived from Jamaica and several islands in the West Indies. United Fruit Company began operations in the province in the 20th century. They established towns on the mainland and on several islands in the archipelago.
Some time in the 1990’s expatriates found the sleepy archipelago and began its current round of colonization.
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