Bocas del Toro
Return to School
Friday, February 29, 2008
Ten more days until the children of Panama return to
school. Historically, the weather in Panama City, the
largest population center in Panama, is drier December
through February than it is June, July and August. As
such Panama has scheduled its "summer vacation" for its
students beginning around December 15th and throughout
January, February and then returning to school in the
second week of March.
This works out well for people traveling to Panama during North America's Spring Break as it gives them an opportunity to see the indigenous children in their schools. Here are a couple of photos of the children on Punta Valiente.
This works out well for people traveling to Panama during North America's Spring Break as it gives them an opportunity to see the indigenous children in their schools. Here are a couple of photos of the children on Punta Valiente.
Blue Skies
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
Although we have adopted Panama as our home we can't
help but be influenced by our upbringing and those
around us. My husband loves Willie Nelson's music.
Thus, when I look up into the sky and it is filled with
several beautiful shades of blue enhanced by white
fluffy clouds all on top of the gorgeous Caribbean Sea,
this song by Willie Nelson comes to mind:
Blue skies smilin' at me
Nothin' but blue skies do I see
Bluebirds singin' a song
Nothin' but bluebirds all day long
Never saw the sun shinin' so bright
Never saw things goin' so right
Noticing the days hurrying by
When you're in love, my how they fly
Blue days, all of them gone
Nothin' but blue skies from now on
Blue skies smilin' at me
Nothin' but blue skies do I see
Never saw the sun shinin' so bright
Never saw things goin' so right
Noticing the days hurrying by
When you're in love, my how they fly
Blue days, all of them gone
Nothin' but blue skies from now on
Nothin' but blue skies from now on
And so even though we are no entrenched in Central America - a little bit of Texas comes out every once in a while!
Blue skies smilin' at me
Nothin' but blue skies do I see
Bluebirds singin' a song
Nothin' but bluebirds all day long
Never saw the sun shinin' so bright
Never saw things goin' so right
Noticing the days hurrying by
When you're in love, my how they fly
Blue days, all of them gone
Nothin' but blue skies from now on
Blue skies smilin' at me
Nothin' but blue skies do I see
Never saw the sun shinin' so bright
Never saw things goin' so right
Noticing the days hurrying by
When you're in love, my how they fly
Blue days, all of them gone
Nothin' but blue skies from now on
Nothin' but blue skies from now on
And so even though we are no entrenched in Central America - a little bit of Texas comes out every once in a while!
There is more to Explore
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
Remember that there is more to explore in Bocas del
Toro and for that matter all of Panama than what pops
right out at you. By this I mean - find a restaurant
recommended by a local, stay at a hotel or lodge off
the main road. Give yourself more time in one location
than you normally do. I know and understand that your
vacation days are numbered. But is it more important to
see the highlights of a country or to take home
memories you will cherish forever? Me, I go for the
memories.
Traveling in Bocas with children
Monday, January 28, 2008
Bocas del Toro is a great place to travel with your
family. Children of all ages will find themselves
entranced by the beauty of the ocean, the beaches and
the rainforest. Once you determine you are going to
travel to Bocas with your family, then there are a few
things to consider based upon the age of your children.
How old are your children? The older children will be comfortable just about anywhere in Bocas. I would look for somewhere that they are going to either have serious interaction with nature or an opportunity to meet other children their age. The younger children are a bit more challenging. Before they are mobile they can stay anywhere that will have them. Once they are mobile then you need to be cautious with any establishment located directly on the water as it may present dangers you would rather avoid. Children who can swim and are somewhat independent would benefit from a place which has plenty of space for them to roam around uninhibited.
Some of the places to consider are as follows:
All ages: Tranquilo Bay eco adventure lodge
Older children: Casa Cayuco
Punta Caracol
La Loma - The Jungle Lodge
Birth to one year: anywhere within the archipelago that accepts children
One to four years: anywhere where children cannot directly access the water
Four years and up: La Coralina
Playa Mango
How old are your children? The older children will be comfortable just about anywhere in Bocas. I would look for somewhere that they are going to either have serious interaction with nature or an opportunity to meet other children their age. The younger children are a bit more challenging. Before they are mobile they can stay anywhere that will have them. Once they are mobile then you need to be cautious with any establishment located directly on the water as it may present dangers you would rather avoid. Children who can swim and are somewhat independent would benefit from a place which has plenty of space for them to roam around uninhibited.
Some of the places to consider are as follows:
All ages: Tranquilo Bay eco adventure lodge
Older children: Casa Cayuco
Punta Caracol
La Loma - The Jungle Lodge
Birth to one year: anywhere within the archipelago that accepts children
One to four years: anywhere where children cannot directly access the water
Four years and up: La Coralina
Playa Mango
Timing
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
I found a group of doodlebats filled with "cowboy"
philosophies. I think these philosophies work no matter
if your home is on the range or on an island in the
middle of the Caribbean Sea. This one caught my eye
today:
So true. Here in Bocas del Toro we vacillate between periods of really wanting rain to days where we have had enough. I find that I get a large number of questions about our rainfall.
We are in the middle of the tropical rainforest. Which means that we are in a forest characterized by high rainfall, with definitions setting minimum normal annual rainfall between 68 inches to 78 inches. We have an incredible amount of lush vegetation due to this rainfall. It is because of the rain that we have all of the diversity of plant and animal life. We have to respect the rainforest as so many things are still undiscovered here.
The rainy season varies by location in Panama as there are many different micro-climates throughout this tiny country. Historically the rainfall is more prevalent in December and January and July and August. This coincides with our surf seasons. However our weather patterns are changing - as they are everywhere else. We had rain in December, but not enough to put a damper on anyone's vacation. Our rain in January has been minimal in comparison to years past,
So the best answer I can give about our rainfall is that we are in the rainforest but we haven't found the rain keeps people from having a memorable vacation here in Bocas del Toro Panama.
So true. Here in Bocas del Toro we vacillate between periods of really wanting rain to days where we have had enough. I find that I get a large number of questions about our rainfall.
We are in the middle of the tropical rainforest. Which means that we are in a forest characterized by high rainfall, with definitions setting minimum normal annual rainfall between 68 inches to 78 inches. We have an incredible amount of lush vegetation due to this rainfall. It is because of the rain that we have all of the diversity of plant and animal life. We have to respect the rainforest as so many things are still undiscovered here.
The rainy season varies by location in Panama as there are many different micro-climates throughout this tiny country. Historically the rainfall is more prevalent in December and January and July and August. This coincides with our surf seasons. However our weather patterns are changing - as they are everywhere else. We had rain in December, but not enough to put a damper on anyone's vacation. Our rain in January has been minimal in comparison to years past,
So the best answer I can give about our rainfall is that we are in the rainforest but we haven't found the rain keeps people from having a memorable vacation here in Bocas del Toro Panama.
Earplugs?
Monday, January 14, 2008
How sensitive are you to sound? Do city noises keep you
from sleeping? How about a snoring partner – does that
bother you? We have had many guestsl whom are sensitive
to sound. Under normal circumstances, they wear
earplugs to protect themselves from unpleasant noises.
Most of them find that they do not need to use ear protection in order to sleep here. Our natural jungle noises are a wonderful “white noise” for those seeking rest. Each evening you can hear the parrots returning from their day’s work. We have Majestic Oropendola who also spend a fair amount of time onsite. These birds also serve as the morning wake up call each day as they serve as the jungle’s alarm clock.
The sweet noises of the different insects blend together to make up a symphony of sorts for you to drift off to sleep. And let’s not forget about the rain which can range from a pitter patter to a downpour. Each change in tempo has a unique sound pattern on the metal roofs of our cabanas.
Now as far as the snoring partner is concerned, we can’t do much about that, but maybe just maybe he or she will be so relaxed that they will sleep without the regular chorus of sound.
Most of them find that they do not need to use ear protection in order to sleep here. Our natural jungle noises are a wonderful “white noise” for those seeking rest. Each evening you can hear the parrots returning from their day’s work. We have Majestic Oropendola who also spend a fair amount of time onsite. These birds also serve as the morning wake up call each day as they serve as the jungle’s alarm clock.
The sweet noises of the different insects blend together to make up a symphony of sorts for you to drift off to sleep. And let’s not forget about the rain which can range from a pitter patter to a downpour. Each change in tempo has a unique sound pattern on the metal roofs of our cabanas.
Now as far as the snoring partner is concerned, we can’t do much about that, but maybe just maybe he or she will be so relaxed that they will sleep without the regular chorus of sound.
Natural Energy Drink
Monday, December 31, 2007
Coconut water or as we call it here in Bocas del Toro
Panama - Agua de pipa is the liquid inside young
coconuts. As the green coconut matures into the brown
coconut one eats, this liquid is partially absorbed
into the flesh.
Agua de pipa has long been a popular drink here in Panama. Coconut water is naturally fat-free and low calorie (46 calories per 8 ounces).
You can buy agua de pipa that has been freshly packaged in many places here in Panama. Outside of the tropical environs you can buy coconut water in cans or tetra paks. Coconut water is often marketed as a sports drink because of its high potassium and mineral content.
In Bocas del Toro Panama you can get coconut water in the most sustainable packaging there is – the coconut. Once you let us know you are interested we will have one of our employees get you a fresh coconut and you can watch how the indigenous people prepare a coconut for drinking and eating.
In emergency situations coconut water has been used as a liquid in intravenous therapy due to its sterility, pH, mineral, and sugar content.
Doctors here in Panama often recommend it for dehydration therapy as it is a natural form of electrolyte replacement.
Agua de pipa has long been a popular drink here in Panama. Coconut water is naturally fat-free and low calorie (46 calories per 8 ounces).
You can buy agua de pipa that has been freshly packaged in many places here in Panama. Outside of the tropical environs you can buy coconut water in cans or tetra paks. Coconut water is often marketed as a sports drink because of its high potassium and mineral content.
In Bocas del Toro Panama you can get coconut water in the most sustainable packaging there is – the coconut. Once you let us know you are interested we will have one of our employees get you a fresh coconut and you can watch how the indigenous people prepare a coconut for drinking and eating.
In emergency situations coconut water has been used as a liquid in intravenous therapy due to its sterility, pH, mineral, and sugar content.
Doctors here in Panama often recommend it for dehydration therapy as it is a natural form of electrolyte replacement.
Pineapple Country
Friday, December 21, 2007
Bocas de Toro Panama is pineapple country. There are
over 35 different varieties of pineapple. Listed below
are some of the more popular types from around the
world.
Smooth Cayenne
5 – 6 pounds, pale yellow to yellow flesh. Cylindrical in shape. High sugar and acid content. Well adapted to canning and processing. Its leaves do not have spines. This is the variety most often grown in Hawaii and is the most easily obtainable in the United States.
Hilo
Compact 2 – 3 pound plant. This is a small variation on the Smooth Cayenne. Grown mostly in Hawaii.
Red Spanish
2 – 4 pound plants. Pale yellow flesh with a pleasant aroma. It is semi square in shape. It is well adapted to shipping to distant markets.
Natal Queen
2 – 3 pound plant with a golden yellow flesh, crisp texture and a delicately mild flavor. It is best for fresh consumption and keeps well after ripening.
Kona Sugarloaf
5 – 6 pound plants with a white flesh and no woodiness in the center. It has a cylindrical shape. This plant has a high sugar content with little acid. This is an incredibly delicious fruit.
St. Michael
This is another strain of the Smooth Cayenne. It is generally grown in the Azores. It can be very sweet.
MD2
This is a variation on the Smooth Cayenne which is grown here in Panama.
Smooth Cayenne
5 – 6 pounds, pale yellow to yellow flesh. Cylindrical in shape. High sugar and acid content. Well adapted to canning and processing. Its leaves do not have spines. This is the variety most often grown in Hawaii and is the most easily obtainable in the United States.
Hilo
Compact 2 – 3 pound plant. This is a small variation on the Smooth Cayenne. Grown mostly in Hawaii.
Red Spanish
2 – 4 pound plants. Pale yellow flesh with a pleasant aroma. It is semi square in shape. It is well adapted to shipping to distant markets.
Natal Queen
2 – 3 pound plant with a golden yellow flesh, crisp texture and a delicately mild flavor. It is best for fresh consumption and keeps well after ripening.
Kona Sugarloaf
5 – 6 pound plants with a white flesh and no woodiness in the center. It has a cylindrical shape. This plant has a high sugar content with little acid. This is an incredibly delicious fruit.
St. Michael
This is another strain of the Smooth Cayenne. It is generally grown in the Azores. It can be very sweet.
MD2
This is a variation on the Smooth Cayenne which is grown here in Panama.
Talamanca Range
Monday, December 17, 2007
We are fortunate here in Bocas del Toro Panama to have
a world heritage site. The Talamanca Range – La Amistad
Reserves were initially designated as a UNESCO world
heritage site in 1983 and then extended again in 1990.
The park lies on the edge of the borders between Panama and Costa Rica. The governments of Costa Rica and Panama declared their intent to form the park in 1979. Over a period of not quite 12 years the different parts of the park were established and inscribed in the World Heritage List.
The Talamanca Range is the highest and wildest non-volcanic mountain range in Central America. This arc type mountain building was formed by a combination of marine deposition and marine volcanonism and the uplifting of the entire area to some 4000 meters above sea level. The area has gradually eroded due to heavy rainfall.
Tropical rain forests have covered most of the area since at least 25,000 years ago. There are at least eight different life zones in the park including lowland tropical rain forest, cloud forest, sub-alpine paramo forests, pure oak stands, lakes of glacial origin and high altitude bogs. Nowhere else in Central America can you find sub-alpine paramo forests, pure oak stands, lakes of glacial origin and high altitude bogs. The area also contains all five altitudinal zones found in the tropics. Species diversity is amazing. There may not be any other reserve of equivalent size in the world with so many different species, due to the convergence of the floras of North and South America and varied climatic and soil based factors. The park includes some 9,000 flowering plant, more than 4,000 non-vascular plant, 80% of the country's moss, about 900 lichen and approximately 1,000 fern species.
The park lies on the edge of the borders between Panama and Costa Rica. The governments of Costa Rica and Panama declared their intent to form the park in 1979. Over a period of not quite 12 years the different parts of the park were established and inscribed in the World Heritage List.
The Talamanca Range is the highest and wildest non-volcanic mountain range in Central America. This arc type mountain building was formed by a combination of marine deposition and marine volcanonism and the uplifting of the entire area to some 4000 meters above sea level. The area has gradually eroded due to heavy rainfall.
Tropical rain forests have covered most of the area since at least 25,000 years ago. There are at least eight different life zones in the park including lowland tropical rain forest, cloud forest, sub-alpine paramo forests, pure oak stands, lakes of glacial origin and high altitude bogs. Nowhere else in Central America can you find sub-alpine paramo forests, pure oak stands, lakes of glacial origin and high altitude bogs. The area also contains all five altitudinal zones found in the tropics. Species diversity is amazing. There may not be any other reserve of equivalent size in the world with so many different species, due to the convergence of the floras of North and South America and varied climatic and soil based factors. The park includes some 9,000 flowering plant, more than 4,000 non-vascular plant, 80% of the country's moss, about 900 lichen and approximately 1,000 fern species.
Idyllic
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
It is a perfect description of the archipelago of Bocas
del Toro Panama. Each of the beaches should be on a
post card. Once you get away from the main island of
Isla Colon, they are basically uninhabited. You
generally do not see any other people on the beaches
unless it is a big holiday weekend.
Mirriam Webster’s definition of idyllic is pleasing or picturesque in natural simplicity. Because most of the islands and peninsulas which are home to the beaches of Bocas del Toro cannot be accessed by automobiles, they have not been exploited in such a manner as to take away their natural simplicity. They are absolutely charming. When you add a picnic lunch and a few beach toys, a day spent on one of our beaches is perfect.
Each of these beaches and the islands which house them suggest a mood of peace and contentment. It is impossible to worry when you are visiting one of these locations. You forget about your responsibilities and day to day life whilst you are on one of these beaches.
You deserve a few days of simple and carefee life.
Choose Bocas del Toro Panama for your family beach vacation. You and your family can relax and enjoy the serenity that engulfs the entire archipelago.
Mirriam Webster’s definition of idyllic is pleasing or picturesque in natural simplicity. Because most of the islands and peninsulas which are home to the beaches of Bocas del Toro cannot be accessed by automobiles, they have not been exploited in such a manner as to take away their natural simplicity. They are absolutely charming. When you add a picnic lunch and a few beach toys, a day spent on one of our beaches is perfect.
Each of these beaches and the islands which house them suggest a mood of peace and contentment. It is impossible to worry when you are visiting one of these locations. You forget about your responsibilities and day to day life whilst you are on one of these beaches.
You deserve a few days of simple and carefee life.
Choose Bocas del Toro Panama for your family beach vacation. You and your family can relax and enjoy the serenity that engulfs the entire archipelago.
Questions to ask before you begin your search for a hotel
Saturday, December 08, 2007
Once you have decided upon the island that is right for
you, you need to decide which type of lodging best
suits your individual requirements. Are you looking to
find a place that is clean and doesn’t cost much? Are
you looking for a nice place that is quiet and has air
conditioning? Are you looking for a place where you are
immersed in nature? Do you want to go out to eat for
each of your meals or do you want a place that includes
some if not all of your meals? Do you want to set up
your own tours? Or do you want someone to handle it for
you? Are you a seasoned international traveler? Do you
speak Spanish?
You need to ask yourself these questions so that when you check out the various portals and other areas to gather information about the available options you know what you need, what you would like and what would be nice to have. One of the nice things about Bocas del Toro Panama is that there is something for everyone. There are places for those backpacking throughout Central America to stay and there are places fit for the pickiest of travelers. Ask questions, make sure that you are getting all the information that you need to make your decision. It is much easier to make sure you are going to be staying at the right place before you arrive in Bocas then it is to make changes after you arrive.
If you are trying to find a vacation spot that offers the best of haute couture and all its accompaniments then Bocas del Toro Panama is not the right spot for you.
You need to ask yourself these questions so that when you check out the various portals and other areas to gather information about the available options you know what you need, what you would like and what would be nice to have. One of the nice things about Bocas del Toro Panama is that there is something for everyone. There are places for those backpacking throughout Central America to stay and there are places fit for the pickiest of travelers. Ask questions, make sure that you are getting all the information that you need to make your decision. It is much easier to make sure you are going to be staying at the right place before you arrive in Bocas then it is to make changes after you arrive.
If you are trying to find a vacation spot that offers the best of haute couture and all its accompaniments then Bocas del Toro Panama is not the right spot for you.
Which island is right for me?
Tuesday, December 04, 2007
How do you choose which island is right for you? Do you
want nightlife or silence? Do you want a beach or a
view?
If you are the type of traveler who would rather get away from it all, consider basing yourself out of Isla Bastimentos. There are lodges concentrated on Bastimentos. Because of the distance from Bocas Town on Isla Colon, most of the lodges include meals as part of a package. There are several which include activities as part of the package as well. Depending upon the location you select, your transfer from Bocas Town may take as long as 45 minutes to reach your destination.
On Isla Carenero there are a variety of places to choose from. You can stay here and find a more tranquil evening than staying on Isla Colon. Carenero is about a two minute water taxi ride from Isla Colon. You can catch a water taxi all day long until about 9:00 pm each night.
Isla Colon is the main island in the archipelago. Here you will find a variety of places to stay. There are many different restaurants to choose from and several bars and nightclubs. It is the best place for people looking to party.
Cristobal and Dolphin Bay are beautiful locations with very limited access to accommodations.
If you are the type of traveler who would rather get away from it all, consider basing yourself out of Isla Bastimentos. There are lodges concentrated on Bastimentos. Because of the distance from Bocas Town on Isla Colon, most of the lodges include meals as part of a package. There are several which include activities as part of the package as well. Depending upon the location you select, your transfer from Bocas Town may take as long as 45 minutes to reach your destination.
On Isla Carenero there are a variety of places to choose from. You can stay here and find a more tranquil evening than staying on Isla Colon. Carenero is about a two minute water taxi ride from Isla Colon. You can catch a water taxi all day long until about 9:00 pm each night.
Isla Colon is the main island in the archipelago. Here you will find a variety of places to stay. There are many different restaurants to choose from and several bars and nightclubs. It is the best place for people looking to party.
Cristobal and Dolphin Bay are beautiful locations with very limited access to accommodations.
You are invited
Friday, November 30, 2007
What if you received an invitation to inner peace?
Would it be the ultimate indulgence for you? Would it
be nice to have a consoling sense that you were no
longer part of the outside world (at least
temporarily)?
Here in Bocas del Toro Panama you can go to any number of beautiful white sand beaches and lose yourself in the beauty of the moment. The clear blue water set against the deep blue sky is an amazing sight. One could spend hours lost in such a spot.
Each day you can escape from the every day of the outside world. The biggest decision you need to make each day is what time you want to start your day. After breakfast you can head over to any of the different Panama Islands and begin your day of relaxation. You arrive at the beach armed with everything you need for a perfect day on a secluded beach. Picnic lunch, cold beverages, beach chairs, beach toys, sea kayaks, snorkeling equipment, etc. are all carried over to the island for you and placed in a perfect spot where you have access to both the sun and the shade. The time in the water will soothe your body, calm your spirit and feed your soul.
Here in Bocas del Toro Panama you can go to any number of beautiful white sand beaches and lose yourself in the beauty of the moment. The clear blue water set against the deep blue sky is an amazing sight. One could spend hours lost in such a spot.
Each day you can escape from the every day of the outside world. The biggest decision you need to make each day is what time you want to start your day. After breakfast you can head over to any of the different Panama Islands and begin your day of relaxation. You arrive at the beach armed with everything you need for a perfect day on a secluded beach. Picnic lunch, cold beverages, beach chairs, beach toys, sea kayaks, snorkeling equipment, etc. are all carried over to the island for you and placed in a perfect spot where you have access to both the sun and the shade. The time in the water will soothe your body, calm your spirit and feed your soul.
Banana republic
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
Bocas del Toro Panama is in the middle of the Banana
Republic. For many years the area was supported
strictly by its banana production. So, here are a few
facts about bananas that you may now know:
Banana plants are not trees. They are a giant herb of the same family as lilies, orchids and palms. The rhizome is planted and gives a first growth three or four weeks later. After nine or ten months the cluster of flowers from the circle of leaflike cusps can have a diameter of up to seven meters which is the beginning of the fruiting process. Three days later a bud hangs from the plant. On the fifth day following the initiation of the fruiting process, the bud turns red and starts opening. Seven days following the initiation of the fruiting process the leaves which covered the cluster of flowers begin falling down. And then finally two days later you can see the first banana hands. The best way for the bananas to ripen is for them to be cut at about this time and the stem is hung upside down.
Each banana stem has ten to 14 hands. Each hand holds about 18 to 20 bananas. Bananas prepared for export are cut green. There are twenty days from the time they are cut green to the time they will be ripe. In this time period they must be processed and shipped.
We are fortunate here in Bocas del Toro because our bananas are left to ripen at least partially on the plant which allows them to develop a much richer flavor.
Banana plants are not trees. They are a giant herb of the same family as lilies, orchids and palms. The rhizome is planted and gives a first growth three or four weeks later. After nine or ten months the cluster of flowers from the circle of leaflike cusps can have a diameter of up to seven meters which is the beginning of the fruiting process. Three days later a bud hangs from the plant. On the fifth day following the initiation of the fruiting process, the bud turns red and starts opening. Seven days following the initiation of the fruiting process the leaves which covered the cluster of flowers begin falling down. And then finally two days later you can see the first banana hands. The best way for the bananas to ripen is for them to be cut at about this time and the stem is hung upside down.
Each banana stem has ten to 14 hands. Each hand holds about 18 to 20 bananas. Bananas prepared for export are cut green. There are twenty days from the time they are cut green to the time they will be ripe. In this time period they must be processed and shipped.
We are fortunate here in Bocas del Toro because our bananas are left to ripen at least partially on the plant which allows them to develop a much richer flavor.
Bocas del Toro Food
Saturday, November 24, 2007
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.
Clean Living
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
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).
Funny Rumours
Tuesday, November 06, 2007
I was just reading my March 2007 issue of Coastal
Living (again) 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.
Panama Beach
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
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.
Pleasant Surprise
Monday, October 29, 2007
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.
What makes a vacation great?
Thursday, October 25, 2007
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.
Busy Season
Monday, October 22, 2007
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.
Cliff Snorkeling
Thursday, October 18, 2007
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.
What to bring for your stay
Sunday, October 14, 2007
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
History of these Panama Islands
Thursday, October 11, 2007
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.
Fish on
Tuesday, October 09, 2007
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.
Little known banana facts
Sunday, October 07, 2007
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.
Yummy!
Friday, October 05, 2007
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.
The Real Thing
Wednesday, October 03, 2007
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?
Maritime forest
Monday, October 01, 2007
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.
Sustainable
Friday, September 28, 2007
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?
Embraced by nature
Monday, September 24, 2007
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.
Pineapple
Friday, September 21, 2007
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.
Eco Adventure Excursion
Sunday, September 16, 2007
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.
Ocean front property
Wednesday, September 12, 2007
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.
Dirty secret v. Nice Surprise
Saturday, September 08, 2007
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.
Isla Bastimentos
Tuesday, September 04, 2007
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.
Island Options - 2
Friday, August 31, 2007
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.
Island Options - 1
Thursday, August 30, 2007
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.
KISS
Sunday, August 26, 2007
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.
Favorite place
Friday, August 24, 2007
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.
Rain in the rainforest
Tuesday, August 21, 2007
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.
Rainy Season - what does it really mean?
Sunday, August 19, 2007
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.
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.
Welcome to the jungle
Friday, August 17, 2007
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.
Bocas del Toro Resort
Monday, August 13, 2007
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.
