Bocas to Puerto Viejo: by boat and bus

Ship ahoy

A big relief today as the transport from Bocas to our new hotel went well. We caught a shuttle boat across to Almirante port which appeared to be a run down area and we were glad it was a off the boat onto the bus. A guy was there to direct 5 of us onto a mini bus hopefully for the Costa Rica border and Puerto Viejo. He didn't say much but we all followed each other, one European guy summed it up by say feels like we are being deported.

Navigating Border Control:

At the Panama border we got off the bus and another guy indicated we should follow him. It didn't look like the border but we all dutifully followed, to a building where our exits were approved. To enter Costa Rica it was a long walk over a bridge and another dubious border control building. For a moment it seemed we were about to walk back the same way but then we were pointed a new mini bus. Karen was delighted at the Costa Rica entry as they asked her what her job was, luckily she kept it brief. I wasn't asked. Another guy was asked in detail about his route.

On the new bus we were given more detail and then headed to our hotels. We now had a guide who was a happy chappy pointing stuff out on route. He was delighted a short cut road was open but as this was winding, narrow and at one point almost blocked by a fallen down tree; we would have been happy going the long way round.

Another day, another Costa

Our hotel in Costa Pica is really nice, a series of bungalows in the edge of the forest and across the road from the beach. It was decent pool as well. We walked out along the beach to get some food and there were lots of amazing smelling dishes. The beach looks good. This area is very much aimed at tourists although again not that busy. We've only seen one other couple at our hotel. We found a place for lunch which also had craft beer sadly the Sloth's Toes stout wasn't available.

We spent the rest of the afternoon by the pool and swimming. We plan to hire bikes tomorrow. The weather turned nice after a wet start today and we hope the sun continues tomorrow especially if we are cycling.

Rain in the summertime

Lovely evening meal before the heavens opened again just as we were walking back. It's amazing how quickly all the bright greens of the forest turn much darker and brooding once the rain hits.

Our cabin doesn't have windows...just mesh and the animal noises are amazing. Lots of monkeys, birds heard and wild rabbits running around. Let's hope we can sleep through the dawn chorus.