8 am start and by 8.30 I was covered in waterfalls of my own sweat. I was dripping over the bike. Very humid and hot with hardly any wind. I was begging for a bit of head on wind (not something any cyclist would want). After few nasty hills and gallons of sweat I reached the port town of Almirante. Nice port with old wooden houses on sticks scattered around the bay. Popped in to town and got “attacked” by some moron trying to cause trouble and probably wanting to sell me some bullshit. Got to the boat ticket window and the price quoted was 6 US Dollars for a 20 min boat crossing to Bocas del Toro. Gave the person $20, got $4 change. The clerk told me that I’d given him ten. Well after a few seconds of painful dialog , I took my bike for a spin to the police station to tell them the story. Even though I am known to be super stingy, it was not the money, but the principle . I think I have probably become a bit too English and hence complained. The police officers where probably on drugs going by their speed of reaction and lack of concern (and work). Not too worry, the ride was worth the higher price!
The island is pretty, relaxed with lots of tourists. Very nice feeling. I tucked in to the last coconut that I had bought in Costa Rica and watched the locals. It was like what I imagine arriving in 18th century American town would have been like; looking for a better future in the prosperous little place by a ship.
Offered some accommodation, rejected. Cycled around and decided to head around the island (still no map). Passed a couple of famous surfing beaches. Saw lots of tourists on bikes. After doing about 12 km on the Bokas I slotted back in town in to a beach bar with cold water and beer. Checked the Lonely Planet guide for accommodation and set off in search. Mondo Taitu, a cool hostel for surfing dudes. I think I am one of the older people staying here (hmmmmmmmmm) Getting old? Free wi-fi, along with the paid bar and bunk bed. Not great storage for bikes but there is a security guard all night. Off to see if I can find a map in a tourist resort…?
The island is pretty, relaxed with lots of tourists. Very nice feeling. I tucked in to the last coconut that I had bought in Costa Rica and watched the locals. It was like what I imagine arriving in 18th century American town would have been like; looking for a better future in the prosperous little place by a ship.
Offered some accommodation, rejected. Cycled around and decided to head around the island (still no map). Passed a couple of famous surfing beaches. Saw lots of tourists on bikes. After doing about 12 km on the Bokas I slotted back in town in to a beach bar with cold water and beer. Checked the Lonely Planet guide for accommodation and set off in search. Mondo Taitu, a cool hostel for surfing dudes. I think I am one of the older people staying here (hmmmmmmmmm) Getting old? Free wi-fi, along with the paid bar and bunk bed. Not great storage for bikes but there is a security guard all night. Off to see if I can find a map in a tourist resort…?