Woken up by the owner’s parrot pets, got ready to rock by 7.30. Breaky on the square and of we headed east on route 21 towards the port of “Playa Naranjo”. Struggled in the heat cutting across the hills around Nicoya town. Lots of fruit growing farms , some cattle fields and typical Guanacaste cowboys called “Sabanero”: very proud f their perfect horse riding skills. Stopped for coffee and ice cream. The price of food was much lower here but who wants to eat in midday heat after a decent breakfast? We got to the town of Jicaral where a nice Tico gentleman, offered for us to stay at his home on the south-east part of the peninsula (very nice touch). We had just arrived and from politeness thanked the man, but on the reflection we should have taken the offer: it would be such a great experience. Transport was an issue and our time schedule made it impossible. Had a quick meal in a Chinese soda (there had been a small influx of Chinese people as railway and banana plantation labour). Seventh ice cream of the day then left town to find the lovey tarmacked road quickly disappeared. Road work meant messy chalky legs, bikes and panniers. Passed several salt pans and ended up in a lovely bar at the quiet ferry port. A sunset cruise with disco and grill on an empty boat to Puntarenas was a great way to end a 106 km ride.
The “Pearl of the Pacific” had lost its shine. The decline of the importance of the port and better tourist resorts nearby has left the town with a seedy, run down feel. Hotels were dismal and hugely overpriced . Our reluctant choice came with plenty of grubbiness and a resident mouse. Avoiding staying in the hotel room, we left for a tour of the sights. Half way through dessert the whole town went black. The restaurant had a generator but most of the town was completely black. Lack of street lights made it a difficult and dangerous trip back .Our windowless room was steamingly hot. Luckily the electricity returned after a few minutes. Nylon sheets!
The “Pearl of the Pacific” had lost its shine. The decline of the importance of the port and better tourist resorts nearby has left the town with a seedy, run down feel. Hotels were dismal and hugely overpriced . Our reluctant choice came with plenty of grubbiness and a resident mouse. Avoiding staying in the hotel room, we left for a tour of the sights. Half way through dessert the whole town went black. The restaurant had a generator but most of the town was completely black. Lack of street lights made it a difficult and dangerous trip back .Our windowless room was steamingly hot. Luckily the electricity returned after a few minutes. Nylon sheets!