What a trip. Happy New Year’s, first of all. We are back, safe and sound, in Puerto Viejo.

But wow, Panama. The Panamanians can really party. Bocas del Toro turns out to be a party hotspot for the young and footloose. Nowhere else have I seen such an impressive and lengthy fireworks display. They were huge, sparkly, right above our heads, and went on for probably over an hour.

All the Panamanians and tourists took a break from clubbing, drinking and dancing it up to watch.

Then they went right back to it. There was some sort of warehouse club for the locals right next to the house we were staying at and the music was booming loudly until at least 7 a.m. this morning. 

Panama seems more diverse, colorful and is definitely cheaper than its nearby neighbor Costa Rica. The currency is also the U.S. dollar which makes things really easy. A beer can be had for 50 cents though. Michael and I want to make it our primary destination next time we visit Central America.

This morning everyone seemed to be taking it easy. The streets were pretty empty even at 9 a.m. and restaurants didn’t seem to be filling up until 11. We walked past the mercados and I bought a lovely souvenir to take back to San Francisco.I got a conch shell. Michael bought five bottles of hot sauce. Two large ones for ourselves and three small ones to give away as presents. Made of habaneros, this sauce is so spicy, but so delicious. We’re addicted.

The first day of the new year always has a fresh smell about it. I need a good long sleep though. I am one giant sunburn and sore all over from the last couple days of walking everywhere, bicycling, white water rafting, and snorkeling in the ocean. I’m also covered in bruises and mosquito bites.

Pretty much the best way to start off a new year.

xoxo,

Jenn