When most people hear ‘The Caribbean’ its quickly followed The Bahama’s, The Key’s, ABC’s, Cuba, and on and on, but one amazing spot lacking on most people’s Caribbean treasure map is a majestic island chain belonging to the country of Panama – The San Blas Islands, or Bocas Del Toro to the local traveler. A misnomer, Bocas Del Toro is actually the provenance and the main island is Isle Colon which houses the airport and a familiar Caribbean vibe. ‘Bocas’ is a melting pot, a frequent backpacker destination as the ladies nights and drink specials are frequent, Bocas houses some iconic, scenic, and flavorful taste of food, culture, and experiences — if you find the time, which we know you will, the fishing is pretty great as well!
Fishing here is not a staple as it is in most places of Panama, The name of the game is tourism, and it thrives! The first big shocker to everyone who hits the aqua Caribbean waters is the co-op taxi. You’ve just lugged all your possessions in the world into the back of this guy’s truck and he’s stopping picking up a random person on the side of the road and is getting in scooting you over, don’t worry its not bad taxi manners or someone looking for the extra buck – The taxi drivers on the island work on a fixed rate $.60 per ride, unless you are traveling beyond the city.
The ‘City’ of colon is a sprawling metropolis for Panamanian coastal towns, but its charm lies not in its architecture, but in the character, the vibrant colors, and iconic signage. Water taxi’s are the main inter island mode of transportation so be sure to befriend a driver when you get there – the best way to pick one is a sober one at 6:30 am on a Saturday. For the wild crowd ‘Bocas’ is never without something happening, but is not so big you can’t find your own quiet niche of relaxing paradise as well. In fact we know some places that just fit – check them out here –.
Another ‘must’ if your checking down your Addictive Angler travel list is head over to Bastimentos, see a town without any cars and take ‘the back road’ to Wizard beach and ultimately Red Frog beach. I’ve never had more fun in the mud through the jungle to find such an amazing reward at the end of the journey. Pristine, empty, sparkling, and exotic are just a few of the words I would have like to said besides ‘wow’, but ‘wow’ sums it up nicely – We stopped by Palmar Tent lodge on our way out for a beer and they have quite a cool setup for the eco-traveler
If white sand beaches, surf casting for big snook, and meeting intrepid travelers inspire you or you just find yourself looking for a potential personal paradise – Bocas Del Toro of Panama, and the greater San Blas islands, have something to offer anyone. If you are looking to make your perfect Bocas vacation please Contact us We’ll be sure to point you in the right direction!
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