Bocus is a small resort town on an island surrounded by islands and reefs. Here, it is calm with very little wave action and wind. It rains nearly every day during the rainy season but usually some sun comes peaking thru the clouds to cheer and heat things up – 70’s at night, upper 80’s during the day. The town of Bocus offers small shops and stores with a minimal amount of supplies. They boast surfing, diving and snorkeling; therefore, quaint rundown restaurants, hotels, and water tour companies, are prevalent. Many backpackers from all over the world seem to enjoy stopping here on their way up to the mountains.
We have enjoyed sailing around the islands because the protected waters make it smooth and easy. Away from the marinas, the water is very clear and clean and there are many anchorages and beaches to explore. It is almost like lake sailing here.
In February, we pulled into Bocus Marina and went back to the States for a while. Norma now has two new knees and is still building up her strength and flexibility. We took our first inland trip since we’ve been back just last week. That entailed taking a water- taxi to Amirante, picking up a taxi to the bus station, then a 4 hour buss ride over the mountains to a town called David. Here, we negotiated for a driver to take us to the nearby mountain towns of Volcan and Boquete, Panama. Each of these towns is home to gardens, beautiful mountain scenery, and cool temperatures. There is an animal refuge, garden, and butterfly place in Boquete being built by a couple from Britain. We enjoyed the animals and flowers as well as the delightful company of the Brits. They had imported 4 little fairy statues from home to spruce up the place a bit but were surprised when the children here were scared to death of the things. Turns out the same little creatures hang out in the mountain jungle and devour little kids. Who would have known!
The main attraction for me (Bob) was a sight called the barrels. It got its name from some barrel like rocks that were used 11000 years ago as wheels to move heavy stones. There were countless artifacts including statues reflecting both African and Asian cultures. Next to this dig was a stream that appeared to flow uphill towards the mountains, a inactive volcano, inscribed magnetic rocks, lots of carved picture writings, strange plants, a wall of volcanic dirt with burial urns partially imbedded, and various implements including a stone device designed to grind corn almost by its self. Many mystics come here, purify themselves in the uphill stream, and then gather power from the magnetic stones. Very interesting.
Norma enjoyed everything as well but went wild when she found the wholesale club type store in David. They had things we haven’t been able to buy in Panama or Columbia.
All for now, next, we should be heading North for some more fun and adventure. Hope you enjoy the pictures.