Sunday, January 16, 2011

If you don't like the weather....

We’ve discovered that if you don’t like the weather in Boquete you don’t have to travel far to experience a totally different weather pattern. We headed to Playa La Barqueta, about one hour and twenty minutes from Boquete, or thirty minutes from David, and stayed in a beachside condo at Las Olas. The air was considerably warmer here; the sun gave our previously white skin hues of red and brown. While some countries boast of sparkling white sand beaches, this area’s beaches had fine black sand, likely due to the volcanic action from 400 to 500 years ago.




Closer to our temporary home in Boquete, about a thirty minute drive away, we found hot, dry weather along with magnificent views of the country side at Rancho de Caldera.










The Boquete Annual Coffee and Flower fair typically draws 100,000 visitors over a ten day period, and we were able to visit it on opening day. The flowers are planted well in advance and all are in full bloom for the fair.


There were a number of booths selling crafts from various South and Central America countries; at one we were able to purchase a mola. Mola panels have been worn as part of the traditional dress of Kuna women; they are hand made from layers of different coloured cloth that are sewn together; the design is formed by cutting away parts of each layer.


And all too soon, our visit to Panama draws to a close. We have enjoyed the warm weather, the beautiful scenery, and the friendly people. A very special thanks go to our hosts Andy and Bonnie (my brother and sister-in-law) for their hospitality, their warmth and openness, and for being such excellent, knowledgeable tour guides. Hasta luego.


Now on to the next part of our adventure - Guatemala.


Coffee beans ready for picking


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