BDT – A truly beautiful part of the world – some may say paradise. Most people choose to stay in Bocas Town (the main island) but as beautifully colourful as it is, it can be a little run down. If I was to go again, I would want to stay on one of the more secluded islands… but it all depends on what you are after. Overall I loved Bocas, there is great food and good drinking spots also. It really does have a lot to offer.
Where to stay: THIS IS NOT A RECOMMENDATION – Selina (Bocas Town)
I had heard great things about this Selina (a popular hostel chain in Latin America) and perhaps if you get to stay in the new part of the hostel but if you get lumped in the bottom floor, god help you. The beds were comfortable at least but the room was so dirty and don’t even get me started on the bathrooms. Our room didn’t even have a window and it just felt thick in the room at all times. The staff overall can be quite rude however there are some really nice people that work there. The staff are mostly locals rather than travellers passing through so maybe they are just sick of people’s shit?? I dont know. The outdoor area is cool and the ‘pool’ is actually just the ocean (which is amazing), and they do throw a good party. The food is alright but the breakfast is terrible and you have to pay. We did visit the Selina at Red Frog (another island) and it seemed much nicer and cleaner. Also so important to note: if you aren’t in BDT to party, do not stay at Selina Bocas Town, you get very little sleep and every night is a party, so that is a warning to you all.
What to do:
Eat out: I loved ALL of the food in BDT so here is a list of whats good: Munchies – really good mozzarella sticks and also had a veggie burger that actually tasted like a proper beef cheeseburger, it was amazing! La Buga – overlooks the ocean, has awesome Sangria and again get the veggie burgers (I’m obsessed obviously) they put them with tzatziki, cucumber and serve them on coconut break (so soft). Cafe del Mar – the best place to get breakfast. As I said, Selina had terrible breakfast so every day I went to Cafe del Mar. The staff are so lovely and it just has an all round great vibe! It is great for heavy hungover food but also has incredibly fresh and healthy options too. I would eat here every day forever if I could. Amaranto – great for coffee and really lovely service.
Red Frog Beach: such a beautiful and tranquil place. You have to pay a fee to get on the island but it is worth it. As I said earlier, I would stay here next time. The beach is breathtaking and one of my favourite in the world (and i’ve seen some beaches in my time). Pay to get some chairs under an umbrella and soak up the sun and enjoy a cocktail. Also its good because you can explore the forest on the walk to the beach so thats cool!
Filthy Friday: ugh… I left with no dignity and feeling sorry for myself. It was one that I was happy to leave hungover because it truly was… filthy. It was heaps of fun though and I would say just do it and enjoy yourself. The views are incredible because you get to explore heaps of different islands and just have a great time.