A travel enthusiast shared a disappointing experience from what was supposed to be a dream vacation in Bocas del Toro, Panama. Claudia Tavani, the owner of My Adventures Across The World blog, had high hopes for the trip after reading glowing reviews in the Lonely Planet guidebook. However, her expectations were shattered upon arrival.
Instead of pristine, secluded beaches, Claudia encountered piles of trash and rowdy tourists that tainted her experience. She found only one beach, Red Frog Beach, to be enjoyable, while the rest were marred by pollution. The region, known for its beauty, also faces challenges such as gang violence, dangerous roads, and pickpocketing, according to the UK Foreign Office.
Although the ‘state of urgency’ in Bocas del Toro was recently lifted following violent protests, ongoing issues like roadblocks and gang-related incidents persist. Waste management is a significant problem in the area, with limited rubbish collection leading to environmental pollution.
In response to the waste crisis, local initiatives have been launched, including a plastic bag ban and a recycling facility. One Canadian entrepreneur, Robert Bezeau, has even built a village using plastic bottles to address the issue creatively.
Despite these efforts, the waste problem remains severe, as highlighted by Claudia’s firsthand observations of the town’s unsanitary conditions. Disappointed with her experience, she eventually left Bocas del Toro for Costa Rica, where she found a more fulfilling travel experience filled with natural beauty and welcoming locals.
Costa Rica, known as the “country of Pura Vida,” exceeded Claudia’s expectations with its diverse landscapes and outdoor activities. Her journey in Costa Rica, including visits to national parks and encounters with wildlife, contrasted sharply with her challenging time in Panama.