Arriving in Panama

So…

Our jobs afford us the flight benefits and the time for travel. A couple of weeks ago, we found ourselves on our way to the Republic of Panama. It’s our second trip to Santa Clara, Panama - a tiny fishing village an hour and half west of Panama City. Beach and relaxation here we come. The drive is a an easy one, once you get to the PanAmerican Highway. A straight hour and fifteen minute drive, no turns, no exits, just straight ahead.

We did make two stops for cold 8oz beers at .35cents each. A quick stop at the “REY” a 24 hour supermarket for provisions for our stay, then on to Las Sirenas, where we find Mr. Inez waiting in his usual spot. He is the resident innkeeper at Las Sirenas, speaks very little english, but takes good care of you. He must remember us, as he takes our credit card, gives us the key and does not walk us to the cottage - like the first time.

Las Sirenas has hilltop cottages overlooking the Pacific Ocean or cottages right on the beach. We choose # 11 - the closest cottage to the beach. The cottage has an air-conditioned bedroom, living room (with sofa beds), porch (with hammock) and a fully-equipped kitchen. We turn the a/c all the way up, unpack our groceries, and change into shorts. A couple of .35 cents beers later, we truly begin our vacation.