Rocking Time
By Paul De Barros
Often when planning a trip, you can do a
little too much of well – planning. Ruining
your vacation like pulp ruins a glass of OJ.
Its not juice. Researching where to stay and
what beaches to visit, you strip your
travels of any spontaneity and uncertainty.
If you are looking to mix it up a little,
grab a duffel and head to Puerto Viejo de
Talamanca…
…only this time, leave the Lonely Planet
where it belongs, with the People magazine
on top of the arse bucket.
A beach town injected with a reggae vibe,
Puerto Viejo sits on the Caribbean side of
Costa Rica, moving at a slow speed – the
speed of bike. This laid-back, sandals and
shorts kind of town is famous for the bike
rentals. Here a simple bicycle is all you
need to glide around town or explore the
many tropical beaches. With one main bending
road, everything you need – beer, burgers,
and sunscreen – can all be found if you just
keep on peddling.
Marley beats pulse through the streets as
backpackers from all around enjoy beach
hopping before bar hopping. Finding a good
beach here is easy – no guidebook necessary:
Just north of the local supermarket, you’ll
find local surfers enjoying the consistent
surf at Playa Negra. You can guess what
color the sand is.
Salsa Brava is the beach right across the
street, nice view, nice sand, bad rocks.
Playa Cocles is a 10 minute bike ride south
of town; keep going until you see the sign.
The rip currents here can get quite strong
so check with the locals before pretending
your Michael Phelps.
Follow the road, eventually you’ll find
Punta Uva within 20 minutes and Manzinillo
an hour later.
For the best places to stay look up the
following:
*With an abundance of hotels and hostels,
you can walk around town and find a spot
that strike your eye. Try reserving a room
for your first night, then adlibbing from
there.
Rocking Js: (rockingjs.com)
A giant, colorful hostel right on the beach.
Offering hammocks, tents, and a few private
rooms, this is the best bet if you’re a
backpacker, traveler, college kid, or
someone who doesn’t mind a little dirt and a
little party. Stay away pansies and
princesses.
Lizard King Resort: (lizardkingresort.com)
Just off the main stretch, this newly built
hotel boasts 15 rooms all with two double
beds and a private bath. A large pool in the
back is perfect for afternoon lounging. At
$45 for the room which includes breakfast
(juice, coffee, eggs, toast, rice and beans)
and free internet use, these rooms are
perfect for families and travelers a like.
If you are looking for a hassle free
vacation, Puerto Viejo de Talamanca delivers
laid back fun in the sun.
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Paul De Barros is a contributor to Inside
Costa Rica
You can contact Paul at:
pauldebarros@yahoo.com |
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