I am back! Jamaica, Costa Rica, Colombia, and Panama. Of all places, never did I imagine that I would be in Colombia.
Starting out – This cruise adventure started in Ft. Lauderdale, making the first stop in Jamaica. Here, we had the opportunity to really talk to the locals and get an understanding of their lives. After touring the island, the driver took us to a nice beach and we got some jerk chicken. But to my surprise, it tasted like BBQ chicken – not authentic as I imagined…still good though and I ate every bit of it (LOL)!!!
Costa Rica – We got off the boat and secured a taxi to take us on a tour of Port Limon. The highlight of the tour was going on a jungle boat ride. As we sailed through the swamps, we saw sloth, iguanas, and other creatures along thick foilage of the jungle. What a treat!!
TIP – This same trip cost about $75 per person on the boat, but we got it for $20! When going on cruises, the excursions offered by cruise lines tend to be way more expensive. Plus, they leave too early in the morning for me. I suggest negotiating with a local taxi or tour driver at the port. Just ensure that you settle a rate before you begin your ride.
Colombia – We landed at the Santa Marta port and got a taxi to take us to Tayrona National Park. Check out the pictures of this park to see the most beautiful coastline and beaches ever! Once we got to the park entrance, I started to get a bit uncomfortable. The “guards” at the gate wanted an extreme amount of money to enter the park. Thank goodness our fellow cruiser was fluent in Spanish!
We then went to Cartegena. I love this place! The culture, beaches, people, and architecture were just amazing. One thing about Colombia – it was HOT!! You definitely need a hat, sunglasses, and water.
Panama – The ship docked in Colon, Panama. We got a taxi to take us through the city and onto Panama City, but not before seeing the Panama Canal. Actually seeing a ship go through the locks was interesting. By this time, we were all running out of money. One good thing, most of all the cities we visited took the US dollar. Panama actually uses our currency. But, things were just a little bit more expensive.
Fin – The trip ended with an overnight stay in the Panama City Marriot. The hotel was really nice. It had a huge gym – which I didn’t use of course. But, I did get in the hot tub!
Inspiration – Don’t let disappointments, strained relationships and job challenges tell you who God is; let His Word speak for Him. (Joel Osteen).
Peace & Blessings!!
-A
December 20, 2009 at 1:15 am
Man! Someone is having fun huh?….hahahhahaha
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year Angela. I hope everything is going well and that you are in good health.
When you come back from your Sabbatical and you want to venture on a new career….you may consider modeling because you are so photogenic…..hahahahahaha
Take care Babs. I hope you packed some of your favorite snacks (Taffy) throughout your journey…..hahahhahahaha
Bye,
Cuong
December 24, 2009 at 12:25 am
LOL!!! Thanks C!
December 22, 2009 at 8:06 pm
Merry Christmas Angela (and tell your Aunt Thelma hello for me too!). We are doing well here in Hawaii, work has not let up for me (it has relaxed for Roger tho). I’ve been posting pictures on my blog, I haven’t gotten to Cartegena yet. Last night it was “food” on the cruise. *smiles* Tonight I was thinking about highlighting their fruit & ice carvings… we’ll see. I finally got my Christmas tree put up on Saturday night/Sunday morning. It looks like something out of Charlie Brown’s Christmas.
Okay… gotta scoot!
Aloha!
– Kris
P.S. It was an honor to meet you & Thelma!
December 30, 2009 at 12:58 pm
Way to go, Angela! My motto is to live everyday as if it could be my last, and it looks like you’re doing the same. Enjoy your travels and experiences.
Doreen.
December 31, 2009 at 12:54 pm
Great shots, great trips! Happy traveling in a happy 2010 🙂
January 1, 2010 at 6:34 pm
lovely blog and pictures. I enjoyed the trip in it’s description and the pictures in it’s visual. I have never traveled myself and on a cruise too, it would be my delight.
Thanks for sharing.
January 12, 2010 at 3:59 pm
Some wonderful shots. I’m intrigued with Panama.
January 20, 2010 at 9:43 am
Hey, Angela,
What beautiful pics! You must have had a blast. If you want to travel a little more, I have a free place we can stay in Panama, Waialua Hawaii, Ennis Montana and Ruston Louisiana on Lake D’Arbonne.
Thanks for sharing.