by Anne Watcher on Friday March 4th, 2011 at 8:53am
We have all heard the stories how crazy the buses are in Central America. While we didn't find that in Costa Rica, here they are different. While our first couple of trips on the buses were not that exciting, the one from San Juan to Jinotepe was. I finally got on a bus with CHICKENS!! I was so happy when I heard them crowing.
All kidding aside, this is the normal mode of transportation for most people here. It is regular, daily, inexpensive and the most reliable. Many local vendors get on to sell you a refresco, freshly made taco pollo, fruit or local candy - which is usually made with shredded dried fruit or coconut. We tried a couple of them and they were so good.
Our trip from Granada to San Juan del Sur cost us C$80 ($3.64 US) with a bus switch in Rivas. Trip from San Juan del Sur to Jinotepe cost C$76, again switching buses in Rivas.
Our bus from Rivas to Jinotepe.
Freshly made treats and snacks for sale.
Time to pay the piper!! After the bus is well under way, the money is collected by the person that helps the driver. His job is not only to collect the money but to help people load their wares on the roof. This could include bicycles, 12' lengths of steel, or large empty baskets. He also collects the fares from those who get on the bus along the highway. Also when people exits, he makes sure that they are off safely.
We started hearing the chicken crowing and Rob recorded it on video. While you can't really see it, the pink bag exiting the back door contains the chicken!!
We could watch the road go by at our feet!
by Anne Watcher on Wednesday March 2nd, 2011 at 5:06pm
If you are an adventurous person and do not get sea sick then this may be the vacation for you. Moored in the quiet bay off San Juan del Sur while we were there was this amazing cruise ship - well sail boat really. We watched it as we sat on the beach with the sun set behind it and believe me, there was a lot of motion so can only imagine what it is like out at sea.
Not absolutely sure it this is the Star Clipper (dates on their website match up) or not but sure looks like it. These are not your typical cruise ships but are a new age of sailing with the traditions of the past happily put together with the comforts of the present day. This type of cruise is definitely for the luxury minded passenger who also wants the romance and traditions of a by gone era. The ship is about 360 feet long and carries 170 passengers.
The Star Clipper swaying in the gentle rolls of the Pacific.
The lights on the boat cast an outline against the gorgeous sunset.
Website - http://yourcruisingeditor.wordpress.com/2011/01/26/star-clipper-cruises-in-central-america-experience-nature-unbounded/
by Anne Watcher on Tuesday March 1st, 2011 at 10:05pm
Who can resist the smell and taste of freshly baked bread, cookies and cakes? Very few of us, I'm sure. We came across this very interesting bakery while wondering the streets of San Juan del Sur and the smells did not disappoint.
Pan de Vida, owned and operated by former Chicago residents, Eric and Stephanie Slater, opened it's door for business 2 yrs. ago. Eric said business has steadily increased and he had to admit that the fact that the TV show Survivor was filmed in the area has helped a lot. Also the fact that many wealthy families from Managua have weekend homes here, has helped make his customer base more local.
The firing of the oven begins around 7 AM and by mid afternoon the ashes can be cleaned out and the entire oven floor used to bake on. This actually makes for the best bread, the moisture from the dough making for even bake and the perfect crust. The oven can hold 20 loaves at this time.
They use basic receipes and modify them to give the unique look and taste that is Pan de Vida. They are known for their chocolate chip cookies so when in San Juan del Sur, take the short walk to the bakery and treat you taste buds. You will be glad you did.
Located 100 meters west of the Texaco towards the beach, Pan de Vida is well worth a visit.
Bright and cheerful exterior of the bakery
Eric removing a freshly baked loaf
Merlinda kneeds the dough
Dona Gloria prepares ingredients for the next items to be madeThis is what we returned for - freshly from the oven, chocolate chip and oatmeal raisin cookies. Baking them in the brick oven leads to a thicker, yet perfectly baked cookie. It has a nice crunch to the outside but soft inside. We got them while they were still warm - stopped by the local pulperia - and got some ice cold milk to go with them. They were AWESOME!! Best cookies ever!!!
Fresh Brick Oven CookiesWhile the bakery may not be large in size, it produces an excellent line of artisan breads. A variety of loaves and cakes along with the amazing cookies are available.
Brick Oven Artisan BreadsPan de Vida Facebook Page
by Anne Watcher on Tuesday March 1st, 2011 at 7:56pm
I was told by someone I met down here in Nicaragua that they could tell I was from Canada because of the colours I wore. Fair enough, I do have a lot of black, brown, green but I do throw in an occasional lime green top!! But they sure do not shy away from colour here in the south. Below is just a sampling of the beautiful and colourful homes and stores in this cute beach town.
by Anne Watcher on Tuesday March 1st, 2011 at 10:41am
If you want to stay close but not right on the noisy beach, try the Hotel Coloniel. Located just one block off the beach, it is a delightful place to spend a few nights.
Rob and I found the rooms to be very clean, comfortable and staff friendly and helpful. It has all the modern services that you expect along with the charm of a small hotel. Wood furnishings, comfy beds, ceramic floors and blend with internet, AC, and cable TV. A continental breakfast is included with other items available for purchase.
From the market (where the bus lets you off) it is located one block towards the beach and one half block south. Secure parking is also available if you have your own vehicle.
Staircase to the roomsThis is a photograph of our room. It was the "simple" room at $48.00 USD per night. It might have been small, but was inviting and very clean.
The room we stayed in in San Juan del Sur
Cozy sitting areas among the lush gardensThe front patio is open to the street and is the perfect place to catch up on my posts for the journal.
Anne writing the Travel Virgins journal postHotel Colonial Website
