A travel enthusiast shared a disappointing experience from her anticipated vacation in Bocas del Toro, Panama. Claudia Tavani, the founder of My Adventures Across The World travel blog, had high hopes for the destination based on glowing descriptions she had read in travel guides.
Contrary to her expectations, Claudia encountered a different reality upon arrival. Instead of pristine, secluded beaches, she found heaps of litter that marred the scenery. The influx of rowdy tourists further dampened her experience, painting a stark contrast to the idyllic image she had envisioned.
The overall situation in Bocas del Toro and Panama presents a mix of challenges, including safety concerns highlighted by the UK Foreign Office. Despite the recent lifting of the ‘state of urgency’ in Bocas del Toro post-protests, lingering issues like gang violence and security threats persist.
Additionally, waste management poses a significant problem in the region. The absence of a structured rubbish collection system in Bocas del Toro has led to residents resorting to dumping waste in rivers or resorting to burning it, exacerbating environmental issues.
Efforts to address the waste crisis have been initiated by local residents, with measures such as a plastic bag ban and the establishment of recycling facilities. Noteworthy initiatives like constructing a village using plastic bottles by Canadian entrepreneur Robert Bezeau demonstrate innovative solutions to combat the waste problem.
Despite the creative endeavors, the waste challenges persist, as highlighted by Claudia’s candid observations of the unsanitary conditions in Bocas Town. Disappointed by her experience, Claudia cut short her stay and ventured into Costa Rica, where she found a more fulfilling and enriching travel experience.
In Costa Rica, Claudia encountered a paradise that lived up to her expectations, with encounters with nature, engaging in thrilling activities like hiking, rafting, and snorkeling, and connecting with the welcoming locals. The contrast between her experiences in Panama and Costa Rica underscored the stark disparities in travel experiences within Central America.