Jaco

Thursday April 3, 2025

It’s been 4 days here so time for an update.

Casa 9

Our place came with a chef who has been doing a great job. We give him cash and he buys groceries and cooks. No receipts, no transparency but it’s working. Our concierge, on the other hand, seems to have an angle on every transaction. He orders the cabs which don’t have meters, but cost $20 for a $6 ride. The place came with a set of “rules” which dictate he must book all transport and outings. Not surprising, he drives a very nice truck, no doubt paid for by his schemes with restaurants and cabs. Really shouldn’t complain as the place is right on the beach with incredible views.

El Miro

The other day we hiked up a very steep hill to an abandoned mansion. You can see why they built here but the road up was rough in the 30 degree heat and humidity. It is now a landmark with all its graffiti. It’s a shame it wasn’t completed because it looks like the hard work was done – plumbing, electrical and foundation.

Tortuga Island

Tortuga is a destination tour. It’s a 45 minute boat ride from the mainland. Your tour includes unlimited rum based drinks, activities and a lunch. The highlight was definitely the snorkelling. Unbelievable fish and sea life of every colour. I don’t have an underwater camera so these shots are from their website

The next activity was a banana boat ride. They offered two versions, the mellow yellow or the crazy version. The crazy riders (myself included) suggested a modified crazy, which in the end, not so crazy. We still exited in a tangled pile with a good amount of sea water in our sinuses. My shoulder is a little sore today after one of the big boys at the back landed on me.

This whole trip was planned around the fact that this is the year most of the group turns 65. A group of friends that has been together in some cases 50+ years. The 3000 image slide show we have running has generated a lot of discussion and variations of what really went on.

All and all, a great location.