Caribbean Jungle and Beach Gem-La Coralina: A Charming and Eclectic Family Vacation
Dary, Daria, Lisa and Alia enjoy breakfast at La Coralina
Our last trip to Bocas was a huge hit because of a fun find for us: Hotel La Coralina. This is such a total gem! We have been to Bocas so many times that we no longer stay in Bocas Town (plenty of nightlife, rowdy) but seek out interesting boutique alternatives. We had, however, been in a rut of staying at a nearby resort with a great pool and private beach, overlooking the lack of rustic appeal and the “off the beaten track” vibe we normally seek, for the convenience of maximum pool time for our girls. All I can say is thank you, Stacey, (owner of La Coralina) for creating a wonderful, vibrant place for a family adventure that is far from ordinary.
The staff is great: Erika, Elvira and Stacey know all the local lore and best happenings, and are all vibrant and friendly. Not to mention the adorable hotel pets Ms. Betty(the cat) and the dogs Perla, Sugar and Lola. Sugar even met us down the lane after our awesome jungle/beach horseback ride, and helped us explore through the tidepools in front of the hotel.
We ate delicious and inventive food, all while enjoying spectacular ocean views and playing cards, dominoes, trivial pursuit and our personal favorite “claymation”. Really just modeling clay, but we were all fascinated by the clever creations by guests and staff which incorporated driftwood, shells and such. Stacey has provided plenty of lounging and viewspots with hammocks and benches. If you fancy a game of billiards, there is a great vintage table beside the bar, also with an ocean view. The “Dejame Tranquilo” La Coralina 5 Rum Punch is delicious-all 3 ladies pour a great one. All is undertaken with mucho gusto!
Stacey has a nice touch with design and furnishings. The feel is tropical Indonesian, with great fabrics and crafts from Guatemala, San Blas Islands and other areas of Panama. We really enjoyed our Ocean View Suite-spacious and comfortable. The earth tones and natural textures come together nicely for a rustic yet elegant feel.
We felt at home and loved the experience. The story behind La Coralina is an inspiration and adds to the heart we felt. It truly is a labor of love-and it shows! To be continued…….
See these and more photos of our vacation to Bocas del Toro, Panama. »
