text:
Puerto Nariño

Puerto Narino is a town in Amazonas region in Colombia.

Understand
Puerto Narino is 85 km from Leticia near the intersection of the Amazon and Loretoyacu rivers. The town has about 2,000 people, 95% of whom are Ticuna, Cocama and Yagua.

Get in
The only way to get to Puerto Narino is by boat. From Leticia there is a speed boat (rapido) that heads upriver to Puerto Nariño, making stops at Isla de Los Micos, Parque Natural Nacional Amacayacu and anywhere else passengers want to stop or someone on shore flags down the boat. A one-way ticket is COP$32,000 (June 2021). The ticket office is in a marketplace along the waterfront. Service is shared between several different companies, so make sure to book with the correct company for the day you want to travel. ID is required at the time of purchase. The boat can fill up, so it is advisable to buy tickets in advance (also true for return tickets, especially for the 7am boat). The rapido leaves at 7AM, 10AM and 1:30PM (June 2021). It takes about 2 hours to reach Puerto Narino and is a beautiful ride.

When you arrive, salesmen from the so-called "tourist information" want to bring you to their small agency to "check-in". Ignore them. This strange impression will surely be the only one in Puerto Nariño.

Get around
Puerto Narino is a car-free town. Everyone gets around on walking paths in town and between villages. Otherwise, travel is by boat. It is easy to find someone around the dock to take you in a small wooden boat with a motor wherever you want to go.

The area is better covered on OsmAnd or Mapy.cz than on Google Maps.

See

 * Town Anniversary Festival at the end of March. Parades, music, dancing, competitions, sporting events held over a two day period.

Do

 * Hire a local guide to lead a jungle walk. A 3-4 hour walk with terrific Ticuna guide named Ismael was COP$60,000 for four people. Rental of rubber boots is COP$3,000 per person. Bring bug repellant and plenty of water.  Ismael can be found through Malocas Napu Hospedaje on calle 4.
 * Take a boat ride up the Loretoyacu River to Lago Tarapoto to marvel at the flooded forest, birds and pink dolphins. To see dolphins the guide recommends early morning or late afternoon. COP$60,000 for a small boat with 4 passengers, and 2 guides.
 * You can take a boat up to the Isla de los Micos, a small island where wild squirrel monkeys are used to humans and come sit on the heads of visitors. You can buy pieces of banana to have the monkeys eat out of your hands. With the scheduled speed boat it's COP$21,000 there and COP$32,000 back (COP$53,000 altogether, June 2021). An employee of the speed boat company said in June 2021, that the reserve is closed. So check whether it reopened.
 * Mirador Naipata is one of several towers you can climb to get sweeping views across the treetops to the Amazon. COP$5,000 per adult, COP$3,000 for minors (June 2021). The entry is through the big mouth of a tiger. If the gate is locked, ask for the caretaker at the house down the hill.
 * Fundacion Natutama has an interpretive trail describing "The World Below the Water."
 * You can take a boat to El Chorro and walk around 40 min back to Puerto Nariño. The whole way is paved and will soon be completely made of the red paved walking road. You can also first walk to El Chorro and take a boat back. But then you may have to wait a while for a boat bringing you back to Puerto Nariño.
 * There is a muddy trail to 'the house in the middle of the jungle' halfway to San Martín.
 * An ecological trail (signs explain the different tree species) also goes to the réserva Wachile, a pleasant garden where you may see Pirarucu, boa constrictor, aligator and many other animals (10000 cop) as well as giant water lilies. It is possible to fish, and sleep there.
 * Go to the San Antonio community on the Peruvian side of the river to see osos perezosos

Buy
There are no ATMs and card payment is almost nowhere accepted. You can withdraw money from the supermarket Hiper Airuwe (not Hiper Airuwe Express) for a 3% fee. Withdrawals over COP$500,000 should be scheduled in advance.

 * Asociacion Artesanal Mowacha, calle 7, cellular: . This small store has a wide variety of Ticuna crafts; jewelry, bags, dolls, carvings, etc.  Reasonable prices.
 * Arpes Artes Puerto Esperanza in the community of Puerto Esperanza. This small shop sells locally made handcrafts. cellular: . Pasquinel Pereira Candido is the owner.

Eat
There are a handful of restaurants in town within a few blocks of the river.

 * Cafeteria Dona Luz has a tranquil balcony overlooking the town basketball court. Ask at the window about what they are serving that day.  For breakfast they can make eggs if you ask.
 * Metare Restaurante is a new place on the corner a block up the hill from the dock. It's still under construction, but don't let that put you off; it has good food and service at a very good price.

At some road crossings you find tasty street food with prices starting from COP$1,000 (June 2021).

There is a every day.

Drink
There is a bar at the street near the river, where local couples dance to the music.

Sleep
As of June 2021 there are no accommodations on Hostelworld and only ones from R$35,000 on booking.com. Better prices have:
 * Malocas Napu, calle 4 No 5-72, email: olgabeco@yahoo.com, cellular: . Charming, small hostel. Friendly owner will help arrange guides for jungle walks, boat trip to see pink dolphins or specialized outings (fishing, birdwatching). COP$25,000 (June 2021) for a bunk.
 * Hostal Asai, Cra 6 No 6-65, email: hostalasai@yahoo.es. Miriam, the owner who can be found at the hotel across the street, is somewhat brusk, but the house is wonderful. COP$30,000 for a bed upstairs.
 * Upstairs from the Asociacion Artesanal Mowacha there is a very simple dorm room or you can sleep in a hammock in the Ticuna community classroom for COP$10,000 a night. Calle 7 No 7-30, cellular: try or .  There is no sign for the hostel so ask at the store.
 * Paraiso Ayahuasca has bunk beds for COP$20,000 per night (June 2021).

Connect
Claro connects the town with mobile internet.

Go next
There are 3 rapido departures to Leticia every day.

title: Puerto Nariño


text:
Puerto Natales

Puerto Natales is a town of 19,000 people (2012) in Chile, the gateway to trekking in Torres del Paine or Bernardo O'Higgins National Parks. It offers good infrastructure, especially a few trekking shops and not-so-cheap supermarkets (although you'd do better to get your gear in Punta Arenas).

Understand
Puerto Natales features a couple of characteristics that visitors should be aware of. One is that the population is largely descended from immigrants from Chiloé, and the "chilote" tendencies (cooking, building style) are evident. Another characteristic is that there are very strong communist/leftist affiliations in this town, so take this into account by being careful with your conversations involving related politics. Aside from the Chilotes, you will find many surnames of British and Croatian descent.

Although Puerto Natales is not very interesting, it is an ideal basis for a trek in Torres del Paine National Park. The city is the last chance to get food (in the supermarkets) and gas at reasonable prices before the park, where you are to pay double for those goods.

The city is built along the very beautiful Señoret Channel, which connects Almirante Montt Gulf to the south with Última Esperanza Sound to the north.

The Navimag ferry ship to Puerto Montt departs from here.

Climate
Whatever the season you choose to travel, be prepared for harsh weather conditions, not only cold, but wind and strong sun. You can have the four seasons in the course of a day! During late spring and summer, it can get very windy.

Get in
Bringing fruit, vegetables or animal products from Argentina into Chile is not allowed. Chilean border officials always check luggage, especially if you are a tourist, and if they find anything which is not declared in the form you are asked to fill in, you will have to pay a fine and will have your goods confiscated.

By plane
There is a small airport about 10 km from the city center, on the road to the Torres del Paine National Park. During the high season, i.e. from September to April, there are flights connecting the city with Puerto Montt and Santiago.

There is a private bus to get into the city (CLP 4,000 per person) and also taxis. Buses are convenient, they leave as the flights arrive and drop you directly at your hotel. Buy a ticket from the counters - there's one in the baggage pickup area, but the taxi-looking booth in the public section of arrivals also sells them.

By bus
Buses arrive and depart from Rodoviario Puerto Natales, a 10 minute walk away from the central area.

Daily buses arrive from El Calafate, (Argentina) (about six hours).

Buses arrive and depart several times a day from Punta Arenas, Chile. The trip takes about three hours. There are several companies including Buses Fernandez, but it's easiest to book the tickets in person at the bus company's location in Punta Arenas depending on your schedule. Those who can may be able to get the regular bus diverted via the airport saving them a trip to Punta Arenas centre. Most bus companies will do this, but you should ask when you purchase your ticket.

Buses and tours depart to Torres del Paine, El Calafate and El Chalten through several agencies in town, during summer book ahead.

By car
It is possible to drive from Rio Gallegos, Argentina, to Puerto Natales. This takes 5 hours and the road is entirely paved.

From El Calafate, the road is entirely paved too, and the trip takes less than 4 hours.

On foot
This is a small, waterside town that is easily accessible on foot. Most services are found between a sort of triangle formed by Manuel Bulnes street to the west, Pedro Montt street (costanera) to the north and Bernardo Philipi to the southeast. In the junction of Philipi and Bulnes streets, there's Baquedano Street, where you can find fruitshops, internet cafés, pharmacies and call centers. If you keep walking you find Plaza O´Higgings between Miraflores and Yungay, around which you can find budget lodges.

The Plaza de Armas (square) is a large open area between Eberhard and Bories, around which you can find the municipal buildings, the church, the post office, some pubs and restaurants and a bank.

If you walk up along Miraflores street to the "sector alto", you will reach Santiago Bueras Avenue, where you can get nice views of the city and the scenic beauty that surrounds it.

Following the coast direction to the harbour, there is a boat cemetery.

Colectivo
Taxis colectivos are shared taxis, although entirely black (taxis have a yellow roof), running on fixed routes like buses (which are not found in this city) with a roof sign indicating the destination. They charge about 450 pesos. Since the bus terminal is far on foot from downtown Natales, colectivos are a good option to get there because they are cheaper than taxis (which tend to charge more to tourists).

Taxi
Also known as radio-taxis, are fast in case you feel asleep and don't want to miss your bus to Punta Arenas or El Calafate and are also a good option to visit Mylodons Cave or Cerro Dorotea (Dorotea Hill). They usually charge 1000 pesos during the day and 2000 pesos at night, for destinations within the city. They are not metered as in Santiago or Punta Arenas, so always ask: ¿Cuánto cuesta la carrera? (How much is the ride?) so that you agree upon a fare in advance.

Hitchhiking
Hitchhiking works very well in Puerto Natales. Easy to get a ride to Torres del Paine (start early, around 8am), Cueva del Milodon or even direction to Cerro Dorotea and Punta Arenas. To go into the park, its better to go by Cerro Castillo. The road is nicer from Cueva del Milodon but its easier to enter without paying from Laguna Amarga

Do
See the harbour, do a trek in Torres del Paine, Perito Moreno, Milodón Cave, catch a boat on one of the lakes.

There are guided rentals of motorcycles (Kawasaki KLR650) for adventure tours of southern Patagonia, including Tierra del Fuego. The owner has been riding Patagonia since 1978 and takes clients to points that many tourists would miss including scenic spots; also good breaks in places with good cappuccino). Inquire via patagonia2004@hotmail.com    You must be an experienced off-pavement rider in good physical and mental condition and have a motorcycle cert on your licence.   You must plan ahead and bring your own riding gear.

Buy
The two larger supermarkets (Unimarc and Don Bosco) stock foods that are needed by trekkers/backpackers, including lightweight soups, precooked "ramen" noodles, hard cheeses, gorp components (dried fruits and nuts), Snickers bars, and powdered drinks. Freeze-dried products are available in several outdoor shops for about US$10 per package.

 * Miriam Parra handicraft, Manuel Bulnes. Great handicrafts excellent quality situated on one of the main roads in Natales. Everything from sheep skin to wooden craft.

Drink
The water quality in Natales is not particularly good, though it is considered safe and healthy by the government. It has a high concentration of dissolved mineral content. The Natales municipal water is pumped from wells and the raw water is rather silty, with high tannin and other organic content. The water does not come "from the glaciers" which in any event are more than 40 km away and dump their icemelt into the brackish waters of the fjord.

Sleep
There are plenty of hostels and residentials around the town. There are also many Hospedajes. The (mostly) women of the hospedajes wait for the bus to come and try to talk tourists into their home. They have really good deals and will usually serve breakfast and store your luggage while you are trekking. Spanish language skills are useful if you choose a hospedaje.

Go next

 * Torres del Paine National Park — the astonishing Paine massif and its beautiful peaks, azure lakes, emerald forests, roaring rivers, radiant blue glaciers, and rugged mountain terrain topped by looming peaks
 * Bernardo O'Higgins National Park — the largest protected area in the country cover the fjords and canals of the west and most of the southern ice fields
 * Punta Arenas
 * El Chalten
 * El Calafate

license: Creative Commons - Attribution Share-Alike - https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/

title: Puerto Natales


text:
Puerto Nuevo

Puerto Nuevo is a city in Baja California, which is described as the "Lobster Capital of Baja". Many restaurants serve the large pan-fried crustaceans.

Understand
In the 1950s and early 1960s, Puerto Nuevo was a little fishing village where Americans would meet local guides at the billboard off the road. That billboard was for Newport Cigaretts - Puerto Nuevo is Newport in Spanish. This is the likely derivation of the name. One day the wife of a fisherman starting cooking the fish her husband and his clients caught, and the restaurant business was born. The original restaurant is known as #2 (this has to do with the lot numbering system); #1 was the second restaurant in town. Also, there are 8 restaurants in town with the name Ortegas. They are related and the competition is not all that friendly. Puerto Nuevo is a fun stop - the lobster is good - and you have plenty of choices for food, shopping and people watching!

Climate
It has cool winters with an average temperature of 18 °C and hot summers with an average temperature of 24 °C. In autumn the extremely dry winds of Santa Ana are common.

Get in
You can get to Puerto Nuevo by traveling the Toll Rd south from the USA border, travel time about 45 minutes. Exit Puerto Nuevo, take a left onto the free road and see the village on the right ride of the road. There is the free road that runs parallel and can save you US$5 on the toll road, it will take about 15 minutes more on this road. The free road is slow going and a bit tougher on your vehicle, but it's free! Exit at any of the Rosarito ramps, take a left and continue along the coast. You can't miss the Puerto Nuevo arches. Visit the 39 restaurants and numerous shops.

It is 15 km from Rosarito, 30 km from Tijuana and 65 km from Ensenada.

Do

 * California Motorsport Adventours Off-road adventure tours for people of all riding abilities. Full-day excursions or longer tours available also. Ride in the dunes and then enjoy a guided adventure into the surrounding mountain trails. Contact the office for reservations.

Buy
Because Puerto Nuevo is further off the beaten path than Rosarito, Tijuana, or Ensenada, farmacias are much more liberal in selling prescription medications over the counter. Not all will, but many farmacias will sell prescription pain killers such as Vicodin and Percocet, Human Growth Hormone and other anabolic steroids such as D-Bol and Sustanon, and anti-anxiety and sleep medications such as Xanax, Valium, or Ambien. Although most of these will be the generic forms of the medication, the prices are very cheap and you will not be hassled if you purchase them here.

Eat
There are 35 restaurants all specializing lobster, with the price ranging between US$10 and $35 depending on the size of the lobster you choose. The typical dish in which lobster is served in the Puerto Nuevo style is accompanied by refried beans and flour tortillas, usually accompanied by a wine from the Valle de Guadalupe region.

Every year in October Puerto Nuevo celebrates the Lobster Festival, where it is used to surround the marine delicacy with a gastronomic atmosphere enriched by styles from various countries and the region.
 * Villa Ortegas is the largest restaurant in the town, with a seating capacity of over 500 people. Villa Ortegas is on the ocean. The lobsters tend to be more expensive than other places, but if you are nervous about eating in Mexico, then this place offers the American dining experience in Baja.

Go next

 * Valle de Guadalupe
 * Ensenada
 * Playas de Rosarito

title: Puerto Nuevo


text:
Puerto Obaldia

Puerto Obaldia is a city in Kuna Yala province of Eastern Panama. A ramshackle collection of decrepit houses, mostly with damaged or missing roofs, a beach littered with rubbish. An internet cafe, a supermarket, two hostels, two restaurants. But Puerto Obaldia is the little known and dirt-cheap alternative to travel from Colombia to Panama and vice versa.

By boat from Colombia
Get the fast boat from Turbo to Capurganá (leaves at 7AM or later daily, COP$55,000). At 7AM and 1PM daily, there is a direct boat from Capurganá to Puerto Obaldia (COP$25,000)or Sapzurro (COP$30,000). It is quite possible and safe to walk from Capurgana to Sapzurro (1½ hr) with plenty of views. You can also walk across the border from Sapzurro to La Miel, Panama (1 hr) a small coastal town with white beaches. Walking from La Miel to Pueto Obaldia is not advisable. Get your out-stamp in Capurganá and your in-stamp in Puerto Obaldia. Upon arrival, the police will log your passport and search your bag, but they do not stamp your passport. You must find the office in town.

By plane from Panama City
Air Panama is the only airline serving Puerto Obaldia They operate one flight on Sundays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays from Panama City Albrook airport to Puerto Obaldia. It departs at 8:30AM and arrives 9:30AM. The cost is US$57.50 plus tax. With tax it is $88.03. The plane then departs Puerto Obaldia at 9:40AM and arrives back in Panama City at 10:40AM. If you take this route, however, expect to wait up to three hours at Albrook undergoing multiple interviews, bag searches and an official count of your US dollars. Travelers are supposed to show US$500 or more, though Americans and Europeans can generally get away with showing credit cards.

By road
Puerto Obaldia cannot be reached overland.

Get around
The roads are big enough for motorbikes but there is so far only one in town. Walking is the best option.

Do
Once you have seen all the rubbish along the beach and the sewers leading right onto the beach, you won't ever bathe here!

The best thing to do in Puerto Obaldia is sort out how to get out of town. It isn't a dangerous town, but there is nothing to do here, and it is an unattractive place.

Eat
There is tasty food at the 'Las tres L' restaurant in town, although pricey (almuerzo corriente lunch for US$4). There is another restaurant near the runway.

Sleep

 * Pension Cande, very simple accommodation US$5 with shared bathroom or US$10 self-contained. Prices may be negotiable depending on how busy they are.

If you have a tent, coming from the direction of the dock you can walk past the old airstrip near the central plaza to the other side where there are houses and set up your tent along the shore on bed-like grass. Ask the people who live nearby to get permission, but there is very little chance you will get denied or charged.

By boat to Colombia
If there are sufficient passengers, there is a direct boat to Capurganá in Colombia (about US$15). In Capurganá, you can get a ferry to Turbo (COP$49,000). It is possible to walk from Puerto Obaldia to Sapzurro (2½ hr) and from Sapzurro to Capurganá (2½ hr), but it is not advisable to do this, as this is a dicey area with smugglers, bandits and guerrillas combing it, and the Panamanian army will require you to get a permit to leave the town. Get your out-stamp in Puerto Obaldia and your in-stamp in Capurgana. There is a Colombian Consulate in Puerto Obaldia.

By boat to the San Blas islands
You may be able to arrange a trip to Mulatupo o Sasardi or El Porvenir or Miramar (where there are airports) for negotiable prices.

There is also the option to travel by sailing boat to Carti and spend 3-5 days in the islands. You can contact the boat through their homepage.

You usually need to put your name on the Zarpe, or port clearance, before any boats will take you on as a passenger. They will demand payment before doing this. The Panamanian military checks this paper at posts throughout Kuna Yala, like Playon Chico and El Porvenir. Miramar is the first town on the mainland with a road, about 2 hours from Colon. The trip from Puerto Obaldia to Miramar takes 10 hours or longer, and can be extremely rough, particularly after El Porvenir. Passengers and cargo get soaked.

If there are no tourist boats arranged, you may have to wait a day or more to find a boat heading towards Panama.

There are no ATMs between here and the mainland past Carti, so plan your financial situation in advance. There are road connections with Panama city in the coast to the Carti. A jeep or 4x4 from Carti (San Blas Islands) to Panama City will cost US$25 per person.

title: Puerto Obaldia


text:
Puerto Peñasco

Puerto Peñasco is a beach city in the northwestern corner of the state of Sonora in Mexico on the shores of the Sea of Cortez (Gulf of California), about 112 km (70 miles) south of the border with Arizona. Puerto Peñasco, also known as Rocky Point, is one of the fastest growing tourist centers of northern Mexico; from 1995 to 2020, the population grew from 27,000 to 63,000, which includes many American and Canadian expats.

Understand
The story goes that Al Capone put Puerto Peñasco in the map. During prohibition, he supposedly used the village as a transfer point for liquor to his USA organization. The word in the streets say that he drilled the first water well, constructed a landing strip, and also he frequented the first solid structure building, nowadays known as "Posada La Roca", the 8-room hotel down at the Old Port.

Puerto Penasco is in the same time zone as Phoenix/Tucson, Arizona, and observes the same rules for Daylight Saving Time as Arizona (that is to say, it is not observed).

The border crossing at Lukeville, Arizona is open from 06:00 to 00:00, daily.

The currency of México is the Mexican peso. The local merchants will typically accept US dollars at the going rate. ATMs are available around town that will allow you to use your US-based bank card and receive Mexican pesos, typically at a more favorable rate than from merchants.

Talk
As in the rest of the country, Spanish is the predominant language among the population. The variety of Mexican Spanish spoken in the region distinguish itself from the rest of the country for its strong intonation and contraction of words. Due to its proximity to the United States, it receives a great deal of influence from English. For example, English words such as troca (truck), lonche (lunch) and bai (bye) are of common usage.

English is spoken by most of the vendors and in almost every restaurant in Puerto Peñasco. Earnest attempts by visitors to speak Spanish are always appreciated.

By car
If driving your own vehicle there are many ways to get to Puerto Penasco, the most direct and easy way to get there is from Arizona thru the point of entry in Lukeville, the distance from Phoenix or Tucson is the same just about 350 km (220 miles) which is about 3½ hr of driving time.

From Phoenix you will need to take I-10 going west to Los Angeles getting off on exit 112 that connects to State Route 85 going south thru Gila Bend, Ajo, Why and Lukeville, once you go thru the border follow the road over the hill and past the bridge then about a block you will turn right into Mexico highway 8, which will take you straight into Puerto Penasco.

From Tucson you will need to connect from I-10 taking exit 260 to I-19, take exit 99, Ajo Way and go west eventually it will turn into State Route 86, it will go west thru Sells, Quijotoa and Why where it will dead end into State Route 85, turn left going south to Lukeville, once you go thru the border follow the road over the hill and past the bridge then about a block you will turn right into Mexico highway 8, which will take you straight into Puerto Penasco.

It is an easy and safe one hour drive by car from the American/Mexican border at Lukeville, Arizona, at the south end of Organ Pipe National Monument on Arizona Highway 85. If coming from Southern California, the drive is a bit shorter by crossing south of Yuma at San Luis Rio Colorado, but this route requires more driving in Mexico, however the new highway, Mexico Highway 3, from El Golfo de Santa Clara to Puerto Penasco is now open and is a very nice drive, however due to the sand being blown into the highway be careful when coming to sand build-up, they could be deadly at high speed, is not recommended to go off road unless you have four wheel drive and are familiar with driving in sand.

All drivers in México are required to have Mexican auto insurance. US policies are not acceptable. Be sure to buy Mexican insurance prior to your trip down or at one of the many places along Highway 85 before you cross the border.

By shuttle
From Phoenix you can contact Head Out to Rocky Point at, e-mail at headout@cox.net

From Tucson contact Rocky Point Rides at, e-mail at info@rockypointrides.com

From Puerto Penasco there are two shuttle companies with offices in Phoenix and Tucson:

Transportes Nena's +52 638-388-7089 or +1 602 442-6802

Transportes Superior +52 638-388-3640 or +1 602 455-9522.

There are direct bus services to Hermosillo and other points statewide (Nogales and along Mexican Highway 15 & 2, Caborca, Santa Ana, Guaymas, Empalme, Huatabampo, Navojoa) to/from Puerto Penasco with Albatros Bus Company on Benito Juarez. This bus does not pass through Sonoyta or Rio Colorado or Baja California, to do that you must board another bus company.

Get around
If you did not drive in to Puerto Peñasco (as most visitors do) you can get around town via taxi. You can either have the hotel call them for you or go to the nearest major street and flag one down, fares vary however you should not pay more than US$2 or $3 per person, in the touristic area of Sandy Beach you will find the "taxi turistico" or "tourist taxi" their prices will be higher than those of regular taxis.

There are also microbuses that take people around town (mostly workers) for a minimal fee.

If you will be staying for a longer period, there are two places that you can rent a car:

 * The Point Rent-a-car, On Blvd Benito Juarez across from Latitud 31 Restaurant and bar, tel. +52 638-388-5823

See
Puerto Peñasco has a few different areas:
 * Fish Market - with the Malecon Kino overlooking the Sea of Cortes, many curio shops, restaurants, bars, ice cream parlors, remember thrifty ice creams?
 * Playa Mirador - one of the oldest beach areas of Rocky Point, location was once famous as the "Spring Break" party street Avenida Matamoros, in a matter of 2 blocks you will find yourself in what seems to be a huge open bar, where college students from many universities concentrated during the 2 week vacation period. Now the street consists of many closed bars.
 * Calle 13 - Another well known area for its numerous restaurants and bars, here you will find ATV and Rhino rentals almost in every block. To reach Calle 13, turn right off the main road (Benito Juarez). Calle 13 dead ends at the Penasco Del Sol hotel and the city beach; just before that is the turn for Seaside Reservations and the Las Gaviotas condominiums. The city beach is the hub of Mexican beach life, with numerous vendors and food trucks setting up shop on the sand.
 * Sandy Beach - this is the location where most of the new developments are taking place, resorts, spas, 18-hole golf courses, condos and houses, restaurants as well as bars and of course a couple of miles of sandy beach and the future home port site for the cruise ships.
 * Cholla Bay, about 8 km (5 miles) out of town, is home of famous JJ's Cantina, it is just northwest of Sandy Beach.
 * Las Conchas - the oldest American enclave in Rocky point exclusively residential with many available beachfront rental homes.
 * Mayan Palace - One of the most, if not the most luxurious Mexican resort/timeshare, with its Jack Nicolaus 18-hole golf course, spa and many amenities to keep anybody, kids or adult busy. Open to members only. The general public cannot get day passes or use the restaurants. The golf course clubhouse restaurant, however, is open to the public.

And there are others like Playa Diamante, Playa Encanto, Playa San Jorge, etc. all located outside of town along the shores of the Sea of Cortez and are residential only.

Do

 * Ultralight Flying Adventures, US$40 for a 15-minute flight over any part of Puerto Peñasco that you'd like to see from the air.
 * Dancing, Puerto Peñasco has lots of nightlife, and there are many great places to go dancing: Manny’s Beach Club, Pink Cadillac, Baja Cantina, The Reef Club, Playa Bonita Happy Hour at Puesta Del Sol, Margarita Villa, and Bumaya (with the famous Foam Party)
 * Beach, Puerto Peñasco have basically to distinctive beaches separated by Whale Hill, the rocky hill where the Malecon and the fish market are located, to the north you have Sandy Beach, which starts at Playa Hermosa at the end of Calle 13, where Hotel Penasco del Sol is located and goes to Pelican Hill/Cholla Bay, this beach is about 8 km (5 miles) of white sand and full of the new developments which includes condos for rent, resorts and hotels, this is the new touristic section of Puerto Penasco/Rocky Point which started developing around 2000. The other beach area is located to the south east of Whale Hill which starts with Playa Mirador, the oldest developed beach in Rocky Point, known by the great tide pools where many different sealife can be found when the tide is low in the shore reefs, however when the tide is high the beach is of sand and the rocks are not visible. After playa Mirador going along the coast you have the American enclave of "Las Conchas" where many beautiful homes of mediterranean style are and ends at the entrance to the Morua estuary. To continue down the coast, you must take the highway to Caborca which will take you to many of the other residential developments like Playa Encanto, Playa Dorada, playa Miramar ending at the Mayan Palace and the entrance to La Pinta Estuary.
 * Off road vehicle rentals, There are lots of quad rental shops for easy access to the sand dunes outside of town near Cholla Bay.
 * Beach, Puerto Peñasco have basically to distinctive beaches separated by Whale Hill, the rocky hill where the Malecon and the fish market are located, to the north you have Sandy Beach, which starts at Playa Hermosa at the end of Calle 13, where Hotel Penasco del Sol is located and goes to Pelican Hill/Cholla Bay, this beach is about 8 km (5 miles) of white sand and full of the new developments which includes condos for rent, resorts and hotels, this is the new touristic section of Puerto Penasco/Rocky Point which started developing around 2000. The other beach area is located to the south east of Whale Hill which starts with Playa Mirador, the oldest developed beach in Rocky Point, known by the great tide pools where many different sealife can be found when the tide is low in the shore reefs, however when the tide is high the beach is of sand and the rocks are not visible. After playa Mirador going along the coast you have the American enclave of "Las Conchas" where many beautiful homes of mediterranean style are and ends at the entrance to the Morua estuary. To continue down the coast, you must take the highway to Caborca which will take you to many of the other residential developments like Playa Encanto, Playa Dorada, playa Miramar ending at the Mayan Palace and the entrance to La Pinta Estuary.
 * Off road vehicle rentals, There are lots of quad rental shops for easy access to the sand dunes outside of town near Cholla Bay.

Buy

 * Shopping, The malecón (mah-lay-CONE), or "beach walk" in the Old Port part of town is alive with shops that sell everything from tourist souvenirs to fine art. While in Puerto Peñasco, most visitors stay in one of the hundreds of privately owned condos that offer fully stocked kitchens. For this reason, the fish market at the malecón is a popular stop for the fresh catch of the day, especially during the shrimp season, September to March. There are also many good restaurants to be found along the malecón, some of which provide stunning sunset views of the Sea of Cortéz.
 * The Cholla Mall (also known as Rodeo Drive), has many shops with pottery, jewelry, clothing, and a variety of knick knacks. Two large pottery shops, across the street from each other, have a massive selection of artwork, rough pottery, and Talavera-style pottery. Planters of every size and shape, plates, platters, and bowls, candle holders and water coolers - you can find pretty much everything in these stores. While you can buy cigars at a few of the shops, they tend to be older and/or more stale than the shops on the Malecon. Fabulous Mexican restaurant on the street - beautifully decorated.

Eat

 * Capone's Restaurant and Bar, Located in Sinaloa Avenue in the Mirador beach area, Very casual drinking and dining. US$8-15
 * Delfin Amigable (Friendly Dolphin), Ave. Alcantar #44 (the main street out of the Old Port), +1 52 638 383-2608. Su-Th 10:00-23:00, F Sa 11:00-23:00. Traditional Mexican dishes, and a very creative seafood menu. Casual dining, and appropriate for the whole family. US$8-22.
 * La Casa del Capitan, on top of "Whale Hill", A restaurant with a great view. Mexican and American dishes served indoors or outside on the large patio.
 * Lolitas Seafood Restaurant, located in Ave Cuahutemoc in Mirador Beach area
 * Sapporo Sushi Restaurant, in Sinaloa Ave. one block west from Cappone's restaurant in the Mirador beach area
 * Kaffee Haus, located on your way to the Old Port. The Coffee Haus is a breakfast and lunch bistro tucked on a hillside just south of the old port. Established by German pastry chef Uwe Holtze and his wife Lily in 2005, the Coffee Haus was named after Uwe’s dog “Coffee”. Uwe, originally from Germany, lived in Canada and Boston before settling in Puerto Penasco. He brought with him a taste of Europe, combined with American, Canadian and Mexican fare. Phone, +52 638-38 81065. Please be ready to wait for few minutes, normally during long weekends expect queues. Please give your name with counter, they will call you in order.
 * Sapporo Sushi Restaurant, in Sinaloa Ave. one block west from Cappone's restaurant in the Mirador beach area
 * Kaffee Haus, located on your way to the Old Port. The Coffee Haus is a breakfast and lunch bistro tucked on a hillside just south of the old port. Established by German pastry chef Uwe Holtze and his wife Lily in 2005, the Coffee Haus was named after Uwe’s dog “Coffee”. Uwe, originally from Germany, lived in Canada and Boston before settling in Puerto Penasco. He brought with him a taste of Europe, combined with American, Canadian and Mexican fare. Phone, +52 638-38 81065. Please be ready to wait for few minutes, normally during long weekends expect queues. Please give your name with counter, they will call you in order.

Drink
There are many casual clubs/bars in town and at the Old Port, including Pink Cadillac, Baja Cantina, Wrecked at the Reef, La Selva, Playa Bonita Happy Hour at Puesta Del Sol, Luxor.

Stay safe
Unlike most small communities, Rocky Point has not experienced an increase in crime.

title: Puerto Peñasco


text:
Puerto Plata

Puerto Plata or San Felipe de Puerto Plata is a city in the Dominican Republic with a population of about 130,000. It is the capital of the province of Puerto Plata. Known for its pretty sandy beaches, Puerto Plata is a popular resort destination as well as a great place to meet Dominican people and to shop in local commerce.

Understand
The province of Puerto Plata not only beaches, natural monuments, water sports, treasures tourist attractions for all tastes, areas but it is also an important part of the adventure, maritime parks and historical island’s history.

The first European visitor was Christopher January 12, 1493, on his first trip, and Monte de la Plata, because its top was, and remains, crowned with clouds that make it appear with that silver color. Hence the Columbus, who arrived at its shores on called the current Loma Isabel de Torres as name of Puerto Plata.

The main municipality of San Felipe is located between Loma Isabel de Torres and the Atlantic Ocean, and its economy, although very dependent on tourism, also shows industrial growth and historical cultural spaces. Walk around the puerto plata city - Travel Map

By plane

 * Cibao International Airport . One hour drive from Puerto Plata. Daily flights to many North and South American cities.
 * Cibao International Airport . One hour drive from Puerto Plata. Daily flights to many North and South American cities.

As with other airports in the Dominican Republic, a US$10 (December 2011) fee for a tourist card will be required upon arrival. You'll buy it at one window and immediately turn around and hand it to an attendant to be scanned and dropped into a box. A US$20 departure tax is collected when you fly out.

Taxi from Puerto Plata airport to nearest Playa Dorada hotel complex starts from $30 per way. Online online can save you about $5-10, depending on the number of travellers.

By bus
Puerto Plata is served by at least two intercity bus lines which connect the city with Santiago, Santo Domingo, and other cities.

 * Caribe Tours - terminal location
 * Metro - terminal location

Get around
There are several options for local transportation between the city proper and the surrounding hotels and resorts.

Taxis are the most expensive option and not really more secure than other choices.

Buses are slower, but the cheapest, and, once you understand the routes, the easiest way to get around.

Guagua are simple minivan for normally 7-8 persons that can be easily packed to 22 persons and 2 roosters! Guagua are the main common transportation system but not really organised; you can stop practically anywhere along the main streets and wait for one to stop and climb up, the fare is normally cheap, but you'll probably have to negotiate with the driver or the door operator. Guagas can often be identified by "Se venda" stickers on the windows and a large rear view mirror pasted to the back door.

Dominican Airport Transfers offers airport transfers from the airport to any location in Puerto Plata, Sosua, Cabarete, Rio San Juan and Samana area.

Propinas. Much has been written about Propinas in the surrounding areas of Puerto Plata (to get a better idea who these people are see Sosua ). The same general rules must apply here. The difference is that some of the ones here will take the "con man" approach. One typical example is that you will be approached by a friendly individual who will pretend to be an employee at your resort, based on looking at the wristband you wear, given to you at the hotel. They can be very knowledgeable about your resort when asking them any questions, and so it is easy to see how they may win your confidence.

At first they will say how he/she does not need any of your money and how they will protect you from aggressive vendors. They will show you around various landmarks (mostly upon request) and they will help you bargain at local shops (sometimes at very good deals). Some time after when they feel the dust has already settled in, they will begin to pluck at the heartstrings (talking about how his/her parents needs medication, or how his/her baby needs milk, etc.) so you may feel obligated to give them some money when they do ask for it (usually US$30-60, which is well above the Propina going rate). Even if you offer to buy the items yourself at the store you are already in, they will insist on taking the money instead. Soon afterwards, they will direct you to the bus station which will lead you back to the resort, and most of the times you will never see this individual again!

General rule of thumb: If you do not recognize the individual at all it is best to ignore them (perhaps by pretending to not understand them at all by replying in gibberish). However, if you do not speak Spanish and if you are lost, Propinas may be your only hope in directing you on how to get back, even if their company is at a staggering cost. If you do recognize an employee outside of your hotel, make sure you are the one who approaches that person first. And if you know exactly where you are going, just simply ignore them. Or if you are well-versed in Spanish but a little lost, it is better to ask around from someone else who seems less shady as there can be helpful individuals not looking to dig into your wallet. Don't be played for a fool.

Motoconcho or motorcycle taxis can be recognized by their yellow vests. They are a cheaper alternative to taxis if you are comfortable with being a passenger on 2-wheels. They often congregate around "destination" areas like airports, markets.

Motorcycle/Scooter Rentals of two-wheeled vehicles is possible. The rate should be about US$25/day. Be sure that you have experience with a motorcycle or scooter, the road surfaces are poorly maintained and the driving style is very hectic. Drivers very rarely observe stop signs, even red lights are "optional". A license is not necessary to operate a motorcycle or scooter and as such, the skill levels vary widely. Trucks and other large vehicles often overtake unsafely in corners and low visibility stretches of road, so you may be forced into a ditch! License plates are applied to scooters but not motorcycles. It is very common for overtaking vehicles to announce their presence to a scooter or motorcycle by honking, try not to be startled by this! Helmets are seldom used (some motoconchos wear them), but you may have difficulty getting a rental helmet, and it most certainly will not fit properly. Inspect your scooter or motorcycle before renting. Also, most bikes are small displacement compared to other parts of the world. Most are under 200cc and are 2-stroke.

Car Cars are more expensive to rent and very likely to be damaged, as the Dominican mentality is "no big deal", count on no one having insurance. Prices are around US$60/day for a 4WD style vehicle.

If you are renting your own vehicle keep in mind what type of fuel it uses. Natural gas (propane) is popular and the natural gas stations seem to outnumber petrol stations. Obviously the two are incompatible, don't strand yourself thinking that you can go to any station and get the fuel that you need!

Do
Rent a lounge chair if you really want to appreciate Puerto Plata's beaches; if you don't, the Dominican people will ask you all day long if you want to rent a chair from them. The only advantage to being extremely patient and tolerant is their prices drop down with the time! But as everything else, chair rental prices are also negotiable.

Buy
If you are looking for tourist stuff (paints, rum, cigars, t-shirts, etc.) the best place to go is Sosua, about 10-15 minutes from Puerto Plata.

Also good for vanilla and coffee.

Eat
If you are staying at an all-inclusive resort, chances are that you will have a wide array of foods to choose from. Be adventurous and try some local foods like mashed platanos (starchy banana-like fruit), okra, Yuca (a starchy, sweet, potato-like vegetable), and lots of avocado.

Drink
If you are staying at an all-inclusive, chances are that your alcohol is included. It's not very good, but it'll do.

The local brands of alcohol are Brugal (for rum) and Presidente (for beer).

Sleep
For additional nearby options see Sosua and Cabarete.

 * Most of the large resorts in the area are directly on the beach and offer 'all inclusive' options for food, drinks, and activities.
 * Casa Colonial Hotel, Playa Dorada Road. A fusion of old world charm and modern sensibilities, the Casa Colonial Beach & Spa is a 5 Star luxury ‘all suite’ boutique hotel with an incredible spa, a roof top infinity pool with 4 Jacuzzis and an award winning Executive Chef.
 * Viva Wyndham Playa Dorada, Playa Dorada, Puerto Plata, Tel: +1 809 291-0001. Located 15 minutes from Puerto Plata Airport. 204 room resort located in the Playa Dorada complex with a shopping mall, three casinos, numerous restaurants, discos, beach and golf.
 * The White House. Luxury 5-bedroom villa near Cabarete and Sosua on the north coast.
 * Casa Colonial Hotel, Playa Dorada Road. A fusion of old world charm and modern sensibilities, the Casa Colonial Beach & Spa is a 5 Star luxury ‘all suite’ boutique hotel with an incredible spa, a roof top infinity pool with 4 Jacuzzis and an award winning Executive Chef.
 * Viva Wyndham Playa Dorada, Playa Dorada, Puerto Plata, Tel: +1 809 291-0001. Located 15 minutes from Puerto Plata Airport. 204 room resort located in the Playa Dorada complex with a shopping mall, three casinos, numerous restaurants, discos, beach and golf.
 * The White House. Luxury 5-bedroom villa near Cabarete and Sosua on the north coast.

Go next

 * Ocean World Adventure Park - Snorkeling opportunities, dolphin shows, and a beach full of lounge chairs all contribute to Ocean World Adventure Park’s standing as a top family attraction in the Dominican Republic. The park is prime for kids during the day and transforms into a casino after dark, complete with a restaurant, slot games, a disco floor, and a Vegas-style show, offering parent-friendly nightlife with Caribbean flair. Live the very best experiences by visiting sites that leave you with lasting memories and appreciation and of course, dazzling pictures of special places like those Puerto Plata offers.
 * Cayo Arena Beach - Off these northwestern shores, boats depart to the offshore Cayo Arena–also known as Cayo Paraíso–offering exceptional diving for beginner levels, starting at five meters (16 feet). Schools of tropical fish can also easily be seen in shallow turquoise waters, making this spot a paradise for snorkeling fans. This area boasts some of the most abundant marine life in the DR, with corals and sponges that surround the caye, where octopuses, crabs, schools of surgeonfish, sergeant majors, damselfish, angelfish, and yellowtail snappers all swim around your feet. This tiny sandbank is also a dreamy spot to relax and take plenty of beach selfies.
 * Isabel de Torres National Park - Isabel de Torres National Park takes its name from the popular Loma Isabel de Torres (Isabel de Torres Hill), an 800 metre-high promontory in Puerto Plata. This 15 km² park has a magnificent natural beauty that turns it into the most visited National Park in the Dominican Republic. Its main attractions are Loma Isabel de Torres and the Christ the Redeemer.There are 594 species of plants identified and according to late studies they belong to approximately 90 different families of plants.
 * Sosua - Ten minutes from Puerto Plata airport, this town has a nice beach, a wide selection of hotels and restaurants, and a notorious nightlife.
 * Cabarete - Located a short distance to the east, this town offers a massive number of resorts and some of the best kite surfing and wind surfing in the Caribbean.
 * Damajagua's 27 Waterfalls - A set of 27 waterfalls on the Damajagua river located on Hwy5, past the city of Imbert, see the sign on the left. Climb as many falls as you like with the help of a guide, who will equip you with a life vest and helmet. $280RDS for 1-7 falls. Slide down the chutes into the pools below or jump from the rocks! Photos are taken and you have the opportunity to buy.

title: Puerto Plata


text:
Puerto Princesa

Puerto Princesa is the capital of the island province of Palawan. The city has been acclaimed several times as the cleanest and greenest city in the Philippines. With a wide range of attractions ranging from beaches to wildlife reserves, Puerto Princesa is a nature lover's paradise.

Understand
There is a tourist information office at the airport next to the arrival hall, but it's not that useful. They will try to sell you tours, but they do not have any maps (Feb 2018) and they do not give any information about current events in the city. They do not book accommodation, either.

By plane

The airport has undergone a makeover, which involves the construction of a new modern terminal, which can handle domestic and international flights. The new terminal opened in 2017, while the older terminal is closed indefinitely for renovation. Boarding and alighting is still done on the ground.

The airlines with flights to Puerto Princesa are:

 * Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, Air Asia all have daily flights from Manila, Cebu, and Clark to Puerto Princesa.

 * Cebu Pacific also operate flights to and from Iloilo.
 * Tiger Air Taiwan operate flights to and from Taipei.
 * Air Juan flies to Busuanga, Cuyo, Sipalay, San Vicente.
 * Eastar Jet operate flights to and from Seoul.

The airport is not far from downtown, so you can ignore the overpriced tricycles waiting in front of the airport terminal and catch a tricycle on the highway for a fare of. Jeepneys also go along the highway in front of the airport to town or to the bus terminal for.

By ferry
2GO Travel has two weekly ferries to Puerto Princesa from Manila. The ferry trip is about 22 hours long. Additionally, Milagrosa Shipping has a weekly ferry that sails between Puerto Princesa - Cuyo Islands - Iloilo City. It departs Iloilo at 7PM on Thursday, arrives at the Cuyo Islands at 8AM Friday, departs Cuyo Islands 3PM Friday and arrives in Puerto Princesa at 8AM on Saturday.

Ferries docks at, at the far western end of Rizal Ave.

By bus or van

Bus service to Puerto Princesa is provided by two major operators, Cherry and RORO Bus, but there are also operators which use smaller vehicles (often rebuilt from old trucks) and are cramped and not air-conditioned.

Bus companies

According to locals the San Jose terminal has stopped operating a couple of weeks ago. Instead, take a local bus on the main road to Irawan terminal (₱30 per perdon as of Jan 2023) and you will be able to take buses to places all over Palawan from there - there’s a bus to Port Barton at around 8:45AM (₱300 as of 0Han 2023)

Get around
Jeepneys, multicabs and tricycles are the most common means to get around Puerto Princesa. As in Manila, jeepneys usually have standard routes which they ply. Tricycles on the other hand are fairly limited to certain areas and would not be able to go very long distances. Standard jeepney and tricycle fare around the city is per person.

The bus terminal is a few kilometers outside the city centre. A jeepney from the bus terminal to downtown should cost.

For touring, it could be a good idea to arrange special transport whether it be a jeepney or, for more comfort, air-conditioned vans or AUVs. This way, you will not be subject to the hassles of public transport availability.

Although "clean and green" Puerto Princesa City has a bold plan for introducing electric vehicles, the city has no published or announced plan that addresses the urgent needs of pedestrians and bicycle riders. There are few pedestrian crossings in the city and most Puerto Princesa drivers do not yield to pedestrians, leaving them stranded dangerously in the middle of the street. If, in order to protect yourself from the vehicles and smoke, you can take an air-con van, but you only add to the overall traffic and pollution problem. Tourist vans and other vehicles are often parked along Rizal Avenue and other main streets blocking where pedestrians and bicycles could once safely move, but no longer can. If you wish to walk or bike in a clean, green, and safe environment in the downtown area, you should ask at the tourist office (at the airport) where such an area exists, and see what they say.

See

Museums

Do
Buy native products at the Tourism Association of Souvenir Shops, they offer handicrafts made by the native tribes like manunggul or wooden jar, bulol or tisot, good harvest and carved animals. Others are tingkop (rice baskets), fish baskets, bags made from bark of a tree, native accessories, weave curtains and table mat, rattan floor mat and other assorted cashew nut delicacies.

Puerto Princesa offers good diving and is a fairly good place to take a PADI course if you plan to dive at some of the larger sites in El Nido or Coron. Moana dive centre, run by Paolo, offers PADI Open Water for. Good equipment, and pleasant instruction, with confined water dives taking place in the shallow parts of Puerto Princesa bay. Possible to see sea turtles, eels, lionfish, porcupine fish, batfish and snapper amongst others.

Sleep
Puerto Princesa has a wide range of accommodations that suit most budgets - from quaint lodges to high-end hotels and resorts.

Stay healthy

 * Ospital ng Palawan. 220 Malvar Street. {{Phone|+63 48-4346864, {{Phone|+63 48-4342148}} (DOH Hospital).

Cope

 * Bureau Of Immigration Puerto Princesa Office. 2nd Floor. Robinsons mall.

Go next

 * El Nido - popular yet still remote destinations on Palawan, known for snorkelling, diving and beautiful little islands. It is 6-7 hour drive from Puerto Princesa.
 * Coron 2GO Travel ferry two times a week.
 * Underground River - a UNESCO World Heritage site roughly 50 km north of Puerto Princesa.

title: Puerto Princesa