I had booked my accommodation using my usual method of finding the cheapest on line and hoping for the best. These digs in Puentarenas were certainly cheap – at USD10, it was an absolute bargain! However, that price came at a price. Situated in an old, dilapidated, former market, its three-stories had been converted into as many tiny rooms that could be crammed on each floor. This was supplemented by a couple of dirty, dishevelled showers and toilets. The whole place had an ‘itchy’ feel about it, but apart from the ablution amenities, it was comfortable enough for the night.
I had noted what times the ferry left in the morning so gave myself sufficient time to walk to the terminal. Ticket purchased and I still had time to grab coffee and something to eat before jumping on board and getting a seat on the top deck. This time it was much more crowded, but I managed to get a seat on the side overlooking the Golfo de Nicoya. It was then a very pleasant hour and a half passing the jungle clad rocky islands that dotted the Gulf in the fresh breezes cooled by the water.
At Paquera, the ferry docked and I found the bus I needed to take me the rest of the way to Montezuma. Unfortunately, I again didn’t take the direction of travel into account and spent the whole trip in the searing sun. Still the vista was most impressive as I viewed it from under the brim of my hat. After a short stop in Cobano, we finally pulled up in Montezuma; two buses and two ferries, an overnight stay in Puntarenas, and six and a half travel hours from Nicoya later.
Montezuma, while clearly developed for touristic intent still had a chill vibe to it. Smaller and less intense than neighbouring Santa Teresa, I decided to spend my time here rather than moving on. After completing my laundry chores for the week, I went for a wander around this tiny community.
I particularly wanted to do a day snorkeling tour to Isla Tortuga so went in search of the best deal. Tour booked, it was then in search of cost effective Happy Hour cocktails which I eventually found after trawling the entire village. Watching the sun set at my little beachfront restaurant, listening to the waves crash on the sand, was mesmerising. A perfect end to day of travel.
Wild Woman Wandering 