This Time I Really Thought We Were Going to David

While waiting to board a bus to take us to David, we asked the ticket salesman if he knew of any interesting places in the mountains on the way to David.  Several times he mentioned a good hotel called "Los Tenfoon", or something like that. Odd name, but whatever.

Jeff thought the place sounded pretty cool, and the bus driver's assistant agreed that Las Tenfoon was just right for us. That was enough to seal the deal.  Even though we couldn't find Las Tenfoon on any map or any travel book, we insisted they drop us off there, por favor.

The bus drove as off we stood by the roadside with our luggage  - and with barely a clue.

Before us was this sign: "Lost and Found Hostel ".  Oh! now we understand.  No wonder our "guides" couldn't spell Las Tenfoon!!  It was actually English.

It was a steep 15 minute walk up the jungled mountain to the lodge. Our Sherpa was an 80 year old deaf man who was as fit as a fiddle and told long stories with multiple punchlines, pausing to laugh happily at each one. All except his story about the Noriega years.

At 4000 feet in the mountains we had rain, mist, high winds, and enough cool air that 2 wool blankets were needed. Later in the clear night air the fireflies were enchanting and the stars looked as close as I have ever seen them.

This stop was just one night, then on the road again.  To David at last!! Where we will transfer buses and head way out east to the Veraguas region.  Stay tuned. We have big hopes for the next stop.

Our worldly possessions in a roadside heap.

Colorful directions up the trail.

Rest stops help make a happy day.

Ignacio is a very fit 80 year old with a nonstop sense of humor. 

The mysterious Hostel "Las Tenfoon" has been located. 

The dining room has a territorial view west towards Volcan Baru and Costa Rica. 

We are about 4000 feet elevation at the hostel. The tallest mountains in the Cordillera are about 11,000 feet. 

An international band of 20 somethings operate and populate the mountain hostel.  

The vibe is alternative psychodelic sci-fi.

Beats formica.

Curious white faced monkeys swing by the hostel to have a closer look at us. 

A note from Rocky, the camp Kinkajou.

There is really nothing better than a creamy papaya batido.