San Jose Island - Alternative?
 

Well I thought I had my Panama trip all planned out but I just read a recent article about San Jose Island and how it was used to test mustard gas, and how live shells are lying all over the place for tourists to stumble upon and set off. I was planning on staying at Hacienda del Mar as the idea of a great snorkel site on a deserted rain forest island sounded just perfect. But now I am getting nervous!

Can anyone offer some alternatives? We especially like bird watching and snorkeling, and being away from maddening crowds (we're not into the volleyball beach party thing). Also I tend to get seasick easily so a place like Punta Caracol which is on the water and you have to take a boat everywhere would not work for me.

Help!

Thanks,
Joni

We're heading on our first trip to Panama in January. First couple of days on the San Blas Islands, then a couple days in Panama City, mostly to do a canal transit. Then off to Bocas del Toro for almost a week. Ending up with a couple nights at Canopy Tower. It sounds to me like at least some of the boat rides to snorkel spots in Bocas are really short. And the hotels right in Bocas town are really cheap. We had looked into Punta Caracol, but decided to save the money and just stay in town. Jean

No need to be afraid JoniC, the resort in Isla San Jose is located in one of the ends of the island there are a lot nature trails, and activities planned by the hotel staff that have been done by many tourists nothing have ever happenned.
For snorkeling I will say Bocas del Toro is a very good option you can stay in Bocas del Toro (there are many lodging options there), I will recommend you Limbo on the Sea and Bocas del Toro Hotel, and from there you can take daily tours to the closest places for snorkeling but at least you will need to be in a boat for 15 to 35 mins. each way. Same thing will happen in San Blas (15 to 35 mins.in a boat).
Banana's Resort in Isla Grande (1 1/2 hr.drive from Panama City), could be may be your best option b/c of your seasickness although to get to the island you still will need to take a 20 mins. boat.

Good Luck and Have Fun!
J

I think we will go ahead and stick with Isla San Jose. Has anyone else ever been there? If so, I have some questions about the hotel. eg., Do they have bottled water? Snorkel equipment? Best places to snorkel around the island? Tours the hotel offers that are worthwhile?

Thanks,
Joni

Joni, I can help you with that info too...the hotel Hacienda del Mar is a very nice boutique resort, and yes they do have bottled water, snorkeling equipment and their most popular tours are: fishing, scubadiving and ATV Tours.

Let me know if I can help you with anyhting else, I am sure you will have a GREAT time in Panama!!!
Jianella