Hostels - Panama
I can't believe that it has taken so long for me to stay in a hostel during my travels. This means of travel will not be ideal while I'm carrying thousands of dollars in gear but while I am traveling for fun it is the perfect cost effective solution. In Panama a bed in an air conditioned dorm with 8-12 beds and a shared bathroom was $16 a night. Private rooms range in the $30-40 range. The showers are often cold, you put valuables in a locker, and whether you want to or not, you'll probably be up by 8am due to other people waking up or the lack of a/c. However, I loved being able to meet people from all over the world and getting tips for where we should go next. I am sure that not every hostel experience will be as lovely as my first but I look forward to all my future hostel adventures!My advice for hostels : Bring a small (unique) lock, soap, & towel... and keep an open mind. The hostel crowd can often be a young party crowd but the people you can meet along the way will definitely add to the adventure aspect of your travels!
Bambuda Lodge - Isla Solarte - my personal favorite
Heike Hostel
Palmar Lodge - Red Frog Beach
Bocas del Toro