This is a great place to stay if you are looking for budget accommodation amongst friendly locals. Bastimentos island in the Bocas del Toro had a real Caribbean feel to it. Very different from Isla Colon, which is overrun by travellers and expats. The owners referred to in the 2007 Panama Lonely Planet left three years ago. Beverly’s Hill current owners Simon, Sandra and their young daughter Naomi were incredibly welcoming. They were also happy to help us organise a snorkel and dolphin watching trip. The wooden cabins are well maintained; some with bathroom and some without. Ours was the best: the upper level of two ensuite cabins, the highest on the small hill, with wonderful views from the balcony over the trees below (wide variety of birdlife everywhere in their garden) and the sea and islands beyond. Surprisingly, the bugs are minimal. You can however hear every sound and feel every movement of your neighbours in the cabin below.

The nearest beach is ½ hour’s walk away. A few supermarkets and restaurants are within a very short distance and the locals spend much of the day and evening on the only “road” (concrete path) on the island. Children play monopoly, adults talk and play music (loud most of time). Despite being disturbed some nights by the music, we found it a very relaxing place and a perfect end to our Panamanian trip.