Bala Beach Exchange: June 2013

Getting Around and some Pictures

Thanks to the generous sharing of information from one of Bala's first owner-residents, I have some great tips and information to share.

Cruise Like a Local
If you don't mind being a little flexible, why not take the bus? Buses are plentiful in Panama and Maria Chiquita is no exception. There are public buses that cross by on the main highway to Maria Chiquita, near the police checkpoint at the main entrance to town and some drive in to the village to the small town plaza. Pay what the locals are paying. Ask a passenger before getting on. This past spring, they were charging around 45 cents for a ride to Sabanitas, where you can shop at either El Rey supermarket or Super 99, a new market just a short walk from El Rey. Catch your bus home from in front of El Rey and let the bus driver you will be getting off at Maria Chiquita.

These same buses continue on to Portobelo and beyond (Isla Grande) and also offer great opportunities to explore the ruins, swim, boat, eat or just have fun.

PTY to Maria Chiquita. Here, your options are also quite good. I recommend taking a taxi, especially for night arrivals. At one time, after collecting bags etc., you could walk up to the departures level and go outside and wait for a taxi dropping someone off and get a fare back to Panama City for quite a bit less than the current going fare, which was $35.00 last time I went. I think you can still do this.

I like to spend a night in Panama City before heading to Maria Chiquita. From your hotel, you can catch a bus or take a taxi to Allbrook. At the big bus terminal in Albrook, you can catch a bus to Colon that will stop in Sabanitas. Be sure to ask if they stop at Sabanitas. Also, the express buses which take the new highway are much quicker and cost only a little more.

If you are going to rent a car, rent it at the airport and save yourself the high taxi fare. Book in advance and inspect for scratches and inspect the tires carefully before accepting a vehicle! If you have driven in Panama before, good luck. If not, you will need good luck. Study changes in one way streets and construction projects before trying to get out of Panama City.

De Pie (BY FOOT)
Walk the beach to a point near the village center in Maria Chiquita and slip through to the plaza area where you can buy supplies at one of the 3 small stores, have a cold beer or just hang out. For me, having the village close by is a real plus. You can meet people and help support local businesses.