My friend Brian dropped me off at the bus stop at 10:00 am to catch the bus to the infamous Costa Rica/ Panamá border to David. I didn't realize I had to buy it a day early, so I was already one day late, making my time in Panamá City extremely short. One of the old Canadian guys (Steve) that lived in the apartment complex with me was also going for a visa run, so I had a crossing buddy which was nice.

To cross the border, you need three copies of your passport, proof of 500 USD in your bank account, and an onward ticket out of Panama. When we got to the border, we went to the Costa Rican office to get our exit stamp. A half hour later, I for some reason ended up buying an exit stamp out of a van in a back alley and walked to the Panamá border to get the $1.00 entry visa.

I had absolutely no problem getting in with only my passport, but Steve was denied because he didn't have proof of having adequate funds in his bank account. I waited for him and tried to figure out what was going on, but they would not let him pass. The strange thing is that they didn't even ask for proof of my funds.

I had to leave poor Steve behind, and made my way to David. I arrived just in time to catch a bus to Panama City. The locals were dressed in sweaters, socks, pants, and blankets which is quite strange for +40 degree weather, but apparently the bus to Panama City is a driving fridge. The 6 hour bus ride inevidally turned into 9, but we got to stop for Chinese food on the way (what?).

I finally arrived in Panama City after 14 hours of traveling and fighting off the flu in the -5 degree bus. I took a taxi to my hostel, who was playing my new favourite band Maná. I asked him to put on Mariposa, and settled my way into my brief visit in Panama.

Pura Vida :) I love life.