From NH to Argentina in a Defender 110 - Norte A Sur Aventura

[ExploringNH]

In a continuation of my Build Up (http://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/threads/63544-My-Defender-110-build-up-for-South-American-travels) thread, we are now on the road and headed for Ushuaia. We will be traveling swiftly through Central America and will be stopping at Panama Passage (http://www.panamapassage.com/) to hang out for a few days and get the truck shipped into Colombia. After Panama, we intend to slow down a bit, explore, and see the sights. We will still be traveling quicker than most and hope to hit Ushuaia in 5-7 weeks. At this point, we will see where the road takes us.

Once in Ushuaia, my driving partner will be departing and I will then spend 3-6 months touring around Chile, Argentina, and hopefully back up to Colombia.

You can track our progress here: http://time2getlost.com/where-are-we/
The Spot Tracker updates our location every 10 minutes while we are on the road.

Yesterday we stopped at Rausch Creek Off Road Park in PA for a little test run of all the new modifications. The truck worked well overall, despite breaking a u-joint early in the day. The joint itself was fine, but the retaining clip broke off and the driveshaft yoke slipped down, causing a knocking that we noticed right away. Because we noticed it so quickly, we were able to fix it by just popping in a new, heavy duty, snap-type retaining ring. After that, we were good to go for the rest of the day.

http://www.exploringnh.com/images/UserUploads/Defender/RauschCreek001.jpg

The tires performed flawlessly throughout the day in conditions ranging from wet nasty clay to very grippy rocks. The clay turned the tires into slicks, but it did the same to everyone, regardless of tire.

http://www.exploringnh.com/images/UserUploads/Defender/RauschCreek013.jpg

http://www.exploringnh.com/images/UserUploads/Defender/RauschCreek014.jpg

We started out at 18psi since I was unsure of what the tires would do. They were ok at this pressure but they didn't conform to the rocks as well as I liked. Our next stop was 10psi, and that is where we stayed for the day.

http://www.exploringnh.com/images/UserUploads/Defender/RauschCreek009.jpg

http://www.exploringnh.com/images/UserUploads/Defender/RauschCreek010.jpg

There was some water, but nothing major.

http://www.exploringnh.com/images/UserUploads/Defender/RauschCreek011.jpg

So much rock. The truck flexed out ok. I am still hoping that the springs break in a little bit.

http://www.exploringnh.com/images/UserUploads/Defender/RauschCreek004.jpg

http://www.exploringnh.com/images/UserUploads/Defender/RauschCreek005.jpg

http://www.exploringnh.com/images/UserUploads/Defender/RauschCreek006.jpg

Today we are headed to do a final shopping trip for supplies that we either forgot or planned to pick up on the road. Our optimistic target is to hit Mexico at some point on Monday. We are still about 30 hours out and we are starting late today so we will see how far we make it before getting too tired to continue.

We will post updates as we can. :sombrero:

[Blue]

Hey Guys, Sounds like you're going to have a great trip!

When you get to Cochabamba, Bolivia give me a call at 764 64704 (or email glenn [at] hardwoodmarketing [dot] com) and I'll show you around a bit if you like.

Also make sure you at least plan a day trip to Coroico from LaPaz. Go down the old "Death Road" way, not the new road. I guarantee you'll have a blast :smiley_drive:

Blue

[Ruined Adventures]

:lurk:

[defrag4]

sweet truck! will be watching, you guys camping out or hoteling it?

[geovalue]

Have fun it is a great trip you are about to start.
Safe travels

[Ruined Adventures]

It's too bad you had to pass thru TX in August :sunny::yikes:

[Christian P.]

It will be a pleasure to have you at Panama Passage! As you may have read here (http://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/threads/59666-Recent-Guests-and-Latest-News-Panama-Passage!?p=931250#post931250), Shaun is unfortunately leaving us around Sept 23rd. He got the travel bug, apparently it's very contagious.

I will be there starting mid-September. We are also planning a big going away party around Sept 17th

p.s.:
Just as a reference point, we did San Francisco to Panama in 17 days, it was fast but manageable - with a couple extra days in Mexico, Antigua and a detour through Copan/Honduras.

[Streakerfreak]

I will be leaving Panama Passage on September 16th. Should you make it down here by that time it will be great to finally meet you. Safe travels!

[ExploringNH]

I will be leaving Panama Passage on September 16th. Should you make it down here by that time it will be great to finally meet you. Safe travels!

I hope to be down there by the end of August. We have an optimistic goal to be out of Mexico by Sat-Sun, so like 3-4 days from now. We have a detour in Costa Rica and a couple of small stops on the way, but our real exploring starts in South America, and Panama, of course.

[ExploringNH]

Somewhat of a decent update posted to the site:
http://time2getlost.com/2011/08/11/tampico-and-some-run-ins-with-the-law/

http://www.exploringnh.com/images/UserUploads/Defender/Mexico/Mexico019.jpg

Moo cow in the road.

http://www.exploringnh.com/images/UserUploads/Defender/Mexico/Mexico021.jpg

We drove through some mountains. I think were at 2000meters for a lot of the time.

http://www.exploringnh.com/images/UserUploads/Defender/Mexico/Mexico022.jpg

Tampico, land of the crooked cops.

http://www.exploringnh.com/images/UserUploads/Defender/Mexico/Mexico028.jpg


sweet truck! will be watching, you guys camping out or hoteling it?

Both. Neither of us like the heat (don't ask why we wanted to go to Central and South America then), so we will be staying in hotels more in Mexico and Central America. We hope to camp a lot more in South America.


It's too bad you had to pass thru TX in August :sunny::yikes:

I know. I know it is hot when the people that live here are trying to do whatever they can to stay out of the heat.

[ExploringNH]

Local repair shop in Mexico bending our control arm back into shape. I helped him assemble his Toyota pickup so he only charged me about $5USD for filling the rear diff and bending the control arm.

http://www.exploringnh.com/images/UserUploads/Defender/Mexico/Mexico033.jpg

More Moo cows. There is ALWAYS something in the road. Anything you can imagine...it is int he road in Mexico and Central America. Day or night.

http://www.exploringnh.com/images/UserUploads/Defender/Trip/Honduras009.jpg

Our first water crossing! Yay! The sense of adventure quickly faded when the Mitsubishi Fuso behind us went through it at full speed. Apparently this is an everyday event to him.

http://www.exploringnh.com/images/UserUploads/Defender/Trip/Honduras008.jpg

Honduras

http://www.exploringnh.com/images/UserUploads/Defender/Trip/Honduras005.jpg

Windy mountain roads have really pushed our truck and tires to the limits. So far we are really impressed with the suspension and tires. I would love for the suspension to be a bit more pliable off-road, but I think if it was, we would lose a lot of on-road capability. Each lift is a trade-off and the OME stuff works VERY well on road and moderately well off-road. We were taking corners far faster than I ever thought we would be.

http://www.exploringnh.com/images/UserUploads/Defender/Trip/Honduras003.jpg

Police escort in Guatemala. We have been stopped at police checkpoints more times than I can count since Mexico. In Tampico mexico alone they attempted to stop us 4 times. Honduras holds the record for 6 times. We have only paid one bribe so far, and that was about $11USD and was the first time we were pulled over for the trip. We were not really expecting it and weren't prepared. Most of the time we are sent on our way after a quick check of documents. For the higher pressure stops our strategy has just been to be nice and friendly and accept a real ticket. If you keep agreeing to receive a ticket and never ask the price, they can't start the negotiating process. We heard really bad things about the Guatemalan police, but so far, they have been the friendliest.

http://www.exploringnh.com/images/UserUploads/Defender/Guatemala/Guatemala007.jpg

Busted mirror and glass in the hand. All fixed and good as new now.

http://www.exploringnh.com/images/UserUploads/Defender/Trip/Honduras017.jpg

Dinner at a restaurant in Nicaragua. Total price...just over $10USD. Not bad for meals for two people, two drinks and a beer. I just had to try a cheeseburger. I recommend that everyone sticks to the other menu items.

http://www.exploringnh.com/images/UserUploads/Defender/Trip/Honduras019.jpg

ExPo sticker on the window to my left. I am not the first.

http://www.exploringnh.com/images/UserUploads/Defender/Trip/Honduras018.jpg

More photos and the full stories on the site. www.time2getlost.com

[ExploringNH]

We hope to make it most of the way through Nicaragua tomorrow and are a bit nervous abotu the Nic/Costa Rica border. We have heard bad things about the cops there doing vehicle searches. Hopefully it goes well.

We are hoping to be in Panama by Saturday at the very earliest and Monday at the latest. We will probably spend a good week in Panama and then will decide how we want to get to Colombia, boat, plane, swim, etc.

[Christian P.]

Dude, I can't believe you are already almost in Panama! It's too bad I won't be back until mid-September, but Phil will be there to take care of you.
We'll also make sure to get you sorted with shipping if you want.

The Expo sticker is awesome...I wonder who put it there...

;)

[Ruined Adventures]

We will probably spend a good week in Panama and then will decide how we want to get to Colombia, boat, plane, swim, etc.
Swim for it!

I'd love to see a diy overlanding ferry, Huck Finn style...think of all the gas money you'd save

[unURBAN]

Both. Neither of us like the heat (don't ask why we wanted to go to Central and South America then), so we will be staying in hotels more in Mexico and Central America. We hope to camp a lot more in South America.


You guys just make sure to enjoy the warm and pleasent days at the beaches of Central America!! We're now in the Peruvian Andes and freezing our a###es off! 7 trucks in Quinta Lala campground in Cusco right now, and everybody is just sitting inside their vehicles waiting for the sun tomorrow morning....

Safe travels!! ;-)
E&M

[ExploringNH]

Well, we have come to a bit of a delay. About 5km out of Managua, Nicaragua, our transmission decided it was time to stop working. It was rebuilt less than 10k miles ago, but apparently that wasn't enough. We don't know 100% what is wrong with it but we do know that the truck no longer moves under it's own power. It is in the shop right now awaiting parts. We are going to take the downtime and enjoy Managua as best we can. Big cities aren't really our style, but I am sure we can have some fun here. We were already propositioned by hookers once tonight and it is only 10:30pm on a Thursday. I have seen some dirt bikes for rent in town. I wonder if there is any offroad riding to do out here. :sombrero:


You guys just make sure to enjoy the warm and pleasent days at the beaches of Central America!! We're now in the Peruvian Andes and freezing our a###es off! 7 trucks in Quinta Lala campground in Cusco right now, and everybody is just sitting inside their vehicles waiting for the sun tomorrow morning....

Safe travels!! ;-)
E&M

I can't wait to get into the cold. We are very much cold loving people.

I've been following your thread. Maybe we will run into each other.

[ExploringNH]

uh oh. Busted transmission. We were making good time too Almost made it out of Nicaragua in under 24 hours. Looks like that will turn into a week in Managua, Nicaragua.

http://www.exploringnh.com/images/UserUploads/Defender/Trip/Nicaragua003.jpg

The Land Rover dealer the tow truck brought us to. Nobody was home.

http://www.exploringnh.com/images/UserUploads/Defender/Trip/Nicaragua005.jpg

We eventually found a good shop and are awaiting the trans tear down report tomorrow.

More on the site:
www.time2getlost.com

[bobDog]

Somewhat of a decent update posted to the site:
http://time2getlost.com/2011/08/11/tampico-and-some-run-ins-with-the-law/

We drove through some mountains. I think were at 2000ft for a lot of the time.

http://www.exploringnh.com/images/UserUploads/Defender/Mexico/Mexico022.jpg



Both. Neither of us like the heat (don't ask why we wanted to go to Central and South America then), so we will be staying in hotels more in Mexico and Central America. We hope to camp a lot more in South America.



I know. I know it is hot when the people that live here are trying to do whatever they can to stay out of the heat. I being from Colorado for half my life would have to wonder about 2000' ft and mountains used in the same description. :sombrero:

[ExploringNH]

I being from Colorado for half my life would have to wonder about 2000' ft and mountains used in the same description. :sombrero:

That should actually read 2000 METERS, but the same response probably applies. :sombrero: In NH our highest mountain is Mt. Washington at 6,288ft. Being at 10k feet was a very cool experience for us. We are excited to hit 16k.

[bobDog]

That should actually read 2000 METERS, but the same response probably applies. :sombrero: In NH our highest mountain is Mt. Washington at 6,288ft. Being at 10k feet was a very cool experience for us. We are excited to hit 16k.heh....1 beer at 16K should knock ya right over the top. and don't forget boiling water is a whole new game :coffeedrink:

[achampagne]

aubscribed! I really wish I could get you that R380 sitting in the basement.

[1leglance]

Latin American mechanics can really be amazing when it comes into bush repairs
good luck and I am following your website & here

[unURBAN]

I can't wait to get into the cold. We are very much cold loving people.
I've been following your thread. Maybe we will run into each other.

Sorry to hear about your gearbox. Worst thing I know is to have other people work on my car...
If you have to wait for a while, get out of town and relax for a few days at Laguna de Apoyo. Great place for a few lazy days and good swimming in the laguna (crater lake). See pics in our blog (under Nicaragua). There is also excellent surfing at San Juan del Sur, but this is a bith further away from Managua.. Better with your own wheels.

And if you keep up the speed, you'll be in Argentina before us.... :-) Hope we can meet up!

Good luck!
E&M

[Christian P.]

if you stay long enough, maybe I'll see you at Panama Passage! Phil is there waiting for you with some cold beers...I won't be back until around Sept 15th...

[dare2go]

uh oh. Busted transmission. We were making good time too Almost made it out of Nicaragua in under 24 hours. Looks like that will turn into a week in Managua, Nicaragua.

http://www.exploringnh.com/images/UserUploads/Defender/Trip/Nicaragua003.jpg


Sorry to read, but probably the typical downfall with Landrovers: they tend to be unreliable, particularly when compared with Toyotas.
A funny story I read the other day: in the African Sahara the chances of getting robbed and your vehicle being stolen are 8 times higher in a Landcruiser than in a Landrover (even the thieves know which vehicle to trust).

Moral: Landrover - safe but undesirable.

[ExploringNH]

Sorry to read, but probably the typical downfall with Landrovers: they tend to be unreliable, particularly when compared with Toyotas.
A funny story I read the other day: in the African Sahara the chances of getting robbed and your vehicle being stolen are 8 times higher in a Landcruiser than in a Landrover (even the thieves know which vehicle to trust).

Moral: Landrover - safe but undesirable.

How dare you insult Land Rovers! :sombrero:

I rebuilt most of the Defender so that it would be as reliable as a Land Rover could be. In doing that, everything on the truck is brand new, and usually issues pop up when things are brand new or after many thousand miles. We didn't have enough miles on the truck to be confident that there were no manufacturing defects or other problems with the new parts.

The Defenders are much better off than the Discovery models as far as reliability goes, but still no Land Cruiser. The Defender had a lot of emotional weight in the vehicle decision process and eventually won out. I had a moderately built 4Runner that would have been better for the trip, gas engine aside. More reliable, more comfortable, and less noisy but far less "cool" factor. A 110 has always been a dream vehicle of mine and I feel very lucky to be able to take one on a trip like this.

I got your message that you left for me through the site. Thanks.



Sorry to hear about your gearbox. Worst thing I know is to have other people work on my car...
If you have to wait for a while, get out of town and relax for a few days at Laguna de Apoyo. Great place for a few lazy days and good swimming in the laguna (crater lake). See pics in our blog (under Nicaragua). There is also excellent surfing at San Juan del Sur, but this is a bith further away from Managua.. Better with your own wheels.

And if you keep up the speed, you'll be in Argentina before us.... :-) Hope we can meet up!

Good luck!
E&M

We are taking your advice and tomorrow will be the start of a few days of fun. We were able to hook up with Salvador of NI.CA.MOTO ADVENTURE (http://www.nicamotoadv.com/). He runs a motorcycle rental company right here in Managua. With his help, we put together a little route that will take us to San Juan del Sur, Granada, and your Laguna de Apoyo over the next few days. Both of us are avid bike riders. I spent many months traveling around the US on a bike as well as doing track days and all that fun stuff and Shawn, my travel buddy, has spent many years racing bikes on both dirt and pavement. We are excited to get our hands on the little 200cc bikes that people ride down here. The adventure starts tomorrow at 8am.


if you stay long enough, maybe I'll see you at Panama Passage! Phil is there waiting for you with some cold beers...I won't be back until around Sept 15th...

That would be great to see you there. I am hoping we make it there before then but you never know what might happen between now and then. I am grateful that my travel partner has much of the same attitude as I do. I don't really get frustrated about things and just take each day as it comes. If it takes a few weeks to get there, oh well. It isn't my original plan, but my original plan isn't really a plan at all. Just a rough sketch of one way the trip may go. While my friends are spending all week in an office doing the daily grind, my bad day consists of me relaxing in a bed and breakfast run by a super nice family, exploring a new city, meeting new people, and eating wonderful foods...in Nicaragua, where many people dream of traveling to. Such a terrible, terrible situation. :)

[ExploringNH]

To San Juan del Sur we went!

We picked up our bikes from the guys at NI.CA.MOTO ADVENTURES early this morning. The guys were great and the bikes were in fantastic condition. We chose to ride the 2011 Yamaha AG 200cc 4-strokes. After getting helmets, insurance, and all of our paperwork squared away (the guys at NI.CA.MOTO took care of everything) we hit the road to San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua.

http://www.exploringnh.com/images/UserUploads/Defender/Trip/Nicaragua011.jpg

http://www.exploringnh.com/images/UserUploads/Defender/Trip/Nicaragua013.jpg

http://www.exploringnh.com/images/UserUploads/Defender/Trip/Nicaragua015.jpg

Don't show Salvador. :) Don't worry, we were gentle...trained professionals and all that. Do not try this at home, etc, etc. :)

http://www.exploringnh.com/images/UserUploads/Defender/Trip/Nicaragua017.jpg

We still aren't sure what we will do tomorrow. I think we will hang out here in San Juan del Sur for a little bit in the morning, then make our way to Laguna de Apoyo, back towards Managua. We need to get back to a phone at some point tomorrow to call the mechanic about the truck. The tranny is torn apart, but we still don't know exactly what it needs. We stopped in today to drop some stuff off at the truck and were able to take a peak at some parts, but we don't know the full story yet.

[Streakerfreak]

Awesome guys! You are really making me wish I had my bike down here.

[ExploringNH]

Awesome guys! You are really making me wish I had my bike down here.

There has to be someone in Panama that has a few bikes we can borrow and take into the Darien. Maybe a test ride at a Honda dealer? :sombrero:

[Cruisn]

Enjoying reading about your trip. sucks about the tranny, but hey, it happens.

I am planning to ship my wagon to brazil and drive to the southern tip, then head north back to Canada aka - Home.. LOL

Have a safe trip

[ExploringNH]

Now in Laguna de Apoyo, Nicaragua. This place is highly recommended to any other travelers.

We explored around a bit. My advice would be not to explore if you don't know the language. You need to be able to ask where things go and, more importantly, make sure you aren't on someones private property.

http://www.exploringnh.com/images/UserUploads/Defender/Trip/Nicaragua023.jpg


http://www.exploringnh.com/images/UserUploads/Defender/Trip/Nicaragua020.jpg


http://www.exploringnh.com/images/UserUploads/Defender/Trip/Nicaragua021.jpg

[ExploringNH]

Truck is supposed to be done today! If everything checks out we will pick it up tonight and hit the border tomorrow morning. We are hoping to make it most of the way through Costa Rica in one day. We want to at least get close to the border so that we can cross into Panama in the morning. We will see how fast we can make it. I really wanted to stop some places in Costa Rica, but we ended up doing a bunch of sight seeing in Nicaragua instead.

Lots of people out and about today for the anniversary of FSLN ousting the Somoza dictatorship.

http://www.exploringnh.com/images/UserUploads/Defender/Trip/Nicaragua025.jpg

[Streakerfreak]

Awesome guys! See you in the next few days then.

[Streakerfreak]

They have arrived at Panama Passage. They may only have 4th and no reverse, but they are at least on the road.

[achampagne]

Oh holy crap, it just got rebuilt days ago! I haven been watching for an update, now I know why there hadn't been one.

[n_maher]

Oh holy crap, it just got rebuilt days ago! I haven been watching for an update, now I know why there hadn't been one.

They do seem to be having a bit of a run of bad luck with transmission and xfer case parts. :eek: Here's to hoping it's something that can be sorted in short order and the last of their troubles.

[Ruined Adventures]

Sounds like they're managing just fine...Ryan, hopefully you guys take a well deserved break while you're in good company @ Panama Passage

[ExploringNH]

They do seem to be having a bit of a run of bad luck with transmission and xfer case parts. :eek: Here's to hoping it's something that can be sorted in short order and the last of their troubles.

Hey now. The transfer case is just fine.:elkgrin: The last shop took it upon themselves to rebuild it. That wasn't our decision. It worked just fine before the rebuild. :sombrero:

Seriously. I have no idea why they thought it was a good idea to rebuild it. Oh well.


Yes, the transmission is busted again. For the last 5 or so hours of our drive we have been stuck with 4th gear, and that is it. It was actually sort of like driving an automatic. No messing with the shifter at all. The only difference was that I had to stay between 40 and 90km/h or risk a blown engine or be out of the power curve. In town we were able to toss it into 4-lo which worked well, except for a top speed of 25mph. Getting up steep hills involved a lot of clutch slipping. If we wanted to go into 4-hi, we just got to the top of a hill, put the truck in Hi range, and then rolled down until about 30mph. Easy as pie. :snorkel:

We are hoping to get on the phone with the mechanic that rebuilt it and attempt to get some money back.

What kills me about all of this is that I have a perfectly good R380 transmission at a friend's house back in NH. We are researching shipping options to get it down here, but it seems like it will be very costly.

Oh well. We are safe and sound at Panama Passage and are enjoying the company StreakerFreak and all of the guests. Shawn and I are both looking forward to some sleep after driving straight from Managua, Nicaragua to Panama City, Panama. I think we cleared Costa Rica in about 14 hours. I have to check the SPOT tracker to be sure. Too bad it was night time. The scenery looked very impressive. I will have to add Costa Rica to my list of countries to go back and explore.

[n_maher]

I hope my post wasn't taken as being critical, it certainly wasn't intended to be. I'm thoroughly enjoying following your adventure. I'm sure you have plenty of help back in NH but if there's anything you do need help with please feel free to shoot me a PM.

[Christian P.]

Sorry to hear that but I am glad to see you made it to our place - you are in good hand now.

I just sent you an email with the name of an excellent contact for Land Rover assistance in Panama City.
We also have a mechanic if you need one, he can come to the house or you can get to his garage.

Good luck and keep you posted!

[ExploringNH]

Thanks Christian. I emailed the Land Rover guy this morning. Hopefully he has a transmission hanging around. If not, it appears that there is an abandoned 80 series here. I bet I could salvage some parts off of that. :sombrero:

Panama Passage! This isn't where you are supposed to park but with the lack of reverse, we needed to park on a hill to get things going in the morning. We are not looking forward to the drive to a mechanic is 4-lo through the city.

http://www.exploringnh.com/images/UserUploads/Defender/Trip/Panama012.jpg

We are looking forward to getting out and seeing some things today. We met up with a group of 4wd guys at the border of Nica/Costa and are awaiting a phone call. We might go meet up with them this weekend. Too bad our truck is broken, but it is always fun to get out and mingle with the locals.

http://www.exploringnh.com/images/UserUploads/Defender/Trip/Panama007.jpg




I hope my post wasn't taken as being critical, it certainly wasn't intended to be. I'm thoroughly enjoying following your adventure. I'm sure you have plenty of help back in NH but if there's anything you do need help with please feel free to shoot me a PM.

I didn't take it that way at all. It was late, I hadn't had much sleep, and I failed to word my response properly.

[ExploringNH]

We are hanging out at Panama Passage for the next week or so while we get the truck fixed and get shipping taken care of. Today a small group of us all went into town to pick up some supplies at the mall and then to get some food at the local market.

http://www.exploringnh.com/images/UserUploads/Defender/Trip/Panama015.jpg

We took one of the scary buses into town. It wasn't all that scary. We also bought a lot of fruit for just under $9USD.

http://www.exploringnh.com/images/UserUploads/Defender/Trip/Panama016.jpg

[ExploringNH]

Today we visited Panama Viejo. It was a fascinating place to see.

http://www.exploringnh.com/images/UserUploads/Defender/Trip/Panama018.jpg

http://www.exploringnh.com/images/UserUploads/Defender/Trip/Panama021.jpg

http://www.exploringnh.com/images/UserUploads/Defender/Trip/Panama026.jpg

http://www.exploringnh.com/images/UserUploads/Defender/Trip/Panama028.jpg

And then we took a taxi.

http://www.exploringnh.com/images/UserUploads/Defender/Trip/Panama030.jpg

[CRJeepin]

Great trip guys, just sent you a message through your website too. I'm in York, PA and would love to have a beer with ya on your return trip, and/or wheel at Rausch if you're up for it! Also suggested ya may want to fix the exhaust, as it could be throwing heat places you don't want it (control arm bushings, fuel or evap lines, etc)...maybe even contributing to the trans problems from too much heat.

Good luck and safe travels!
Chris R

[ExploringNH]

Great trip guys, just sent you a message through your website too. I'm in York, PA and would love to have a beer with ya on your return trip, and/or wheel at Rausch if you're up for it! Also suggested ya may want to fix the exhaust, as it could be throwing heat places you don't want it (control arm bushings, fuel or evap lines, etc)...maybe even contributing to the trans problems from too much heat.

Good luck and safe travels!
Chris R

Thanks for the message! If we drive back through we will definitely take you up on your offer.

We actually fixed the exhaust a while ago but I guess I never updated about it. We had it re-sleeved and it is working well. They welded it on this time instead of clamps. We also fixed the pinion seal leak which was weighing heavy in our thoughts as we racked up the miles.

We are working on pulling the transmission now and are hoping that it is a shift fork issue instead of other bad things. We will see.

[Justin & Nadine]

Hi Guys

I had some problems on my trip and can highly Recommend http://www.ashcroft-transmissions.co.uk/ They got a rear diff too me in Mexico with the help of Britparts shipping department. If I was going to get another transmission transfer case I would go through them. They know there stuff and I trust them. If you want Mr. Ashcrofts personal e-mail P.M. me and I will get it too you.

If you need any other info or help with shipping I have contacts in place in Canada and the United Kingdom ready at a moments notice

Justin and Nadine

[CRJeepin]

Good thought on the shifter fork, might have a look at the clutch actuator also but doubt that's it if the gears shift...just know the linkages or hydraulics can be problematic! Good luck and hope to see you in PA someday!

[Christian P.]

Ryan

sorry but I got an email back from my LR contact in Panama and apparently he moved to Miami...

[ExploringNH]

Ryan

sorry but I got an email back from my LR contact in Panama and apparently he moved to Miami...

No problem. We have emails out to quite a few people and are thinking that something will materialize tomorrow. We have options now but we are trying to not waste money. An easy solution would be to buy a reman tranny from Ashcroft and have it shipped in. We are hoping to find a local one tomorrow or tear into ours and find out exactly what is wrong. If the internals are good, then we might just use ours. It all depends on what is wrong with it.

[Christian P.]

there a still quite a few old Land Rover roaming around Panama. I am pretty certain you can find something local.

[ExploringNH]

Attempted mugging #1:

Today we took the truck to a friend of a friend in Panama that owns a shop. He was part of the local Land Rover club until they dissolved. He has a couple of Range Rover Classics and loves Defenders. After draining the fluid and seeing all the metal on the drain plug magnet and filter, we are looking to get a transmission shipped in from Ashcroft in the UK. This adds time and expense, but there aren't a whole lot of options right now.

TRF Service, Panama

http://www.exploringnh.com/images/UserUploads/Defender/Trip/Transmission008.jpg

We decided to walk the 10-12km back from the auto shop instead of paying a taxi. We had made it through about 9 of those kilometers and it was about dusk. Still plenty of light but most cars headlights were on. The best I can tell by looking at maps, we were on either Ave. Nacional or 20A Norte, in between Curundu and Calidonia. The street was a one way, three or four lane road with a fair amount of traffic. You wouldn't want to have to cross the street, but it wasn't bumper to bumper either. We were on the sidewalk on the right hand side of the street with a ~5ft concrete wall on our right. Not many people were walking but there was a bus stop that we could see maybe 100meters up the road and there were a handful of people around it. I heard some noise behind me and turned around to see someone running up behind me. He looked like he was angled to run past me on the street side so I pushed over a little bit and turned back forward. We always try to maintain awareness of our surroundings and even though this made me a little nervous, he would have no accomplices if he tried to attack and we could take one guy without a problem. A split second later, I heard another noise and turned around to see someone jump off the wall behind me with a huge stick and simultaneously, I felt the guy running grab a hold of my backpack, which contained a large amount of electronics including my laptop. I had the chest strap buckled and all the side straps cinched down, so it would be some work for them to get into it. As the guy grabbed me, I swung around to face him and his accomplice. At this point, I called for Shawn and he turned around, yelled, and starting running towards me. As he did, two more guys jumped over the wall behind him. So now we are surrounded by four guys, two of which are trying to get into my pockets and hold me from fighting. The second two quickly reached Shawn and grabbed him. I held my attackers off with my left hand and reached for my knife with the right. I don't think they were expecting us to put up such a big fight and at this point, they backed away to about arms length, but still holding me and grabbing for pockets. One guy grabbed my hand around my knife so I couldn't get it open and the second guy, still holding my backpack so I couldn't run away pulled out his knife. I grabbed his hand in the same manner and the three of us just kind of spun in a circle while holding each other's hands. I was trying to keep focus on both guys and at one point, we had wiggled close to the wall. I spun around to look at one and skinned the side of my head on the wall. At the same time, Shawn is busy with the two guys on him. The larger guy is holding his shirt and trying to reach into his pockets. Shawn reached for his back pocket to try and protect his stuff and the smaller guy seems like he thinks that Shawn is reaching for a knife, so the attacker quickly turns away and acts like he has a knife. As this happens, Shawn's hand is freed up for a second to actually reach for his knife, and as he pulls it out, one of the guys wrenches it out of his hand. No real punches or other big hits are thrown and after probably 30 seconds of struggle, they all start to back off and retreat over the wall. In the scuffle, one of my sandals fell off and the guy took it as he ran off. All total, we are now short one broken pocketknife, one sandal, 50 Costa Rican Colones ($0.10USD), and one ripped shirt.

This happened quickly, and if it was just the four guys, we would have fought back harder. We both delayed in pulling knives and I had plenty of time to open mine before they grabbed it. Neither of us threw a punch, even though we could have. Over the wall, we could see quite a few people, most likely friends and family of those attacking us. If we do take out an assailant either by knife or fist, how many more people will be jumping over that wall? We made it out without any damage besides a scrape on the head and elevated heart rates and we are lucky for that.

[Justin & Nadine]

MAN am I glad to hear you guys are OK after reading the above.

Justin

[CRJeepin]

Whoa, that's crazy! Glad you guys are ok and not out any gear. Also sounds like the defender is in good hands, but not gonna be cheap...if there's anything that can be done from this end, just let us know!

[Jnich77]

I admire your levelheadedness, I know for a fact that I lack the maturity to handle myself is such a calm manner.

[Modeler]

Ryan, good to read you guys are OK after the incident. It is amazing how fast the brain works in those situations and all the little details it remembers.

Any ETA on the trans? Say "hi" to Shawn for me.

Dave

[ExploringNH]

Thanks for the responses. We are doing just fine and are looking gorward to getting the truck back on the road. It looks like we will be shipping in a transmission from Ashcroft in the UK. Hopefully it arrives quickly.


MAN am I glad to hear you guys are OK after reading the above.

Justin

Thanks. I hope things work out for you guys as well.

[mtnbike28]

Ryan,

That is a scary story.... glad it turned out well! Be sure and happy trails when the Rover is back on the road!

[defrag4]

Damn dude, I met up with Brenton from RuinedAdv and he told me about this. Crazy stuff! But then again it could happen anywhere, your in a big city and its nearing nighttime, things go down. Way to keep a good head and not make the situation any worse.

Hope you guys got the truck back together!

[ExploringNH]

Thanks everyone. We have a new transmission on its way from Ashcroft in the UK. This time there should be no question about the quality.

Today we went out to a local parque and tried not to annoy the bird watchers too much.

http://www.exploringnh.com/images/UserUploads/Defender/Trip/Panama037.jpg

http://www.exploringnh.com/images/UserUploads/Defender/Trip/Panama047.jpg

http://www.exploringnh.com/images/UserUploads/Defender/Trip/Panama041.jpg

Our personal tour guides for the day. These two work together at the Smithsonian here in Panama. One is doing research on birds and the other with genetic material in plants.

http://www.exploringnh.com/images/UserUploads/Defender/Trip/Panama050.jpg

[jscusmcvet]

Our personal tour guides for the day. These two work together at the Smithsonian here in Panama. One is doing research on birds and the other with genetic material in plants.

http://www.exploringnh.com/images/UserUploads/Defender/Trip/Panama050.jpg

Tough duty... :)

I have been following your posts with interest and enjoyed your build thread. Wish you the best.

John

[Streakerfreak]

Ryan and Shawn have been great guests and its been a blast exploring Panama City and going out on the town with them.

[ExploringNH]

Today we visited the Miraflores locks of the Panama Canal. We accidently wore matching shirts and were self conscious about it all day.

http://www.exploringnh.com/images/UserUploads/Defender/Trip/Panama069.jpg

We saw a new Defender and talked to the owner for a while.

http://www.exploringnh.com/images/UserUploads/Defender/Trip/Panama070.jpg

Yesterday we went to Barro Colorado Island which is run by the Smithsonian.

http://www.exploringnh.com/images/UserUploads/Defender/Trip/Panama065.jpg

And I took a photo of a Hynudai.

http://www.exploringnh.com/images/UserUploads/Defender/Trip/Panama058.jpg

[1leglance]

Sorry to hear about the mugging...
as an amputee I only use a cane when I travel to Latin America as it keep me out of the victim class and gives me a ready weapon if needed.
Knives are a tough call as you have to be ready to use them vs have them used on you.
A cane gives you instant access since you are walking with it, reach/distance and less worry about killing someone.
I hope the rest of your adventure is better.

[RMP&O]

good story on the mugging event! Nice to hear you handled it well. I carry a variety of self defense items. Mace will put most large men down fast. A taser is also nice, you can get all kinds of them these days, ie ones that look like cell phones ect. My rule is, if they have a gun do not resist, otherwise I will put up a fight. Each situation is different though and a mob with weapons is something you run from!

Travel SAFE!

[ExploringNH]

Thanks for the advice. A cane seems like a very versatile tool to have.

I have strongly considered getting some mace. Without venturing too far down a volatile road I will say that I really like the idea of carrying a "less-than-lethal" option. I haven't looked at the prices but I know oc spray and tasers are widely available here. I will have to take a look at them next time I pass a place that has them.

[Christian P.]

You guys have done more exploring around Panama than most people...including us...I had never heard of the Barro Colorado Island.

I guess it helps to have personal guides

:)

[Yudda]

Wow...Funny thing is when I was in Costa Rica,
I saw more Land Rovers there than when i visted the UK.

Take care.

[ExploringNH]

We had a big dinner again a few nights ago.

http://www.exploringnh.com/images/UserUploads/Defender/Trip/Panama092.jpg

I went to the beach this weekend.

http://www.exploringnh.com/images/UserUploads/Defender/Trip/Panama118.jpg

And stayed at TogoPanama, a very nice bed and breakfast.

http://www.exploringnh.com/images/UserUploads/Defender/Trip/Panama104.jpg

[grahamfitter]

Sounds like a great trip, broken gears and knives excluded. Hope the LR gets fixed pronto. Say hi to Phil for me!

[ExploringNH]

We now have our transmission!!!!

http://www.exploringnh.com/images/UserUploads/Defender/Trip/Transmission014.jpg

I felt like we were trying to cross a border.

http://www.exploringnh.com/images/UserUploads/Defender/Trip/Transmission016.jpg

We saw another 110.

http://www.exploringnh.com/images/UserUploads/Defender/Trip/Transmission020.jpg

[pattro]

Subscribed! This is a great read and look forward to more

[bobDog]

"The farmer is the only man in our economy who buys everything at retail, sells everything at wholesale, and pays the freight both ways."
JFK

And gets the equivalent of welfare to grow it.

[bobDog]

"The farmer is the only man in our economy who buys everything at retail, sells everything at wholesale, and pays the freight both ways."
JFK

And gets the equivalent of welfare to grow it.

[DylanT]

Love these stories. Great trip.

[ExploringNH]

Thanks for the comments everyone!

The transmission is finally in the truck and I drove it back to Panama Passage today! We are cleaning everything and letting the truck air out after it's month in storage. We are working out a plan for this weekend to put some quick miles on the truck. After that we will start to arrange shipping. :sombrero:

http://www.exploringnh.com/images/UserUploads/Defender/Trip/Panama123.jpg

[lostworldexpedition]

I am glad to hear that you guys will be shipping to Cartagena soon.

You will truly love Colombia. I have a good friend in Barranquilla that you can stop by and visit if you are not in a hurry. If you are lucky he might take you on a nice road trip to La Guajira peninsula. He is a member of the forum and owner of a 4x4 shop called Iguana 4x4. There is also a member of the forum in Bogota that will definitely meet you at the pub :)

Are you going to sail to Colombia? If you are, find out if the Stahlratte is sailing on your days... Hope to see you in South America, good luck and keep us posting.

[Christian P.]

Luis

the Stahlratte sailed last week with 15 bikes...I don't think it's coming back for a couple weeks at least. I heard it's a great boat to take but I am trying to convince Ryan and Shaun to do something a bit more adventurous and unique...take a small flight to a Kuna village near the border and hop in a water taxi across to Colombia...

[ExploringNH]

I am glad to hear that you guys will be shipping to Cartagena soon.

You will truly love Colombia. I have a good friend in Barranquilla that you can stop by and visit if you are not in a hurry. If you are lucky he might take you on a nice road trip to La Guajira peninsula. He is a member of the forum and owner of a 4x4 shop called Iguana 4x4. There is also a member of the forum in Bogota that will definitely meet you at the pub :)

Are you going to sail to Colombia? If you are, find out if the Stahlratte is sailing on your days... Hope to see you in South America, good luck and keep us posting.

I always have time to stop and meet someone new! Side trips are very welcome.

Sailing is too expensive for us and not enough adventure. There are something like 40+ boats making the trip now. I have something else in mind that I think will prove to be a little more fun and wills till let us experience a little of San Blas.


Luis

the Stahlratte sailed last week with 15 bikes...I don't think it's coming back for a couple weeks at least. I heard it's a great boat to take but I am trying to convince Ryan and Shaun to do something a bit more adventurous and unique...take a small flight to a Kuna village near the border and hop in a water taxi across to Colombia...

I think that is our main plan, but I have begun to modify it to be a bit cheaper. No flights required. :) Hopefully my Spanish is good enough to get me to where I need to be!

[Ruined Adventures]

I am trying to convince Ryan and Shaun to do something a bit more adventurous and unique...take a small flight to a Kuna village near the border and hop in a water taxi across to Colombia...
Details?

Sailing is too expensive for us and not enough adventure. There are something like 40+ boats making the trip now. I have something else in mind that I think will prove to be a little more fun and wills till let us experience a little of San Blas.

I think that is our main plan, but I have begun to modify it to be a bit cheaper. No flights required. :) Hopefully my Spanish is good enough to get me to where I need to be!
I can't wait to hear more about the more exciting alternatives! Sailing thru the San Blas Islands sounds incredible, but a water taxi is on my "list" for Central & South America!

[lostworldexpedition]

We know quite a few backpackers that came down on the coast and through the jungle into Colombia, problem is this alternative can take time and you have to make it back before or at least WITH your rig. Otherwise you have to pay storage fees at the port... Keep that in mind.

Whatever you do have a blast and keep in touch.

[n_maher]

Glad to hear that you are back on the road and looking forward to following the rest of the adventure!

[Christian P.]

We know quite a few backpackers that came down on the coast and through the jungle into Colombia, problem is this alternative can take time and you have to make it back before or at least WITH your rig. Otherwise you have to pay storage fees at the port... Keep that in mind.

Whatever you do have a blast and keep in touch.

Luis

How much are the storage fee? Typically our guests need to drop their cars in Colon on Wednesday or Thursday, and the cargo boat does not sail out until Friday and Saturday. So in any case, the earliest they have a chance to get to their car in Cartagena is the following Monday, which gives them a free 4-5 days already. And that's the very best case scenario, boats seem to have an habit of coming late...

And I think that even if they have to pay for a couple days of storage, it is well worth the adventure!

We have heard that there is guy downtown who can take you to Carti for $35, then from there you catch a water taxi. it is 5 hours to Playa Chicon, where we stayed, which is about half-way in the San Blas.

From there it can't be more than another 5 hours to get to the last village in Panama.

I am pretty sure it can be done in a few days...and I am strongly encouraging our guests to do the San Blas, one way or another. Most people who flies directly across end up spending a few days waiting around at either end - we even had a couple who waited 12 days because their boat decided to head to Costa Rica first....

the San Blas are probably one of the highlights of Central America!

[lostworldexpedition]

We dropped of in Colon Thursday afternoon and the container was on ground at the port in Cartagena Monday evening. I agree that San Blas islands are definitely the preferred option, if not a must... but I am just letting folks know that an unscheduled "self guided" tour may take a little longer than the charter sailboats which have a known schedule.

I believe once the ship with your container drops off at the port, you have anywhere from 2 to 5 days of free storage depending on your "contract." I am sorry, but I do not know the daily rate. Also keep in mind that the car that shares the container with you is stuck in the port until you are both there... (at least that was the case with us, everything is fluid when it comes to "rules" in Latin America)

I say go for the adventure :) and share the story

[ExploringNH]

Our truck is back in action and we took a little weekend trip up to Portobelo, Nombre de Dios, and beyond. Everything seems good so far. Today I am trying to get new insurance for the truck and work out our import paperwork, since we have been here for over a month.

http://www.exploringnh.com/images/UserUploads/Defender/Trip/Panama127.jpg

http://www.exploringnh.com/images/UserUploads/Defender/Trip/Panama129.jpg

[Christian P.]

Matt/Ryan,

I just received these "instructions" from one of our agent about how to do the transfer to Colombia. Sorry for the English, I did not have the time to correct it.
I think it would be good for future reference:

A-) Take a plane from the airport of Al brook, Panama City, the ticket is between USD57.00 to USD75.00 here a departure to Puerto Obaldia, by Aero Perlas Panama or another line. Wednesday and Sunday flights.

B-) From Obaldía Port, is a military port, Panama, while boat to get Capurgana, Port of Colombia, U.S. $ 30/40.00). you can stay in Pension Conde for $ 5. Maybe you take one day, two or more if necessary. After get the boat and you need to get the Immigration seal or Stamp on your passport giving you the output.

C-) You arrive to Capurgana, Colombia. have to put an entry stamp into Colombia in the office of DAS. This place has very nice beaches ... so if you have time you can stay there. The Hotel Uvita on port costs $ 5 per person per night. Capurgana salts, to Turbo, Colombia. They are about 2 hours by boat Price USD20.00 / USD25.00

D-) You arrive to Turbo Colombia. There are cheap hotels in Turbo (such as Turbo Private leaving about U.S. $ 5 per person). You take a Micro Bus From Turbo to Monteria to Cartagena, Colombia.

[MattScott]

The guys are still here at Panama Passage! Here's a picture of them crawling on the 110!

http://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=72659&d=1318173044

[ExploringNH]

And another picture from this weekend!

http://www.exploringnh.com/images/UserUploads/Defender/Trip/Panama132.jpg

[Streakerfreak]

The guys are still here at Panama Passage! Here's a picture of them crawling on the 110!



Dear lord! They have now been there longer than I was.

[Christian P.]

Dear lord! They have now been there longer than I was.

I know, they are about to run Panama Passage themselves..

:)

Hey Ryan, where is that last picture on the beach from?

[MattScott]

I know, they are about to run Panama Passage themselves..

:)

Hey Ryan, where is that last picture on the beach from?

They're stealing my job!

[ExploringNH]

Hey Ryan, where is that last picture on the beach from?

That was from this past weekend. It is a beach in Santa Clara, about 1.5 hours from the house. and pretty close to the entrance to El Valle. I have the GPS coordinates saved in the truck and can share them. There are some great beaches in Santa Clara.

[ExploringNH]

Paperwork is cleared up. We got out of it without having to pay a dime! Very happy. Bill of lading in hand and ready to ship out on the 21st.

[Mountainhound]

Paperwork is cleared up. We got out of it without having to pay a dime! Very happy. Bill of lading in hand and ready to ship out on the 21st.

9 more days man you guys must be getting stir crazy!!

[iRagedoYou]

What a great adventure guys! I can't wait to read more about it.

[Christian P.]

I can't believe it's finally happening!

[ExploringNH]

It is true, our time in Panama is coming to an end. I can't speak for Shawn, but I have mixed feelings about leaving. I am excited to be heading to Colombia and beyond and I am sad to be leaving behind so many new friends. We will keep in touch with those we have met here but it will still be sad to say goodbye.

I have no regrets about our time spent here in Panama (with exception of maybe the expense of a new transmission:elkgrin:). For me, this trip is about the journey as much as it is the destination. I am very lucky to have had the chance to spend a month in panama, living with wonderful people and really experiencing the country and culture. As travelers and tourists, I think we spend a lot of time blasting through places, taking a look at the scenery from the highway or a select handful of guidebook locations and then claim to "know" the country. I have really enjoyed the chance to slow down and live in an area doing the day to day routine alongside the locals.

I've had some very memorable experiences here. My favorite times here have not been about the location or the sights but about the people I am with. I've had dinner at some of the fanciest restaurants in Panama City and I've had some fantastic food served to me out of a 5 gallon bucket in the slums. I've had the chance to make friends here from all walks of life. I've slept in a penthouse apartment downtown, camped on a beach in the rain, and slept on the floor of a $150/month apartment, as well as staying in a few normal houses. I've ridden in a speedboat through part of the canal. I've shared a compact taxi with 5 other people (plus driver) and been all over the city on $0.25 Diablo Rojo buses. I've had beers with published scientists while swinging in hammocks. I've hiked mountains, seen waterfalls, watched monkeys swing in the trees, and swam in rivers and natural pools. I've met people who's adventures make my trip look like child's play. You could spend a lifetime in Panama, or any other place in the world, and still not experience all of it.

I am very fortunate to have been able to experience these things but, most importantly, I am fortunate to have had the opportunity to meet the people I have met here in Panama. Everyone has a story, especially in Panama, and it has been wonderful to be able to spend time with all of these new friends and hear all of their stories. If only I had the time to spend this long in each country!

There is a quote that I have heard a few times. I am not quite sure who it should be attributed to, but it goes something like, “The traveler sees what he sees, the tourist sees what he has come to see.” I mean no offense to tourists since, most of the time, I am one. I identify a lot with this quote in that I have no real expectations or ideas of what each country will bring. I end up in each place and experience it for myself. Panama has given me that opportunity more so than any other country and I feel like I have benefited greatly by it. I think that there are some things you just can't learn about Panama unless you are in Panama and keep an open mind. There is a lot going on here, politically, socially, and economically and I think the best way to learn that is to experience it in person and get involved with the locals. I am glad I had the chance to do that, even briefly. I am walking away slightly more informed about the country and it's people and culture, and that is the best I can hope for.


If everything went as planned, we would have no stories and no adventure.

[mtnbike28]

I have always heard it as.
A tourist has no idea where he was and a traveler has no idea where he is going...

Glad you are keeping us up to date! Safe travels!

[Ruined Adventures]

Sounds like your transmission's demise was a blessing! (aside from the financial setback of course)

Now you have me thinking we need at least one month in every country...to keep the overlanding gods happy of course.

[Streakerfreak]

I really enjoyed my time with these two, even the 5 people taxi rides. They helped keep things fresh during the slow season.

Good luck on the trip to Columbia.

[ExploringNH]

Phil - We miss you at the house!

We dropped the truck off at the port today. It is still on schedule to ship out tomorrow and be picked up in Cartagena on Monday/Tuesday.

http://www.exploringnh.com/images/UserUploads/Defender/Trip/Panama136.jpg

This was the oldest, most tired drug dog I have ever seen.

http://www.exploringnh.com/images/UserUploads/Defender/Trip/Panama138.jpg

[ExploringNH]

The truck is loaded!

73626

73627

73628

[Streakerfreak]

When do you guys leave Panama and what's your plan?

[MattScott]

When do you guys leave Panama and what's your plan?

Shaun is staying at Panama Passage; Ryan ships out for Columbia on monday. I'm leaving in a few hours.

[Streakerfreak]

Shaun is staying at Panama Passage; Ryan ships out for Columbia on monday. I'm leaving in a few hours.

Wow, that's a change.

[MattScott]

Wow, that's a change.

Yes, yes it is.

[ExploringNH]

I have been in Colombia for a few days now and am loving it so far. Colombia is turning out to be my favorite country so far! I am sad to be without Shawn but at least I have Paul and Helen of www.goingoverland.com with me for the next week or so.

http://www.exploringnh.com/images/UserUploads/Defender/Trip/Colombia023.jpg

http://www.exploringnh.com/images/UserUploads/Defender/Trip/Colombia024.jpg

http://www.exploringnh.com/images/UserUploads/Defender/Trip/Colombia028.jpg

[bobDog]

Okay since no one else will ask I will.....why did Shawn stay in Panama Passage?:coffee:

[Christian P.]

Okay since no one else will ask I will.....why did Shawn stay in Panama Passage?:coffee:

Because there is no better place to be...!

:)

I needed someone to fill the gap until my friend goes there to help with the place. There is a lot going on at Panama Passage and when Shawn offered to stay a bit longer, I was extremely happy that he could stay. I believe he has to head back home after to take of some personal stuff, and then I am hoping he can come back to Panama and become a partner.

We are going through a challenging phase - we need to find a new location and at the same time we are welcoming more and more overlanders every week. Shawn was just telling me that we had 27 people last weekend!! Our record so far.

[defrag4]

Glad to hear you made it across, good times!

[defrag4]

Now you have me thinking we need at least one month in every country...to keep the overlanding gods happy of course.
Hmmm... 19 countries between Central and So. America combined

Sounds like a plan!

[bobDog]

Because there is no better place to be...!

:)

I needed someone to fill the gap until my friend goes there to help with the place. There is a lot going on at Panama Passage and when Shawn offered to stay a bit longer, I was extremely happy that he could stay. I believe he has to head back home after to take of some personal stuff, and then I am hoping he can come back to Panama and become a partner.

We are going through a challenging phase - we need to find a new location and at the same time we are welcoming more and more overlanders every week. Shawn was just telling me that we had 27 people last weekend!! Our record so far.

I see....seems like the place is rocking.....:coffeedrink:

[ExploringNH]

A few more days spent in Colombia with Paul and Helen of www.goingoverland.com

We decided to try and bypass some of the tolls in Colombia and ended up taking some dirt roads for a day. We had a blast and met a lot of great people. No banditos so far.

Camping:
http://www.exploringnh.com/images/UserUploads/Defender/Trip/Colombia031.jpg

Scenery:
http://www.exploringnh.com/images/UserUploads/Defender/Trip/Colombia043.jpg

Cool Patrol:
http://www.exploringnh.com/images/UserUploads/Defender/Trip/Colombia045.jpg

First ferry ride for the Defender!
http://www.exploringnh.com/images/UserUploads/Defender/Trip/Colombia039.jpg

Panama Passage is a great place and it makes sense that it would be moving into a bigger and better property. They obviously have a ton of first hand info about shipping but what made it so enjoyable for me was the other travelers. Tons of like-minded people all meeting together to share stories and advice. I hope that Shawn can stay involved with Panama Passage.

[Streakerfreak]

No banditos so far.



You already got that out of the way with the flip-flop bandit.

[overlander]

This is an enviable trip you are doing. Great read and good luck! I look forward to the day when I can take my 110 on the same kind of trips when my kids are older.

[ExploringNH]

As the tourism industry says, "Colombia, the only risk is wanting to stay."

I absolutely love Colombia. I am currently in Bogota and while it isn't my favorite city, it still has a lot to offer. I am looking forward to being able to spend some time here and getting to know the real Bogota. No picture updates for a few more days. I am waiting on photos from other people. Just another rambling note from a hostel.

On the road, life is different and absurd situations can be an everyday occurrence. What would be considered a crazy statement or an unusual situation is often considered commonplace among travelers. At home, when you are asked what your plans may be for the next day a typical response would be to maybe complete a report at work or to get the car to a mechanic for an overdue state inspection. Here though, a not unexpected answer may be that the plans are to make it to another country, hundreds or even thousands of miles away, as long as the person wakes at a reasonable hour in the morning. You could also hear a story about someone being upset by being overcharged for a $0.75USD avocado that is three times larger than any avocado in the states. You can also run into experiences like the one we had last night (maybe more like this morning:)). After a night (and morning) of exploring downtown Bogota and experiencing authentic Colombian nightlife, the ten of us find ourselves ordering churrasco and grilled corn on the cob from a street vendor. The cost is $3000COP ($1.50USD) for a good sized portion. It is 3am and we are enjoying the company of a group of homeless teens and chatting back and forth through broken Spanish and occasional spurts of English. The churrasco is amazing and the shots of boxed rum offered by the teens are a nice gesture.

The day before this, right after getting our hair cut, James and I found ourselves wandering into a crowd of students protesting a recently proposed law, “ley 30”. The police were surrounding the square and had situated themselves behind metal temporary fencing. They dressed in riot gear and the police we talked to were pretty certain that things were going to get violent. We hung out and mingled with the students until the rain became too much to bear. It started quickly and came down hard. Students used their protest banners as ponchos and make-shift shelters. We hopped under a 4’x8’ banner with four students and ran to shelter in a window sill of a beautiful, old, colonial building. We chatted for a while about the state of education not only in Colombia but in the rest of the world as well. The rain eventually let up and we made our way back to our place for the night, completely soaked.

These situations and accompanying conversations really give some insight into the real Bogota and the real Colombia. You can't read about these things in a guidebook or experience these situations through other's photos. These sorts of things can only be experienced in person and only by a traveler who is willing to take risks. I've been jumped and more recently gotten into a fight with a coked up drug dealer. These situations can turn bad at any point and I don't advise other's to do the things I do, especially without language skills or a resident guide. I have been lucky enough to meet some great people on this trip in almost every area I've been in. These locals really provide some fantastic information on the country and city that they live in. They are also the gateway to real experiences and the key to largely unknown events, sights, places, or experiences. If you have the time on your trip to stop and live the everyday life in an area, I highly recommend it. Making local friends will be sure to follow and you will walk away with a much better understanding of the inner workings of a place than those who travel to the tourist spots, take their prized Facebook photo and then hop a plane home. Each person has a different goal for traveling and there is no wrong way to see an area or to spend a vacation. I have to say that for me, I would hate to spend the kind of money it takes to tour the popular spots and walk away with only photos, no real understanding of where you were. I will end with what I feel is an appropriate quote:

“Too often travel, instead of broadening the mind, merely lengthens the conversation.” – Elizabeth Drew

[Cris Torlasco]

Great trip guys. And there is so much more still to come! I did Oregon-Buenos Aires a couple of times (see last one at http://torlasco.tripod.com), and you are making me want to do it again...Colombia was one of the highlights for me, wonderful mountain roads. And so was Bolivia, prepare yourself for a treat. Southern Chile and Argentina are also highlights. If you need vehicle storage in Buenos Aires, we offer that among other services, mainly motorhome rentals in Argentina, Chile, and Uruguay (http://www.andeanroads.com). I also have good contacts in Ushuaia, one of my best friends owns a Land Rover expedition company down there. Enjoy!

Chris

[bernardbarbour]

While my friends are spending all week in an office doing the daily grind, my bad day consists of me relaxing in a bed and breakfast run by a super nice family, exploring a new city, meeting new people, and eating wonderful foods...in Nicaragua, where many people dream of traveling to. Such a terrible, terrible situation.
ha ha ha this is so funny..... thanks
Happy travels
Bernard