International Living Community

Wow Jess - thank you so much!! This is fantastic information. I will definitely do more research as I am in the early planning stages and the above helps immensely. Appreciate the tip about asking one question per post - wasn't sure since we are looking at doing multiple countries in one trip.

Hoping to do a 1 -2 month trip in Central America next year - likely between Oct 2025 & March 2026. Just started researching some options & looking to get input or suggestions. We will be flying from the US. We are a mid-50s active couple in good shape that love outdoor activities (my husband not a huge hiking fan) as well as experiencing the local culture. We prefer moderate or rustic accomodations vs luxury. Here is what we are currently looking at Belize - Placencia, Costa Rica - Tortuguera & Puerto Viejo, and Panama - Bocas Del Toro & Pedesi.

Here are some questions as I am researching:

1. is it feasible to do all 3 countries in 1-2 months and not have to rush?
2. what airports should we fly into for each country? or is there a better means of transportation (e.g. Puerto Viejo to Bocas Del Toro)?
3. what is recommended transportation from city to city within each country?
4. we hae US Passports - any other travel documents needed?
5. any special vaccines we should consider getting prior to traveling
6. any other recommendations for areas we should see in those countries?

Appreciate any tips/tricks or suggestions as we continue planning. Thanks so much in advance for sharing your insight an expertise!

Hoping to visit Placencia this Feb for a couple weeks - was last there in 2018. Are there good local resources for finding a 2 week lodging rental vs going to Expedia or VRBO type sites? Would be 2 or 4 people & don't need anything super fancy.