A Fistful of Colones

Here's what 150,000 Colones looks like.  I'm rich!!!!!  Well, with the exchange rate of about 500 Colones to the CAD/USD, that's only about $300.  The exchange rate is a bit crazy.  Had to pull out some extra this week for a big purchase.  Tired of trying to find a used bike - had 3 different people selling, but none would call me back :(  So, against EVERYONE's advice, I bit the bullet, and trodded off to the hardware store to buy new.  

Ready to fork over a King's ransom, I inched into the store.  "Cuanto cuesta una bicicleta?"  I ask.  The response, "Setenta mil."  Excuse me?  Thought I heard wrong, he said a brand new bike was 70,000 Colones (about $140).  Couldn't agree to purchase fast enough.  Also picked up a pump for $3.50, a spoke wrench for $1.00, and some chain oil for $1.50.

Finally ready to explore the area on my

 new pimped out Rasta crusier

When merely pro won't do

Lion stickers make it go faster

Before you chuckle yourself into a coronary  this is THE bike to have in Puerto Viejo.  Everyone rides them (well, not this colour sceme, haven't seen one like it yet).  The roads are flat, and the baskets are super handy.  Mountain bikes are around, but scarce.  An old used beater would have cost me $400, and would have been hard to sell.  My hostess has already asked for first offer on it when I leave :)

Went on a quick ride to the store today (2 blocks away), and ended up 10k down the road.  Didn't take the camera, but will next time.  Loads to explore.

Here's another gecko picture from outside my front door.  The coin is about the same size as a Canadian quarter.

And lastly, this nasty looking beetle.  It's about twice the size of a quarter.  Found it in the kitchen sink :(  Trapped it in this fairly large pitcher.