We quickly chose Bastimentos after visiting to make it our home because of the authentic, caribbean island feel.Basti is a quick 7 minute boat ride away from touristy Bocas Town, yet feels like it's own secluded island paradise. We are close to everything including Bocas best beaches, the zip line, the bat caves and the best surf breaks..The local people are West Indian descendants, giving Basti the caribbean vibe we love. Everyone knows each other, the music plays, kids run around and no one is trying to sell you anything. It's just people going about their lives in paradise. If seeing the way locals live isn't your thing, perhaps Basti is not the island for you. However, if you want an authentic feel, not being stuck behind walls, we are the perfect place. The locals are super friendly and have come to be our close friends and family.