by James “JB” Bryson

Earlier this year I had a PNO.com reader contact us after I posted a blog entry about my friend having a squatter issue on land he purchased (or believed he purchased) a few years back. That article sparked a bit of an influx of people wanting to share their storied of Bocas with other Ex-Pats.

He submitted a blistering article about what his sister went through with a development called “Red Frog Beach”. PNO.com indeed looked into his claims about one person in particular (Wright J. Thurston) and found that there was credible and substantive information readily available from legitimate sources to support his story.  At PNO.com, I believe there is always (2) if not more sides to the story, and I have no personal dog in this fight. I have enough issues with traffic near my own place.  I was contacted through one of the Ex-Pat forums I am a member on and ran into someone who had a different experience.

I have tried to reply, but perhaps my attempts are going to SPAM. I have removed any names or information of identity, but feel that an alternative view can be shared in this discussion.  Many people have sent in articles to post concerning “Red Frog Beach” that are negative, and I feel that this opinion can be shared also. Only fair on PNO.com.

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Hello
I saw your post about Bocas Buyers at a “particular property”. I own land and a Villa at Red Frog Beach (RFB). I first purchased property in 2007 and still own my property. In fact, I just left Bastimentos Island 10 days ago after a 28 day visit to my home. 
It’s odd for me to hear about these “horror stories” every once in a while.

Of course there are problems at RFB but in an imperfect world, there are problems everywhere. Sometimes both elevators in my Miami Beach building break on the same day and the city takes way too long to come for the needed inspection before the elevator can be legally operated again!
After being involved so many years and meeting many owners, I have come to realize that there are some people at the resort like me, those who are happy and truly love being at the resort. And there are some that like to complain. My family goes to dinner with those that are happy living in paradise. We are also friends with the complainers. For me, it comes down to where do I want to put my focus. I prefer to focus on the absolute beauty of the Island, the incredible weather, fresh & clean air, etc… This is why I love it there and am excited to return again soon!
There is definitely lots to complain about. The resort owners have really struggled to run an efficient business and create a positive experience for guests. I remember how the resort struggled during the financial crisis. But instead of complaining, I actually see how all the hard work the resort put in to save my investment and every other person that invested money in property. Had they just walked away and went bankrupt, who knows where we would all be in trying to regain our investment. After seeing how some people have treated the resort owners, I would not fault them if they did walk away and default. But instead, they had the integrity to work until they became sick to keep the project together and going. They saved the resort and everyones investment. 
I don’t see scammers at RFB like a few very loud others and not sure why these people are so bent on trying to destroy the reputation of one of the most incredible places. 
Regards,
One owner from RFB