I stayed at Lula's for 3 weeks in February - March for a solo surf trip. I was looking for a hotel that was on the water, far enough from town to escape the noise and reasonable in price. Since I was traveling alone this time, I also wanted a place with a social vibe. Lula's was the best compromise of my criteria. The only thing that Lula's didn't offer was a location directly on the water. However, the hotel is directly across the street from the water and has direct access to a dock by way of an agreement with the neighboring hotel. Not being right on the water turned out to be just fine as I was in or on the water 10 hours of every day anyway. The balcony of the hotel turned out to be a great place to mingle with other guests. The little guest kitchen was perfect for storing snacks and sandwich makings. Breakfast was incredible. I had to stop eating it every morning because it was too rich and luxurious for this surf bum. Delicious eggs, pancakes, johnny cakes, fresh fruit, juice and the best coffee in Bocas... seriously. The rooms were perfect. Ok, so when you are sitting on the latrine, your knees might touch the walls, but believe me when I say that you will be hard pressed to find a better shower or bed in the whole of Panama. Also, the hotel is spotless. I mean like military spotless. The friendly local Panamanian girls who cook and clean the place were constantly making sure that the hotel was impeccable. They clearly care about their jobs and the Hudsons treat them like family. I have stayed at other hotels in Bocas during my three trips to the area over the past 5 years. In many Bocas hotels of similar cost, the walls are moldy, there are rats and gnarly bugs (not just normal Bocas bugs), the noise can be unbearable and the staff can be incredibly unaccommodating and rude. Not at Lula's. Bryan, Jana and Tyler are the best hosts ever. They made me feel like part of their family. We went out to dinner together on a couple of occasions. Tyler and I went surfing, mountain bike riding, and scuba diving together. We even had a couple of beers at local happy hours. If I was late coming back from surfing the Hudson's would ask around to see if I had come in. It was nice knowing that someone would be aware if I disappeared. The Hudsons also have deep local knowledge and constantly strive to improve the lives of the local Panamanians in the area. If you want to spend $150 per night and be removed from the local culture and people, you might be able to find a more luxurious hotel. For $60 a night, Lula's can not be beat. I have recommended this hotel to my friends and they have come away with the same great experiences. Book it!