I'm long delinquent in writing this post -- it's now just after Thanksgiving, three months after returning from Panama. I suppose Thanksgiving may actually be the perfect symbolic time to do so? As we contemplate a month in Ecuador next summer, it's worth reflecting on our trip to Panama. All in all, we had a great time, but its complicated. We learned a ton, broadened our world view just a bit more, and saw America from another perspective....
After three weeks in Panama we decided to change course by visiting Gamboa. Why? Because it's roughly the halfway point of the Panama Canal, home to maintenance operations for the canal, and home to a number of "eco" experiences. When planning our trip, we figured we could do a lot of hiking, visit the Rainforest Discovery Center, see the Sloth Sanctuary, and go zip-lining. Little did we know. /*! elementor - v3.17.0 - 08-11-2023...
Our plan for the next phase of life is all about slow travel around the world, probably beginning in Southeast Asia. However, this means living like a local, not living in hotels. At the moment, it seems the best option for travel is Airbnb. It gives us a sense of security for the financial transaction, fixing problems with renters in a foreign country, and dealing with the language barriers. Airbnb also provides an option for a kitchen so we...
The Panama Canal is truly one of those man made wonders that you must see in your life time. Its history is so bizarre it almost seems unreal. We would recommend you read The Path Between Seas: The History of the Panama Canal, 1870-1914 by David McCullough to really see the egos, personalities, politics and everyday people that made the canal possible. You will also get a great appreciation for the power of the mosquito and its influence over...
Let's set the record straight up front. We're tea people. We've owned a tea company for the better part of 10 years and regularly import tea by air and ship from Asia. We also import rooibos and honeybush from South Africa. So we understand variations in taste, quality, growing, and labor conditions that impact agricultural products. We are not coffee people. Or, at least we weren't before visiting Panama. A number of our wholesale (coffee shop)...
Regardless of your own beliefs, churches/religious structures should always go on a travel itinerary, especially when headed to places that have had humans for a long time. These structures are home to beautiful art and architecture that give you a view into the history, experiences and culture of a location. Now, as a tourist, please remember these building are still active places of worship, so always treat them with respect and follow their...
Our second coffee plantation visit in Boquete was to the Finca Dos Jefes, home to the roasted coffee brand of Cafés de la Luna. Amy was our passionate host for the two hour visit to this farm. A visit that included learning a ton more about what makes great coffee, the coffee industry, the coffee price crash, and so much more. Amy came to the plantation from Panama City a number of years ago and appears to have fallen in love with it. As she...
Our first coffee plantation visit during our trip to Boquete was Santa Elena Estate. We dropped in unannounced and, after a bit of confusion, met Roberto. He is the son of the owner, and the manager of the coffee estate. He graciously spent two and a half hours walking us through the finca (estate) which backs up to Piedro de Lino Mountain, namesake for their roasted coffee under the Cafe DeLino brand. During our tour he was a fountain...
If you enjoy hiking, and especially pushing yourself a bit, either for the views or the personal satisfaction, then hiking Volcán Barú is a must if you are in Boquete, Panama. As the highest peak in Panama, it offers views of the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, if you are lucky enough to catch it on a clear day. If not, you get the personal satisfaction of a tough hike, full of amazing plants and animals, that most only experience by a harrowing...
Yes, you can fly from Panama City to David and then take a taxi to Boquete. But, where is the fun in that? More to the point, if you are looking to try slow travel, this is a great way to learn to do it. In summary:$15.25 per person and 8 hrs to David. Tickets purchased at Albrook station.$2 per person and 45 minutes from David to Boquete. Payment when you get off the bus.An amazing way to view the real Panama.The return trip to Panama City is...
