Panama and Colombia

As an avid traveler, I often find myself drawn to destinations that offer a blend of adventure and culture. This time, my journey took me back to Panama, where I was eager to explore new areas of this vibrant country. Having visited Panama before, I was excited to return and discover lesser-known regions that promised unique experiences.

Panama City is quickly becoming one of my favorite major cities in Central America. The city feels like it has two distinct sides. Casco Viejo, the old part of the city, embodies the historical charm, with its colonial architecture and vibrant streets. In stark contrast, the new part of the city, especially the financial district, could easily be mistaken for New York, boasting impressive skyscrapers and a diverse array of restaurants. This juxtaposition between the old and the new makes this an interesting city to explore and a destination unto its own.

After a brief stay in Panama City, I was excited to embark on my journey to Santa Catalina, a quaint coastal town known for its stunning beaches and relaxed vibe. Getting there was an adventure in itself! We took a small nine-person charter flight that landed on a grass airstrip on Coiba Island. From there, we hopped on a boat to Santa Catalina, with a snorkeling stop along the way. Santa Catalina has a serene beauty. The small town atmosphere felt welcoming, and I was eager to immerse myself in the local culture. We enjoyed a day on the beach with yoga in the afternoons and stunning sunsets along the Pacific Ocean.
After two nights in Santa Catalina, we headed to Veraguas, a region that truly captured my heart. Visiting smaller communities like this one felt incredibly authentic. Unlike my past experiences with tourism, where interactions sometimes felt staged, Veraguas offered a genuine connection to local life. We toured with a group called Ecoruta, who facilitated community tourism experiences that allowed us to engage directly with the locals. From milking cows to making tamales and sugar cane juice, each activity provided insight into the daily lives of the people in Veraguas. The hands-on experiences in each family home helped me connect to the true way of life in this region of Panama.
What struck me most during my time in Veraguas was how impactful small-scale tourism can be. Ecoruta started with a sea turtle rescue center, and their efforts to attract more visitors help fund this vital work while also educating the community about the importance of conservation. It was heartening to see how the locals were deeply invested in their tourism initiatives, which felt like a grassroots effort rather than a commercial venture.