After many fun-filled winter months, we were ready for a change of pace—and temperatures—during our trip south to Panama. Between the sunshine, the spicy margaritas, and the incredible company… Panama brought the heat.
We began our adventure with three days exploring Panama City. We settled into the historic Old Town district, Casco Viejo, and were immediately taken by its colorful architecture—part French colonial, part Caribbean island charm. In many ways it reminded us of New Orleans.
Our days there were delightfully relaxed: hours at the rooftop pool, wandering narrow cobblestone streets, browsing local shops, and gathering each evening for incredible dinners with our group.
The highlight of our time in the city was without a doubt our visit to the Panama Canal. Watching massive ships move through the locks from just a short distance away was fascinating. We learned about the canal’s history, engineering, and global importance—and yes, we fully embraced our inner nerds. It was incredibly cool to see up close.
On day three we journeyed deeper into Panama. The travel itself felt like an adventure: first a drive, then a small plane, another drive, and finally a boat ride that carried us across turquoise water to Nayara Bocas del Toro.
We were welcomed with open arms and a beautiful lunchtime reception overlooking the islands we’d be calling home for the next five days.
The accommodations at Bocas are something special. Guests can stay in overwater villas—complete with plunge pools—or in stunning treehouse suites perched high in the jungle canopy with private soaking tubs and sweeping views. The island spa might have been the most unique space of all. Designed to resemble a giant bird’s nest, it offered one of the most memorable massage settings I’ve ever experienced.
Resort life treated us well. We slept in, lounged by the pool, enjoyed incredible food and drinks, and spent long, easy hours connecting with friends. Jeff and I got our booties beat by friends Josh and Shamus in Euchre and we didn’t even care because we were so relaxed.
A few highlights stood out. One was a hilarious four-hour excursion to a local favorite known as Filthy Fridays—an event that was definitely not on our original agenda but ended up being unforgettable. Another was a late-morning boat ride to a nearby island for a relaxed beach barbecue. And of course, the trip wrapped with a super fun White Party hosted by the resort.
They even managed to accommodate one of our very specific requests: watching the Michigan–Michigan State men's basketball rivalry game. A TV appeared at the tiki bar just in time for tip-off. Go Blue.
Our trip to Panama certainly scratched our travel itch… at least for now. It’s always wonderful to get away, but there’s something equally sweet about coming home. And a huge thank you to my mom, who stayed back with the kids and kept everything running smoothly while we were gone.
