Monday, March 12, 2007

What makes a vacation great?

Is it the specific Panama island? Is it the size of the Panama resort at which you stay? Is it the little things? Or do all of the different aspects fall together to create a memorable vacation?

I think it is some combination of the different aspects which make things great. On my honeymoon in the Bahamas, we stayed at a nice place which was somewhat all-inclusive but small enough that they were able to actually take care of each guest. My husband got up early each morning and went fishing leaving me to sleep in. We met up mid-morning and then had the rest of the day together. I remember good food, a sweet Labrador retriever, gorgeous beaches and many intimate moments.

Many years later, we took a fishing vacation in Mexico under different circumstances where I happened to be the only woman staying at the lodge. I ended up trying yoga with some of the staff while my husband was out fishing. Yoga became a serious part of my life for many years to come. Ironically this vacation also includes memories of good food, gorgeous beaches, and many intimate moments.

When we set out to create our Bocas del Toro Hotel, we took all of these things into consideration. We wanted to make our eco adventure lodge a place where the different aspects of your vacation come together to create beautiful memories. So, we begin your trip to Panama by picking you up at the international airport with an English speaking guide and taking care of your ground transfer to the domestic airport. We ask you in advance about your food preferences. We send one of the owners of the lodge to pick you up at the airport in Isla Colon. We house you in deluxe private cabanas at our secluded island location. We make activities and excursions available to you. We introduce you to our family, friends and our community. Yet we maintain the private island feel and experience and we throw in a sweet Labrador retriever.