Get off the gringo trail and start speaking the language of Panama with Casco Antiguo Spanish School’s successful Spanish for Travelers half day intensive course. Tailored to bring complete beginners up to speed, this Spanish for beginner’s course allows travelers on limited time frames to make the most of Central America. 

Friendly tutors will help you fully grasp the basics of grammar and pronunciation in Spanish, focusing on a series of digestible topics for everyday use. Learn how to order food, drinks, how to express dietary requirements and more in the helpful eating section. Shopping covers buying, bartering and knowing how to ask the right questions in shops and stores. Traveling covers thumbing down a taxi, renting a car or buying a bus ticket. It will help with making a doctors appointment, ask for accurate directions and book accommodation.

The half day course costs $39.00 per person when two people sign up, or $49.00 to have the class to yourself. The course includes all text materials and supplies as well as complementary refreshments and Wi-Fi. Casco Antiguo Spanish School can also extend the course to last a week, allowing enthusiastic students to really dig deep and get the most from their experience in Panama. Contact Casco Antiguo Spanish School today to transform your travel experience!

Contact Casco Spanish School at  (507) 838-5592 or sophie@cascospanish.com

Sponsored by the MTI, the ATP and Film Commission of Panama, there will be premieres and showings of 50 distinguished international films.  With showings of prized films from the world’s most prestigious film festivals, the directors and producers will present their work and discuss each project with the audience.

With the IFF Panama looking to become as starred a destination as Cannes, Toronto or Sundance, the intention of the organizers to promote dialogue and understanding between cultures means the best of world cinema is coming to the isthmus! Panama has long had a reputation as a fine place to shoot films, with the Tailor of Panama and James Bond flick Quantum of Solace being shot in historic Casco Viejo.

If you are looking to see some of the incredible events across a range of venues and experience the romantic Panama of the silver screen, look no further than the UNESCO Heritage protected Casco Viejo. The old quarter of this booming city, it offers luxurious and beautiful renovated hotels and restaurants with a dash of the bohemian. Casa del Horno, a boutique hotel located in the wandering streets at the heart of Casco, offers high end service and luxurious amenities close to the center of the action. Its beautiful restored stone walls and relaxing ambiance make for an incredible night in this unique location.

For an alternative outside of the city, you can stay at the Gamboa Rainforest Hotel. A luxurious resort famed for its elaborate weddings and activities as much as its beautiful location on the Rio Chagres. Elegant rooms, top notch service and a short ride to Panama City make this a great place to chill out from the bustle of the city and the IFF.

Email: info@panamatravelgroup.com | Tel: +507-399-9830 (Panama) | 1-786-539-4731 (USA)

The festival is being run by the Taboga Island Foundation, with the festival highlighting the island’s environmental conservation and sustainable development. “Discover something new in Taboga” with this exciting new Panama experience.

Spanning 2 sunny days in March (the 17th and 18th), the island will burst into life with 10,000 expected visitors to its normally sleepy lanes. Planned as a colorful and unique event for families, there will be numerous recreational activities for visitors each day of the festival.

As the evening draws in the party will become more vibrant and lively for the adults, with the Festival of the Sea expected to become one of Panama’s biggest and best parties.  Artist and music producer Alexander Lagrotta is sponsoring the festival, and his enthusiasm for the project clearly showed when he said “I am honored to be invited to participate at this event… Taboga, an island of flowers, you are my inspiration.”

The islanders have a committed attitude to making the Fiesta del Mar a key event in the cultural life of Isla Taboga and Panama. With a fun itinerary and great activities, it promises to be one to watch in the future!

Visit on the Web: www.fiestadelmarpanama.com, Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/fiestadelmartaboga, Twitter: @FiestaMarPanama

Email: info@panamatravelgroup.com | Tel: +507-399-9830 (Panama) | 1-786-539-4731 (USA)

View of Casco Viejo from Casa Antigua

In Panama most businesses pay their respects with a half day on Maundy Thursday, with Good Friday being a public holiday for most workplaces. For a central location to explore this fun festival, try Casa Antigua in Casco Viejo. Lovingly restored in the old quarter of Panama City, this hotel is close to 5 of the most important churches in Panama as well as the accompanying street celebrations. This beautiful accommodation overlooks the Bay of Panama, taking in the best of the culture and beauty of this Pacific city.

The festivals of Easter and Holy Week mark the end of Panama’s summertime festivities, with this holiday a far more central celebration than in the United States. Churches hold services and their own small events throughout the city. Others prefer to head to the interior, for a long weekend in the heart of beautiful countryside. La Casa de La Abuela in Boquete offers marvelous views and relaxing rooms in the heart of this mountain town. Unique and elegant rooms create a peaceful ambiance away from the rush of Panama City, with nearby restaurants and tours some of the finest in the whole country.

Portobelo

In a strong Catholic country the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ plays the foremost part of this festivity with a joyful Easter egg hunt at the end of it. Celebrate this holiday in one of the most devoted portions of the country at Isla Grande near Portobelo. This Caribbean coastline is stunning, with the Hotel El Otro Lado offering beautiful sunsets and luxurious surroundings. Sitting in the National Park of Portobelo El Otro Lado has stunningly designed rooms and one of best locations in Panama. Come to Panama for Semana Santa and see the beauty of the country, it’s fun festivals and religious devotion all blending for the perfect Easter retreat.

Email: info@panamatravelgroup.com | Tel: +507-399-9830 (Panama) | 1-786-539-4731 (USA)

A stimulation of the heart and mind with the strains of Jazz and blues music echoing through the air. The sleepy hillside town of Boquete blooms for this week of improvisation and skillful playing, a flowering of talent amidst the cool breezes of the green mountain tops. A jazz festival amidst the clouds is appropriate, as heavenly sounds burst from every balcony and bar in Boquete. Musicians gather around and talk tunes whilst locals herald the new arrivals with a toast of rum, the town transformed into a throbbing haven for rhythm and style. With international and local artists always in the picture you are guaranteed a great time at this Panama festival. With musicians such as Mitch Woods, Andy Egert Bluesband, Carlos Ubarte, and the Smoking Time Jazz Club there is a wide wealth of talent on display.

For those looking to stay away from the Boquete town center, a night or two at La Casa del Risco will freshen anyone up. A boutique hotel amongst the beautiful residential lanes of Caldera, La Casa del Risco’s six suites look directly upon Volcan Baru and an impressive cliff. A courteously professional staff that always have smiles on their faces direct you to individually themed suites, as comfortable as any in Panama.

Nearby Volcan Baru rises almost 3,500 meters above the foothills of Boquete, whilst in its shadow the locals and those attending the Jazz fest party. Staying in Boquete is also a profound pleasure, with luxury hotels and boutique accommodation plentiful in this stunning hilltop community. Leave the soulful sounds behind for the night and retreat to the Hotel Valle del Rio, the elegantly comfortable setting affording wondrous views of the river and an incredible selection of delicacies at its Pomodoro restaurant. A small casino and a perfect location in the center of things, equals relaxation and fun for guests lucky enough to book now.

Email: info@panamatravelgroup.com | Tel: +507-399-9830 (Panama) | 1-786-539-4731 (USA)

Green mountain slopes provide some of the best hiking in Panama’s only Volcano while spending a sunrise on the hilltops overlooking the magnificent forests of Boquete. The majestic landscape is filled with incredible bird species that draws the birdwatchers of the world, attracted to this corner of Panama by promises of the species on offer.

The coffee grown in Boquete is regarded as one of the world’s finest blends, the high elevation and soil perfect for encouraging the delicate flavors the region is prized for. Visiting a Boquete coffee plantation is an intriguing experience, learning how a simple bean is processed into one of the world’s most valuable crops.

If you are looking to ramp up your adrenaline after that you can ascend to new heights with a rock climb, scaling hand over hand up 4 sheer rock faces. Aided by instructors the stunning rock formations can be climbed, with the sense of achievement and the view from the top absolutely unbeatable. To ease those aches retreat to the Haven Health Spa and Hotel, a blissful boutique perched above Boquete. Guests looking to be pampered will come away feeling radiant, skin and body fresh and beautiful once more. Specializing in aromatherapy and hot stone massage, the spa allows guest to retreat to their luxurious rooms within mere steps of their treatment rooms.
Boquete has plenty of beautiful land and forests, yet it is also famed for its picturesque winding river rapids. Clamber aboard a tough raft for a day of river rafting along the Chiriqui Viejo, 11 miles of cool water and frantic rapids pulsing by. Bilingual expert guides keep you upright and zipping along.

After a busy day exploring beautiful Boquete you will need to lay your head down and get some rest. Situated on the lush banks of the Caldera River, El Oasis Hotel on the outskirts of Boquete is in the heart of the natural world and yet mere minutes from the center of Boquete. Spacious and intimate rooms set the standard, with WiFi around the property and in the top tier restaurant. This spot is an oasis for those looking to relax and reward themselves with deserved luxury.

Boquete has so many things to offer, making this a destination you have to include in your vacation to Panama.

Email: info@panamatravelgroup.com | Tel: +507-399-9830 (Panama) | 1-786-539-4731 (USA)

The ‘Mojadera’ in Bocas is a legendary water fight, with ice water balloons, fire hoses and water pistols all used in jest as everyone in town gets soaked.

For places to stay in Bocas there is the Red Frog Rainforest Resort, combining the best of beaches and biodiversity. Beautifully personalized rooms and surroundings are mere steps from activities such as a Bocas canopy zip line and horseback riding, with the best of Bocas del Toro a 10 minute boat ride away.

For those who want to experience life in the thriving center of Bocas del Toro, Carnival is best celebrated from the contemporary class of the Palma Royal Hotel. Overlooking the beautiful waters of Bocas you can enjoy a glass of wine and cool ocean breezes, before heading out into the streets and the wild atmosphere of the carnival!

If you want to travel only a few miles from Panama City for your carnival experience El Otro Lado, snuggled in the Bay of Portobelo, makes a perfect escape. A paradise on earth where you will experience peaceful meditation and tailored therapy, it makes an interesting change from the wild parties around Panama. If you want to balance this rejuvenation with some partying, you are only short distances from Carnivals in Colon or Panama City. This magnificent location provides locally sourced food cooked to perfection, matched by finely tailored service and a wonderful Caribbean vibe.

For those looking to escape from the wild days and nights of the Panama carnival, a visit to untouched San Blas will be perfect. Home to the Kuna indigenous people, you can find great hotels San Blas in this unspoiled tropical paradise on the Caribbean. A heavenly assortment of small islands and palm trees, pure white sand beaches and incredible sunsets, within easy distance of Panama City. With a number of different accommodations available in the sheltered archipelago, a trip out here will make you consider the simple life.

Panama Travel Group creates itineraries for every traveler’s needs, with a full range of services to help you organize your next trip to Panama. Contact us now.

Email: info@panamatravelgroup.com | Tel: +507-399-9830 (Panama) | 1-786-539-4731 (USA)

Swimming across the warm waters of the Panama Canal, the athletes will ascend a path cut into the opposite shore before cycling over the Bridge of the Americas. Enjoying the beautiful scenery of the interior, a 10 mile bike ride begins on a relatively flat surface through the rainforest. Finally hitting ‘The Monster’ of Coba Hill, the steep and demanding stretch before a final downhill section. The bike course ends with an arching loop around the Cinta Costera, taking in the skyscrapers of Panama as well as some of the best hotels in Central America.

Heading out of Panama City, the course transitions to the Amador Causeway, for a running course in the heat of the day. A beautiful part of the city, with the road winding amongst islands and yachts, there are plenty of sights before you reach the finish line at the Figali Convention Center.

With an exciting race day over this spectacular course, spectators will find something to do from dawn until dusk; with many beautiful hotels in Panama City there are a number of exclusive hotels in the very center of things. From the outstanding international brand of Sheraton Four Points in historic Marbella, with its superb service and amenities over 126 rooms the Sheraton Hotel in Panama makes the perfect base for your Ironman tour. Or try the Finisterre Suites and Spa, a brand new hotel establishing a great reputation in the very heart of the city. With its modern design and complete package of luxury amenities, from holistic spas to fine wine bar, the Finisterre Hotel offers perfect bliss away from the Ironman Tournament Panama.

Panama Travel Group creates itineraries for every traveler’s needs, with a full range of services to help you organize your next trip to Panama. Contact us now.

Email: info@panamatravelgroup.com | Tel: +507-399-9830 (Panama) | 1-786-539-4731 (USA)

The Carnival Queens get the final day to revel in the appreciation of the crowds, adorned in vast, feathery concoctions that shimmer with greens and golds. Devils and surf short clad revelers run through the streets with prop whips and water cannons soaking all they can see throughout the country. With devils running through the street with fake swords, bashing the sticks of onlookers whilst large tankers slowly drive down the main streets as fire hoses drench the crowds.

Wherever you are in Panama the Carnival is huge news, although the most famous place of celebration is the Azuero Carnival that has no equal. Centered around Las Tablas a 5 day long street battle erupts, with competing carnival queens, water fights and parade floats. Under the blazing sun of Azuero two streets vie for festival dominance, with outrageous acts and elaborate costumes in the center of town. Elegant carnival queens in high heels totter next to the children running through the crowds, with vendors and delicious street food available every few meters. At Las Mendozas in Penonomé a parade takes place waist high in a river, floating their Queen above the waters in all her elegance and beauty.

Bocas del Toro celebrates with a wild and wet Caribbean carnival, attracting people from all around the world; great hotels in Bocas line the waterfront, giving you easy access to the best of the fun. Tropical Suites Hotel is right on the water on the central island of Isla Colon, near the best amenities and with beautiful suites overlooking the archipelago. For those who want a secluded island getaway El Faro Del Colibri makes a perfect retreat; bright and cheerful individual cabins suspended over the water, in a peaceful area of natural beauty. They even have the option to rent a lighthouse style suite! If you are prepared to be soaking wet and having a great time this is for you, a truly wild time in Bocas del Toro.

Panama City also celebrates the carnival by closing the largest boulevards and streets, including famous Avenida Balboa or Cinta Costera and throwing up decorations and stalls and making room for the parades! This all sets up for the traditional “mojadera”, a huge all day water fight with everyone you see, characteristic of every large carnival in Panama. If you want to have a truly cosmopolitan experience consider rooms at the Riu Plaza Hotel Panama, a beautiful fusion of elegant design and convenient location in the center of the city. For those looking for a more historic setting the Casa del Horno in Casco Viejo will be perfect. A boutique bed and breakfast in the heart of the old town, the little touches and atmosphere are done in quintessential colonial luxury.

Come and visit the Carnival in Panama! Fun for families, couples and those looking for some boisterous unwinding at the beginning of the year. With some of the best hotels in Central America, along with great events and culture, visit Panama today!

Email: info@panamatravelgroup.com | Tel: +507-399-9830 (Panama) | 1-786-539-4731 (USA)

Beaches Boscobel Resort

Jamaica has become the jewel in the resort world, its famed reggae culture blending seamlessly with the refined experience for the best family holidays.

Beaches Boscobel Resort has been voted amongst the Top 10 beach resorts in the world, spreading over 22 luxurious acres, this private resort contains 5 top notch restaurants all offering the best food in the islands. Whether it is the beautiful deck overlooking the clear Caribbean waters, the spacious pools and a dedicated scuba pool for beginners, the entire ocean is yours to explore from this beautiful hotel in Paradise. An all inclusive kids program is available for little travelers, with the Pirates Island Waterpark and a golf course designed for younger players.

Looking for a warm and approachable resort, with that authentic Caribbean flavor? The Beaches Sandy Bay is a truly intimate place, smaller than its sister resorts but bursting with world class attractions. Tranquil beaches stretch in front of the resort with its complement of activities and facilities ready for your amusement and leisure. A United States certified Kids Camp and nursery means parents can explore on their own, safe in the knowledge that only the best care is provided for their little ones in paradise.

Beaches Sandy Bay

Beaches Negril along the famous Seven Mile Beach is the definition of laidback chillout, a low rise resort slung across some of the most beautiful Caribbean beachfront in Jamaica. West Indian colors saturate the day, as fresh cross breezes waft through the specially designed resort. A spa resort with 20 verdant acres of space, Beaches Negril is a picturesque paradise found amidst stunning scenery and fun activities. Endless options for families include beautiful splash pools, water sports and the friendly staff, as well as the infamously fun Pirates Island Waterpark.

With Copa Airlines now running direct flights from Panama to Jamaica, there is no excuse to miss this fantastic opportunity. Stunning accommodation and the fun of the Caribbean – who would say no?

Email: info@panamatravelgroup.com | Tel: +507-399-9830 (Panama) | 1-786-539-4731 (USA)