New York City used to be my favorite place in the world... but it's still my favorite city

I spent my graduate years in New York City, and it's the place where I forged my character through disappointments and successes, which made me who I am today. But one can only live in such a hectic environment for so long, and 4 years seemed long enough (although I still like to visit!) and it was time for a change. After NY I lived in other big cities, but none of them satisfied me as much as New York did...

A few years ago, an unexpected encounter lead me to Panama, and I got married in Bocas del Toro, where I now permanently live and work.

I came to Panama for a vacation... and I ended up getting married!

I must say that Bocas del Toro is my favorite place to live so far, and you might probably ask yourself how can you go from living in a huge cosmopolitan city, to living in a small town of no more than 8,000 inhabitants in the Caribbean? The answer is very simple: nothing beats falling asleep to the sound of the ocean and seeing the sun rise over the water as soon as I open my blinds everyday. I have breakfast while I enjoy the view, and my commute to work is just as pleasant as I am driving (or cycling if I'm in the mood) along the beach to get to my office. I have to say that I feel very fortunate to live in a house right on the beach, only 10 minutes away from where I work, although for the locals here, this is not luxury but completely normal. On the other hand, people in Bocas del Toro are genuinely friendly to each other and will say hello even though they do not know you - a custom that has long been lost in every capital of the world.

I never imagined life in the Caribbean would be so nice...

Bocas del Toro also offers many advantages for active people as there are so many things to do. It is only a 45 minute flight away from Panama City, or a 3 hour ride to David in case the city bug strikes again. There are enough people to make new friends and offers a fun and diverse nightlife, but also quiet enough to have the option to escape on a beach where the next human being is several kilometers away from you. Quite a change from New York City I have to say, but somehow it really suits me.

There are so many beaches to choose from in Bocas del Toro and I try to go to a different one each weekend... don't be jealous but this is my back yard!

I have a few close friends in Bocas del Toro, and every weekend we get together to go surfing (or just lay in the sand and watch others surf), horseback riding, have coffee or simply go to beach and relax... and we can party hard once in a while! Sometimes I have lunch on another island, just because I can! During the week after work, I have developed some rituals of my own, like eating at my favorite Bocas restaurant with my husband, going to Yoga at Bocas Yoga Studio with my colleague Emily, and attending kickboxing classes with my friend Rachel. And I am starting to know more people every day.

Relocating to Bocas del Toro was definitely the best move for me and my husband, and we are very happy to live in the Caribbean. Every once in awhile I do miss New York - the abundance of shops, customer service, having more money to spend, the huge selection of night clubs, being able to wear something else rather than shorts and a tank top and dress up - yes I am a girl and it does matter... although over here I have a lot more bikinis! And I've been back on vacation to New York, but vacation is always different than normal life (I don't miss the stress, the long hours, the traffic, the coldness of people) and I'm so much more happy with my new life... I guess a good vacation is just doing something that you like that is different to your normal life.

Even though not as frequent as before, I can still go shopping to New York

Sometimes in Bocas it feels as if I'm living a dream - people from all over the world come here to get away from it all and consider Bocas a paradise on Earth. For me, this is my "routine", my day-to-day life, and I feel so grateful that my path led me to this wonderful place and that I get to experience Bocas’ beauty every single day. I traded a hectic and superficial life for peace of mind, a healthy lifestyle, natural beauty, amazing friends, happiness, the love of my life and I definitely do not regret my choice. I do not know how many years I will live here, but one has to enjoy the present moment, right?

If you're thinking about where to go for your next vacation, Bocas del Toro in Panama's Caribbean should top your list... you might not end up staying like I did, but you'll definitely fall in love with this place

Thank you to Julio Santamaria for giving me the opportunity to be part of Habla Ya Spanish Schools, and for convincing us to come live in Bocas del Toro=)

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View of the Panama City Skyline from my hotel in Bella Vista

When you set up your airport pickup in Panama City with Habla Ya ($35), we can arrange for your driver to give you a city tour. He'll charge you between $10 - $15 per hour depending on how long you'll need him and you'll have the peace of mind that your luggage is safe and sound. Or if you're spending the night in Panama City, you can do it by yourself by using a taxi. Below you'll find approximate taxi rates for Panama City.

The Panama Canal

Probably the first thing that anyone is going to ask you if you say that you have been to Panama, especially Panama City is, did you see the canal? Now for me personally, I was not sure what all the fuss was about. Yeah, it is history, but is it really worth going? But as I sat on the upper balcony of the Miraflores Restaurant, overlooking the water, sipping an ice cold beer, while watching the ships pass through the Miraflores Locks, I realized the answer, YES!

Less then $10 for admission (I paid $8), the Miraflores Visitors Center of the Panama Canal offers the opportunity to experience the significance of this grand endeavor that not only brought together several countries in its making, but has literally reshaped the marina import/export enterprise worldwide forever. It should cost you around $7 to get a taxi from downtown Panama City to the Miraflores Locks.

The Miraflores Locks Visitor Center

I would recommend starting your tour in the theater. Here you can learn how it all started, and you can even view the movie in Spanish and get a jump start on your practice!

After realizing the shear magnitude of this project (10 years in the making by the USA and a failed try before by the French), it was a humbling experience to walk through the museum of photos, exhibits, and reminders of the effort and passion that was put into the canal.

However, my favorite moment came in watching a container ship pass through the Miraflores Lock. You can do so from the observation area outside, or if you go upstairs to the Miraflores Restaurant, you can also (as I did) enjoy a cold beverage or meal while you wait for the next ship to pass through.

View of the Miraflores Locks of the Panama Canal from the Visitor Center's Restaurant

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Casco Viejo

There is just something about walking down the streets of an old city once grand, that is now marked by the signs of age. But even though some of the building may be weathered, the ambiance of romantic grandeur remains.

Currently in the intermittent stages of being restored, Casco Viejo is the old Spanish colonial sector built in the 1600’s. It is an exquisite mix of old and new, as there are beautifully restored buildings alongside those that have not yet been touched by modern restoration.

Panama City's Cathedral in Casco Viejo

I recommend stopping by one of the cafes for a cappuccino and fresh out of the oven brownie, and then start your exploration.

The cobble-stoned streets lead the way to plenty of small shops, decadent restaurants, magnificent churches and plazas, and even ocean/bay look out points (great pictures to be had all around!). All of which allow a visit to this area to easily take up a full afternoon (or if you are like me, two afternoons).

Also, if you are looking for a night out, I would highly recommend a visit to Habana Night Club, also located in Casco Viejo. With a live salsa band every Friday and Saturday night (and only $10 cover), you will get a taste of the cultural vibes as you watch both professional and beginners dancers alike salsa, merengue & bachata the night away!

The stage of the Habana Club in Casco Viejo

A taxi to Casco Viejo should cost you around $2 - $4 depending on where you're staying at.

Panama La Vieja

Last but not least, if you really want to encounter the ancient history of this city, visit the ruins of Panama La Vieja (which was attacked and destroyed by the pirate Henry Morgan in 1671). The recent restoration of the cathedral tower makes it possible to climb the stairs to the top for a full overlook of these 16th century ruins and the city.

As you climb the stairs to the top, it is fascinating to realize that intertwined with the restored areas, are stones that have literally been in place for almost 500 years.

Again, the humbling experience of realizing the magnitude of what was accomplished when these building were originally constructed, solely out of the pure desire of the Panamanian people to literally build a better life for themselves, a richer life.

Me in front of the restored Cathedral tower in Panama La Vieja

A taxi to Panama La Vieja should cost you around $2 - $4 depending on where you're staying at.

So, there you have it, whether you have one afternoon or a couple of days, passing time in Panama City is as easy as 1, 2, 3!

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The San San Pond Sak Wetlands Reserve are a complex of lakes, streams, swamps, rivers and beaches in the western part of the Bocas del Toro province, on the mainland district of Changuinola. The wetlands are the natural habitat for several endangered species such as the mysterious manatees. Several species of sea turtles lay their eggs in these shores and sloths, river otters, white-faced monkeys, caimans, iguanas, poison-dart frogs and more than 150 bird species also call these wetlands their home.

So if you're interested in getting up and close with wildlife in Panama, this trip is for you! Chances are very high that we could spot some manatees and watch some sea turtles lay their eggs and/or hatch (depending on our luck and when you join us).

By visiting the San San Pond Sak Wetlands Reserve you will be having a direct economic impact on its local community and thus it is more likely that its nature and wildlife will be valued and taken care of. You can learn more about AAMVECONA, the local organization through which we will be organizing this trip by clicking here.

It is believed that fewer than 100 Manatees still live in Bocas del Toro, Panama

We'll be spending the weekend at the San San Pond Sak Wetlands during the following dates in 2012:

• Saturday June 16th - Sunday June 17th
• Saturday July 21st - Sunday July 22nd

Our itinerary will be as follows:

Saturday

• 8 a.m. - Depart by boat from Bocas to Almirante
• 8:30 a.m. - Arrival to Almirante and take bus to Changuinola
• 10:00 a.m. - Arrival to Changuinola and departure to AAMENCOVA office
• 10:15 a.m. - Depart by boat to San San Pond Sak accommodation on the beach
• 11:00 a.m. - Arrival to San San Pond Sak accommodation and settle in
• 12:00 p.m. - Lunch
• 1:00 p.m. - Kayaking in the river or beach time
• 6:00 p.m. - Dinner
• 8:00 p.m. - Start looking for sea turtles (you can also just be woken up when the turtles arrive)

Sunday

• 7:00 a.m. - Breakfast
• 7:45 a.m. - Leave to observation platform to look for manatees
• 10:00 a.m. - Go on a hike to look for monkeys, sloths and some bird watching
• 12:00 p.m. Get back for lunch
• 1:00 p.m. - Beach time
• 3:00 p.m. - Pack up and head back to Changuinola
• 4:00 p.m. - Bus back to Almirante
• 5:30 p.m. - Boat back to Bocas
• 6:00 p.m. - Arrive back to Bocas

For Habla Ya Spanish students this trip will cost $125 per person (and $150 per person for non students).

Price includes:

• Roundtrip transportation Bocas Town - San San Pond Sak Wetlands
• 1 night lodging at San San Pond Sak, with all the meals
• Use of kayaks, turtle watching tour, manatee tour and wildlife hike

The following video gives you a pretty good idea about what a trip to San San Pond Sak is like!

CONTACT US FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT TRIPS TO SAN SAN POND SAK WETLANDS IN BOCAS DEL TORO... »

What to bring? Towel, swimwear, change of cloths, mosquito repellent (plenty of it, at dusk there are lots of chitras), passport or copy of it, camera, extra water, and a back-pack.

Make the most out of your Spanish program in Central America and book this trip before you arrive to Panama... spaces are limited!

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The Archipelago of Bocas del Toro has many wonders but the Boca del Drago area on Isla Colon is certainly one of those places in the Caribbean that you can't miss!

We'll be heading out to Planet Drago (its breathtaking scenery is out of this world) during the following weekends of 2012:

• Saturday May 26th - Sunday May 27th
• Saturday July 7th - Sunday July 8th
• Saturday August 18th - Sunday Sunday August 19th

Boca del Drago in Bocas del Toro, Panama

Our itinerary will be as follows:

Saturday

• 10 a.m. - Depart to Drago from Habla Ya
• 10:20 a.m. - Arrival to La Gruta Bat Cave, in the middle of Colon Island
• 10:25 a.m. - Explore the Cave
• 11:00 a.m. - Continue to Drago
• 11:15 a.m. - Arrival to Drago and Check-in at the Hotel
• 12:00 p.m. - Lunch at Restaurant in Drago
• 1:30 p.m. - Boat Ride to Mimitimbi (or 1.5 hour hike if you are up for it!)
• 2:00 p.m. - Arrival to Mimitimbi. Beach, River and Exploration Time!
• 5:00 p.m. - Boat Ride back to Boca del Drago
• 5:30 p.m. - Arrival back to Hotel in Boca del Drago
• 6:30 p.m. - Dinner at Restaurant
• 8:00 p.m. - Bonfire and Party Time

Sunday

• 8:30 a.m. - Breakfast at Restaurant
• 9:30 a.m. - Boat trip to Bird Island (Swans Cay)
• 9:45 a.m. - Arrival to Bird Island, observe the birds, and if sea conditions allow, snorkel a bit
• 10:45 a.m. Head back to Drago
• 11:00 a.m. - Arrival to Drago, and check out at the hotel
• 11:30 a.m. - Lunch at Restaurant
• 1:00 p.m. - Take boat to Starfish Beach
• 1:05 p.m. - Enjoy the entire afternoon at Starfish Beach
• 5:00 p.m. - Head back to Drago
• 5:30 p.m. - Bus back to Bocas town

For Habla Ya Spanish students this trip will cost $75 per person (and $95 per person for non students).

Price includes:

• Roundtrip transportation Bocas Town - Boca del Drago
• Boat Trip to and back from Mimitimbi, Bird Island (Swans Cay) and Starfish Beach
• 1 night lodging at Hotel in Boca del Drago (rustic cabins)

CONTACT US FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT TRIPS TO BOCA DEL DRAGO IN BOCAS DEL TORO... »

What to bring? Towel, swimwear, change of cloths, mosquito repellent (plenty of it, at dusk there are lots of chitras), passport or copy of it, camera, extra water, and a back-pack. If you want to keep your expenses low, you can also bring your own food and drinks from Bocas town so that you don't spend too much at the local restaurant.

Make the most out of your Spanish learning vacation and book this trip before you arrive to Panama... spaces are limited!

Starfish Beach in Bocas del Toro, Panama

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"Our Academic Director, Janeth Martínez, recently traveled to Medellín in Colombia, to take part in the II Annual Meeting of Accredited Spanish Schools by the Cervantes Institute. As follows she tells us more about her experience and shares with us some very exciting news!"

El pasado 13 y 14 de abril se celebró en Medellín, Colombia, la II Reunión de Centros Asociados del Instituto Cervantes que contó con la presencia de 14 representantes de escuelas, institutos y universidades de Costa Rica, Colombia, Panamá y Guatemala. Dichos centros educativos tenemos en común dos cosas: promovemos la enseñanza del español como lengua extranjera y contamos con una certitificación de calidad avalada por el Instituto Cervantes (IC), institución pública creada en España para promocionar el español y difundir la cultura de los países hispanohablantes.

Representantes de los distintos Centros Acreditados por el Insituto Cervantes que asistimos a la reunión en Medellín. Yo soy la cuarta de derecha a izquierda.

El Instituto Cevantes tiene presencia en los cinco continentes, a través de sus sedes y centros asociados. Actualmente, en Panamá sólo existen dos centros que han aprobado los niveles de calidad propuestos por el IC y tenemos el placer de que nuestra escuela: Habla Ya Spanish School en Boquete, sea uno de ellos, junto con la Universidad Nacional de Panamá. Por esa razón, tuvimos el honor de participar en estos dos días de interesante intercambio de ideas y experiencias, siempre con el objetivo de mantener un alto nivel de calidad en la enseñanza y difusión del español.

Temas tan interesantes como la formación del profesorado, expedición de los Diplomas de Español como Lengua Extranjera (DELE), explotación de la plataforma virtual de enseñanza del español (AVE) y la estandarización en los niveles y subniveles de aprendizaje según el MCER (Marco Común de Referencia Europea), estuvieron presentes en la mesa de discusión, al mismo tiempo que el libre intercambio enriquecedor de ideas, experiencias y opiniones nos permitió acortar las distancias y estrechar los lazos culturales al compartir la preocupación unánime por lograr que nuestros estudiantes vivan una real experiencia de aprendizaje de la lengua y cultura hispanoamericana.

Durante una de las sesiones en la reunión de los Centros Acreditados por el Instituto Cervantes en la Universidad EAFIT en Medellín, Colombia

La reunión fue exitosa y gracias a ello, en los próximos meses nuestro grupo de profesores tanto de Boquete como de Bocas del Toro contará con una semana de actualización sobre la enseñanza de español como lengua extranjera de parte de profesores especializados provenientes de España y de Brasil, quienes trabajan con el Instituto Cervantes para tal fin.

Ahora, al finalizar esta jornada, me siento honrada de haber representado a Habla Ya Spanish Schools, y haber compartido con excelentes profesionales en tan importante evento. De igual forma nos sentimos sumamente felices de haber sido elegidos como el centro anfitrión del III encuentro de Centros Asociados del Instituto Cervantes que se llevará a cabo el próximo año, después del VI Congreso Internacional de la Lengua Española que tendrá a Panamá como sede.

Si les interesa aprender español en Lationamérica, a continuación les comparto la lista de centros que participaron de esta reunión. Todos ellos son centros acreditados por el Instituto Cervantes: Universidad EAFIT (Medellín), Universidad Del Norte (Barranquilla), Universidad Pontificia Bolivariana (Medellín), Universidad Tecnológica Bolívar (Cartagena), Centro Panamericano de Idiomas, CPI (Heredia), Wayra Spanish School (Tamarindo), Celas Maya (Quetzaltenango) y Habla Ya Spanish School (Boquete).

No todo fue trabajo... también nos divertimos un poco cada día!

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT HABLA YA SPANISH SCHOOLS' ACCREDITATIONS AND CERTIFICATIONS... »

Panama has Spanish schools in Panama City, Boquete, Bocas del Toro and Pedasí, so when deciding where to go there are mainly two factors that you should take into account:

• the environment that will surround you during your Spanish learning program
• the quality of the Spanish school

Spanish in Bocas del Toro is for those who dream about warm and turquoise Caribbean waters, white sand beaches, abundant wildlife (dolphins, turtles, toucans, monkeys, coral, tropical fish, and more), a funky island nightlife and water sports such as surfing, scuba diving, sea kayaking, snorkeling, or just taking in the sun with a cold beer or chilling out by the sea.

Spanish in Boquete is for those who love the mountains, being outdoors, fresh air (not hot as in the low lands) and all the adventures that come from being in a cloud forest such as hiking (lots of it!), rafting, kayaking, coffe tours, horseback riding, hot springs, ziplining, mountain biking, etc.

If you're a city person and don't mind the traffic, then Spanish in Panama City is definitively your choice. The bustling capital offers you the Panama Canal, the historical Casco Viejo (the Old City's Quarters), some of Latin America's best shopping malls with the top brands from all over the world, and an amazing nightlife scene. Weekend excursions to the jungle and the beach are a must!

Spanish in Pedasi is a window to Panama's past. Rural Pedasi is a quaint and sleepy fishing village which makes the perfect base to explore the Azuero Peninsula, its traditions, culture and coasts.

In simplistic terms, the environment that you're looking for can be summarized as follows:

• Spanish in Bocas del Toro if you're looking to learn Spanish by the beach with a Caribbean island vibe
• Spanish in Boquete if you're looking to learn Spanish in the mountains with plenty of eco-adventures
• Spanish in Panama City City if you're looking for a vibrant city life, both during the day and night
• Spanish in Pedasi if you're looking for a peaceful destination, off the beaten path, with plenty of culture and traditions, and easy access to the coast

Now, the quality of each Spanish school can be determined by:

• its certifications
• and the reviews it's received from former students

In the case of Habla Ya Spanish Schools in Bocas del Toro and Boquete, both are Official DELE Examination Centers (the most prestigious certification you can obtain to demonstrate your command of the Spanish language) and Habla Ya Spanish school in Boquete is accredited by the Instituto Cervantes, the worldwide authority when it comes to Spanish learning. You can find more about Habla Ya's accreditations by clicking here...

In regards a Spanish school's ratings, there are a series of sites that collect and publish students' reviews such as:

• MyLanguageTravel.com: language school reviews by the students, for the students
• GoAbroad.com: the resource for meaningful travel!
• 123TeachMe: Spanish Language Schools Directory
• Trip Advisor: reviews and advice on hotels, resorts, flights, vacation rentals, travel packages, and lots more!
• Lonely Planet: all you've got to do is decide to go and the hardest part is over. So go!

You should also ask about the school's Spanish teachers:

• if they have university degrees related to languages
• what type of training they receive
• how many years of experience do they have teaching Spanish as a foreign language and for how long have they been working at the same school
• if they are hired full time as opposed to "on demand"

Many Spanish schools in Central America pay their employees by the hour or hire more teachers during high season. This can lead to students being forced into groups of a different level than their own (as under this scheme it's more profitable to have less teachers) and teachers being laid off during low season and thus working without proper training and inspiration.

Full time employed Spanish teachers with proper training and good salaries = happy teachers... and happy teachers = happy students who learn Spanish fast!

So basically that is our advice: think about the type of location you'd like to experience during your Spanish learning program, and then choose a quality Spanish school. Panama has it all and if you want to learn Spanish in Central America it's always possible to combine several Spanish learning destinations to make up the perfect Spanish learning vacation!

And to make your research about where to learn Spanish in Panama even easier, as follows is a list of Spanish schools in Panama that are currently in operation (those who have a website but are effectively closed, aren't listed here):

• Spanish Schools in Panama City: ILERI, Spanish Panama, EPA and Casco Antiguo Spanish School
• Spanish Schools in Bocas del Toro: Habla Ya Bocas del Toro Spanish School and Spanish by the Sea
• Spanish Schools in Boquete: Habla Ya Boquete Spanish School and Spanish by the River
• Spanish School in Pedasi: Buena Vida Language School

And of course we truly believe that Boquete and Bocas del Toro are the best places to learn Spanish in Panama... otherwise we wouldn't call these places our home! At the end of the day it's always possible to spend some time in Panama City at the beginning or at the end of your trip: 2 or 3 days should be enough to visit Casco Viejo, the Panama Canal, Panama La Vieja and do some shopping!

Yes, we are biased: we love the beach and we love the mountains and find them to be more appropriate environments to study Spanish in Panama! Having said that, Habla Ya Spanish Schools do have the most prestigious certifications (which are internationally recognized and can give your CV a boost) amongst Panama's Spanish schools, and consistently have more and better reviews than any other Spanish school in Panama.

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT HABLA YA SPANISH SCHOOLS IN BOQUETE & BOCAS DEL TORO... »

Ziplining was something I never thought I would do during my time in Central America

It started out as a joke that I would go. One of the school directors told me that I needed to experience all Bocas has to offer (I know, poor me!) so that I would have first hand experience when recommending tours to students and tourists. Makes sense, yes, but I thought when it came to the canopy tour, I could let someone else share their experience, not me. However, before I knew what was happening, it was planned that we would go on a Sunday afternoon and I was on the boat heading for Isla Bastimentos and Red Frog Beach.

I think at this point denial would be a good word to sum up how I was feeling. I was convinced that it was not really happening and I preferred to go about my day as if I was just going to another tropical island. We had a delicious lunch of spicy buffalo wings at Kayukos Restaurant which is part of the famous Bocas Bound Island Lodge and then we headed for some beach time. It was a stunning sunny Caribbean day and the beach was gorgeous! Crystal clear blue water, rolling waves, plenty of space to soak up the sun. We all splashed around, sun bathed and took in the beauty of the day.

Me at Red Frog Beach in Bocas del Toro, Panama

Then it was time. I thought about excuses as we walked back to the lodge of why it might be better for me to stay behind. I could explore more of the island, take stellar pictures of the rest of them “zipping,” or just be the encouragement shouting from the safety of the ground. But they would hear none of it and soon I could no longer live in denial because I was being put into my harness and strapped into my gloves and helmet.

The staff was fantastic. They got me talking as we all got ready and it was a wonderful distraction from the growing knot in my stomach. They keep us moving and engaged, which gives less time for pondering the reality of what you are about to partake in. One of the guides even encouraged me by saying that he was scared as well the first time he went. OK, well, he is still alive right? Maybe, I thought, I would live to tell my friends about this day after all.

We were given a safety briefing before we started, which was great because I got to hear how knowledgeable the staff was about every aspect of the zipline. Their step by step instructions gave me an idea of what to expect, which helped ease my nerves (a bit). Then came the hardest part of the day, making the initial climb, up the stairs, to the first platform. However, with each step I took, something in me clicked into place and I knew from this point on, I had to make a choice to either be scared or to try to be open to experiencing this tour for what it really was, an amazing adventure.

From left to right: Evelyne, Melissa, Carlos and I all geared up for the Zipline Canopy Tour in Bastimentos

LEARN MORE ABOUT BOCAS DEL TORO'S ZIPLINE CANOPY TOUR... »

What’s the saying, “courage is not the absence of fear, but the choice that there is something greater then that fear.” Yeah, something like that, but this day I found out how true this is! Now, that being said, it is possible that the guide had to (literally) push me off the first platform because I was unable to move my legs forward when he smiled and said “ready?” Easy for him to say, he has done this who knows how many times. But he was so encouraging and soon, there I was, flying through the air, the stunning landscape of the jungle laid out below me, and my first thought was “this is fantastic!” I loved it! Who would have thought?! Not me, not anyone who knows me, but I loved it! With each cable run, my fear turned into an awesome adrenaline rush and when the last one came there was no doubt in my mind, I was gonna do it upside down with no hands!

The Bastimentos Sky Zipline Canopy Tour is a lot more than your average Costa Rica zipline adventure

The minute I was back on the ground, I knew I wanted to do it again. I am hooked! I can’t wait to go back and “fly” in Bocas del Toro’s Zipline Canopy Tour again! We didn't do the rope course (we were a bit too afraid for that) but next time I'll do it for sure. Everyone says that the zipline in Bocas del Toro is one of the best in Central America, not just because of its incredible setting right next to the Bastimentos National Marine Park, but also because of its challenging and thrilling rope course. So, like I said, never say never, because you never know what you might be missing!

With my surf board ready to get into the water. My surf instructor calls it the magic carpet because everyone gets up on it!

I am 32 and spend most of my working day in front of a computer. I attend the occasional Yoga class, love to go to the beach (Bocas del Toro has loads of them) and run maybe twice per week just to say "I did it", so it is fair to say that I am not exactly physically fit. Even worse... I find every excuse to NOT work out on certain days. So imagine my expression when my boss (and excellent surfer) told me "Evelyne, on Sunday morning at 9AM, you are going to take a surf lesson and give us feedback". The simple thought of getting up early on a Sunday morning (yes, 9AM is early!) already gave me nightmares. Add to that, that I had to be physically active (did I mention it was on a Sunday morning?!)... oh boy... but since my boss doesn’t take NO for an answer, I had no choice but just go with the flow and do it.

On that Sunday morning I woke up tired, dreading the surfing experience, dragging my feet to the water taxi, where I met with my two other colleagues Melissa and Emily, and my friend Rachel. We took a small boat, and only 2 minutes later we arrived on Isla Carenero where the surf school is located. As soon as we arrived we were greeted by our very friendly instructor, Luis Bertone from La Escuela del Mar Surf School, who has been surfing for over 25 years. He also owns a great restaurant called Bibi's, right over the water. But let's not get side tracked and get back to the surfing part. He took a quick look at us, and decided that we qualified for the baby waves (also called the "kitty pool" by the cool people who make fun of amateurs like me). Basically where the uncool people surf. But hey, that's cool, kitty pool it is! Nobody is judging here, right?

Emily and I getting all our surfing gear on

Before I continue telling you more about my surf lesson, I wanted to make a quick parenthesis about my previous experience with surfers – I was convinced for many, many years that surfers were dumb, sometimes good looking, but mainly brainless and uninteresting "dudes" with long blond hair. One time a surfer told me that every wave has it's personality, while staring at a surf video, a beer in his hand... what a turn off... I don’t have to tell you that I stopped listening right there.

Back to the theory part of our lesson – actually, believe it or not, this is the most important part! From my own experience I can tell you, that if you don't follow the advice of the (very smart) surf instructor, you will fall off and swallow a significant amount of salt water! Not fun!

The theoretical part of surfing is very important so pay attention!

Luis showed us how to lay down on the board, and how to get up (the looser version in 3 steps, and the cool one for those who get it right away!), and more importantly the security instructions to follow strictly. He also explained the code that surfers have amongst them, in order to avoid accidents. Once the theory was finished, he gave us rash guards and water shoes, so that we would not get hurt or sunburned. Oh and of course... the surf board selection: Luis took another quick look at us, and decided that since I was the tallest, I should get what he calls "the magic carpet" – I asked why he calls it that way, and his answer was: "because everyone gets up on that one...". Oops - no pressure here!

Rachel, Melissa and I preparing to get into the water before catching our first waves

So let's recap – we get to ride the girly looser waves, and on top of that I get the looser board.. oh well... whatever you say, surfer dude! Bring it on!

LEARN MORE ABOUT SURF LESSONS IN BOCAS DEL TORO, PANAMA... »

And finally we're ready for the funnest part: we get into the water, and off we paddle! Did I mention that paddling is really hard, especially on a Sunday morning?

I felt like my 10 footer was heavy as hell, but that could have just been a distorted impression of someone who is really (not) fit. Luis never left our side, and checked every one of our moves from his sea kayak – this was great! He was paddling next to us, while shouting things that we only partly understood (under water you don't hear that well)... but the motivational factor was there, and I felt really safe which is important in order to enjoy this activity completely. Surfing can be very scary for a controlling person like me. Having a huge (baby) wave arriving at full (baby) speed behind you, and then getting ready to take it (Luis pushes you) is a very pleasant experience full of adrenalin! You don’t have much time to react! Luis yelled "get up" and of course I fell off of my looser board, in the looser wave, proving the magic carpet theory wrong.

But don’t worry, I wasn't going to give up...

My friend Emily catching her first wave

I went back! And I rode the next wave, believe it or not, like a baby pro! That's when I started to really enjoy myself! Surfing is great, I must confess! Now I understand how this activity can monopolize people's entire evening conversations, talking just about that one wave! OK, the conversation part is still boring, but I definitely want to keep trying this incredibly exhausting, fun and challenging sport. I now admit not all surfers are dumb (I do have to say that my boss is a very intelligent person, and so is Luis!) and I respect them a whole lot more. I would recommend a surfing class to anyone visiting Bocas del Toro, no matter how old or young you are! Surfing is so much fun! It is also safe if you follow the instructions, and if you do it with friends, you also get a good laugh out of watching them.

Me and my friend Rachel catching our first waves!

I am very happy that I was forced to try this out, because otherwise I would have missed the chance to experience something that I didn't know I would be capable of and that I actually like, and I cannot wait until the girls and I can go for a second round. Maybe this weekend as the swell is picking up again: I might even try the cool waves!

LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR SPANISH & SURF PROGRAM... »

You can't visit a Central American country in the tropics and go home without having seen a monkey. Join us on our trip to Chorcha, Chiriqui and we'll make sure that you see loads of them!

We'll be traveling to Chorcha during the following weekends of 2012:

• Saturday March 24th - Sunday March 25th
• Saturday June 30th - Sunday July 1st

Alouatta Lodge. Chorcha, Panama

Our itinerary will be as follows:

Saturday

• 9 a.m. - Depart from Boquete
• 10:30 a.m. - Arrival to Chorcha and welcoming
• 11 a.m. - Introductory speech (search for monkeys, photos session)
• 12:30 p.m. - Lunch
• 2:00 p.m. - Hike to the lagoon
• 2:45 p.m. - Arrival to the lagoon, and try to spot crocodiles
• 5:30 p.m. - Setup camp
• 7:00 p.m. - Dinner (BBQ)
• 8:00 p.m. - Interactive Spanish session
• 9:00 p.m. - Monkey party night

Sunday

• 7:30 a.m. - Breakfast
• 8:30 a.m. - Departure to indigenous community
• 9:00 a.m. - Arrival to the indigenous community (get to know their modus vivendi)
• 11:00 a.m. - Leave back to the camp
• 12:30 p.m. - Lunch
• 2:00 p.m. - Short hike to the river
• 2:30 p.m. - Swim in the river
• 4:00 p.m. - Head back to the camp
• 4:30 p.m. - Head back to Boquete
• 6:00 p.m. - Arrival to Boquete

For Habla Ya Spanish students this trip will cost $150 per person (and $175 per person for non students). Price includes:

• Roundtrip transportation Boquete to Chorcha
• Meals (2 lunches, 1 dinner, 1 breakfast)
• Snacks and drinks: rum, beer and water
• Camping gear: tent, sleeping bag, mat, flashlight, first aid kit, tarp

CONTACT US FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT TRIPS TO THE CHORCHA MONKEY RESERVE... »

What to bring? Towel, soap, mosquito repellent, passport or copy of it, camera, extra water and a back-pack.

What a better way to spend the weekend after several days of intensive Spanish classes? Join your fellow classmates and Spanish teachers: come and experience the magic and the sounds of the jungle... come to see and hear the animals of the Chorcha reserve!

View of the Chiriqui Gulf from Chorcha

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• #1 in The New York Times list of 45 Places to Go in 2012
• Included in Travel + Leisure's 12 must-see travel destinations for 2012 (also featured on video over MSNBC's show TODAY, go to 1 minute 50 seconds)
• Also mentioned by The Financial Times amongst their Top Destinations 2012

Bocas del Toro, in Panama's Caribbean, is one of Panama's most exciting destinations

When studying Spanish at Habla Ya Spanish Schools in Bocas del Toro and Boquete, Panama we'll make sure to keep you highly entertained during the weekends when you're not having Spanish lessons. You'll not only learn Spanish but we'll take you all over the country too!

During these summer holidays we will be offering the following trips to different parts of Panama.

SIGN UP & REGISTER TO LEARN SPANISH IN CENTRAL AMERICA AT HABLA YA SPANISH SCHOOLS... »

Trips departing from Boquete, Panama

May

• Sunday 20th: Soloy Indigenous Community Full Day Trip, $75 for students, $95 non students
• Saturday 26th - Sunday 27th: Chiriqui Gulf Camping Trip, $150 for students, $175 non students

June

• Saturday 2nd - Sunday 3rd: Yoga Retreat at The Lost & Found, $155 for students, $175 non students
• Saturday 9th - Monday 11th: Bocas del Toro Weekend Trip, $195 for students, $225 non students
• Saturday 16th - Sunday 17th: Volcán Barú Camping Trip, $125 for students, $175 non students
• Saturday 23rd - Sunday 24th: Chiriqui Gulf Camping Trip, $150 for students, $175 non students
• Saturday 30th - Sunday 1st: Chorcha Monkey Reserve Camping Trip, $150 for students, $175 non students

July

• Saturday 7th - Monday 9th: Bocas del Toro Weekend Trip, $195 for students, $225 non students
• Saturday 14th - Sunday 15th: Cerro Punta Overnight Trip, $175 for students, $195 non students
• Saturday 21st - Sunday 22nd: Chiriqui Gulf Camping Trip, $150 for students, $175 non students
• Saturday 28th - Monday 30th: Azuero Peninsula Overnight Trip, $195 for students, $225 non students

August

• Saturday 4th - Monday 6th: Bocas del Toro Weekend Trip, $195 for students, $225 non students
• Sunday 12th: Soloy Indigenous Community Full Day Trip, $75 for students, $95 non students
• Saturday 18th - Sunday 19th: Chiriqui Gulf Camping Trip, $150 for students, $175 non students

Trips departing from Bocas del Toro, Panama

May

• Sunday 20th: Catamaran Sailing Tour, $40 for students, $45 non students
• Saturday 26th - Sunday 27th: Boca del Drago Weekend Trip, $75 for students, $95 non students

June

• Saturday 2nd - Sunday 3rd: Yoga Retreat at The Lost & Found, $155 for students, $175 non students
• Saturday 9th - Sunday 10th: Bluff Beach Camping Trip, $50 for students, $75 non students
• Saturday 16th - Sunday 17th: San San Pond Sak Wetlands Weekend Trip, $125 for students, $150 non students
• Saturday 23rd - Sunday 24th: Salt Creek, Bahía Honda and Playa Larga Weekend Trip, $95 for students, $125 non students
• Saturday 30th - Sunday 1st: Red Frog Weekend Trip, $95 for students, $125 non students

July

• Saturday 7th - Sunday 8th: Boca del Drago Weekend Trip, $75 for students, $95 non students
• Saturday 14th - Sunday 15th: Bluff Beach Camping Trip, $50 for students, $75 non students
• Saturday 21st - Sunday 22nd: San San Pond Sak Wetlands Weekend Trip, $125 for students, $150 non students
• Saturday 28th - Sunday 29th: Salt Creek, Bahía Honda and Playa Larga Weekend Trip, $95 for students, $125 non students

August

• Sunday 5th: Catamaran Sailing Tour, $40 for students, $45 non students
• Saturday 11th - Sunday 12th: Red Frog Weekend Trip, $95 for students, $125 non students
• Saturday 18th - Sunday 19th: Boca del Drago Weekend Trip, $75 for students, $95 non students

SIGN UP & REGISTER TO LEARN SPANISH IN CENTRAL AMERICA AT HABLA YA SPANISH SCHOOLS... »

We've included plenty of beach time, mountains, wildlife, rivers, culture and eco-tourism... something for everybody to enjoy. So if you want to learn Spanish and discover Panama, what are you waiting for to Sign Up & Register?

You can find more information about our lodging options and Spanish courses by exploring our website.

During a Catamaran Sailing Tour in Bocas del Toro, Panama

So what do you think? Are you ready for an intense Spanish learning vacation and Panama exploration? Feel free to leave a comment about anything else you would like to do during your summer vacation...