Panama Flag Wind Caribbean During the spring of 2012 I had the opportunity to travel through one of the most beautiful countries in Central America: Panama.

To experience the numerous tropical islands, wildlife, miles of uninhabited beaches and diverse culture was a treat in itself but what I enjoyed most was going off-the-beaten-path to floating villages which lived alongside modern-day Panamanian society.

As a former Spanish colony, you can find a mixture Creoles, Mestizos, European immigrants, Africans and, of course, the local indigenous Indians living peacefully with each other.  I had quite the opportunity to immerse myself in the Panamanian way of life as I island hopped from the mainland, out towards Isla Bastimentos for some mid-day snorkeling as well as deep into the jungles of various islands to visit villages such as the one in Isla Solarte.  It was a totally different way of life compared to the villages I’ve ventured to in other parts of the world such as Chantanohm Banna Village in Northern Laos but that’s just one reason why I enjoy trekking to such villages…to see the many different ways of life. 

Take a look at some of my favorite photos taken while visiting the lush paradise of Bocas del Toro, Panama!

Isla Solarte Village Huts

Housing Huts built in the Village on Isla Solarte. 

Local Sitting on the Phono

Local sitting on the step of an abandoned building using his phone in Bocas del Toro.

Walkway

Walkway leading to the Village of Isla Solarte.

Water Homes

Waterfront house on stilts found on the way to Bocas del Toro.

Boy in Canoe

Local canoeing in the waterways off Panama.

Diving Hut

Diving hut & restaurant off Isla Bastimentos.

Coral Reef

Purple & Yellow starfish swarmed the reef.

Coral Reef 2

I found these large “bowls” off Isla Bastimentos.

Red Frog Beach

Red Frog Beach during the evening sunset.

Looking at the Ocean

One of the many beautiful Coastal views from Panama.

Trev Filming

Filming the waves during sunset hours.

Frog Beach Sunset

The sunset off Red Frog Beach was phenomenal!

Have you ever been to Panama?  What do you like most about it?