Escape to Bocas

Bocas del Toro definitely stole my heart.

I visited this series of islands three times in the two years I lived in Panama.

Escape to Bocas

There is this sticker all over Casco Viejo that reads “Escape to Bocas.” It’s on lampposts, scaffolding, and the sides of abandoned buildings. It caught my attention right away.

Since moving to Panama in July 2022, I have visited Bocas del Toro three times, and it doesn’t feel like enough. As we near our end here in Panama, I kept telling Jon—how can we squeeze in one more trip to Bocas?

It became my favorite place in Panama.

History of Bocas del Toro

Bocas del Toro, often simply referred to as Bocas, is a province consisting of several islands in the Caribbean Sea. The archipelago was first inhabited by indigenous groups such as the Guna, who have traditions that persist to this day.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Bocas del Toro became a bustling banana trade center. The United Fruit Company, now known as Chiquita, established a significant presence here, influencing the region's development. This period brought a diverse mix of Afro-Caribbean workers, whose descendants contribute to the culture of Bocas today.

Culture

Bocas del Toro is a mix of influences from indigenous peoples, Afro-Caribbean people, and expats from around the world. This cultural diversity is evident in the food, music, and festivals.

The food includes Afro-Caribbean flavors and traditional Panamanian dishes. Some of the foods to try include patacones (fried plantains), fresh seafood, and Caribbean-style rice and beans cooked in coconut milk.

The rhythm of life in Bocas is accompanied by the sounds of reggae, calypso, and indigenous music. The annual Feria del Mar, or Sea Fair, is a celebration of the region’s maritime heritage, featuring parades, music, and traditional dance performances that showcase the rich cultural heritage of the area.

Nature

Bocas del Toro is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Each island has its own charm, from the bustling hub of Isla Colón to the beaches of Isla Bastimentos.

For surfers, Bocas is a dream come true. The consistent waves and warm waters attract surfers from around the globe.

I’ll be back!

As we prepare to leave Panama, I can’t help but feel a pang of longing for one more trip to Bocas. It’s a place that embodies the warmth of the Caribbean and its people. So, if you ever find yourself in Panama, take the advice of those stickers scattered across the city: “Escape to Bocas.” Trust me, it’s worth it.

These are the three places I stayed:

La Selva at Nomad Tree Lodge

Bambuda Bocas Town

Bambuda Isla Solarte

My favorite restaurants:

Breakfast