Panama City, Panama

Marian just returned from a 4 day excursion to Panama. Panama City was a pleasant surprise. The city has many skyscrapers which include office building, condos and hotels. They skyline resembles that of Miami. She stayed at the Bristol, Panama, which is a Virtuoso property. This boutique hotels offers a luxurious retreat from the hustle and bustle of the big city. Just two years old the hotel offers personalized service including butlers, gourmet dining including one of the finest restaurants in the city, and rooms with state of the art amenities including the most comfortable beds in Panama complete with Hungarian down pillows.
While in Panama she toured the city. There is an area there called Casca Viejo which is being renovated and will resemble New Orleans in its hay days.
She toured the Panama Canal where she witnessed a large container ship transit the canal and then off to the Northwest Pacific Coast to the sister property of the the Bristol, the Bristol Buenaventura. This luxury beachfront resort, also a Virtuoso property, is the finest hotel on the coast. It has a long stretch of beach, 2 miles, that is perfect for walking or running, and the warm waters of the Pacific are inviting for swimmers, kayakers and jet skiiers. The resort offers horseback riding, complete spa services, fitness center, gourmet dining, two pools, jacuzzi and swim up bar. The accommodations are very luxurious with the same wonderfully comfortable beds with Hungarian down comforters, flat screen tv, in-room wifi access,
soaking tub with separate shower, and balconies. The resorts open-air lobby is both inviting and comfortable with cool breezes constantly blowing through. Check out this incredible property on line at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R4ARHpZze-c.
Nearby activities include ziplining, nature hikes in the rain forest, birding, cycling, trips to local craft markets, and taking in the natural beauty of this area.
The average temperature is 85 degrees and on the coast there is almost always a wonderful, cooling breeze.
If you are looking for a destination that will both surprise and delight you, Panama is it. Call Marian plan your Panamanian experience. You may even come home with a Panama hat!

Tahiti, Bora Bora and Moorea

Deb sailed the Society Islands on the luxurious Paul Gauguin in August 2010. She flew into Tahaiti and spent 7 incredible days visiting the islands Of Bora Bora, Tahaa, Moorea, Raiatea, and Papeete. The ship's small size, just 300 passengers, offered a friendly yet sophisticated atmosphere. On the Paul Gauguin, gratuities and cocktails, wine and beer are included in the price. The ship is one of a kind offering very personalized service, gourmet dining, onboard naturalists and guest speakers, dive classes and more. It was a complete imersion into the gentle culture of the people of the Society Islands. Deb liked the island of Tahaa best. But you may like another one better. Call Deb today and she can help you plan your trip!