Bocas del Toro

The Bocas del Toro archipelago is dotted with islands (nine major islands - some over 40 miles long, 59 smaller islands and nearly 240 tiny cays and islets), many with (quite literally) miles of white sand beaches - clear turquoise waters and acres of shallow coral reef, teeming with life. Offshore, the Caribbean quickly turns cobalt blue, and deep-sea fishing is a favorite sport (it is also excellent on the Pacific side of Panama): dolphin, tuna, cobia and wahoo are all found in these waters. To get a real idea of the number of islands of the region, get hold of a detailed nautical chart of Almirante Bay.

Isla Colon is far and away the most developed - and the most visited - of the Bocas del Toro islands. You will find the thriving town of Bocas on the southeastern tip. Bocas is the provincial capital of the region and has a population of around 5,000.

Word of this unspoiled Caribbean location has spread, and Bocas now attracts visitors from around the globe, not just from the USA - drawn to its year-round warm weather (82F/28C), biological diversity and seemingly endless beauty. And, complementing this, visitors can also experience the vibrant Bocas nightlife, folksy shopping, a wide range of cuisines, and relaxed locals.

Volcan Barú, the highest point in Panama

In contrast to the sparkling Caribbean waters, across the way on the mainland, the lush hills rise quickly from the sea, transforming into mature rainforest - and higher still, into cloud rainforest. The highest point in Panama is a few hours away: Volcan Barú, the region's imposing long-dormant volcano, that is now a top attraction for visitors to Panama. And on the other side, way down in the foothills of Barú, our new development, the 164-acre mountain retreat, often swathed in cool mists, Volcan Pacifica.