The end of 2019 and the beginning of 2020 brought a wonderful opportunity for a reunion with Tahir—this time, in Panama. After months of planning, we finally arranged for him to visit from Canada, and seeing him step off the plane in Panama City was a moment of pure joy. He had left the freezing Toronto winter behind and landed straight into the heart of the tropics, an experience that in itself was something unforgettable.

These two weeks together flew by too quickly, but they were filled with celebrations, reunions, and incredible explorations—from city life in Panama City to the lush highlands of Volcán and the serene beaches of Boca Chica and Río Hato.

Panama City – A Festive Reunion

We kicked off Tahir’s visit with Christmas and New Year celebrations in Panama City, sharing the joy with friends, some of whom—like Alessandro—still remembered him from his time in Bangkok. The city was alive with holiday spirit, illuminated by festive lights, while fireworks lit up the skyline as we welcomed 2020 together.

Panama City is a place where history and modernity exist side by side. We strolled through Casco Viejo, the city’s historic quarter, where colonial-era buildings, charming plazas, and rooftop bars offered the perfect setting for catching up. Nearby, the towering skyline of the modern financial district stood in stark contrast, reminding us of the city’s rapid growth. And, of course, no visit to Panama City would be complete without stopping by the Panama Canal, where we watched massive cargo ships navigate the locks, a feat of engineering that never ceases to impress.

Gamboa – Into the Heart of the Jungle

Leaving the city behind, we headed to Gamboa, a small town on the edge of the Panama Canal Zone, known for its untamed rainforest and rich biodiversity. This was a stark contrast to the city’s urban buzz—here, we were surrounded by towering trees, dense jungle, and the sounds of exotic wildlife. We took a boat trip along the Chagres River, spotting toucans, howler monkeys, and even a few crocodiles basking on the riverbanks. The highlight, however, was seeing Tahir experience the jungle for the first time—his fascination with the raw beauty of nature was contagious.

Paso Ancho, Cerro Punta, and Volcán – Exploring the Highlands

Wanting to show Tahir a completely different side of Panama, we made our way towards Paso Ancho, Cerro Punta, and Volcán, a region near the Costa Rican border. Unlike the tropical heat of Panama City, the highlands offered crisp, cool air, rolling green hills, and coffee farms stretching as far as the eye could see.

One of the most special moments of the trip happened in Volcán, where Tahir had the chance to interact with a sloth up close. Watching him gently hold and observe the slow-moving creature, with its endearing expression and unhurried movements, was a moment of pure joy. Sloths are iconic to Central America, and seeing one in such an intimate setting was a rare and beautiful experience.

Cerro Punta, the highest town in Panama, was another highlight. Known as the breadbasket of Panama, the region is famous for its fertile volcanic soil, producing a large portion of the country’s fruits and vegetables. Walking through the terraced farms and mist-covered valleys, we took in breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, a side of Panama that most visitors never get to see.

Las Naranjos and Boca Chica – Quiet Escapes

We also took time to explore Las Naranjos, a peaceful area surrounded by coffee plantations and cloud forests. The scenery was stunning—rolling hills, flowering plants, and hummingbirds darting between the trees. It was the perfect place for long walks and quiet moments, appreciating the stillness of nature.

From there, we made our way to Boca Chica, a hidden coastal paradise along the Pacific. With its tiny islands, turquoise waters, and untouched beaches, it felt like stepping into a postcard. We took a boat out to one of the secluded islands, where we spent the day swimming in crystal-clear waters and soaking in the sun.

Río Hato – A Farewell by the Sea

Before Tahir’s visit came to an end, we made one last stop at Río Hato, a coastal town known for its pristine beaches and luxury resorts. It was the perfect place to slow down and savour our last few days together. We spent our time walking along the shore, watching the sunset over the Pacific, and simply appreciating the company of a dear friend before parting ways once again.

A Visit That Ended Too Soon

Two weeks in Panama passed in the blink of an eye, filled with laughter, adventure, and meaningful reunions. Seeing Tahir experience Panama for the first time, moving between bustling cities, remote jungles, and coastal escapes, made the trip even more special.

As he boarded his flight back to Canada, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for these moments—proof that, no matter where life takes us, some friendships remain strong, stretching across continents, time zones, and changing seasons.

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