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 Only
a short flight from Miami, Panama is nothing
more than a hop, skip and a jump from most North
American locations. Upon arrival, you will be
picked up at the airport and whisked away to
the luxurious Gamboa Rainforest Resort, just
off the Panama Canal. Originally constructed
over 70 years ago to house the foreign workers
who drudged the canal, the facilities have been
updated and the resort has emerged as one of
the premier luxury destinations in all of Central
America. While at Gamboa, you'll have access
to a number of unique activities. For starters,
you'll head over for a tour of the Canal - if
you're like most people, you'll stare in awe
at this marvel of construction.
 After
visiting the Canal, it's time to head up into
the jungle treetops via Gamboa's brand-new aerial
tram. In addition to breathtaking views of the
area, you'll get a great education on canopy
flora and fauna. Another worthwhile excursion
is to take a casual cruise down the pristine
waters of the Chagres River. Finally, in between
activities, you'll want to take full advantage
of the resort's facilities. With a fabulous
swimming pool, top notch restaurants, easy access
to the Panama Canal and unlimited hiking opportunities,
you will wish you had two weeks to enjoy the
magical solitude of the rainforest rather than
three days - you can even wile away the days
reading on your private balcony hammock.
 After
unwinding at Gamboa, your next stop will be
the lush island of San Jose, about 90km off
the Pacific Coast. This mostly uninhabited island
is a wonderful place to get a true eco-experience.
It's covered in virgin rainforest, crisscrossed
by cool streams and surrounded by beautiful
ocean reefs. There's also wildlife to been seen
including, deer, iguanas, marine turtles, parrots,
dwarf anteaters and wild boar. Your days can
be spent relaxing on a completely secluded beach,
participating in a full range of water activities,
or exploring the island via foot, mountain bike,
ATV (all terrain vehicle) or canoe. Your home
on San Jose will be the lovely Hacienda del
Mar,  an
intimate eco-resort consisting of 14 finely
designed and decorated cabanas, a large restaurant
& clubhouse, and a beautiful pool. You'll be
staying in one of the VIP Suites, which offers
incredible views of the ocean, a large private
balcony and a full range of amenities.
 Your
journey ends in the lush mountains and green
rolling plains of western Panama, a mere 30
minutes by airplane from San Jose Island. You'll
be picked up by private van in the town of David,
the commercial hub of the Chiriqui Province,
and treated to magnificent views of the countryside
as you make your way to Los Establos Hotel outside
of Boquete. Situated in the middle of a coffee
plantation at 4,000 feet of elevation, this
recently completed property offers stunning
views of Volcan Baru, the tallest mountain in
Panama, as well as the "City of Flowers" (Boquete)
below. Raft through thrilling rapids on the
Chiriqui River, tour a traditional Panamanian
coffee plantations, soak yourselves in natural
hot-springs or simply enjoy the incredible beauty
of Boquete from a street café - this little
corner of the Earth has it all.
Prior
to heading home, you'll make one final stop
in Panama City, the country's vibrant capital.
You can choose to explore the city, or simply
unwind at the Bristol, one of the finest hotels
in the country. A little pampering will be the
perfect way to end your Panama honeymoon.
Who
will enjoy this trip
Those looking to split their time between relaxing
on the beach and exploring nature. Those interested
in a less touristy tropical destination.
Who
should avoid this trip
Those desiring spa or large resort accommodations
are better off elsewhere. Those interested in
5-star luxury. Those who value and wish to emphasize
nightlife as part of their honeymoon experience.
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