The soul craves adventure, We cannot always stay stagnant. I was yearning some adventure. Being on an island limits my ability to see any cities, I do get the chance to hike and explore often but I have yet to see Panama City. While teaching yoga at the resort two amazing guests named Lucy and David invited me to drive down to Casci Viejo with them. I was hesitant as this allowed me a ride but I was to explore the city and stay in a hostel alone. This would be my first time traveling for pleasure alone.
I decided to go for it, I feared eating alone, walking alone and socializing but I know what I fear is a driving factor to self improvement. As long as I stay in a bubble I will not grow. Coming to Panama alone to teach yoga was a journey with such growth why not adventure to the city and see it while I’m here.
Panama City is rather large, I stayed in a place called Old Town. Geared more towards tourists and with most speaking spanish and english. It is very safe to walk alone and the military and police presence is obvious as they are on every few blocks. I stayed at a Hostel called Luna’s castle, It was this location or another hostel but this location was the ideal choice. It was more homey and older then the other hostel. The other hostels in the area look to appeal to a party crowd where this felt like a genuine hostel experience. I stayed in a 12 bed room, Each bed had a curtain which provided some privacy. It’s pretty crazy what $14 can get you! Pancakes and coffee every morning, a place to lock your things and enough plug ins to keep your essentials charged. The most important thing, is a sense of peace and safety.
I’m not a big party animal like I was in the past, I tried the whole drinking thing here and I wasn’t feeling it. Great bars if that’s your thing, I enjoy the food, history and beauty this town provides. Some buildings have been restored while others look abandoned, The trees and plants have over grown them. This leaves a look that I would describe as post apocalyptic with a clash of restoration bliss. Almost strange seeing the two next to each other but unique in every way possible. Walking is very easy here, you hardly need an uber or cab. Everything is in walking distance from the ocean to shops to food to historic sites.
My favorite part about this adventure was the food! I eat mostly vegetarian with a toss of seafood and I was never short of options. I mostly ate salads, grain bowls, smoothies and pancakes. All of which are my favorite things. My favorite restaurant was called DoDo, A cute little French hole in the wall next to the ocean. It was not only delicious but very healthy. I also ate at a place called Mahalo, which was another healthy option providing the nutrition my soul was craving.
I did visit a Yoga studio twice during my stay. The studio was called Casco Yoga. I took a mellow flow and a vinyasa class. I highly recommend this studio. It is on a second level with a beautiful balcony. The class challenged me but left me feeling in total bliss. Being a yoga teacher it is a treat to take a class and be lead by another teacher with such skill and grace. It allows you to let down your hair and it reminded me how much I learn from taking classes to bring to my own teaching journey. So much love for the welcoming atmosphere, cleanliness and quality of yoga found at Casco Yoga.
Are you thinking of traveling? If so what is stopping you?
If it’s fear, let that be your guide. Always practice safety but don’t lock yourself up. Break free and do the things you crave. There may be limitations like money, time off or other responsibilities but I promise if you truly want something, you will find a way. The universe has your back, Just be open to what it brings and keep manifesting.
Keep an eye out for a video on my Youtube Channel, I have many videos to show you.
Much Love,
Jess
