Central America

Bocas del Toro: Safe for Gay Couples? – The Nomadic Boys

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Bocas del Toro - Nomadic Boys

Two gay boys hanging out on Bluff beach with no one around, except a few friendly Golden Retrievers, the palm trees and the gorgeous backdrop of the Caribbean.

We celebrated Stefan’s birthday in Bocas del Toro in Panama, an area with a wide mix of people who do not care about your sexuality. We found it to be very relaxed, with an incredibly tolerant and friendly vibe. Many LGBTQ expats have even chosen Bocas as a place to live or set up a new business, so there’s a handful of gay owned places here to check out.

We absolutely loved our holiday at Bluff Beach and definitely recommend it to other LGBTQ travellers looking for a private and very romantic slice of Caribbean paradise.

Where is Bocas del Toro?

Bocas del Toro province is in northeast Panama on the Caribbean coast and next to the border with Costa Rica. It includes a chain of 9 islands, each with its own unique charm and character. Temperatures here rarely drop below 20 degrees (68 Fahrenheit), and when it rains, it’s just a quick tropical burst of showers before it quickly clears.

Bocas is the main town and transport hub into the region, located on Colon Island. You can reach it via daily flights to/from Panama City (45 mins) or overland by bus from Panama City to Almirante (around 11 hrs), followed by a boat from Almirante (30 mins).

By Stefan Arestis – Full Story at the Nomadic Boys

Panama Gay Travel Resources

Gay Panama City – The Nomadic Boys

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gay Panama City - Nomadic Boys

Panama City is often nicknamed The Dubai of Latin America because of its immense economic growth in recent years and impressive dense skyline. But unlike Dubai, this mighty Latin American metropolis has a far more welcoming gay life, in a country where although culturally conservative, is pushing towards civil union equality for gay couples.

Most will associate Panama City with the famous canal, which is a reason alone to visit. The city is also the gateway to some gorgeous tropical beaches within Panama, like San Blas and further afield – Bocas del Toro.

We stayed in Panama City for a week and found it to be a lot of fun, full of things to do, plenty of trendy bars, but most importantly, we left with a thirst to return. This is our gay guide to Panama City following our experience here during our big Latin America trip.

Gay Panama City

Panama a very conservative Catholic country, with a strong influence from Opus Dei. As such, the gay scene in the country is pretty underground in quite dodgy neighbourhoods, with places frequently closing down/changing. When we visited, there were no gay bars and only one official gay club (see below) in Panama City.

Warning: when going out to a gay club in Panama City, doormen are very strict and will only admit you if you have your original ID, preferably your passport. Most LGBTQ locals we met preferred to have private parties, or attend one of the the monthly gay rooftop parties hosted at venues like the Hard Rock Hotel.

By Stefan Arestis – Full Story at The Nomadic Boys

Gay Panama City Travel Resources

What to Do On Your El Salvador Layover – Nomadic Boys

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El Salvador

First question we asked our guide Moises, was why El Salvador is considered one of the most dangerous countries in the world. His response, which we love:

“…it’s because once you come here you’ll never want to leave!!”

Whilst this small country in Central America does suffer from gang violence, for most tourists visiting, you’re unlikely to ever encounter any problems.

We had a long 6 hours layover at San Salvador airport, so we decided to venture out to see the country. The reports about how dangerous El Salvador is did make us worry for our safety, so we decided to search for a reputable tour company and do a layover tour with them. We found Salvadorean Tours on Tripadvisor and chose them because of all their excellent reviews.

What impressed us the most was that upon arrival at San Salvador airport, they have a dedicated layover express desk who will meet you at the gate as soon as you get off the plane, then whisk you through customs, all the way to the exit to meet your guide. We’ve never seen that before at any airport!

These are our 5 best things to do on your layover in El Salvador, to give you a flavour of what you can expect, and why you should also consider it, instead of waiting around for hours at the airport.

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Hike the Boqueron volcano crater

After trekking the Rinjani volcano in Indonesia, we were ready to conquer another one. The Boqueron volcano dominates the skyline of San Salvador – the capital city of El Salvador. It’s located in the Boqueron National Park at an altitude of 6,210 feet (1,892m), around 40 minutes’ drive from San Salvador downtown. The Boqueron is also called Quetzaltebec, named after the quetzal, which is the country’s national bird.

We hiked around the volcano crater in the Boqueron National Park, which has several viewpoints both into the crater below and also over San Salvador. The hike took around 1 hour, but you can also descend down to the volcano crater if you have time.

Although the last eruption was in 1917, it’s best to check the situation beforehand – a good local tour company will be the best source of this information.

By Stefan Arestis – Full Story at The Nomadic Boys

El Salvador Gay Travel Resources

Prana Rainforest Retreat – Gay Manuel Antonio Retreat

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Prana Rainforest Retreat

Welcome to Costa Rica’s Prana Rainforest Retreat, a luxurious bali-style villa in Manuel Antonio, made just for you and your partner. Come stay with us and experience expert massage therapy, yoga and exotic gourmet meals.

You can spend your whole day here, if you want, lounging together on your romantic day bed, suspended over a private tropical pool. Practice yoga on the deck by our peaceful waterfall, surrounded by a tropical forest filled with monkeys and toucans.

Our Costa Rica retreat sits on the border of Manuel Antonio National Park, just minutes away from world-famous white sand beaches.

Your hosts Mark and Jon, built the Prana Rainforest Retreat as an extension of their business, Prana Spa, in Key West. We offer our retreat as a bed and breakfast – a full breakfast is served each morning, including items such as:

  • Omelets filled with fresh homemade goat cheese and herbs from our greenhouse, made with eggs from our own chickens
  • Fresh homemade granola and yogurt served with organic fruit from our own trees
  • Almond pancakes topped with maple syrup infused with homegrown ginger and cardamom
  • Fruit smoothies, fresh squeezed juices, and organic Costa Rican coffee.

The retreat’s Guest Villa offers 1,400 square feet of living space, and includes a king-sized bed, large living room, and a step-through “rain shower” room opening up onto the pool deck. You can look up from your shower and see a flock of toucans in the trees above!

Our Manuel Antonio villa is furnished with museum-quality furnishings collected from India, Indonesia and Thailand, and the open air design allows cool jungle breezes to pass through, or if you prefer, you can fully air condition the rooms.

Prana Rainforest Retreat was made for relaxation – lay in a hammock on your private covered deck by the waterfall, read a book on the cushioned Bali Bed suspended over your private pool, have a glass of wine in your living room, or take a nap on your comfortable antique king-sized bed.

Each of these spaces has a wonderful view into the surrounding rainforest, and there are also have trails traversing the property which you can explore while you are here.

The Prana Rainforest Retreat is a wonderful, private getaway which you’ll have all to yourself. It’s also a great base for exploring the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica – head off after breakfast each day to experience the beautiful beaches and adventure excursions that make Manuel Antonio a world-class resort destination.

See the Prana Rainforest Retreat Expanded Listing on Purple Roofs Here

Prana Rainforest Retreat Gay Friendly Bed and Breakfasts, Hotels, and Vacation Rentals

Hotel Banana Azul – Costa Rica Gay Hotel

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Hotel Banana Azul - Costa Rica Gay Hotel

Are you ready for an authentic Caribbean vacation in Costa Rica? Lush jungle, bountiful wildlife, colorful local flavor and private unspoiled beaches are just a few things that make Puerto Viejo so magical. Beachfront on the black sands of Playa Negra you will find Hotel Banana Azul, a tucked away haven perfect for couples and friends alike.

The main hotel consists of 14 guest rooms, rustic in style with a touch of tropical elegance, and built from local hardwoods. Just across the street are the new and modern Villas Banana Verde, four two-story luxury accommodations with fully equipped kitchen and private plunge pool.

Hotel Banana Azul - Costa Rica Gay Hotel

Next door is Casa Las Brisas, our sister property, which consists of four rooms boasting ocean views and rustic hardwood design. Throughout the properties there are a variety of outdoor living spaces, open air kitchens, tropical outdoor baths and meticulously manicured gardens. All areas (including the beach club) are equipped with high-speed fiber optic wireless internet and are in close proximity to the pool, beach and restaurant.

The hotel grounds are equally impressive, surrounded by tropical gardens, ocean views, and a beautiful pool to take a cool dip after a sunny day. Some guests choose to cook and dine private outdoor spaces while others prefer sitting in the shade under a rancho sipping pina coladas on the beach, by the pool or in the restaurant, Azul Beach Club.

It’s a perfect vacation spot for couples looking for a romantic getaway, or for adventurous travelers looking for a comfortable, tranquil place to stay while visiting the Caribbean Coast of Costa Rica.

By AUTHOR – Full Story at Hotel Banana Azul

Costa Rica Gay Travel Resources

Ecocircuitos Tours – Panama Lesbian Owned Tour Company

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Ecocircuitos ToursEcoCircuitos Tours is the only lesbian owned and operated full service tour operator in Panama, catering to the LGBT community. In 1999 we began our travel services, offering unique travel options throughout Panama with extension options in Central America. By combining unforgettable outdoor adventures, cultural exchanges and leisure travel experiences, EcoCircuitos designs unforgettable vacations for its clients that have minimal negative impact on the environment and local cultures.

“We combine quality service, outdoor adventure and expert advice, with extraordinary trips highlighting the authenticity of Panama. My country offers a delightful combination of amazing history, diverse cultures, close biodiversity, stunning national parks and modern cosmopolitan living, ” states Annie Young, EcoCircuitos Panama founder/owner.

Ecocircuitos ToursEcoCircuitos invites you to discover Panama, stroll along the streets of Casco Antiguo, Panama City’s historical district and taste local cuisine in a restaurant tucked away in a historical building or take a walk on Panama City’s newly build boardwalk known as the Cinta Costera to admire the amazing skyline. Visit picturesque local destinations, untouched white beaches and local communities to truly understand why Panama draws travelers from around the world. This unique destination has something for everyone.

Our travel experts will tailor adventures for your discovery of this amazing country.

See the Ecocircuitos Tours Expanded Listing and Tours on Purple Roofs Here

Panama Gay Friendly Bed and Breakfasts, Hotels, and Vacation Rentals

Panama: Ideal Destination for Discerning Travelers – EcoCircuitos

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Panama

Located at the heart of the Americas, Panama City is the most cosmopolitan of the Central American capitals; overflowing with trendy new clubs, cool boutique hotels and gay friendly neighborhoods and attractions. As a long established hub for international business, trade and transportation the City has developed into a modern, busy metropolis attracting visitors from around the world.

LGBT travelers may find Panama City more gay friendly than other Central American countries; many of the main destinations throughout the country are friendly to all visitors and will make LGBT families and travelers feel at home.

PanamaPanama is a safe, stable and friendly country of almost four million inhabitants and 75.517 square kilometers. It is among the most biologically diverse countries on the planet and features a variety of unique ecosystems. With a total of over 2,500 km of coastline on two oceans, 15 national Parks and seven distinct indigenous cultures there is much to explore. Five UNESCO World Heritage sites wait to be discovered.

This short guide will direct you to the best spots in town but keep in mind that nightlife in Panama does not really start after midnight. Have Fun!!

WHAT TO DO IN PANAMA CITY

PanamaPanama City is a cosmopolitan city, a delightful combination of the historic and modern. It is also one of the safest cities in Latin America. There are three Cities: the historical ruins of the 16th Century city named Panama Viejo, the 17th Century Spanish Colonial Casco Antiguo area of the city and the modern skyscraper city with the business district.

Day tour of Panama City – Visit the three cities in one day: the ruins of the 16th century original city, walk the Casco Antiguo colonial city and admire the modern city. Walk the Casco Viejo – Old Quarters at night for bar hoping and amazing gastronomy. There are several roof top bars that will offer an amazing view of the City. Our suggestion: Tantalo, Barlovento, Casa Casco and Casa Jaguar.

The Panama Canal – City tour includes a trip to the Panama Canal. A must-do is a visit to the Visitors Center at Miraflores Locks. And if you want an unforgetable experience, go dining to Atlantic and Pacific Co. Overlooking the Miraflores locks.

The Panama Canal Transits – Only on special schedule, this is a great option for those that interested in the complete history of the Panama Canal and experience crossing the locks in a mini cruise. This is a great adventure with friends.

PanamaAmador Causeway and Biodiversity Museum – A visit to the Amador Causeway is also a good option to admire the spectacular views of the Panama City’s skyline and the Panama Canal. You can bike or walk the area or just enjoy a Panama bear at the restaurants in the Marina. A must to see is the Biodiversity Museum, an architectonic jewel design by Frank Gerhy.

Panama Canal Railway trans-isthmus – Ride the historic Panama Canal Railway, the original transcontinental railway inaugurated in 1855. In special observation cars, the trip takes you across the scenic Isthmus from Panama City on the Pacific, to Colon on the Atlantic Side.

PanamaThe Rainforst Discovery Center in Soberania National Park – The Discovery Center in the Panama Canal Rainforest is open every day from 6.00AM to 4.00PM Climb this 100-foot Observation Tower for a breathtaking view above the forest canopy and hike the trails around the center. You will learn about sustainable practices in this fantastic place. Ideal for couples and families. Our guides are naturalist that will amaze you with great interpretation of the neotropical forest.

Portobello: A picturesque bayside town of with the ruins of Spanish forts and a restored Spanish Colonial treasure house. In Spanish colonial times the Portobello Treasure House was the center for trans-shipment of all the Peruvian gold and treasure taken from Latin America to Spain. Spanish galleons came and went constantly and many fairs were held. That easy heyday ended with the arrival of English pirates like Sir Francis Drake who repeatedly looted Portobellos treasures and brought about its eventual demise. The Portobelo Ruins are a pillar of Spanish colonial times, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

PanamaFort San Lorenzo: A well preserved fort ruin perched high on a stunning promontory above the Chagres River as it meets the sea. Sir Henry Morgan attacked the fort and made away with booty in 1666. It is essential to go with a tour operator since to date this unusual site has no signs or tourist info of any kind.

Embera Cultural Encounters, Chagres National Park – An unforgettable encounter with a living Indian culture in Panama’s rain forest. Panama is the only place in the world where you can have this experience in a day trip from a major metropolitan city.

PanamaThe tour begins less than 2 hours from Panama City, where you’ll take a motorized canoe up a scenic rainforest river, the only means of transport in the jungle, to an authentic Embera Indian village on river bank deep inside the rainforest. The village consists mostly of the rough wood and palm homes on stilts typical of the jungle Indians. Embera indians will perform a tribal dance offer authentic body paintings, exquisite handicrafts, share a typical meal and explain their way of life, traditions and beliefs.

Handicrafts and shopping – Beautiful boutiques and amazing brands in Casco Antiguo. Try el Valle Sunday Market, the Artisan’s Market and don´t miss the city’s shopping malls, ideals for those looking for brands. Check Multiplaza a high end shopping mall.

Optional day tours from Panama City: kayaking, biking tours, arts tours, sailing tours in San Blas, Beach Escapes to Bocas del Toro and the Gulf of Chiriqui, Azuero and the highlands. For more information click on our website: www.ecocircuitos.com

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Tree Houses Hotel – Gay Friendly Costa Rica Hotel

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Tree Houses Hotel

Periodically we’ll feature one of our properties here to let our readers know about some great gay friendly places to stay:

Tree Houses is located in the heart of the jungle south of Arenal volcano, just off the main highway to La Fortuna.

Each tree house is very private, comfortable with nice beds, A/C, warm showers, and a full breakfast each morning.

The property is surrounded by a 70 acre wildlife refuge and the area offers many outdoor adventures.

See the Tree Houses Hotel Expanded Listing on Purple Roofs Here

Gay Friendly Bed and Breakfasts, Hotels, and Vacation Rentals in Costa Rica

Tamarindo Bay Boutique Hotel – Gay Friendly Playa Tamarindo Hotel

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Tamarindo Bay Boutique Hotel Tamarindo Costa Rica Periodically we’ll feature one of our properties here to let our readers know about some great gay friendly places to stay: Tamarindo Bay Boutique Hotel (Adults Only 18+) began construction four years ago and opened its doors three years ago in the center of Tamarindo Beach, Costa Rica. This very private and discreet boutique hotel was designed as a spacious modern oasis surrounded by tall green walls, secured key pad entry points and security cameras and personnel to provide comfort, beauty and security. The modern contemporary architecture combined with old world hospitality create an ambiance of serenity and comfort. The owners have travelled and lived in many magical destinations and decided to create a modern contemporary destination that would be built using the very finest environmentally friendly building materials and implement green sustainability practices in the daily operations of hotel. The property features the only UV non-chlorinated pool in the area, spacious second level restaurant and exercise area, complimentary vegetarian breakfast options, complimentary concierge service, pool floats, surf boards, beach cruiser bikes, mountain bikes, snorkel gear, coolers & beach chairs. This boutique property is an excellent choice for adult couples, friends or groups seeking the comfort and personalization found at a B&B and the space and amenities of a contemporary modern boutique hotel. Our guest will usually describe their experience with us as a charming, zen vacation in a private oasis in the center of our very active beach town.

See the Tamarindo Bay Boutique Hotel Expanded Listing on Purple Roofs Here

Gay Friendly Bed and Breakfasts, Hotels, and Vacation Rentals in AREA

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Unspoiled Playa Tamarindo

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Playa Tamarindo - Bay Originally a quiet surf beach and fishing village, Tamarindo has evolved to be the areas most developed and popular tourist destination. Playa Tamarindo or Tamarind Beach is home to many nationalities from around the world living in harmony while continuing to shape the town into a perfect blend of boutique businesses and services designed to provide something for everyone who visits. Our unspoiled beaches are second to none in Central America featuring long wide stretches of sand, coconut trees, tamarind trees, calm and inviting shallow tide pools and world class surf. Playa Tamarindo - SunsetEnjoy evening dinners beach side with your feet in the sand while a world class Chef prepares your meals. After dinner enjoy music and drinks at any of our many small lounges or bars located along the beach and center of town. Despite the town’s recent and ongoing development, it retains the laid back vibe that is so characteristic of the region. Playa Tamarindo is an excellent destination for individuals, groups and couples seeking to experience the very best Costa Rica has to offer on the Pacific Coast. Providing the driest & sunniest climate in all the country, the warmest months are from December thru April (high season) & things cool down with occasional afternoon or morning showers the rest of the year (green season). Make your next getaway and unforgettable one to Paradise in Central America. Playa Tamarindo - Tamarindo Bay Boutique Hotel Tamarindo Costa RicaWhen visiting Playa Tamarindo in Guanacaste, Costa Rica make sure you reserve a premium room or suite at the 18+ Adults Only Tamarindo Bay Boutique Hotel. This brand new, contemporary, eco-friendly designed 10 room hotel combines modern materials & finishes with tropical organic design & architecture. The property offers a private, romantic, discreet and secure setting, just minutes away from the beach, dining, shopping and all local attractions. Offering private concierge service & front desk assistance, daily housekeeping service and complimentary Chef prepared international vegetarian breakfast. During their stay all guest can enjoy the complimentary use of personal beach chairs, coolers, choice of banana style beach cruisers or mountain style bicycles, assorted size and shape surfboards & boogie boards, snorkel gear and personal shopping baskets to use in the local organic food market held on Saturday mornings by the beach.

By Joseph C. Garcia – Visit the Tamarindo Bay Boutique Hotel Website

Costa Rica Gay Travel Resources

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