A Journey Back to My Roots: Adventure, Celebration & Black History in Panama

Hey, boo! I hope you are well.

There’s something magical about returning to a place that feels like home, even if you’ve never lived there. This year, I chose to celebrate my birthday seeking adventure with my sisters in Panama—soaking up the vibrant energy of Carnaval, the beauty of Casco Viejo, the history of Black Panamanians, and the pure bliss of escaping to Taboga Island.

The Call to Adventure: Why Panama?

For me, travel is more than just visiting new places—it’s about feeling connected, embracing joy, and stepping into the unknown with wonder. Panama checked all those boxes. The mix of rich history, stunning landscapes, and lively culture made it the perfect destination to ring in another year of life with my sisters by my side.

From the moment we landed, I could feel the pulse of the country—a rhythm that blends Afro-Caribbean influence, indigenous traditions, and modern city life. But nothing prepared me for the electrifying energy of Carnaval.

We stayed in the heart of the city at the Grand Evenia Hotel, a perfect blend of modern elegance and Panamanian charm. From the moment we walked in, we were greeted with warm hospitality, sleek décor, and panoramic views of the city skyline. The spacious rooms offered a cozy retreat after long days of adventure, while the rooftop pool and bar became our go-to spot for unwinding with a cocktail in hand. With its prime location, we were just steps away from vibrant nightlife, historic streets, and some of the best local eats—making it the ideal home base for our Panamanian getaway.

Mimosas at Restaurante El Jardín de Gaudí inside The Grand Evenia Hotel

Panama Carnival: A Celebration Like No Other

If you’ve never experienced Carnaval in Panama, imagine this: streets packed with dancing, music filling the air, and a vibrant display of color and culture unlike anything else. It’s one of the largest celebrations in Latin America, and being there for my birthday felt like the ultimate gift.

We danced with strangers who felt like family, witnessed extravagant parades, and got caught in the famous "culecos"—where giant water trucks spray the crowd in the scorching heat. (Yes, you WILL get drenched, and YES, you will love it.) There was something beautifully freeing about letting go, celebrating life, and embracing the unfiltered joy of the moment.

Black History in Casco Viejo: Stories That Need to Be Told

Beyond the celebrations, I made it a point to explore Black history in Casco Viejo, a stunning old town with colonial architecture and hidden stories. Many people don’t realize that Afro-Panamanians have played a crucial role in shaping Panama’s culture, music, and economy—especially in building the Panama Canal.

Sights in Casco Vejo

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Walking through the cobblestone streets, I felt the presence of those who came before us—enslaved Africans, West Indian laborers, and generations of Black Panamanians who left their mark. From the Afro-Antillean communities to the influence of reggae en español, the Black experience is deeply woven into the fabric of Panama.

A Quick Escape to Taboga Island: La Isla de Las Flores

After the nonstop energy of Carnaval, we took a much-needed breather and set sail to Taboga Island, also known as "Isla de las Flores" (Island of Flowers). And let me tell you—this place was straight out of a postcard.

The name Taboga comes from the indigenous word "aboga," meaning “abundant fish.” Fitting, since this island is not just a paradise for beach lovers but also a historic fishing village with roots dating back to the 1500s.

The vibe? Laid-back, sun-soaked, and peaceful. Just a 30-minute ferry ride from Panama City, we swapped the city chaos for soft sand, fresh seafood, and breathtaking ocean views.

We spent the day:

✅ Connecting with new people

✅ Eating homemade arroz con pollo with cabbage salad

✅ Throwing on our life jackets and jumping in the ocean

There was something so refreshing about slowing down, breathing in the salty air, and just BEING. If Panama City is the heart of the country, Taboga is its soul—calm, beautiful, and deeply rooted in history.

Reflections: Travel, Joy & Embracing the Moment

This trip wasn’t just about celebrating my birthday—it was about embracing adventure, culture, and the deep connections that travel brings. Panama gave me joy in the form of celebration, wonder in the form of history, and gratitude in the form of family moments with my sisters.

As I step into this new year, I carry the lessons of Panama with me:

✨ Dance like nobody’s watching

✨ Celebrate your roots

✨ Always seek stories waiting to be uncovered

✨ And never underestimate the power of a beach day on Taboga Island

Have you ever been to Panama? Would you go for Carnaval or are you more of a Taboga Island type? Let’s talk in the comments!