Paradise in Panama – Doctor’s Review January 2017

By Jane Finn as published in Doctor’s Review Magazine January 2017

Boquete Panama – You know that expression “Life isn’t measured by the number of breaths you take, but by the moments that take your breath away?” When we stepped onto the deck of our tree house at the Lucero Golf and Country Club (tel: 877-727-2476; lucerocountryclub.com; US$395 per night, double occupancy, during high season), I literally experienced the latter. Standing 40 metres above the floor of the Caldera Valley, protected by the rainforest canopy and the Jaramillo Mountains, I felt a profound sense of peace. It was at least an hour before I tore myself away from the views to explore our very private, very romantic getaway.

Luxuriously appointed, our treehouse included a walk-in rain shower, cozy sitting area with kitchenette and deliciously comfy bed where we could see not only the stars, but the twinkling lights of David in the distance.

Nestled next to the tee off blocks at the third hole of Lucero’s mountain golf course, we were steps away from the clubhouse and Season’s, the community’s farm-to-table restaurant. Last year alone, the staff planted over 500 tropical fruit trees, 320,000 coffee plants and an extensive vegetable garden.

To read the entire article on why you need to visit Panama see http://doctorsreview.com/features/paradise-panama/

Top 9 Golf Courses You Need To Play In Panama

Top 9 Golf Courses You Need To Play In Panama – by Dave Finn

Looking for the next “hot” golf destination? Do you prefer cityscapes, ocean views or the tranquility of the rainforest? Panama may be small in size but is big on style. Situated at the lower end of the continental divide that separates North and South America, the country’s topography has been used to its advantage to create links style, parkland and mountain courses. It’s easy to get around in Panama and with 13 uniquely different golf courses, you’re bound to find more than one that will challenge you and appeal to your style of play.

Earlier this year, I joined a group of 10 golf travel writers and tour operators from across North America to visit and play eight of Panama’s championship 18-hole golf courses. Fortunately, I returned to Panama a few months later and played a gem that they sadly did not get to experience, but more on that later.

During our tour, I polled my esteemed colleagues and asked for their opinions. Here are some of their comments and our countdown.

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