When Onaidys from Ker & Downey World Travel’s Operations team returned from her 13-day exploration of Costa Rica and Panama, she brought back more than just notes and photos. She carried with her a firsthand glimpse of how two countries blend adventure, luxury, and authenticity into unforgettable journeys — along with some very personal moments that made the trip memorable. She spoke with Elizabeth Frels, Product Manager for Ker & Downey World Travel. 

Elizabeth Frels: You’ve just completed a 13-day journey through Costa Rica and Panama. Can you tell us what this trip was all about? 

Onaidys Gamboa: The purpose was to experience a wide range of properties and activities so we can better design journeys for our clients. We stayed in different regions, visited multiple luxury lodges, and took part in excursions that highlighted the character of each destination.  

EF: Have you ever traveled to Costa Rica and Panama before? 

OG: This was my first time traveling through both countries in one trip, so I was excited to see how they complemented each other and to really immerse myself in each place. 

EF: Let’s start with Costa Rica. What stood out on your first day? 

OG: We began with a meet and greet at the airport, which I’d recommend for all travelers. It made the arrival so smooth. Our driver, Randy, was passionate and knowledgeable about the area, and even the 30-minute transfer became part of the experience. I still remember him pointing out landmarks with such pride — it gave me a warm introduction to the country and set the tone for the rest of the journey. 

We stayed at Finca Rosa Blanca, a boutique hotel with just 14 rooms and full of character. I really enjoyed breakfast with the owners. It was so inspiring how they spoke about the property’s history and sustainable practices with such heart. I loved that moment because it felt like being welcomed into someone’s home rather than just checking into a hotel. 

EF: Yeah, that really is a treat to have the owners share their heart for the property. What other experiences did you have at some of the other properties and what stood out to you at each? 

OG: Each property offered something unique. At Pacuare Lodge, instead of driving out of the property, we rafted down the Pacuare River. I’ll never forget the adrenaline of the rapids surrounded by rainforest.  

EF: Wow, that does sound really exciting.  

OG: Yes, it was. And then falling asleep to the sound of the river at night was unforgettable, and waking up to monkeys in the trees made me feel completely immersed in nature. 

EF: How did that compare the Hacienda AltaGracia? 

At Hacienda AltaGracia, the pace slowed down. It was such a treat to stay at a place where wellness is the focus. There is horseback riding, but I opted for the spa, which was a highlight — I felt completely renewed after, and the sense of peace there is something I’ll always remember. I even joined a cooking class where we learned to make traditional dishes, and that hands-on experience gave me such an appreciation for Costa Rican culture. 

EF: Did you also explore the more coastal and cultural side of Costa Rica? 

OG: Yes, Playa Cativo Lodge felt like a secret retreat. We arrived by boat, and when I first stepped onto the dock, I could hear nothing but waves and birds. I kayaked along the shoreline and spotted dolphins — it was one of those pinch-me moments. In the evenings, we enjoyed meals made from ingredients grown right on the property, which made every dinner feel authentic and personal. 

Together, these stays showed me the many sides of Costa Rica: boutique charm, rainforest adventure, highland luxury, and secluded coastal escapes. It reminded me why Costa Rica is such a special destination — it’s diverse, it’s warm, and it always feels personal. 

EF: What kinds of experiences did you have beyond the lodges? 

OG: Costa Rica is incredibly diverse. One night we went on a bioluminescence excursion where the water glowed around us—it was magical. Another day we toured the Finca 6 Museum, which highlights pre-Columbian spheres. It gave such cultural context to a nature-focused trip. Those combinations of history and environment really make the country come alive. 

EF: You then moved on to Panama. How was that transition? 

OG: Panama was full of contrasts. In Panama City, I was amazed by the energy — the modern skyline on one side and the colonial charm of Casco Viejo on the other. Walking those cobblestone streets, stopping for coffee, and looking out at the Panama Canal made me feel like I was part of history. The rooftop views at sunset were especially memorable, as you could see the city light up while listening to music drifting from the plazas below. 

EF: What was your experience at the Panama Canal like? 

OG: Oh, it was incredible! Honestly, it was the highlight of the trip for me. You know how you see it on TV and think, Wow, that’s cool? Seeing it in person is on a whole different level. 

EF: What made it so special? 

OG: The access, for sure. Normally, the public viewing area is about a mile away, maybe a little less. But we were right up close. Experiencing it from that vantage point was amazing. 

EF: Did you have a guide with you? 

OG: Yes, and he was fantastic! We watched an introductory movie and then he explained the entire process in detail before we watched the ships crossing. 

EF: You also visited some of Panama’s luxury properties, right? 

OG: Yes, and they were outstanding. Isla Secas really stood out. It’s a private archipelago, ultra-exclusive, and perfect for high-profile clients seeking privacy. The service was flawless—Guillermo, the concierge, made every detail seamless—and their conservation work is inspiring.  

EF: After nearly two weeks on the road, what do you feel is the greatest takeaway? 

OG: That Costa Rica and Panama complement each other beautifully. Together they create a journey that blends adventure, culture, and luxury. Personally, I loved how one day I was rafting through the rainforest, and a few days later I was sitting on a white sand beach on a private island. It showed me how diverse and rewarding a two-country journey can be. It also reminded me of the importance of balance — adventure paired with relaxation, luxury combined with authenticity. 

EF: Any final impressions? 

OG: It reaffirmed for me why we do what we do at Ker & Downey World Travel. Each detail, from the drivers to the boutique hotels to the unique activities, matters. And when carefully woven together, they create a journey that’s not just a vacation — it’s a story to carry home. For me, this trip wasn’t just work — it was full of moments I’ll never forget, from rafting into the jungle in Costa Rica to wake boarding in the Gulf of Chiriquí in Panama. These are the kinds of stories I want our clients to experience too. 

Onaidys's Top Experiences from the Journey 

• Rafting out of Pacuare Lodge and falling asleep to the sound of the river. 
• Horseback riding and wellness at Hacienda AltaGracia. 
• Dolphin spotting and seaside tranquility at Playa Cativo. 
• Exploring Casco Viejo’s colonial charm in Panama City. 
• A behind-the-scenes look at the Panama Canal, off limits to the public 
•  Private island paradise and five-star service at Islas Secas 

A perfect balance of luxury, authenticity, and adventure — this journey captures the best of both Costa Rica and Panama. Contact a Ker & Downey World Travel Designer to start planning your own journey to Costa Rica and Panama.