Arrival in Panama: A Journey Begins
After two flights and 16 hours of travel, I finally arrived in Panama. Josias, the hub manager, greeted me at the airport and drove me to my accommodation in Casco Viejo, Panama City. The city’s colourful buildings and vibrant streets immediately caught my eye. Meeting the people I’d be spending the next four weeks with, we explored the city and enjoyed a fantastic meal at Nacionsushi. The stunning skyline of Panama City and our evening on a rooftop bar, overlooking the city, marked a perfect start to my adventure.
A Day of Discovery
The next morning, we had breakfast and then headed to see the Panama Canal. Watching the massive locks fill with water and the ships pass through was amazing. We even watched a 3D movie about the canal’s history and engineering, which made the visit even more interesting. Our day continued with a trip to the BioMuseo, where we learned about Panama’s incredible biodiversity through colourful and interactive exhibits.
Settling into El Valle de Antón
We then traveled to El Valle de Antón, where I’d be spending most of my time. I was pleasantly surprised by our accommodation—it felt like a mini apartment with a living room and kitchen, shared with the two other girls in my group. The public pool was a nice touch for relaxing after busy days. We had dinner at La Divina Commedia, where we discussed our initial thoughts on Panama and our plans for the weeks ahead.
Immersing in Local Culture
The next day started early with breakfast and a tour of El Valle led by our main mentor, Martina. She showed us the primary school where we’d be running workshops. We also participated in a scavenger hunt around town, which was a fun way to learn about the local culture and interact with the community.
Workshop Preparation and Community Engagement
We spent each day planning workshops and working with students at the primary and high schools. The kids were enthusiastic, and it felt more like a cultural exchange than formal teaching. Martina’s guidance was invaluable, and the work was incredibly rewarding. Our meals were at a local restaurant called El Rincón Colombiano, where I especially enjoyed their fruit smoothies and comforting dishes like beans and rice.
Adventures in the Rainforest
One of the week’s highlights was a night hike through the rainforest. Although I didn’t have proper hiking gear, the adventure was unforgettable. With a local wildlife expert as our guide, we saw a variety of creatures, including a sloth, frogs, and even a huge snake. It was a thrilling experience that showcased Panama’s rich wildlife.
First Impressions: A Warm Welcome
My first week in Panama was eye-opening. The people here are incredibly kind and laid-back, making me feel at home quickly. Panama City was more developed and modern than I expected, and the weather was unpredictable, often switching between rain and sunshine. Having a raincoat handy proved essential.
Our GapGuru mentors and the FutureSense and team were supportive, checking in on us and making sure we were comfortable. Although adjusting to the new routine was challenging, the strong support system made it easier. Overall, my first week in Panama was filled with adventure, cultural immersion, and excitement for what’s to come.
By Emma Clementino – GapGuru Participant Panama 2024
