panamanian pleasures

From the glitzy, cosmopolitan metropolis of Panama City to dense jungles on the mystical Azuero coast to its 1,500 lush islands–Panama is a land of many “personalities.” With great shopping, luxury hotels, jazz clubs, casinos and a killer skyline, Panama City has a vibe reminiscent of Miami

The Old Quarter, “Casco Viejo,” is a blend of Old Havana and New Orleans’ French Quarter, offering a totally different feel. Boutique hotels housed in 16th and 17th century colonial Spanish mansions dot the cobblestone streets of this walled city promising Old World, picturesque wedding venues.



The Canal may have first put Panama on the international map but the country’s excellent weather, with natural attractions such as cloud forests, raging rivers, diverse ecosystems and unspoiled beaches are the big draw, promising an ideal wedding or honeymoon escape.

Something old, something new perhaps best describes Panama–the latest “hot spot,” for couples in search of sun, sand, culture and interesting things to do–all at affordable rates–for a destination wedding or honeymoon. This country located at the crossroads of two oceans and two continents, has been dubbed the “paradise between two seas.” In recent years, it has become the most visited destination in Latin America and it is quickly becoming a favorite with visitors from around the world.

From the Caribbean to the Pacific coasts, it is home not only to a diverse range of resorts, but a variety of stellar real estate properties as well. Whether you’re in the market for a Caribbean island getaway, a condo along Panama City’s striking skyline, one of Bocas del Toro’s charming gingerbread houses or beachfront homes… or one of Chiriqui’s isolated mountain retreats, you’re likely to find a slice of heaven in Panama.

By day, shopping beckons with goods from around the world while chic restaurants, trendy, boutiques, Canal tours and sojourns into the capital city’s quaint neighbors offer plenty of other options. When night falls, restaurants, nightclubs, discotheques and casinos offer a totally different vibe.

This city within a city evokes a kinder, gentler age and nowhere is this more apparent than at two sister- hotels located here, which lend new meaning to the title: “boutique” accommodations.



One of Panama’s most intriguing destinations, Bocas del Toro, is recognized as both a Biosphere Reserve and a World Heritage Site. Its colorful rooftops, fresh seafood, jungle islands and towns built on stilts over transparent waters have made it a “hot spot” for couples wanting to run away to a postcard paradise. Tucked inside the rainforest overlooking the Caribbean Sea on the archipelago of Bocas del Toro, Tranquilo Bay Eco-Adventure Lodge is the perfect vantage point from which to explore the dazzling corals and giant starfish that inhabit these waters.

For landlubbers, there’s beach combing, birding and exploring while lovers of the sea can explore the many reefs and lagoons around the resort. These laid-back islands known for fun and sun- will not only provide a stunning backdrop for romantic nuptials, but also promise endless activities for your guests.



Oozing with mystique, options are endless in Panama. There are many unique, romantic locales here to say “I do.” Soft moonlit beaches or chartered sunset sailboat receptions promise couples a memorable wedding experience- it’s just a matter of honing in on what you want. You won’t be disappointed...

romance in paris... off the beaten path

It’s no secret that this city attracts romance seekers from around the globe. I just got back from three days in the “City of Lights” and I have some suggestions for some not-so-typical romantic experience and unique hotel finds in the French capital.

Everyone always says that the best way to explore Paris is by foot, but I beg to differ. I say- explore the Capital of Romance by water. Start off by grabbing your sweetheart and hopping aboard a River Limousine. These Venetian style boats were designed in Venice and specifically made for the Seine. For a totally unique experience, watch the sunrise over this magical city from your private boat while sipping champagne and snuggling with your sweetheart.



Paris is known for its many bridges, but my favorite spot for a scenic smooch is Pont de la Tournelle. Not only will you have a stunning view of Notre Dame and the sultry setting of the Seine, but there's also hardly ever any traffic on the bridge.



Another very romantic (and unknown) experience is a visit to the "I Love You" Wall in Jehan Rictus Gardens just behind Place de Abssesses. The wall was created by artists Frederic Baron and displays over 300 messages of love in over 250 languages. How romantic is that?

They say that they quickest way to a man's heart is through his stomach- so why not put this theory to the test? Take a private cooking class together! There's a great company called Paris Chef that will customize your culinary experience. You can accompany the chef to the local market and hand pick the freshest ingredients. A fun way to experience this is by renting an apartment in Paris and have the chef come to you. Enjoy a romantic candlelit dinner at home with your own private chef!



And last, but certainly not least on my list is my pick for most romantic place to stay. Situated on the corner of Avenue George V and the legendary Champs Élysées the Hotel Fouquet's Barriere has a long history dating back to the early 1900s. Francois Andre and Lucien Barrier launched the concept of resort hotels while sitting on the terrace of Fouquet’s (a restaurant at the time). Together they dreamt up the idea of one day opening a hotel in the glitzy city. Unfortunately both passed away before making this a reality. Upon Lucien's death, his daughter Diane, took over the empire and vowed to follow through with her father's dream. In 1998 she purchased Fouquet's with the idea of expanding it into a hotel. In a cruel twist of fate, Diane was injured in a terrible plane crash which left her paralyzed and sadly, she died two years later. Her husband, Dominique vowed to continue his beloved wife's project and Hotel Fouquet's Barriere opened its doors in 2006.

Today, the boutique property continues the ongoing legendary tradition and provides the quintessential romantic experience. Their "Fly me to Deauville" package takes romance to another level as couples are whisked away from the hustle and bustle of Champs Élysées by private helicopter. A quick 45- minute ride from Paris is the quaint beach town of Deauville. The package includes overnight accommodations at the hotel, round trip helicopter transportation to Deauville and a luxury picnic on the beach once they get there.

Make sure to get in touch with us if you would like additional information on any of the above experiences or if you'd like Runaway Bride to help you book your own uniquely romantic trip to Paris!