My husband and I stayed at one of the Hunt's casitas for two months during February and March. Paradise in Panama is a mini-resort for 3 couples, so the beautiful pool is almost private, and one of its very best features. (A convenient pool is essential in the tropical Panamanian heat.) We visited with the other couples around the pool every day. Our casita had everything one needs: kitchen, comfortable living area, well-sized tiled shower, and a super patio (with a hammock for snoozing or reading). Suggest you leave your oven food recipes at home: ovens don't exist in Panama -- they produce too much heat. Instead, use the BBQ grills, with tin foil pans for vegetables. The grills also are great for meals with other guests.
Russ and Linda Hunt, the owners, live at the mini-resort. They make helpful suggestions on activities and travel. Do ask them! Thanks for the many books!
We did not rent a car, so the couple block walk to the Pan American highway over rocky streets in daytime heat (90-95 degrees every day) was intense. Buses for 30 cents to Coronado (3 miles) are plentiful on the highway, and other buses take you to restaurants (we enjoyed Picasso and the Sandbar) and the Pacific beach. Local buses in Gorgona take you to restaurants (Rincon Catracha and La Ruina) and the local fishing beach. Taxis are readily available for $3-4, and a bit higher for trips to other beaches and the cool mountain town of El Valle. We also visited Casco Viejo and the Canal in Panama City, seafood markets, plus a jungle trip to the Emberra people. The natural beauty of Panama, with its hills and flowers, are superb.
Deanna