Join Pure Immersion Adventures on an incredible nine day retreat exploring Panama City and San Blas Islands. With a vibrant energy and history complimented by its many pristine beaches, Panama is a one of a kind destination packed with a refreshing diversity. Free of strict schedule or routine, this retreat will allow you to simply embrace the present moment while nurturing an “anything goes” attitude to cultivate a unique and personalized travel experience. Begin your adventure in Panama City, an ultimate playground for exploration with an array of activities to partake in; Visit the historical town of Casco Vieijo, tour the city’s local artisan markets, or take a nature reserve hike through the countryside to immerse yourself into Panama’s rich biodiversity. For a feel of pure serenity, a five day trip to Panama’s San Blas Islands to follow will provide an experience of blissful escape, with the chance to appreciate the unmatched authenticity and tranquility of island life. Consisting of over 365 islands, the San Blas Archipelago is a truly unique destination in having been governed by the indigenous Kuna Yala tribe for hundreds of years, and hosts a beauty that is unparalleled. Through daily yoga and meditation classes exploring yoga’s ethical practice of the Yamas and Niyamas, this island experience will inspire a way of travel and of living that is pure and holistic, and that fosters self-growth and transformation. As guidelines constituting yoga philosophy, the Yamas and Niyamas are tools of insight into self-study that promote a deeper sense of consciousness and truth within ourselves, with others, and ultimately in our view and understanding of the world. Inviting you to act in ways that nurture contentment, peace, and harmony in your life and yoga practice, the study of these principles will serve as a recipe to reach fulfillment and well-being, all with the help of the ocean’s hum to calm your mind, body, and spirit.
Kathleen Prantis
As a Colorado native who embraces life with a sense of passion and adventure, Kate lives with a mission is to instill in others the ability to awaken their hearts and minds to this vast and beautiful world. In choosing a dynamic and exciting career path she holds an array of athletic experience beneath her belt, having worked as a swim coach, fitness trainer, alpine and cross country ski instructor, and triathlete/bike tour guide. With this, Kate is constantly challenging herself to broaden her horizons and delve into new endeavors, from rock-climbing to horseback riding to even kiteboarding. Her passion for adventure and travel, sparked from her time spent abroad as a college student at the United States Merchant Marine Academy, has allowed Kate to embrace a fulfilling and exhilarating life path while inspiring others to approach life with the same mindset. Perhaps at the core of this is her transformative journey into yoga. As a certified yoga instructor Kate has harnessed her expertise and zest for travel through a number of exciting opportunities, amongst this a several month journey living off the grid in Nicaragua and eventually the chance to lead her first yoga retreat on Nicaragua’s Little Corn Island. Experiences like these have inspired Kate to share her love for life and adventure within amazing and diverse cultures, especially throughout Central and South America. Her most recent endeavor, an eight week yoga internship in Medellin Colombia coupled with the opportunity to teach her practice to local natives, is yet another test to the spirited mindset she carries with her.
Wilson Castaneda
Born and raised in the Colombian city of Medellin, Wilson is a man of colorful character with an authentic and heartfelt story, having grown up during turbulent times in what what once considered one of the world's most dangerous cities. As a sibling among seven in a family on a constant search for new and better opportunities, Wilson experienced a reality that was common to many. After marrying and becoming a father he emigrated to the United States, working his way up from dishwasher to chef at a restaurant in the city of Boston; a ten year journey joined by much effort and sacrifice. In returning to Medellin in 2013, his life took an unexpected turn with the opportunity of working in the transportation and tourism industry, where he has been providing guided tours and transport within the city of his youth. Having been featured by television personality Andrew Zimmern, Wilson’s depth of travel knowledge coupled with his vibrant personality and bilingual skills makes any experience led by him to be one that is memorable and worthwhile.
San Blas Islands accommodations will be hosted at Ogob Nega cabin on Chicime Island, a 45 minute boat trip from the mainland surrounded by tranquil ocean and beautiful scenery. Cabins are rustic and authentic, located directly on the beach for a true island experience. Bathrooms and bedrooms within the cabins will be shared, with five room types and sleeping arrangements available.
Bedroom One -- 2 Queen Beds
Bedroom Two -- 3 Queen Beds
Bedroom Three -- 3 Queen Beds, 3 Single Beds
Bedroom Four -- 2 Queen Beds, 5 Single Beds
Bedroom Five -- 4 Queen Beds, 5 Single Beds
Sleeping arrangements will be organized closer to retreat date. Please reach out to Kate at info@pureimmersionadventures.com for specific requests or questions!
Arrive into Panama City and transfer to Hotel Casa Antigua in Case Viejo, the city's beautiful historic district.