Panama is on the brink of becoming the next global destination for relaxed island luxury and, leading the charge, is the Islas Secas Reserve & Lodge. The eco-friendly, ultra-sustainable resort is as beautiful as any island in the Bahamas; combine that with practically untouched waters and you have what is sure to be one of the most important new destinations come its launch in 2019.
Design-wise think traditional Gamboa houses of the Panama Canal combined with colonial elegance and a touch of preppy New England charm. Floor-to-ceiling shutters and panoramic views are a given considering the typical blue waters and swaying palms of the island and the indoor-outdoor spaces of the casitas and cabanas are pure island chic.
Fresh fruit, pastries and whatever else you need for a day’s exploring are delivered every morning, though you’re unlikely to be land-bound for too long. Snorkelling, sailing, surfing, at Secas you can run the full gamut of water sports. There are even phenomenal off-shore fishing grounds if you prefer something a little more chilled-out.
If even that is too strenuous, the private beach seems almost deserted compared to most resorts, even by luxury standards. Alternatively for a bit more assisted relaxation, the spa menu is extensive to say the least. You don’t even need to leave your own Casita; the masseuse will come to you.
That said you won’t be leaving the island much as a whole, but then why would you? When you can dine in a bamboo pavilion over impossibly fresh seared octopus at Terraza or retreat with a leather-bound volume of Hemmingway sipping a cocktail the drunkard would have admired, there’s little reason to leave.
Slated to open beginning of next year, Islas Secas might well herald a new era of luxury for Panama. For now however, you’ll want to get in early; with only a handful of casitas among the unspoiled scenery, demand will be high. In fact, the only thing not so relaxing about Islas Secas is making sure you get there.
Discover more at: www.islassecas.com
