TRAVEL TIPS & ADVICE: OUR SURF camp & YOGA RETREAT IN SANTA CATALINA, PANAMA

+ What are the requirements for arrival into Panama?

• All restrictions or requirements around COVID-19 have been lifted. No need to present negative test results, vaccination scheme or declaration form.
• It is not necessary to wear masks outdoors or indoors. The use of a mask is only mandatory in Public transport and when entering Public or private health facilities.

+ What’s the situation like in Santa Catalina and in Panama in general?

The energy of the waves, the untouched environment of Coiba and its surrounding islands makes Santa Catalina one of the best to visit in Panama. Our small town of Santa Catalina with about 500 residents has an abundant amount of wide open space that faciliates the best possible social distancing. Our yoga studio, pool, restaurant and social areas are all open air with the ocean breeze flowing.

During the height of the pandemic our town experienced a completely isolated environment, which brought the community together in protecting each other and reaching out to the people in need.

More than 80% of the population of Panama have received 2 doses of the COVID-19 vaccine.

In Panama Cty and other densly popoulated areas masks are still worn by somme people indoors, though it is not a requiement in Panama. Masks are required though for entering any pharmacies or medical facilities.

+ What are the health & safety protocols Waluaa & their partners are following to keep guests & staff safe?

Yoga Classes

• Our groups will be smaller going forward to allow adequate between yoga mats in our open air studio. This means we can have a maximum of 12 participating yoga guests per week. Additional non-participating yoga partners are welcome.
• Each retreat guest will be provided their own sanitized yoga pack on arrival for use during your stay. Including a Manduka PRO Yoga mat, a soft Mexican blanket, 2 x cork blocks and a strap.

Surf Coaching

1. You will receive a sanitized long-sleeved rashguard if you need one, which will be yours throughout your stay.
2. Surf boards & equipment will be cleaned between each session.

General Measures

We are taking many preventative measures to mitigate the chance of spreading COVID-19. These measures include but are not limited to: • All staff are familiar with the measures and guidelines, and as requested by MINSA and MITRADEL (Labour Development), a special hygiene and health committee for the prevention and control of Covid-19 has been created. The committee has been trained on a Covid-19 management plan and will oversee that all protocols are followed. • Although we accept cash, we kindly encourage our guests to fulfill payments through bank transfers (local banks) and credit cards. Also to request bills, invoices and receipts to be sent by email.

• The hotel and restaurant layouts have ample space for your comfort and this is also an advantage for the covid-19 distancing protocol required.
• Increased frequency of cleaning and disinfection of exposed surfaces such as door handles, countertops and so on with disinfecting products recommended by MINSA.

Guest Illness

• If a guest displays symptoms or is feeling unwell they must self-isolate. If the guest has booked a shared room, they will need to upgrade to a private room at our location if available, or at alternative accommodation, at the guests own cost. We will assist the guest with finding accommodation and/or travel back to Panama City.

Staff

• Each member of the hotel and restaurant staff strictly adheres to the basic protection measures against COVID-19.
• Staff must stay home in case of illness and seek medical assistance.
• Staff are screened for body temperature prior to each work shift and at the end of the shift as well. A record is skept of this daily procedure.
• Shaking hands and close physical contact are not allowed, keeping a distance of at least two meters from coworkers, guests or third parties in all workplaces, hotel rooms and rest areas.
• Requiring staff to wash hands regularly with soap and water, avoid touching their face and encouraged to comply with good personal and respiratory hygiene practices (mouth covering during coughing or sneezing, etc.).

Reception & Check-in Procedure

• The reception surfaces like desk, payment terminals and room keys are disinfected on a regular basis and will be disinfected after each check-in. The reception area is disinfected once a day with a nebulizer using a high quality disinfectant solution certified by MINSA.
• Maximum number of guests staying in the reception office is limited to 2 people.

Restaurant & Pool Area

• Our meals are served individually verses family style. Our restaurant tables are spacious (no tight bench seats).
• 2 meter spacing will be between our retreat table and any other diners in our open air restaurant.
• You may request to dine on a separate table rather than on a shared table with other guests in your retreat group. Just let us know in advance.
• Our restaurant has plenty of ventilation since is open and very spacious.
• All restaurant staff will be required to wash their hands regularly, in line with the guidelines set out by MINSA.
• Having the menu displayed on a board to avoid contact. If there is any printed menu, they will be disinfected before and after handing it to our guests.
• Unauthorized personnel is prohibited from entering the kitchen.
• Practice distancing by spacing chairs on the pool deck 2 meters (6-feet) apart, restricting big groups and/or crowds of 10 or more, etc.

House Keeping

• Our rooms have always been cleaned to the highest level. However, we have added extra procedures to increase this. We have adopted a nebulizer that eliminates all germs from the room using the most high quality product environmentally friendly approved and certified by MINSA. For the safety of our employees, this nebulizer is used each time a room checks out before they start the cleaning process and again after rooms are cleaned before next check-in. Nobody can enter the room until the next guest that will occupy the room.

• Housekeeping services will not be provided during a guest’s stay unless otherwise requested by the guest. Housekeeping staff will only enter rooms after explicit permission of the guest and when the guest is not in the room in order to minimize contact.

• Complete disinfection of furniture and equipment in the room, in particular high-touch surfaces like doorknobs, toilet handles, window slides, light switches, TV with remote control and so on. Throughly disinfection of bathroom is carried out as well.
• The bedding is changed according to safety standards.
• Room ventilation is applied during the period between stays.

Log Book

• The hotel keeps a logbook of the daily important actions and measures carried out in response to Covid-19 by the staff in compliance with the recommendations given by MINSA and MITRADEL.
• A record of staff members and all guests staying at the hotel (name, nationality, date of arrival and departure, contact details such as address, telephone, e-mail) is maintained, so that it is possible to contact trace guests in the event they came in close contact with an identified Covid-19 case.

Environmental Measures

• Workplaces and rooms are adequately ventilated and air conditioning systems are regularly maintained.
• Using antimicrobial cleaners with extremely low toxicity and long term effectiveness such as vital-oxide that produces no harmful by-products for the environment. This ecological choice contains no ozone harming VOC’s and has the NSF EPA International certification for Food Contact surfaces.
• A special waste bin has been built, where all disposable Personal Protective Equipment or other means used to disinfect work surfaces can be disposed of immediately after use.

If you have any questions on these new policies for your safety, please don't hesitate to ask. Thank you.

+ Can you arrange COVID-19 testing for my flight home?

• Yes, can arrange for a private clinic to conduct COVID-19 Antigen Rapid tests and PCR tests on-site, the day of your check-out. The cost is $50-$100pp depending how many guests are in your retreat group that week. A pdf of your test results are emailed to you on the same day as the test for antigen and the day after for PCR tests.

+ What is your booking & cancellation policy?

Deposit & Balance:

• A 30% deposit will confirm your spot.
• The balance is due 15 days prior to your retreat start date.

Cancellations:

• If you cancel your retreat for any reason with more than 45 days notice, your deposit is fully refundable.
• If you cancel, for any reason, within 45 - 15 days notice your 30% deposit is non-refundable.
• If you cancel with 14 or less days notice your full payment is non-refundable. However, we do understand that circumstances outside of your control can prevent you from travelling - illness, work emergencies, accident, family issues, flight cancellations etc. In these cases, we will refund 50% of your retreat stay, with proof of your extenuating circumstance.
• Please understand that if you can’t make it, for whatever reason, with a month or less notice it is difficult for us to fill your space. So even though we keep part of your payment to cover sunk costs, we lose the balance that you would have paid when your space sits empty, so we share the loss with you. The payment that we keep is also used to pay a cancellation fee to our local suppliers to whom we have committed to for your stay, as we don't want our local suppliers to be at a loss when a guest needs to cancel at the last minute and we don't have time to fill their spot.
• We strongly recommend you purchase travel insurance to enable you to get the remaining mony reimbursed, when such circumstances outside of your control prevent you from travelling.

+ What is the average age of people who attend the retreats? How about average group size?

Our groups range from mid 20s to mid 60s! Our group sizes are capped at 10 participating surf guests, 12 participating yoga guests, non-surf & yoga partners are in addition.

+ I’ll be traveling solo, is that OK?

Absolutely. Most of our guests tend to be solo travelers. This is the perfect experience for you. In addition to solo travellers, other guests who visit us include friends traveling together, couples, adult age Mother & Daughter, Father & Son, siblings.

“I’ve never felt less alone (in Santa Catalina) as a solo traveler. In fact, on my last day, I had a group dinner with eight people, all of them solo travelers and now fast friends.” - Sebastian Modak, New York Times

+ I’ll be traveling solo and booked a shared room, how does that work?

If you are a solo traveler and booking a shared room, we will do our best to find an awesome retreat buddy to share with you. Please note our shared rooms are unisex. If you prefer a same sex room please chat with us.

+ Is this an adult-only experience?

Guests aged 14-18 are welcome on our retreats, provided they are accompanied by an adult. Our accomodation site and village is family-friendly. Depending on your retreat week there may or may not be kids of hotel guests at our accomodation site. We invite you to arrive with a flexible, relaxed vibe and be open-minded to the experience you will have. If you are interested in specific family friendly experiences, please chat with us. We may have something planned in the pipeline for you.

+ I can only stay for 5 nights, can I get a discount?

Yes, we can adjust your rate if you are arriving a day later or leaving a day early.

+ Can I add an extra night to my stay?

Sure can. When you book, you’ll have the option to add an extra night to the end of your stay. (You can also add on extra surf and yoga lessons). The extra night includes accommodation and breakfast only. You will be responsible for making your own way back to Panama City. We will provide you with direction for this.

+ How do I add my non-surfing & yoga partner to my stay?

Reserve a single private room for 1 person. At check out, you will have the option to add a non-surfing & yoga partner to you stay, who will be sharing your room.

+ Can I come for a different week than what you have listed?

Probably. Please chat with us on your ideal dates. For our signature Waluaa Surf & Yoga Retreat we carefully select the weeks we offer this experience for ideal surf conditions for beginners. This program is not offered every week of the year. We also avoid national holidays such as Carnival and Easter when our beaches are more crowded. Let us know your ideal dates and we can check on the surf conditions and let you know!

+ I’ve taken some surf classes before so I’m not a complete beginner, is this experience right for me?

Absolutely. Whilst most of our guests are complete beginners, we do have guests who have taken classes before and don’t need to start from the beginning. You would be paired with no more than 1 or 2 other guests at a similar level to you with your personalized coaching and accelerated learning. We coach guests from complete beginner to intermediate level surfing.

+ I'm an intermediate surfer, are the going to be waves for my level?

We have 3 surf breaks in Santa Catalina, that give us options for beginner/intermediate level waves all year round. Playa Estero is our main beach break offering multiple peaks, suitable for complete beginner to intermediate. When the swell is up and Playa Estero gets too heavy, we head to Town beach. For intermediate surfers, if Playa Estero is too flat we offer surf coaching at The Point. For beginner/intermediate surfers there are always waves in Santa Catalina.

+ Is there WIFI?

Yes, we have complimentary broadband WIFI throughout the property.

+ Can you tell me about your location and how far it is to the beach & town?

Accommodation and meals for our Waluaa Surf & Yoga Retreats are at a classic surf hotel located oceanfront of the world famous point break, La Punta, Santa Catalina. This incredible location is locally owned and has been home to our retreats and loved by our guests since since 2015.

We are a 12min walk to the town center for shops, cafes and dive centers. A 7min walk to Playa Estero which is our main beach for surfing and swimming.

From the restaurant social area and infinity pool, enjoy the most spectacular view of surfers at "La Punta” (The Point). Take out a SUP, kayak, swim or surf at high tide, and enjoy magical sunset drinks by the pool. Flow in our open air yoga studio with stunning ocean views. Relax in a hammock with a chilled coconut and good book, or grab a bike. and explore our charming local village and stunning beaches.

+ What is the weather like?

Santa Catalina enjoys warm tropical weather all year round, divided by the wet and dry seasons. The dry season is Panama’s summer and runs from December through April. The wet season runs from May to November. During these months we’ll have some rain throughout the week, usually in the afternoons.

+ I’m nervous about coming during the rainy season, will it ruin my vacation?

Absolutely not! It rarely rains all day. The mornings are usually dry so we plan our surf lessons at this time. When the afternoon rain comes, take advantage of this downtime by taking a siesta, reading, getting a massage, or relaxing in general. After all, you're on vacation and need time to recharge. Most important - you can’t control the weather, so you’ll need to stay flexible. Wet season or dry season, rain or shine, your experience in Santa Catalina is going to be incredible. Don't let the rain dampen your adventures.

If a storm prevents us from carrying out an in-water surf lesson, we’ll substitute with video feedback sessions and surf theory, if the in-water surf lesson cannot be postponed.

+ What will meals be like?

You will tell us ahead of time your dietary requirements or any food restrictions or allergies. We then plan all your delicious and healthy meals for you.

Lunches and dinners are primarily seafood given the abundance of fresh local organic seafood available, brought in daily by the local fisherman - including red snapper, sea bass, tuna, mahi mahi, lobster, clams and shrimp, all served up by our local chefs in their own unique and flavorsome way.

Meals are served with a variety of healthy sides including rice, plantains, yucca, various salads and soups, quinoa, beans, and fruit.

A delicious variety of vegetarian, vegan, dairy-free and gluten-free meal plans are readily available. Actually our lunches tend to be vegan and Gluten free most days. Meats and chicken are also available on request.

Breakfasts include a mix of local fresh fruit salads, eggs, beans, corn tortilla, yogurt, granola, pancakes, whole wheat toast, tea, coffee, juices and fruit smoothies. With natural fruit smoothies and locally sourced coffee from Boquette served every morning.

Included with your daily breakfast is fresh local coffee from Boquette and a fruit smoothie. Included with each evening meal is a glass of house wine, local beer or soda.

Cocktails, beers, wines, spirits, sodas, fresh juices and smoothies and dessert are available for purchase at our oceanfront bar.

In adherence to new health & safety protocols, all meals will be served individually, versus family style.

+ Do you accommodate dietary restrictions?

Yes. Just let us know when you are booking with us if you have any food allergies or dietary preferences so that we can prepare your meal plan for the week accordingly.

+ I'm Vegan, what can I expect for my meals?

Well, you came to the right place! Whilst most of Panama serves rice and beans for a vegan menu, we've developed our own vegan offering packed with plant based protein, essential after a big surf session! Here's a small taste of what to expect: Breakfasts include tofu scramble, tofu rancheros, vegan pancakes, coconut milk oatmeal, tropical fruits and granola, black beans, avocado, tomatoe on toast. Lunches/Dinners: Coconut milk vegetable curry with chickpeas, black bean and quinoa burger, lentil and veggie soup with plantains, sweet plantain tacos with all the fillings!

+ Where is the nearest medical facility?

We have a medical facility in Tigre de los Amarillos, 25 minutes away. It is open 8am - 3pm Monday to Saturday. There is also an ambulance service on call during these hours. 1 hour from Santa Catalina we have a 24-hour hospital in Sona for emergencies. We also have a pharmacy in Santa Catalina.

+ What should I pack?

Suggested Pack List:

• Tight fitting swimwear for surf lessons, we have long sleeved rashguards for you for sun and rash protection which are laundered between every use, for your safety & hygiene.
• Plenty of comfortable yoga gear. We have Manduka PRO mats and props ready for you. You will be provided with your own sanitized yoga mat which you will keep throughout your stay.
• Lots of sunscreen, sun hat, sunglasses, bug spray
• Towels are optional - we have beach/pool towels and bath towels for your stay
• Casual clothes for dining
• Rubber soled sandals or flip flops
• Closed toe shoes and long pants for horse-back riding or hiking
• Water bottle so you can refill on the go
• Flash light or your cell phone light for walking around the village in the evening
• Dry bag if you would like to go to Coiba National Park for an amazing day trip of island hopping, diving or snorkeling
• Light rain jacket and sweater if you are staying with us during the rainy season
• A copy of your travel insurance details
• Pack the items you can't live without in your carry one. E.g. contact lenses, medicines. Delayed baggage can happen and you don't want late luggage to spoil your trip!
• Don't forget your PASSPORT and remenber to check that you have 6 months minimum validity on your passport in order to travel.

Travel Tip: If you’ve ever wanted to travel light and be with a carry-on only, this is the trip! You’ll need much less than you pack, trust us. This is is simple living at it’s best.

+ Do I need to bring toiletries?

We supply all the shampoo, conditioner and body wash that you’ll need for your stay. Bring anything else you’ll need for your personal care and comfort, and if travelling with a carry-on bag remember to check with your airline for the size restrictions on your toiletry items. Our on-site surf shop sells amazing surf zinc and sunscreen and you can also buy insect repellent in town, if you don’t want to travel with these items.

+ What is the currency in Panama?

The currency in Panama is the Panamanian Balboa. However Panama is a dollarized economy which means the US dollar is accepted everywhere. Sometimes you'll receive coins as change in the local currency. This is the same value as the US Dollar.

+ What type of electrical outlets are used in Panama?

All electrical outlets are the same as those used in the U.S. 110Volts.

+ Are there ATMs in Santa Catalina?

Yes, we have 1 ATM in Santa Catalina. Though, as a rural area it is not re-filled frequentlty so please still brinng cash with you in case!

+ What should I expect traveling into and around Panama during the 'new normal'?

Please review the following link from Visit Panama with helpful information on what to expect and what to prepare for your arrival into and travel around Panama.

+ Do I need a visa for traveling to Panama?

Most countries do not require a tourist visa for Panama; however, do check with your local embassy. Most tourists can travel in Panama for up to 6 months.

+ Do I need travel insurance?

We highly recommend purchasing travel insurance to cover against any unexpected travel expenses, delays, etcs that may occur before, during or after your trip, as well as medical coverage. Most travel insurance providers are now also offering cover for COVID related illness in the event COVID prevents you from making your retreat, or your contract COVID during your travels.

+ What airport should I arrive into?

Our closest International airport is Panama City Tocumen International Airport (PTY). If you are coming from the US, Copa Airlines (Panama’s National Airline) and United have direct flights from NY and LA, starting as little as $355 return. We love Copa Airlines as the service on board is always great, and it includes a hot meal with beverages and onboard entertainment. From Europe, Lufthansa fly’s direct from Frankfurt, KLM direct from Amsterdam.

+ What’s the best way to get from the airport into Panama City?

Taxis are easy, safe and abundant. There is an authorized taxi stand outside the main exit of the airport. If traveling alone, expect to pay up to $35 to Casco Viejo. You can also agree to wait for other passengers and split the fare to make it cheaper. The drive into town is about 30 min, give or take some traffic. Uber is also available in Panama. The rates are the same if not lower than taxis. You can also pay a small surplus and select an English-speaking driver.

+ How do the optional transfers to and from Panama City work? What time will I be picked up and dropped off in Panama City?

We can pick you up in our private shuttle at Panama City Tocumen International Airport (PTY) at 7.30am on your retreat start date or at 9am in front of the Central Hotel in Casco Viejo. We’ll have you back in Panama City around 3pm on your last day. We can return you to the airport if you have an evening flight home or to your hotel in Panama City. This is a private group shuttle we arrange for all guests joining each of our week’s retreats. The cost is $100pp each way provided we have at least 3pp booked on the shuttle for your retreat week. If we have 2pp only the cost will be $125pp for a small vehicle, or $250 for 1 person.

+ What if I can’t make the transfer times, how do I get to/from Waluaa and Panama City?

No worries, we’ll help make getting here easy for you. Here are 3 options for you:

1. We can book you a private driver to pick you up from anywhere, anytime in Panama City or the airport. If you are traveling alone or with a buddy, allow $260 one way for a private driver and small vehicle. So if there are 2 of you, that's $130 each one way.
2. Rent a car and drive here! The property has free on-site parking.
3. Take public transport - it's safe, easy, comfortable and cost effective. Here’s what you need to do:
   • Panama City to Santa Catalina: Take an uber or taxi to Albrook Bus Terminal. Locate the bus window for Sona. You can buy a ticket to Sona at the window or pay on the bus if you are running late. The cost is approx $11, cash only. Prep like you would for a flight. Sweater for the AC, water, snacks, entertainment. It's about a 5 hour ride. Plus the bus stops half way for about 20min and everyone gets off to use the restroom, stretch their legs, buy some snacks. The seats recline 100 times better than any coach/economy international flight, it’s super comfy and safe to travel. When you get to Sona, take a yellow taxi to Santa Catalina. It's 1 hour and costs $40. OR you can take the local bus from Sona to Santa Catalina, it takes about 75min and costs around $4.50. The bus drops you right in front of our accommodations. Here are the bus times for Panama City to Sona: 6:45 am / 8:20 am / 10:20 am / 12:30 pm / 2:20 pm / 4:20 pm.
   • Santa Catalina to Panama City: You can take the public bus right out front of retreat property, costs $4.5 and takes around 75min. OR we can book you a taxi to take you to Sona bus station. Cost is $40. 1 hour. Take the Panama City bus back to Albrook Bus Terminal. You will pay for your ticket on the bus. Approx $11, cash only. The drive is approx 5 hours. Once at Albrook Bus Terminal take a yellow taxi to wherever you need to go! Here are the bus times for Sona to Panama: 12:30 am / 4:30 am / 8:30 am / 10:30 am / 1:30 pm / 3:30 pm.

+ I’m traveling to Boquete/Bocas after my retreat, how do I get there?

Check out Hello Travel Panama. They offer a reliable and cost effective shuttle service.

+ Do you have any recommendations for tour guides in Panama City?

Yes. Contact our friends at Pineapple Shuttle for guided tours of the sites to see in Panama City - the Panama Canal, Ancon Hill hike, Metropolitan Park, Amador Causeway, Cinta Costera, and/or walk through Casco Viejo.

+ How much do you tip in Panama?

Around Panama 10% is the norm for restaurants, hotels and bars. You don’t need to tip taxi drivers but be sure to agree your price with the driver up front.

For your retreat stay with us, you do not need to tip as you go. For anyone who would like to offer a gratuity for the instructors, hotel, restaurant, and activities staff, we will kindly accept any gratuities at the end of your stay which will be divided up amongst all staff. A gratuity of 5-10% of your stay is greatly appreciated.

+ Where should I stay in Panama City?

Our favorite place to stay in Panama City is Casco Viejo. A beautiful old historic town that truly comes alive at night and filled with amazing cafes, restaurants, bars, museums, artisanal stores and a market. You’ll have plenty of accommodation options here to choose from, ranging from Hostels to Boutique Hotels.

Casco Viejo area: $ - $$$

• Central Hotel
• American Trade Hotel
• Hyatt La Compañia
• Las Clementinas
• Hotel Casa Panama
• Magnolia Inn
• Selina - Note, this is a social hostel/hotel. If you need a good night's sleep, book elswhere.

*Check out Airbnb for some great apartments

City Center: $ - $$$

• W Hotel
• JW Mariott
• Global Hotel
• The Executive Hotel
• Sortis
• The Bristol Hotel
• Le Meridian
• Trypp Wyndham Panama Centro
• Panama Zen Best Western Hotel
• Riande Urban Hotel
• Saba Hotel

Airport hotels: $$

• Riande Aeropuerto Hotel
• Crown Plaza

*Both have a 24hr complimentary airport shuttle

+ Any other helpful tips?

Zelle or Cash is preferred for any extra activities you would like to do. Credit cards are accepted with a 6% fee or PayPal with a 4.5% fee.

Coiba National Park - Snorkeling or Diving Adventure: 8 hrs: Snorkeling $100, Diving $160-$190

Massage: 1 hr: $70 - $90pp

Horseback Riding: 1 hr: $40pp

Guided Nature Hikes: 1 - 2 hrs: $15pp

For any additional drinks or food you would like, beyond what is served during our meal service, just order at the bar. You can pay as you go or close out by credit card or cash at the end of your stay.

Whilst walking around town, feel free to say 'Buenos' passers by. As we are in a rural village, please be mindful when coming back from the beach and remember to dress.

We have laundry facilities available. $7 per load for wash and dry, with cash payment at reception.

The tap water in our hotel is safe and delicious to drink.

There is a safe in your room for your passport, wallet, laptop etc

For anyone who would like to leave a gratuity for the staff, we will hand out envelopes on your last day.