Life In Panama

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Natural Mystic

For the past 6 weeks I have been spending most of my time at a cafe called Natural Mystic. It is a Hookah Lounge/Cafe that is on the main strip in bocas del toro that serves vegeterian eats with a Turkish feel, such as Hummus, Falafel & Baba Ganoush. I met the two owners, Alex and Dave a while back before their official opening and began helping them with the finishing touches on the place. They basically built the cafe from scratch, and the outcome is pretty sweet. When they opened a couple weeks ago they almost immediately became the most talked about place in town. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, and the motto is "Good Vibes". This town is quite small, and this type of food is popular because it is hard to come by normally. In a town that thrives off of fried chicken, rice and beans, people really take advatage of being able to get some Hummus & Cocout bread.

When we finally opened things got a little hectic, but still exciting. I was able to use my experience in restaurants to give advice and suggestions. Most of what I have told them they have liked, and I even helped write the menu. Helping with this project is one of the most rewarding and coolest things I have ever done. At this point, we've been open for over two weeks, and from my observations, it appears this place is going to be a success. The idea, location, and atmosphere are all perfect for the area, and people just keep coming and coming. They can't get enough of it.

Along with my new friends at the Mystic came an entire social group of people that I have seen on a daily basis for the last weeks and developed relationships with. This town is small & packed with a variety of unique travellers and I have met so many wonderful people. I have had the opportunity to play music with some very talented musicians from Chile (I have continued building my appreciation for reggae the last couple years and Cetral America is only making me like it more). The vibe in this town is one that I will never forget. It is truely a fun & peaceful place to live, and any travellers who come here shouldn't be so quick to move on.

If you come here, check out Natural Mystic...

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