Theme Song – “Shooting Star”, Bad Company 

If you had told me seven years ago that our resort would look like it does today, I would have thought you were out of your mind.

Starry-Eyed Beginnings

My friend Scott Dinsmore and I were at that stage of life where we wanted to make our mark on the world. Our goal was simple yet ambitious: create a resort and guest experience so impactful it would leave a lasting impression for life. With grand visions, a shoestring budget, and relentless determination, we set out on a journey that was equal parts dream and delusion.

In 2017, we purchased a mangrove island in Bocas del Toro, Panama. We saw potential—a small island with big dreams. In reality, it was more like a swampy money pit. The nine acres of “dry” land (surrounded by 88 acres of mangroves) seemed like a steal at the time.

The Harsh Reality

Our ignorance was vast; our knowledge was… not.

On January 15, 2019, we broke ground on what we envisioned as a simple 12-room resort and yet we wanted it to be unique to the world. We quickly discovered that “simple” and “unique to the world” weren’t exactly compatible concepts, especially with our budget.

Building on a mangrove island in a remote part of Panama turned out to be an expensive and logistical nightmare. Each foundation required multiple concrete piles driven deep into the earth to prevent our buildings from sinking. Add to that the challenge of transporting materials to a private island in an archipelago, and our costs skyrocketed to more than triple our initial estimates.

Calamity Strikes

Over the next four years, we often questioned not just our decision to build a resort, but our sanity.

Take the time I arrived after a full day of travel, only to be greeted with: “The freshwater pool is 10 feet off-center.” Before I could lose my cool, the follow-up came: “But we have a solution.” The multi-level, stylish pool that had been under construction for nearly a year was in the wrong spot. The “solution”? Redesign the pool and extend it by 10 feet.

The Seventy Foot Pool That Was Placed Off Center

Or the time I received a frantic WhatsApp message in Michigan: the local union in Panama was targeting our workers, and construction had ground to a halt. If we didn’t act fast, our 50 workers might unionize, potentially delaying the project for months—or longer. In a flurry of action, we brought together our contractor, attorney, and even the Minister of Labor to meet with the workers. After a day of negotiations, we reached an agreement that allowed us to move forward.

Then there were the kickbacks, the pandemic shutdowns, the neighbor who blasted loud music for a year, and the two times we completely ran out of money. Some memories are too painful to revisit.

Contentment and Satisfaction

Thankfully, those days are behind us.

Now, when I arrive at Nayra Bocas del Toro, I’m greeted by Scott, Gerson, David, and Jorge at the dock with a warm towel and a welcome drink—no crises in sight.

Our 84 full-time employees are the heart and soul of our 20-villa resort. While they hail from various places, most are proud Panamanians eager to share their culture. Knowing we’re providing jobs, training, and a supportive work environment makes every struggle worth it.

A Few of Our 84 Person Staff

When I’m at the resort, I love chatting with guests at the world’s first overwater beach on stilts, relaxing in a treehouse, or kayaking around the island in our crystal-clear waters. My favorite pastime, though, is dinner at The Elephant House. Each night feels like an event, with our culinary team (Senior Chef David Barleta, Assistant Chef Abner Corona and Pastry Chef Benjamin Avila) delivering unforgettable meals. The illuminated water surrounding the restaurant brings in fish, and the occasional shark or stingray, to entertain our guests. Live music a few nights a week adds an extra layer of magic.

Guests often ask me for recommendations. While we offer over 20 excursions, my favorite is a private boat and captain for the day. Our captains, most of whom were once tour guides, know all the best spots in the archipelago and can make almost any wish come true.

Whether I’m in Grand Rapids, Michigan, or at the resort, nothing brings me more joy than hearing about guests having the best vacation of their lives. It’s why we do what we do.

Shooting for the Stars      

What’s next? After catching our breath, we’re dreaming big again. In February 2025, we’ll unveil the first treehouse spa in Central and South America. Inspired by the world-renowned spa at Nayara Springs in Costa Rica, our spa will elevate the guest experience to new heights—literally.

An Early Rendering of The Nayra Bocas Del Toro Treehouse Spa – The Design Has Changed Some

This April, we’ll debut our first premium luxury water villa, complete with a 24-foot indoor/outdoor lap pool, a floating sun deck, and state-of-the-art automation. Our goal? To rival the architectural marvels of the Maldives, Tahiti, and Bora Bora while delivering an even better guest experience.

Premium Luxury Villa Rendering – 1

Premium Luxury Villa Rendering – 1

Premium Luxury Villa Rendering – 3

Looking further ahead, we’re considering a Presidential Water Suite with an underwater ocean room. It’s a few years out, but we’d love to hear your ideas: What unique features would you want in a presidential suite?

Closing Thoughts

After years of hard work, we’re finally taking the time to stop and smell the roses—or, in our case, the Frangipani flowers.

We’re still shooting for the stars, and the journey is far from over. Thank you for being part of it.