Discovering the Sweet Side of Panamá

As a seasoned traveler and surfer, I’ve always been drawn to the sun-kissed shores of Central America. But this time, my journey took a delicious detour. While the waves of Panamá Province beckoned, I found myself intrigued by the allure of chocolate. Yes, you heard that right—chocolate! I decided to dive into the world of cocoa with the Chocolate Tour and it was an experience that left a sweet mark on my heart.

Upon arriving at Casa Dawson, the chocolate factory nestled in the heart of Panamá Province, I was greeted by the warm aroma of cocoa beans roasting. The atmosphere was inviting, and the staff exuded a passion for their craft that was infectious. Our guide, a chocolatier who lives and breathes chocolate, welcomed us with a smile and a promise of a memorable journey from bean to bar.

The tour began with an introduction to the cocoa pod, a curious fruit that holds the secret to chocolate’s magic. We cracked open the pod to reveal the whitish, gummy beans inside. Tasting them was a revelation—they had a tangy flavor reminiscent of passionfruit. As we moved through the stages of chocolate-making, from roasting to cracking the beans, each step was accompanied by a tasting. The whole bean, the cracked nib, and the transformation into chocolate were all part of the sensory adventure.

Crafting My Own Chocolate Bar

The highlight of the tour was undoubtedly the chance to craft my own chocolate bar. With guidance from our expert chocolatier, I learned how to fill the mold, clear it off, and add my choice of ingredients. Nuts, dried banana, and other delightful additions were at my disposal. It was a hands-on experience that required a bit of skill and patience, but the reward was worth every moment.

As I poured the liquid chocolate into the mold, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of accomplishment. The process of tempering the chocolate, both pre and post, was fascinating. Tasting the difference between the two was an eye-opener, and the final product—a beautifully crafted chocolate bar—was a testament to the art of chocolate-making.

The experience was not only educational but also incredibly fun. It was a perfect activity for couples, small groups, and families. I could see how kids, with a bit of maturity and height, would enjoy the process of making their own chocolate creations. And for those with a sweet tooth, the option to purchase additional chocolate bars or bonbons was a tempting treat.

A Sweet Memory to Savor

As the tour came to an end, I found myself reflecting on the journey. The chocolate bar I crafted was more than just a souvenir; it was a memory of a day well spent. The bonbon with a plantain “mousse” filling was a delightful surprise, adding a unique twist to the tasting experience.

The Chocolate Tour was a perfect blend of education, fun, and indulgence. It was a reminder that sometimes, the best adventures are the ones that take you off the beaten path. While the waves of Panamá Province will always call to me, this sweet detour was a journey worth taking.

For those planning a trip to Panamá, I highly recommend adding this chocolate adventure to your itinerary. Whether you’re a chocolate enthusiast or simply looking for a unique experience, this tour offers a taste of Panamá’s rich cocoa heritage. And who knows, you might just find yourself planning a return visit, just like I am.