The Gina Cronin story: American Woman Prevails Against Odds, Realizes, Shares Dream of Green Living

Coming from a Cleveland, Ohio area suburb, I had been dreaming of a more sustainable, green lifestyle for years. I wanted to enjoy a comfortable life style while being environmentally responsible, self sufficient and energy independent – determined to find a way to make it a reality.

After much soul searching and researching, with the help of Google and the Internet, I eventually found a piece of suitable land, but it was in Panama, a central American country I knew little about – nor did I speak the language or have experience at the time. But I was determined not to let that stop me.

On my first visit to the property that is now known as the Rancho de Caldera eco-project, I knew right away that I was home; the fact that I was in another country, didn’t speak the language, or know anyone didn’t seem to matter.
It felt right to be here then – as it does now. I felt an immediate connection to the natural green environment and the awesome beauty there. With invaluable help from Chris McCall and the construction team, we endeavored to create a beautiful, serene and comfortable eco-resort for nature lovers, horse back riders, Yoga fans and bird watchers, while being environmentally and socially responsible and mindful.

True to our values and vision of sustainability, we have arranged to operate the entire project (eco hotel, restaurant, orchards, gardens, horse ranch and agriculture) off the grid all year, thanks to a combination of solar panels, hydro-electric generators and wind generators that provide all our electrical power needs. We’re also implementing strict ‘green’ policies and continue to focus on sustainability. And I was convinced that luxury and sustainability are not mutually exclusive. I wanted to offer people an oasis, a retreat, a tropical getaway where they can come and enjoy a truly relaxing ‘siesta for their soul’.

Meanwhile, our innovative approach to luxurious yet sustainable hospitality has received international recognition. We’ve been certified by Green Globe International, one of the world’s premier green certification institutions. Accolades, awards and endorsements from other international green travel and conservation groups followed, including from Sustainable Travel International, TripAdvisor and Rainforest Alliance.

Thus, today I have realized my dream to create a beautiful oasis of serenity where visitors and guests can immerse themselves in a natural environment that nurtures the soul, energizes the body and almost overwhelms the senses with its abundant natural beauty. When people ask about my personal philosophy and key to a happy life, I tell them I believe that it is the simple things in life that bring the greatest
pleasure: great food, natural living, communion with family and friends, comfortable living quarters and beds and gentle, responsible interaction with our natural surroundings.

Those interested in learning more about Rancho de Caldera and Madre Tierra – our restaurant – are invited to contact us with any question, visit our website and/or visit our Rancho de Caldera project in person, in the beautiful green hills of Boquete, western Panama, near the Costa Rica border. Panama City, the countries main airport, is less than three hours flight time from Miami, FL.

For more information: Rancho de Caldera. The link has been removed because they closed.