Our Story
Two Journeys. One Shared Passion for Hospitality and Bocas.
Hospitality has been part of our lives for more than 35 years each. But our story in Bocas del Toro began long before Don Marco Bocas Stays.
From Montreal to Bocas del Toro
Marco began his career in the hospitality industry in Montreal, Canada, where he worked as a Food & Beverage Manager. After many years in the business, he decided to fulfill a dream he had carried for a long time: to change his life and settle in the tropics.
Bocas del Toro became his home, and it was here that he created and operated BarrBra BnB.
A Journey That Was Never Really Planned
For Richard, arriving in Bocas was never really planned. After more than 35 years in hospitality, restaurants and operational management in Belgium, including international hotels and the management of large teams and multi-site operations, he too felt the need for a change.
A stay in Bocas del Toro was supposed to last one month. It ended up lasting much longer. Richard settled here and became the owner of Sol y Sombra.
The Beginning of Don Marco Bocas Stays
Our paths were different, but we shared the same vision of hospitality: being present, taking care of the details, and making sure every guest feels truly welcome.
After selling our respective properties, one thing became obvious: we weren't ready to give up what we loved doing.
That's how Don Marco Bocas Stays was born.
Today, we bring together our experience, our knowledge of Bocas and our passion for hospitality to offer properties that we carefully select and stays that are more personal, warm and authentic.
Because to us, a great stay depends on more than simply where you sleep.
It's the details, the people you meet and the way you're welcomed that make all the difference.
Marco & Richard