It’s the people.
Every day, travelers from different countries, cultures, and backgrounds climb into one of our classic Volkswagen vehicles, and for a few hours, their stories become part of ours. While we may drive the same streets and visit the same landmarks, no two tours are ever the same because every guest brings a different energy, perspective, and reason for traveling.
Over the years, we’ve had the privilege of witnessing hundreds of unforgettable moments many of which were completely unexpected.
Some of our favorite memories begin the moment guests first see their vehicle. There is often a look of surprise and excitement when they realize they will be exploring Panama City in a colorful vintage Volkswagen Safari, a classic VW Dune Buggy, or our iconic 1972 red VW Kombi. For many travelers, it’s unlike anything they have experienced before.
Then the tour begins, and the magic starts to happen.
One of the moments we never get tired of seeing is the reaction when people on the street start waving at the cars. It happens almost every day. Locals smile, pedestrians stop to take photos, drivers honk and wave, and guests suddenly realize they are not just taking a tour—they are part of the attraction themselves.
Many travelers tell us they feel like celebrities driving through the city.
Some laugh nonstop. Others spend the entire ride taking photos and videos. And occasionally, someone simply sits back, smiles, and quietly enjoys the experience while taking in the sights and sounds of Panama.
We’ve celebrated countless special occasions along the way.
Birthdays have become one of the most common reasons people book with us. We’ve decorated cars, surprised guests with special treats, and watched entire families come together to celebrate milestone birthdays while cruising through the city.
We’ve also had the honor of being part of anniversaries, honeymoon adventures, family reunions, retirement trips, and once in a lifetime vacations.
Some guests arrive as strangers and leave feeling like friends.
Others arrive nervous about traveling in a new country and leave feeling completely connected to Panama and its people.
One of our most memorable moments involved a couple who became so captivated by Panama City during their tour that they changed their travel plans and extended their stay for several more days. Another guest immediately booked a second tour because they felt there was still more to discover and simply didn’t want the experience to end.
Then there are the sunset moments.
Few experiences compare to arriving at the Amador Causeway just as the sun begins to disappear behind the Pacific Ocean. The city skyline starts to glow, the ocean reflects shades of orange and gold, and for a few minutes, everything seems to slow down.
We’ve watched guests become completely speechless.
We’ve seen people put down their phones and simply take in the view.
We’ve even witnessed tears of happiness from travelers celebrating important moments in their lives.
The historic streets of Casco Viejo have created countless memories as well. Some guests dance to music as we drive through the cobblestone streets. Others become fascinated by the architecture and history. Many spend their time capturing photos beside the colorful Volkswagens, creating images that often become their favorite travel memories.
Our guides experience these moments alongside our guests every day.
As storytellers, photographers, local ambassadors, and companions throughout the journey, they often become part of the experience itself. Many guests return to Panama years later and specifically request the same guide because of the connection they formed during their first visit.
Perhaps the most meaningful moments happen at the end of the tour.
As guests step out of the vehicles, they often share stories about their favorite stop, their favorite view, or their favorite conversation. Some tell us they learned more than they expected. Others say they fell in love with Panama. Many simply thank us for helping make their trip special.
And then there is one phrase we hear again and again:
“This was the highlight of our trip.”
No matter how many times we hear those words, they never lose their meaning.
Because at the end of the day, Tomi Tours isn’t really about classic cars.
It’s about creating moments people will remember long after they’ve returned home.
It’s about helping travelers see Panama through a different lens.
And it’s about being fortunate enough to become a small part of some truly unforgettable memories.
Live the moment with us. Book now!!!