About Panama
My first time visiting Central America, and country number one on my list is Panama. The stopover of just 3 days in Panama, on the way to Brazil, turned out to be a great city experience. The capital of Panama is Panama City, which is home to half of the country’s 5 million population. Panama has coastlines on both the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean. Bordering with Costa Rica in the north and Colombia in the south.
Panama is probably most famous for its Canal, that connects Pacific and Atlantic Oceans, but this country has so much more to offer for tourists: cityscape, tropical islands, jungles, etc. I spent all my time in Panama City, but the next time I would like to go to the islands and maybe canal.
Things to do
Casco Viejo, also known as Casco Antiguo, is the number one place you should go and explore. This historic old quarter of Panama City is listed as UNESCO World Heritage Site. Most of the buildings have Spanish colonial architecture; there are also neoclassical architecture. I really liked just to wander through the streets of Casco Viejo and get lost.
Cinta Costera is another place you should walk through in Panama City. It’s a beautiful waterfront boulevard that connects old Casco Viejo district to a modern city with skyscrapers. By walking this pedestrian path, you will see a lot of the city. There are also running and cycling paths. You can come to Mercado de Mariscos for a lunch, a local seafood spot.
Another waterfront boardwalk that I recommend you to visit is Amador Causeway. You can rent a bike there or just walk and observe Panama City skyline from one side and from the other are ships moving in and out of the Panama Canal. This place is also popular for restaurants and beaches.
I haven’t gone to Panama Canal on this trip, but I encourage you to go there. It is one hour of a ride by car from Casco Viejo. In Panama City you can also do shopping or go on a hike. Some people go on a day tour to the islands. There are plenty of activities for tourists who decide to do a short stopover in the city.
Safety
Panama is one of the safest countries in Latin America. But just like any other country Panama has crime, so beware of pickpockets. Most of the country is peaceful and safe, especially touristy places. In few areas of Panama it’s extremely dangerous due to drug trafficking. But don’t worry, stick to tourist areas, use common sense and everything will be alright. Overall, I felt that Panamanians are very welcoming people who are ready to help. And if you are able to speak a little Spanish it might help a lot.
Some other tips:
- use Uber instead of taxis
- don’t wear too much jewelry
- hire a professional tour guide
- don’t go alone to unknown places
- research the neighborhood on the internet before going there
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