Panama: History and Adventure

Panama offers a great variety of landscapes and things to do for all types of travelers. If rainforests, hiking, and adventure are your thing, Panama’s got it. Fancy more island hopping and a much-needed relaxing beach day? Panama has got it. Culture, food, turquoise water, gorgeous waterfalls. It’s all in Panama. And to top it off, Panama is a short trip from the East Coast. The city is vibrant and modern and is surprisingly a stone’s throw away from the rainforest.

Once you fly into Panama City, go straight to Casco Viejo. After you’ve checked into your hotel, it’s best to wander Casco Viejo through the cobblestone streets and admire the antique architecture now mixed with gorgeous modern elements. Neighborhood restaurants are a great stopping point to take the city in and hit the pause button. When the sun starts setting, make sure to get on a rooftop or patio, like Vista Corona or Panaviera, for dinner to enjoy the city lights and sights.

The first time I heard about the Panama Canal, I thought it sounded slow and boring. Boy. Was. I. Wrong. Hop over to the Miraflores Locks to see the massive container ships carefully come through the Canal. Visit the museum inside the Visitor Center to learn more about the construction of the Canal and how it all came to be. I’m not a fan of museums myself, but this one is a must. On the way back to the city, if you’re feeling a little adventurous, visit the Mercado de Marisco for lunch. This seafood market just outside of Casco Viejo offers some of the freshest ceviche you’ve ever had. For the rest of the afternoon, walk it off (or rent a bike) on the Cinta Costera, a path that runs along the Panama Bay. It’s a great way to see the city, experience the local community, and enjoy a Balboa cerveza.

For a little fun in the sun, take a short flight from Panama City to Bocas del Toro with Air Panama. In the afternoon, enjoy stand-up paddle boarding, kayaking around the beach or grab a private boat captain to go island-hopping, snorkeling, and dolphin-watching at sunset. This is luxury on the islands at its best.

After breakfast, take a guided hike around Isla Solarte. The trails and wildlife are unique and offer beautiful viewpoints. Reward yourself for your hard work by visiting The Floating Bar for tacos and cold beer. Once you’ve filled up, head back to Nayara to wind down your day with a massage on your private villa terrace (or you can visit their spa on property). This is the cherry on top of a perfect getaway.

• The Floating Bar

• Mercado de Marisco

• Vista Corona

• Panaviera