Travel Guide: Panama

For those looking for a mix of city life, nature, wildlife and beaches, traveling couple Megan and Michael say Panama is a worthy contender. Located at the crossroads of North and South America, and most famous for the Panama Canal: a stunning feat of engineering that connects the Atlantic and Pacific Ocean. There’s a vibrant world worthy of discovery that blends modern city life with rich cultural traditions and incredible natural beauty. The U.S. dollar is used as currency, which makes travel here fairly easy.

Where To Eat: 

• Snack Shack in Panama City’s Casco Viejo. The best fresh fruit and juices. 

• Dinner in the courtyard at Hotel La Compañia.

• Herbalorium in Santa Fe for pizzas and fresh fruit juice.

• Take a tour of Finca Maria y Chon’s coffee production and garden and stay for their homemade lunch. Best meal of the trip. 

• Our favorite food was our neighbor’s homemade Sancocho, feta cheese and fresh-cut pipas frias (cold coconut!) 

Where To Stay: 

• We spent most of our time at various HomeExchanges, but this AirBnB in Casco Viejo was very central and fit our needs well.
• We spent one night at the Bristol Panama City before our departure and it was a much-needed respite after weeks in the jungle! 

What To Do: 

• In Panama City, rent a bike for a few hours from Go Panama Bike Tours and check out the Panama Canal. 

• Visit the Panama Canal Museum (seriously! It’s fascinating! And air conditioned!)  

• Hike to the Bermejo waterfall.

• Go to a swimming hole. Use the Footpath App as a guide. 

• Visit Calovébora, a small fishing village that feels very off the grid. 

• Lay in a hammock and do nothing.