What to do and see in Panama?

Panama

If you have decided to go to Panama, then you have made a great decision. Panama has a lot in store for people of all ages and has an amazing culture that is definitely worth discovering. You will be greeted by its friendly locals upon arrival and will then be taken to Panama City which is home to modern skyscrapers and hospitals. You can also visit Panama’s beaches or hike in its lush rainforest. There are so many things to do and see in Panama. In this article, we will introduce you to some of them.

Walk around the Panama Viejo archaeological site

Panama Viejo is the site of the old town dating from 1519. The remaining structures lie in ruins. Most of these ruins are traces of the former ruling buildings of Panama City, including pieces of the Casas Reales (royal houses), pieces of houses built by the wealthier members of the city, and some quite well preserved from the Notre-Dame de l’Assomption Cathedral. It’s the perfect place to get a glimpse of what the city was like during its colonial splendor and to understand what pirates ultimately plundered under the command of Captain Henry Morgan.

Visit Casco Viejo, the oldest neighborhood in Panama

As its name suggests, Casco Viejo is the old neighborhood of Panama City, dating back to the 17th century. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site which is under constant restoration. However, part of its charm is that the colorful colonial architecture of Casco Viejo is almost in ruins, which in this respect makes them very similar to the buildings in Venice. Today, the area is populated with trendy cafes, boutiques and wine bars. You will also find several notable old churches and other historically significant structures. It is even possible to see the ruins of the city after the governor set it on fire to prevent it from being plundered by pirates.

Relax in the serene beauty of the San Blas Islands

Have you heard of the alluring San Blas Islands of Panama, known locally as Guna Yala? Postcard-perfect white sand beaches floating in a turquoise ocean, a little slice of paradise just a few hours from Panama City.

The region, a remote indigenous territory made up of 365 islands, is accessible by day trip from Panama, but for the best experience, a few days of rest and relaxation are required.

Gain perspective at the Miraflores Visitor Center

To learn more about the history of the canal, head to the Miraflores Visitor Center. This four-story museum offers a close-up view of the Miraflores Locks as well as a chance to see the boats passing by. Late afternoon is the best time to see all the action on the water. Plus, many exhibits are interactive, making it a great place to take kids. The museum is affordable, with low ticket prices, and it offers information in Spanish and English. For those interested in the Panama Canal, the Miraflores Visitor Center is a must-see.

Taste the culinary specialties of Panama

Panamanian cuisine is a blend of Spanish, Native American and African culinary techniques. Some of the most popular dishes include arroz con pollo (chicken with rice), ceviche, carimañolas (fried meat pies similar to empanadas), tamales, and various fried starches like plantains and corn tortillas. As for Panamanian drinks, Balboa cerveza is a very popular local drink. You can also enjoy any of the treats listed above with fresh coconut water or juice from different tropical fruits.

Conclusion

If you are looking for the best places to travel and spend quality time for leisure and relaxation, then Panama is a perfect destination that you should add to your itinerary. This country is currently considered the jewel of Central America because it has a booming economy that can pose a real challenge to other third world countries. Breathtaking scenery, enjoyable outdoor activities, and a low cost of living make this country one of the best places in the world to travel.