Oh, the places you’ll go

We have only scratched the surface when it comes to getting to know this country. You’d think, with a country only the size of South Carolina that we would run out of options. Not so.

The reality is, we haven’t even gone much more than 2 hours in any one direction from Panama City, and yet, in that short distance, we have visited mountains, islands, beaches with both volcanic black and sugar white sands, lakes, rivers, tropical forests, historic ruins, one of the most important canals in the world, indigenous tribal territory, and a multitude of wildlife. Seriously, most of this is just a day-trip from the city.

Day-trip Suggestions –

Beaches:
Playa Blanca and Santa Clara, both of which are no more than 2 hours from the city, are probably the best known and most visited of the beaches on the Pacific side of the isthmus. They are beautiful, expansive, almost white sand beaches. Some of the newer, upscale resorts can be found here – the Bristol Buenaventura, Breezes, and Playa Blanca. If going to Playa Blanca, go to Woody’s – a Canadian bar - that sets on the beach. It’s the perfect place to take in the splendorous sunset and have a beer. Ask to see the friendly little nocturnal monkey. Oh, and you can also visit the second largest pool in the world! This is definitely a favorite of the kids.

For a more authentic experience without needing to travel so far, head over the Bridge of the Americas toward Vera Cruz. Not 30 minutes from Panama City is an excellent beach bar/ restaurant called Kalimar. Don’t expect fancy, just your basic wooden structure with a thatched roof with a fantastic view of the beach as well as Taboga Island in the distance. At high tide, the water comes within 2 meters of the place, practically lapping at your feet. Local beers are a buck. I suggest Balboa. Coronas, just $2. (at last visit, that is). Fresh shrimp, sea bass, and shellfish can all be had for a fraction of what it costs in the city.

If you want a little more of an adventure, you can go to the San Blas Archipelago - the Kuna Yala autonomous province – located on the Caribbean coast. San Blas is a string of almost 380 islands, with only about 50 that are inhabited. Pristine waters and palm tree lined beaches are what you will encounter, along with a glimpse at the native culture. Though the trip can be done in a day, most people opt to stay overnight due to the scarcity of reliable transportation. Getting there can be a 20 – minute flight from Panama City and then a boat rental to your island of choice, or you can take the scenic route. I suggest the latter if you have a 4x4 and are traveling during dry season. Half of the fun is the trip there!

Drive east on the Panamerican highway until it seems to disappear, turn left at the bus stop (there is no sign so if you miss it you may end up in the Darien Jungle – a completely different adventure I’m sure), climb the Cordillera Central until the temperature drops about 15 degrees Fahrenheit, look at breathtaking views of the verdant mountains, continue on until the pavement runs out, slide around a little, pay the Kuna Yala toll (tolls are charged per vehicle and per person – be prepared!), start the descent, cross the river that covers the “highway” or is actually part of the highway, and finally drive onto the airstrip, pay another toll (same rule applies), and park your vehicle next to the Caribbean’s sandy shores. From here, take a motorboat for about 30 – 45 minutes to a remote island, for which you pay - you got it - per person. We went to Isla Perro, where there is a sunken ship, perfect for snorkeling. A walk around the island takes about 3 minutes. Don’t forget to take your cooler and a bag to carry off your own trash, as conditions and facilities are rustic and rudimentary. Soak up the sun, fill your lungs with the saltwater air, contemplate the unspoiled views, and relax. Ahhhh…

To come - mountains, historic sights, and nature