The Republic of Panama lies tucked away into the southernmost tip of Central America, connecting two continents. Mountain-crested highlands, sultry rainforests and sunny beaches are abundant in the Panamian landscape through which almost 500 rivers run. Panama's geographical wealth lies in its secrets: destinations off the well-worn paths are the best ones to visit while those made inaccessible by mountains and forests are rumoured to hold the lost cities of Panama's ancient civilizations.
In the heart of this rugged country lies Panama City, a cosmopolitan capital with two personalities. In the dilapidated portion of the city, diverse architecture and historical buildings aggregate on cobblestone paths. The hundreds of ramshackle buildings of Casco Viejo attracts more tourists than the rest of the city does, with its mirrored skyscrapers and vibrant night life. Right next to Panama's capital lies its famous canal, the only attraction which draws more crowds than Casco Viejo itself. A vast array of restaurants to appease your taste buds with, wonderfully oversized hats and local Sovereignty National Park and world-famous canal are just a fraction of that which makes Panama City a great travel destination.
Still, there's only so much cosmopolitan air and sophistication you can breathe in before wanting to escape to an unspoilt haven. Bocas del Toro is just that place. The archipelago is made up of six lushly forested islands, with dozens of uninhabited islets scattered all around them. Clamber past tangled vines, row through shadowed mangroves and treat yourself to a slice of Panamian beach; untouched and waiting with pristine waters, coral reefs and an abundance of tropical fish. It is a well-kept secret that Panama has coastal beauty to rival the Maldives. Isla Carenero in particular, has acquired a reputation for being especially lovely and secluded throughout the year.
There's no need to rush to the archipelago for it will be a while until the tourist traps and flashy hotels rise, ruining the rural charm of the place. Instead, stop first 'the Interior' for a heartwarming dose of local flavour. A map of Panama will show the regions of Colon, Veraguas and Cocle converging together; and it is roughly here that the Interior lies. Villages snuggled into hills and valley towns all seem to be frozen in Colonial times. That is, the architecture is well-preserved and the traditions and festivals are as old as the Spaniards that invaded and developed the region. This is where you meet the agrestic Panamian, engrossed in agriculture, special handicrafts and whipping up a mouthwatering batch of sancocho. From the Interior itself, there are two special destinations to move onto; the surfer's paradise or hiker's heaven. Santa Catalina is officially one of central America's best surf regions while the highlands of Veraguas speak for themselves. If you're up for it, continue moving west into Chiriqui where the Volcan Baru National Park lies. Its key feature is the seven cratered volcano which also happens to be the country's highest point. The terrain is ridiculously gorgeous and a testament of this is the residence of the Mayan Quetzal, the bird of paradise.
In the heart of this rugged country lies Panama City, a cosmopolitan capital with two personalities. In the dilapidated portion of the city, diverse architecture and historical buildings aggregate on cobblestone paths. The hundreds of ramshackle buildings of Casco Viejo attracts more tourists than the rest of the city does, with its mirrored skyscrapers and vibrant night life. Right next to Panama's capital lies its famous canal, the only attraction which draws more crowds than Casco Viejo itself. A vast array of restaurants to appease your taste buds with, wonderfully oversized hats and local Sovereignty National Park and world-famous canal are just a fraction of that which makes Panama City a great travel destination.
Still, there's only so much cosmopolitan air and sophistication you can breathe in before wanting to escape to an unspoilt haven. Bocas del Toro is just that place. The archipelago is made up of six lushly forested islands, with dozens of uninhabited islets scattered all around them. Clamber past tangled vines, row through shadowed mangroves and treat yourself to a slice of Panamian beach; untouched and waiting with pristine waters, coral reefs and an abundance of tropical fish. It is a well-kept secret that Panama has coastal beauty to rival the Maldives. Isla Carenero in particular, has acquired a reputation for being especially lovely and secluded throughout the year.
There's no need to rush to the archipelago for it will be a while until the tourist traps and flashy hotels rise, ruining the rural charm of the place. Instead, stop first 'the Interior' for a heartwarming dose of local flavour. A map of Panama will show the regions of Colon, Veraguas and Cocle converging together; and it is roughly here that the Interior lies. Villages snuggled into hills and valley towns all seem to be frozen in Colonial times. That is, the architecture is well-preserved and the traditions and festivals are as old as the Spaniards that invaded and developed the region. This is where you meet the agrestic Panamian, engrossed in agriculture, special handicrafts and whipping up a mouthwatering batch of sancocho. From the Interior itself, there are two special destinations to move onto; the surfer's paradise or hiker's heaven. Santa Catalina is officially one of central America's best surf regions while the highlands of Veraguas speak for themselves. If you're up for it, continue moving west into Chiriqui where the Volcan Baru National Park lies. Its key feature is the seven cratered volcano which also happens to be the country's highest point. The terrain is ridiculously gorgeous and a testament of this is the residence of the Mayan Quetzal, the bird of paradise.