Last July, my family and I traveled to Panama (in Central America, not Florida) and it was a truly eye-opening and beautiful experience. Traveling to Panama is much different than traveling to Mexico (or any other Latin-American country). For starters, the flight time from Houston is about 5 hours, rather than about 2 1/2 hours to Puerto Vallarta or Cancun. (And prepare for some Pacific turbulence on the approach into Panama City - my flight had to go-around TWICE before landing!)
While fewer native Panamanians speak English than native Mexicans, the United States has much greater economic and cultural influences in Panama than it does of its neighbor to the South. Panama's main currency is actually the US dollar, with the majority of everyday transactions being completed with the imperial currency (Its lesser known currency, the Balboa, is actually one-to-one with US dollar as well!) If you are aware of the US's historical relationship with Panama, this may not come as a surprise, since it has held influence there for a long time. The relationship essentially began in 1903 after Panama gained its independence from Spain and it granted the United States the right to build and operate an inter-oceanic canal, connecting the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans.
Despite its influence, American tourists in Panama were scarce. We didn't encounter many tourists in general; the few we did meet were from Europe or other Latin-American countries. I believe we only met one other family visiting from the States, a stark contrast from Mexico, where we encountered many Americans, particularly in Cancun (where we even once saw a family we recognized from Norman at the resort there!).
Panama was, by far, the most interesting trip I've ever taken, and I'm so glad to be able to share a piece of it with you here!
(Second) approach into Panama City.
Panama City skyline, from a window in the rainforest. This was, by far, the best hike I've ever taken.
Something interesting in the rainforest, almost looks like some kind of bomb or ammunition.
Ferry pics from the trip to Taboga (with the city in the background).
Island of Taboga!!
Tiny Taboga had the best snapper of my life. Definitely would go there again, just for the snapper!
The Panama Canal!!! Easily the best part of the trip!
Visiting the old part of the city was fun (and, yes, that's my dad in the background).
While we didn't stay at a resort, there was one nearby that had a great pool/hot tub with a view! It seems they had no problems with us using their pool, so long as we were buying drinks. Only problem was that it closed each night at like 8PM. Hours are weird in Panama!
If you ever see a Panama license plate driving around the Norman/OKC metro area, it's probably me!
If you ever see a Panama license plate driving around the Norman/OKC metro area, it's probably me!
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I would HIGHLY recommend a trip to Panama for anyone looking to travel internationally/to Latin America! While it comes with a longer flight and can be difficult to navigate and drive, the culture, food, weather, views, and canal just can't be beat!
¡Pro Mundi Beneficio!
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