Panama Travel

Even more things to do

In a country as richly varied as Panama, the list is practically endless but, depending on where you set your sights, you will find the following:

*** Golfing: Of the several clubs available, the two best known are the Coronado with a 18 hole par 72 course (considered a “jewel” in Latin America) ... and the Summit with two courses, one of 18 holes for adults and one of 6 holes for children.

*** Sport fishing: With over 1500 islands and 480 rivers, the possibilities are endless. But if it’s deep sea fishing you’re after, there are three world class areas -- the Las Perlas islands, Bahia Pina, and the Coiba archipelago. Wherever you go, just remember that Panama’s Indian name means “abundance of fish,” so you’re sure to catch something.

*** Rafting & Kayaking: Again, with all these islands and rivers, you’ll always be well rewarded just getting into a boat and exploring. But for a white water adventure, ratchet up your experience and try the Chiriqui river (level 3) or the Chiriqui Viejo river (level 4).

*** Diving & Snorkeling: A Panama trip is not complete unless you also get in the water to visit the astounding underwater sea life ... after all, there are more than 1000 miles of coastline to choose from to say nothing of the over 1500 islands. But limiting ourselves to the three top sites, we’d have to choose the San Blas islands on the Caribbean side, and the Las Perlas and Coiba archipelagos on the Pacific. In fact, the Coiba National Park is ranked as one of the world’s best. Also, to be noted, and definitely off the beaten track, is a dive in Gatun Lake where you’ll see submerged villages and interesting sea life.

*** Surfing: Of course, with so much coast line, you’ve got good surf usually ranging from 3 to 15 feet at the better places like Isla Grande, Careneros and Bluf on the Caribbean side, and Venado, Rio Mar and Catalina on the Pacific.

*** Shopping: Select a special bauble, the latest designer clothes, fine art, the last word in modern communications ... they’re all available in Panama City at unbelievably low prices ... remember Panama is an international free port. Finely made local handcrafts can be found throughout the country. Or need a mall fix? There are over two dozen, each with an impressive roster of specialty shops.

*** Gambling: We’re not trying to lead you stray, but if you do decide to indulge in one of the many gambling casinos in Panama City, make a wager at the horse racing track, or buy a lottery ticket, you won’t pay any taxes on your winnings.

*** Sightseeing: Panama boasts over 20 museums so there’s a subject sure to appeal to you ... and with over 35 parks, preserves and sanctuaries, there’s a lot of ground to cover especially if hiking and climbing are your sports. Or steep yourself in local history stepping back in time to the pirate Captain Morgan’s sacking of the city, and explore the Casco Viejo (Old Town). Or reserve one of the many ecological or adventure tours and visit indigenous native Indian villages. Or how about the Panama Canal by boat, on foot, or via helicopter?

*** And bird watching: Doesn’t matter where you are ... just grab a pair of binoculars and hit the trail ... any trail.

Now that you’re just about packed and ready to go, here’s some of the nitty gritty we all need to know:

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