When in Panama City
The link between Central and South America, the country of Panama is an increasingly popular tourist destination. Its compact capital, Panama City, is modern and as well as providing a good base for exploring the country's natural beauty has much to offer in its own right.
The country is synonymous with its canal, which has taken thousands of miles off a journey for many a ship's captain since it opened in 1914. It starts at Panama City on the Pacific west coast, before striking inland for 49 miles until it reaches the Atlantic. One of the world's great engineering feats, the site of a large ship making its way along the canal is incredible. If you're not on board one of the 14,000 ocean going vessels that pass through each year, it is possible to take a small boat trip along it for a reasonable cost, although the nine hour journey may drag after a while.
For those wishing to learn more about the canal and the failed attempts by the French to build it in the late 19th century, head to the Museo del Canal Interoceánico. Originally the home of the French company in charge of construction the canal, the building was then taken over by the Americans who finished the job. It is thought that over 25,000 workers died in attempting to build the canal and the museum is a fascinating depiction of the perils faced by the workers. The exhibits are all in Spanish although English-speaking guides can be organised in advance.
Another fine museum is the Museo de Arte Religioso Colonial, which is housed in the in the chapel of Iglesia y Convento de Santo Domingo. The church, built in the 18th century, is now in ruins but the chapel remains to show off many Spanish colonial religious artefacts. Included in the museum are 16th century paintings and a superb 18th century golden altar rescued from the dilapidated site of the nearby monastery.
Swimming at the beaches of the city itself is not allowed due to the high levels of pollution in the water. However, close to the city is the Playa Bonita Complex which offers clean bathing while both Pacific and Caribbean sides of the country have many other nice beaches to try. Those wishing to venture further out will find that there is also some superb snorkelling to enjoy.
The Tocumen International Airport is around 20 miles east of the city and buses and taxis are in abundance to take you in to town.
Getting in to the country from neighbouring Colombia is difficult and buses are not the answer as none will take you across so flying or walking, which is not advised, is probably your only answer. From Costa Rica it is slightly easier, with a number of buses making the journey daily. However, it is mandatory that visitors to Panama have a return ticket and this stipulation is often checked by border guards stopping buses at the border.
If you manage to get in to the city, you will find two types of bus available to get you around. The frequent highway buses whisk people to various points of the Pan American Highway from terminals in the city in air-conditioned comfort. City buses, which stay within the confines of Panama City are multicoloured, rickety and hot ? taxis are not much more expensive.
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Introduction
