Panama City in Central America is a cosmopolitan blend of chic restaurants, gleaming high-rises and restored colonial architecture, making it a haven for city slickers. Meanwhile, outdoor enthusiasts will find the highlands of Chiriquí province irresistible, with its refreshing mountain air, stunning scenery and abundance of active adventures. Its beautiful beaches, great nightlife and numerous theme parks and arcades make it a great place for a fun break in the sun.

Have you ever thought about visiting Panama? 

Judith Conroy lived in Panama from 2012 to 2014. Her husband was working with Digicel and they were part of the expat community. Judith shares what it was like and where she recommends to visit, “We lived in the canal district, observed the development of the Casco Viejo (old town) and we went on many trips to the San Blas islands, Contadora and Bocas del Toro.

“Panama City is the Miami of the region. It’s host to economic migrants from Venezuela, Colombia and Argentina so it really is a melting pot of cultures. Historically the population didn’t learn English at school, so it’s surprising how the pressure to converse is on you to dig out some Spanish.  The canal is in an area called Clayton, formerly Fort Clayton which was a US army base. It’s amazing to watch the unending line of cargo ships form an orderly queue on the Ocean to access the canal. It’s a busy commercial operation and fascinating to watch it unfold live. The museum is also a must see to grasp the history of its development. 

“The experience of traversing the canal on a boat is also amazing. The huge commercial tanker traffic contrasted with maybe a lone sailor on a private quest is a joy to watch. The information on how the canal was constructed as you pass is historic and enjoyable. The many rooftop bars and restaurants in the old town are a treat and the best way to enjoy the impressive skyline. The old town has been restored and is now a hive of activity  for expatriates, tourists and young city workers. 

The highlights for Judith were:

“The San Blas Islands on the Atlantic side are an amazing tribute to the Kuna people. It is a rustic and undeveloped archipelago and a unique experience to spend some nights on the islands or sail around them on a catamaran. Contandora is on the pacific side and is a gorgeous, undeveloped island.  I would highly recommend visiting there. The array of wildlife that’s a regular feature of daily life in Clayton including Toucan birds, sloths, crocodiles and monkeys is a constant source of amazement.”

Panama offers adventurous holidaymakers a diverse array of rainforests, a desert and breathtaking beaches on both the Caribbean and Pacific coastlines, all conveniently within driving distance of a cosmopolitan city.

The Travel Suite offers an exceptional range of luxury cruises that journey through the iconic Panama Canal, providing a unique and unforgettable travel experience, including MSC Cruises, Explora Journeys, Princess Cruises and Silversea. These cruises are an incredible way to see the world, combining the adventure of exploration with the comfort and elegance of high-end travel.

Contributed by exclusive Journalist to The Travel Suite, Yvonne Reddin.