10 Reasons to Visit Panama City, Panama

 

1. History.

Panama City’s historic center, Casco Viejo, which sits alongside futuristic high-rise buildings, is like taking a step back in time and can be a much-needed escape from the frantic city-center.

 

2. The Views.

Panama City’s modern skyline, tall palm trees, and sandy beaches offer some of the most unique views in Central America. There are opportunities to shoot a beautiful picture everywhere.

Panama Viejo's skyline as seen from Casco Viejo. This beautiful rainbow was an unexpected surprise after a quick storm.

 

 

3. The Canal.

The Panama Canal, which connects the Pacific Ocean to the Atlantic Ocean, changed international trade forever. It is fascinating to watch boats enter and pass through this perfectly engineered and maintained canal.

 

4. Colors.

Vibrant colors define Panama as well as all of Latin America. Sprinkled all over Panama City, especially in Casco Viejo, are bursts of turquoise, pink, yellow, and green. Even the public buses in Panama display an artful explosion of colors.

Colonial houses in Casco Viejo are painted gorgeous colors.

 

One of Panama City's eccentric public buses.

 

5. Contrasts.

Old and new. Bold and bright. Calm and exciting. Ancient churches and silver skyscrapers. Panama City is a city of contrasts, but these contrasts perfectly compliment and blend together, mixing cultures and cuisines, architecture styles, and atmospheres. There is something for everyone in Panama City.

Gothic Iglesia del Carmen sits alongside towering skyscrapers right in the heart of Panama City.

 

6. Skyscrapers.

There is absolutely no shortage of towering skyscrapers in Panama City! There are some pretty unique ones dotted throughout the capital and even more currently being constructed. From the ground or from a rooftop bar, Panama City’s skyscrapers offer travelers and photographers many options for a great shot.

The BBA Tower, Revolution Tower – whatever you want to call it – was my favorite high-rise.

 

7. Perezosos.

Panama is known worldwide for its exceptional bird watching and incredible wildlife. For me, Panama was about the sloths (perezoso in Spanish). They’re adorable, incredibly slow, and lazy – what’s not to love?

 

8. The Food.

Panama City’s exotic mix of cultures is displayed brilliantly in the cuisine. Asian flavors fused together with Latin American and Caribbean traditions provide visitors with incredible flavors not found anywhere else. This country’s fresh meats, cheeses, exotic fruits, and street stall snacks are sure to delight travelers with all palates.

 

9. Islands.

Of course, Panama City is filled with gleaming skyscrapers, but there are also some beautiful beaches! Visit a nearby island for some relaxation away from the bustling city and catch some rays on the beach.

 

10. Rooftop Bars.

With all the skyscrapers and incredible views Panama City has, thankfully there is an abundance of rooftop bars and patios. My personal favorites are Tantalo (in Casco Viejo) and Panaviera. The sunset from Panaviera was one of the most photogenic experiences of my life!

Tantalo offers exceptional rooftop views of the colonial Casco Viejo area.

 

Panaviera offers panoramic views from the 66th floor and the sunsets are unreal! The picture featured at the top of this blog was taken here.