Charity & Alfonso
Things To Do
Bocas del Toro - Multi-day trip
ISLANDS - WATER SPORT - VIBEY Bocas del Toro is a fun archipelago of islands on the Caribean side of Panama, close to Costa Rica. It is great for groups looking for adventure. Bocas town the main island boasts with many hotels from where you can take small boats for day trips and inter island transfers. Access via internal flight from Panama Albrook Airport to Bocas del Toro Airport.
San Blas - Multi-day trip
ISLANDS - BOAT - INDIGENOUS RESERVE San Blas is a UNESCO world heritage site. These stunning 300 islands on the Caribean sea are each more beautiful than the other. The only way to explore this archipelago though is is by chartering a boat, hence we recommend this only if you are willing to spend a few days with your group on your boat. Contact: melody@sanblassailing.com
Playa Venao, Pedasi - Multi-day trip
BEACH - SURF - VIBEY Playa Venao is a beautiful beach in the Pedasi region of Panama. It's a bit of a drive from Panama City but well worth it if you are into your surfing. The beach has a few vibey hotels/hostels that will make sure you have a varied but good time. You mostly stay on the beach so if you want to do a variety of things, this may not be the right plan for you.
Panama Canal - Culture in Panama City
How could you go to Panama and not visit the Panama Canal? One of the greatest achievements in human engeineering. Visiting the Miraflores locks is very exciting as you can see ships pass by in the morning (go prior to 10AM if you want to see ships) and get some understanding of how this marvel was built in the museum. The Canal is located close to Gamboa resort so there is an opporutunity to do both in 1 day should be keen. We recommend going either Tursday morning or Friday morning (though keep in mind the buses will leave for Buenaventura at 10:30AM so don't be late!). And should you be interested in a tour guide, we will shortly provide a contact.
Day Trips - Culture in Panama City
If you have a day or two in Panama city before or after the wedding, we've connected with a tourism agency that organises day tours. You can look into their website but here are some good options (prices are per person and depend on group size): - Panama Canal Rainforest Boat Adventure ($140+) - Historic Panama City & the Panama Canal ($135+) - The Chagres River & the Embera People ($145+) - Casco Antiguo Flavors ($120+) - Highlights of Soberania National Park ($120+) Contact Marco at: marcog@anconexpeditions.com
Shopping (Local Gifts) - Culture in Panama City
There are many shops, malls, street vendors where you can get what your heart desires in Panama. But if you want something that is special and feels panamanian, here are some of our favourite gift shops and concept stores in the Casco Antiguo: - KARAVAN (Calle 3ra): refined arts and crafts - MIAMIA (Avenida B): artesanias - FRANKLIN (Calle 4rta): pareos, carrés with use of traditional "molas" design - CASA LATINA (Avenida A): artesanias, bags - NO ME OLVIDES (Avenida A): guayaberas (traditional shirt) and linen clothes - MOLAS (Paseo de la Bovedas)
Museums - Culture in Panama City
There are a few really nice museums we'd recommend if you have some extra time and want to know more about local culture and arts: Casco Viejo - MUMO Museo de la Mola - Museo del Canal - Churches - visit the many churches of Casco antiguo like La Merced, San Jose, Catedral Metropolitana Beyond - Museo de la Biodiversidad - MAC - Museo de Arte Contemporaneo
Bars - Food and drink in Panama City
When you won't be sipping on "Abuelo Pintados" a local must try libation, here are some of the best bars and rooftops in town: Casco Viejo - Pedro Madrigal Rum Bar - Tantalo Rooftop Bar - Casa Casco Rooftop Bar - Strangers Club Cocktail - Rana Dorada Beerhouse - Salvaje Bar Beyond - Amano Cocktail Bar - Tomillo (Cocktail bar and restaurant)
Restaurants - Food and drink in Panama City
Panama has very eclectic food from traditional to modern fusion passing by delicious seafood. Here are a few favourites: Casco Viejo - Fonda Lo Que Hay (Panama Street food) Don't get it wrong, dishes are an elevated turn on street food and change often, a local favourite - Las Clementinas (Modern Latin) varied dishes and a nice leafy terrace - Mercado de Mariscos (Seafood) this seafood market is a fun way to try ceviches (lunch only) - Tacos la Neta (Tacos) Easy option on the rooftop of the Selinas hotel - Tio Navaja (Modern Latin) Revisited Panamanian specialities - Isaki (Japanese) sushi and cocktails on a rooftop - Vista Corona (Mexican) casual food and drinks and beautiful sunsets Beyond - Maito (Modern Latin) Ranked one of the 50 best restaurants in Latin America - Azahar (Fusion) a great upscale option with vibe and view of the bay - Makoto (Japanese) sleek upscale more modern option - Nina Cafe (Breakfast) Great option for breakfast or lunch, located in a concept store