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Panama City

February 15, 2023 /
Everything about the Capital of Panama explained for you

Central America is an interesting and one of the most unexpected treasures of the planet. An outstanding, lively and busy city on this continent is Panama City. With its skyscrapers, almost 2 million inhabitants and thriving night life and markets it is definitely a place I propose you visit. It has its pros and cons. Read all about Panama City in this post!

Panama City is the capital and largest city of Panama, located on the Pacific coast of the country. It is an important economic, cultural, and financial hub for Panama and Central America with around 1.5 to 2 million inhabitants. Within this city, there is business going on, and it makes you almost feel as in London or New York. A lot of high flats and skyscrapers make it a very interesting place for multinationals and large companies from outside countries as well. 

Panama City is home to many notable landmarks and attractions. We start of with the most famous attraction of the city, the Panama Canal. This is one of the world’s most impressive engineering feats and a major source of income for Panama. Other popular attractions in the city include the historic district of Casco Viejo. This includes the Biomuseo as well as the Panama Viejo archaeological site, which was the original location of Panama City before pirates destroyed it.

Keep in mind that the city is expensive. Hostels are around 15-20 dollars a night, and normal dinners, drinks and taxis can be around Europe prices in for instance the old town Casco Viejo. However, the people within the old town are nice. They will try to sell you a lot of souvenirs tho! However, Panama City is a dynamic and exciting city that offers visitors a unique blend of history and culture

Casco Viejo, Center of Panama City, Panama
Casco Viejo, Center of Panama City

When in Panama City, I propose you visit:

  1. Visit the Panama Canal: The canal is one of the most impressive engineering feats in the world, and a must-see attraction in Panama City. You can visit the Miraflores Visitor Center to see the canal in action and learn about its history.
  2. Explore Casco Viejo: This historic district is full of colorful architecture, narrow streets, and beautiful plazas. It’s a great place to walk around, take photos, and explore the city’s past.
  3. Visit the Biomuseo: This museum is dedicated to the biodiversity of Panama. It has interactive exhibits, beautiful gardens, and stunning views of the Panama Bay.
  4. Go shopping: Panama City is a great place to shop, with many malls and markets selling everything from local handicrafts to designer clothing. Some popular shopping destinations include Albrook Mall, Multiplaza Pacific Mall, and the Causeway. Indeed; expensive.
  5. Enjoy the nightlife: Panama City has a vibrant nightlife scene, with many bars, clubs, and restaurants. Some popular areas for nightlife include of course Casco Viejo, Calle Uruguay, and the Amador Causeway.
  6. Walk up the Ancón mountain. A small hike up will give you a very nice view over the city. In addition, you a look at both sides of the city, with on the east the old town Casco Viejo and on the west the busy port with boats laying the water ready to enter one of the two oceans. 

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Check out Hostal Casa Areka!

Although a bit far from the center Casco Viejo, this is definitely the most chill and affordable hostel in the city! The owner is a very chill guy, breakfast is included, a kitchen and swimming pool, and you can easily make friends. Of course you can always take a quick Uber and you’re everywhere so definitely stay here!

Hostelworld

The Panama Canal

The Panama Canal is a man-made waterway that spans the isthmus of Panama, connecting the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. It is one of the most important engineering feats of the 20th century and a crucial waterway for global commerce. The canal was first proposed in the 16th century as a way to reduce the travel time for ships sailing between the oceans. Construction on the canal began in 1904. This then took over 10 years to complete. The canal was officially opened on August 15, 1914. Ever since, it has played a critical role in international trade.

The Panama Canal is approximately 80 km (50 miles) long. It includes a system of locks that raise and lower ships as they pass through the canal. The locks use a complex system of water chambers and valves to control the water levels and ensure that ships can safely navigate the canal.

Today, the Panama Canal is a major source of income for Panama, as ships from around the world pay tolls to use the canal. The canal also plays a critical role in global trade. Because by allowing ships to avoid the longer and more dangerous route around the southern tip of South America, it is visited by almost everybody who needs to cross the oceans. Overall, the Panama Canal is a remarkable engineering feat that has had a profound impact on global commerce and transportation.

Photo Gallery

Ancón, Panama City
Casco Viejo
Casco Viejo
Panama City
Casco Viejo, Panama City
Panama City
Panama City
Panama City
Panama City
Panama City
Panama City
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