If you’ve ever dreamed of exploring somewhere bold, beautiful, and just a little bit off the beaten path—but wondered if it’s truly doable—let me introduce you to Panama. I don’t know why Panama doesn’t get more attention, but after four trips (and counting), I’m convinced Panama is one of the world’s most underrated gems, and I’m here to share why it keeps calling me back.
This country is vibrant, unfiltered, and surprisingly accessible, whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or as part of a group. In fact, I love Panama so much that I’m leading a women’s group tour there in January. If you like what you see, join me!
A Home Base with History and Heart
Let’s start with where you’ll lay your head: Casco Viejo, Panama City’s historic district. My go-to? The Central Hotel Panama Casco Viejo, a five-star stunner that’s as much a part of the city’s story as the cobblestone streets outside. The location couldn’t be more, well, central, with the Panama Canal Museum right next door and the Metropolitan Cathedral directly facing the hotel square. I loved buying a snowcone (in Panama they serve snowcones with powdered malt and sweetened condensed milk, sounds weird but trust me) and watching life go by from a park bench after dinner each night.
This isn’t just a place to sleep—it’s a slice of Panamanian history, with Old Town views, plush comforts, and a rooftop pool that delivers “pinch me” cityscapes. After a day of escapades, there’s nothing better than sinking into a lounger with a cold Panama beer (Chelada-style, naturally) and watching the city light up below.
Miles and points fans may be surprised I mentioned an independent hotel, especially since there’s La Compania, a Hyatt property, just a five-minute walk away. I’ve visited both properties and while La Compania is lovely, The Central Hotel is just as nice and usually half the price, and rooms booked via TravelZork include free breakfast so not only Globalists get to eat.
Many other chains are represented in Panama City, but for a first stay I would stick to Casco Viejo, with one exception. If you are Panama Canal-obsessed, the Radisson Panama Canal sits right at the entrance with a stunning view. That said, it used to be a Country Inn and Suites, so don’t expect luxury.
Adventure at Every Turn (and Both Coasts!)
- Panama is where you can swim in two oceans, climb to jungle waterfalls, and visit monkeys up close—all in a single week. My favorite itinerary is a greatest-hits playlist of adventure and culture:
- Panama Canal Magic: Watching massive ships squeeze through the new Gatun Lake Locks never gets old, with views so close you are practically onboard. Bonus points if you catch the “mules” (those little locomotives) guiding them in.
- Casco Viejo Charm: Safe, vibrant, and refreshingly un-Disneyfied, this old town is perfect for wandering solo—even at night. Pirate lore, gold, and revolution echo through the streets, but it’s still a living, breathing neighborhood.
- El Valle de Antón: Hike to a jungle waterfall in the crater of an extinct volcano, spot the elusive Golden Frog, and browse artisan markets. If you’re lucky, sloths and monkeys might drop by to say hello.
- Monkey Island and Rainforest Views: Cruise Lake Gatun, meet cheeky monkeys, and soar above the rainforest canopy on the Sky Tram.
- Caribbean Snorkeling and Pirate Forts: Snorkel turquoise waters and explore historic Portobelo
- Embera Village Immersion: Spend a day with the Embera people, learning about their traditions, crafts, and maybe even picking up a few dance moves. It’s a chance to unplug and connect on a deeper level.
- Pacific Paradise: The Pearl Islands are just a ferry ride away, with Contadora being my choice for empty beaches and crystal-clear waters.
Cuisine as Diverse as the Canal
Panamanian food is a delicious mashup of Caribbean, Asian, European, and indigenous influences. One of my all-time favorite dishes is a frutti di mare stuffed with shellfish, but instead of a tomato base, it’s swimming in a creamy curry-coconut sauce.
And don’t get me started on the seafood market—just-caught fish, ceviche, and more, all bursting with flavor and freshness. If you’re a foodie, Panama will not disappoint.
Easy Logistics, Especially for Points Lovers
Here’s where my inner travel hacker gets excited: Panama is one of the easiest international trips you can plan from the US. Copa Airlines (a United partner) flies nonstop from sixteen US cities, and both American and Delta offer daily flights into Panama City.
Award travelers, rejoice—business class seats are surprisingly plentiful. I’ve snagged them for as few as 15,000–25,000 miles on various programs, making Panama an unbeatable value for points enthusiasts. And since Panama uses the US dollar, there’s no currency confusion or surprise fees.
The Power of a Great Tour—and the Joy of Staying Put
One lesson I’ve learned from years of travel: minimize transitions. That’s why I love having a single home base in Casco Viejo and exploring Panama via curated day trips. No endless packing and unpacking, no racing to catch a bus at dawn. Instead, you get to dive deep into each experience, then return “home” to unwind. It’s the sweet spot between adventure and comfort, especially for those of us who like our escapades with a side of rooftop relaxation.
Solo-Friendly, Group-Ready, and Always Welcoming
Panama strikes that rare balance: exotic enough to feel like a true escape, but not so foreign that it’s intimidating. I’ve wandered Casco Viejo solo at night and felt totally at ease. The city is welcoming, the people are warm, and the vibe is laid-back but lively. For women especially, it’s a destination where you can feel both empowered and secure—a big reason I’m so passionate about sharing it with others.
A Place That Surprises—Every Time
Each visit to Panama reveals something new, whether it’s a hidden café in Casco Viejo, a spontaneous wildlife encounter, or a local festival that spills into the streets. It’s a country that’s still flying under the radar for many US travelers, which means you get authenticity without the crowds. And with the right mix of planning (hello, points!) and flexibility, you can experience the best of Panama—without breaking the bank or losing your mind to travel stress.
Final Word: Why I Love Panama
Panama is my kind of adventure: wild but accessible, rich in history and natural beauty, and endlessly rewarding for those willing to go a bit beyond the ordinary. Whether you’re a points nerd, a foodie, a culture seeker, or just someone craving a fresh perspective, Panama delivers. Come for the canal, stay for the ceviche, and leave with stories you’ll be telling for years.
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