Panama

THINGS TO DO

Have a drink and take in the views at Panaviera (top of the JW Marriott) or another great option is the Hard Rock Hotel.

Get a healthy dose of history and visit the Panama Canal. 

Get lost in a jungle oasis at Metropolitan Park. You might even see a sloth but at minimum will get some awesome views.

Explore the old streets of Casco Viejo. Avenida Central is one of the main pedestrian streets.

Treat yo self. The salons and spas are known to be pretty affordable here. 

If museums are your thing, escape the heat at the colorful Biomuseo. 

Ride bikes on the Amador Causeway and have lunch by the water.

Beaches

Take a day trip to San Blas for beautiful white sand beaches. It’s an easy 2 hour drive to the north coast.

Take a ferry to Isla Contadora for an unforgettable getaway. June to October is whale season where they migrate to these warm waters to breed and give birth so a spotting is guaranteed. 

PLACES TO EAT

Bao Dai: Trendy Asian restaurant with funky decor and a small rooftop terrace that has a DJ on the weekends. We reccomend ordering as much from the menu as possible-you won’t be disappointed.

American Trade Hotel: Beautiful hotel in Casco with a classy brunch. Be sure to make a reservation in advance.

Azahar: Not to be missed! Go for a sunset dinner and take in the ocean views, craft cocktails and incredible food.

Tio Navajo: Known for having one of the best burgers in the city.
   
Brutto: Large, upscale restaurant with a killer menu.

Brutitto: (by the owners of Bruto, above) Don’t let the location inside the mall fool you, the brunch is delicious.

Malo: Trendy spot in San Francisco with great cocktails. The bartenders infuse a wide range of spirits in house. 

El Republicano: Great for a casual dinner and a few beers.

Praia: A bit out of the way but perfect for a long lunch with a drink in hand. Pro Tip: check when the tide will be in for the best views of the water.

El Trapiche: Traditional breakfast spot in San Francisco. 

PLACES TO DRINK

Salvaje: Popular rooftop bar by the water. By far our favorite.

Tántalo: Another great terrace set up.

Santana: The place to be in Casco, the bar is always high energy and packed. Beware if you’re not a fan of crowds.

Casa Jaguar: Another high energy bar tucked away up a narrow flight of stairs. 

Strangers Club: Casual spot that’s perfect for a few cocktails and a bite to eat.

Lazotea: Low key rooftop bar sporting great sunset views. 

T’ Bier Klooster: Great Belgian brewery for a taste of Europe in the city.

PLACES TO STAY

Le Meridien: An affordable boutique Marriott hotel right on the water.

W Panama: Posh hotel with a great pool/terrace set up.
 
Westin: A nice option in Costa Del Este if you’re looking for a quiet area.

TRANSPORTATION 

Uber is easy and incredibly cheap.