At the junction of Central and South America lies the nation of Panama. It is a land whose coasts are bathed by the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean, and whose complex history has made for a uniquely cosmopolitan society. Much like its neighbours in Latin America, there are descendants of Spanish settlers, mestizos, and a strong presence of the indigenas. Add to that mix the Indians, Chinese and Arabs, as well as the descendants of West Indians labourers who helped in the building of the Panama Canal, and you have the most diverse country in Latin America. 

There is a strong West Indian presence that permeates regions far removed from Panama’s Caribbean coast. Here locals produce dancehall and soca music sung in Spanish – in fact, many contend that the earliest progenitors of the reggaeton movement were Panamanians who covered dancehall songs in Spanish. There are scores of popular dancehall tracks from the 90s that have been covered with uncanny accuracy; only upon closer inspection does the listener realise that they are sung in Spanish. Throughout Latin America, reggaeton is the music of choice for the youth - in Panama City, the heavy bass line of dancehall reggae bursts forth from the ‘tricked out’ cars that cruise its streets.  

Transportation-wise, it is easily navigable by taxi, and the cost of most rides is very reasonable (often no more than US$5 for a 15-20 minute ride). There is a lot to offer by way of nightlife, with pubs, bars and clubs in the Business District, Casco Viejo, and Calle Uruguay. Perhaps the most renowned party district is Calle Uruguay, which has a variety of clubs and bars that offer a mix of electronic, hip hop, and latin rhythms. Some charge a cover and, should a pang of hunger strike after a night of partying, there are food vendors plying their trade on the various street corners. Amador Causeway also offers more options for restaurants and nightlife, and is being increasingly promoted as a tourism destination. 

For a taste of historical Panama City, a visit to Casco Viejo is a must. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and is filled with a grid of narrow, cobblestone streets that are lined with charming colonial structures. Museums, churches, plazas, and restaurants abound. Some views across the bay afford an interesting contrast of the colonial structures against the ever-changing Panama City skyline. 

No trip to Panama is complete without a visit to the Panama Canal, a bona fide man-made wonder. There is a tourist facility at Miraflores Locks, one of the three locks along the Panama Canal, located less than 30 minutes from downtown. With a nominal entrance fee (under US$10), you are granted access to the facility which has a museum, a small cinema where you can view a brief film (offered alternatively in English and Spanish) on the history of the Canal, and visit the Observation Deck. The Deck is often packed with tourists, but is wide enough to afford a clear view of the massive ships that cross the Canal.  

Panama City certainly offers a variety of activities to satiate the appetite of the limer, as well as the history buff. This writer will certainly make a return voyage. 

-- Dr Danish 

Costs for transportation and entertainment are quite reasonable, and there are several options for safe, inexpensive accommodation in the Business District. The currency used is the Balbao but it is on par with the US dollars, and no paper currency is printed. Panama City (PTY) is accessible from both Miami and Port-of-Spain on American Airlines and Copa Airlines.