As some of you may know, my husband and I served in the Peace Corps in Panama working with the indigenous tribes. We go back to visit every couple years, so we don’t necessarily spend a lot of time doing the “touristy” things in the country these days; we mostly spend a week in the village Cameron lived in the Darien.
Even though we don’t spend a lot of time outside of the Darien, we still pass through Panama City every time, so I’ll share my top things to do in Panama City!
Casco Viejo
This is probably my favorite thing to do every time we go back to the city, especially wandering the old colonial streets. Nomada Eatery is my favorite spot for breakfast or brunch; there’s healthy options but also Panamanian breakfast with a modern twist. For the best Panamanian food, try Fonda lo que Hay. Fondas are an integral part of Panamanian culture; my personal favorite fonda foods are hojaldres and patacones with queso blanco. It’s not for everyone, but when you’ve lived in the campo and survived on rice and boiled bananas, fonda food is the best. My absolute favorite dinner spot and brewery is La Rana Dorada; this is pretty much where I went every time I visited the city when I lived in Panama and it doesn’t disappoint if you’re tired of local food!
Sunset at the JW Marriott 65 Floor
If you’re looking for the best sunset photo spot in all of PTY, check out the 65th floor in the JW Marriott! There’s an infinity pool that overlooks the whole city; there’s nothing quite like fresh ocean breeze with the sun setting over the ocean and the city lights twinkling at dusk.
Mercado de Mariscos
For fresh seafood, head over to the Mercado de Mariscos! You can find fresh ceviche and beer for $1; can’t beat that price anywhere else in the city!
