If you’ve seen any of my other posts from Panama City you can probably tell by now that I fell in love with this magical place. The food, the culture, the people, the architecture, I was blown away by a place that still feels very undiscovered. Exploring Panama City, and in particular the neighborhood of Casco Viejo with Pam, a native Panamanian, was even more special. I must admit I was pretty embarrassed by my pathetic ability to speak Spanish, something I definitely need to work on (I studied French so I’m giving myself a little break but it was pretty bad). I don’t want to go on here too long because the photos speak for themselves. Hope you enjoy. xx
Where We Stayed
Pam and I stayed at the American Trade Hotel in Casco Viejo. I couldn’t wait to arrive at this hotel after seeing the incredible photos of the property. Sometimes places don’t live up to the online hype, but the American Trade exceeded my expectations. No detail goes unnoticed at this beautiful building with it’s incredible tile work and architectural beauty. We had an incredible lunch at their restaurant and the most amazing coffee and pastries at Cafe Unido attached to the building. And of course spent some time at the pool which overlooks Casco Viejo. In terms of location and ease of getting around it was really the perfect place to stay.
When packing for Panama, pack light! It was so hard for me to get out of the mindset of being cold and thinking I might need a jacket but it is hot, hot, hot. Think light dresses, shorts, sandals, bathing suits, etc. The only time I felt cold was at a few of the restaurants because most buildings have the AC cranking. Bring a light jacket and you’ll be fine but if you’re outside even at night you really don’t need anything. For more of what I wore in Panama see my outfit posts here, here, here and here.
Shop the Post
Cafe Outfits
Jess White Jeans, Boho Blouse, Sandals
Pam Top, Skirt
Pool Outfits
Denim Shorts
Floral One Piece
Fish Print One Piece
Scarf, Sunglasses
Tote, Hat
Casco Viejo Outfits
Jess Similar White Dress, Shoes, Backpack, Hat
Pam Ruffle Dress, Shoes, Bag (her blog post here)
Where to Eat
We didn’t have a bad meal in Panama. I just could not get over how good the food was everywhere we ate. Here’s a few of my favorites:
Amano
Makoto
Tacos La Neta
Cafe Unido
MULA (above Tio Navaja)
Tio Navaja
Restaurante OCHOYMEDIO
CasaCasco
Nacionsushi
What to Do
First things first, bring your camera! We could’ve spent hours just walking around Casco Viejo taking photos of the buildings, flowers and store fronts. It’s so fun to see the transformation happening in the neighborhood. If you happen to stumble upon an icey cart you have to get one, I recommend coconut. There’s plenty of shopping in Casco Viejo and I picked up lots of great gifts including the traditional mola made by the Kuna women. It wouldn’t be a trip to Panama City without getting a Panama hat. Don’t be afraid to negotiate, the one I wanted was $85 and I ended up getting it for $50.
So amazing! Looks like you two had the most wonderful trip!
Beautiful pictures. Looks fantastic.
Stunning photographs!!
Gemma
http://www.fadedwindmills.com
Gorgeous pictures! I can’t imagine how amazing this trip was, I loved following along.
Every picture is stunning! I absolutely love the ruffle dress from anthro + every other look you’re in! 🙂
xxoo
Mary
http://www.BelleOnTrend.com
Loved watching your journey and how much you enjoyed it.
Great photos dear.
xx
Eva
http://www.couponorcode.com
Lovely photos!
Racquel
http://www.Purposely-You.com
Love these photos and all the bright colors. Great job negotiating for that hat!
http://www.stephanieterrone.com
I also spent a really good time there with beloved during my last summer holidays. I really enjoyed there photography and came back with a lot of pleasant memories. I would love to go there again my free time with my family and I want to try there my favourite activity.