In the not too distant past, when considering a trip to Central America, Costa Rica was, for many, one of the first places to come to mind. Fewer people were likely to think of Costa Rica’s close neighbor Panama, which until recently may have been one of the best kept secrets for tourism. With its spectacular scenery, interesting history and a recent economic boom, there are a number of reasons this beautiful country, situated between Costa Rica and Columbia, is an excellent place to visit.Panama, with its two oceans, 500 rivers, lush rainforests, and mountains, offers breathtaking scenery and lots of adventure. Bordered by both the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean, there is no shortage of beaches in Panama. Aside from the Amazon basin, Panama boasts the largest rainforest in the Western Hemisphere. The most prominent landform in Panama is its chain of mountains, which stretch down the center of the country forming the continental divide. All of these features, along with its tropical climate, make Panama a paradise for nature lovers. The end of military rule, in 1989, eventually led to great changes in Panama’s economic growth and Panama now has one of the fastest growing economies in the Western hemisphere, along with one of the highest per capita incomes among developing countries. New skyscrapers, including the 70-story Trump Ocean Club; shopping malls; restaurants and nightclubs are popping up all over Panama City. The Panamera Hotel, which will be the first Waldorf Astoria hotel to make its appearance in a Latin American country, is scheduled to open in July of this year. This luxurious hotel will be located in the central business district fifteen minutes from the airport, and will offer 130 rooms, 118 apartments, a gym, a spa and an outdoor pool.
The BioMuseo, a new natural history museum housed in a building designed by famous architect Frank Ghery, is scheduled to open in 2013 and promises to be an amazing experience in learning about biodiversity. Among the many exhibits, a glass floor with 14 three-story high projection screens will totally immerse visitors with an audiovisual demonstration of the natural wonders of Panama.
The Panama Canal, Panama’s most popular tourist destination, will soon celebrate its 100th anniversary in 2014. There is much fascinating history behind the canal, which has been called one of the “seven wonders of the modern world” by the American Society of Civil Engineers. Built by Americans, this canal was one of the biggest and most difficult engineering feats ever to be accomplished. The canal, whose control by Panama was regained twelve years ago, is currently undergoing a multi-billion dollar reconstruction and expansion with installation of new locks to accommodate much larger modern ships. A Panama Canal cruise is a never-to-be-forgotten experience.
The Panama Canal, Panama’s most popular tourist destination, will soon celebrate its 100th anniversary in 2014. There is much fascinating history behind the canal, which has been called one of the “seven wonders of the modern world” by the American Society of Civil Engineers. Built by Americans, this canal was one of the biggest and most difficult engineering feats ever to be accomplished. The canal, whose control by Panama was regained twelve years ago, is currently undergoing a multi-billion dollar reconstruction and expansion with installation of new locks to accommodate much larger modern ships. A Panama Canal cruise is a never-to-be-forgotten experience.For those who have ever considered a trip to Panama, now is the perfect time to start making plans to visit this beautiful country. With its rich historical value, scenic wonder, and exciting new attractions, Panama, often called “bridge of the world” has so much to offer. If you want to experience both the Canal and more of the city, you might be interested in the 9 day Discover Panama, The Land Between the Seas which includes a cruise of the canal along with visits to Panama City, Gamboa and Playa Bonita. Collette Vacations also offers an 8 day Panama Family tour which visits rainforests, an Embera Indian village, a cruise to Monkey Island and more hands-on encounters for the entire family.
