Prison Break, Backpacking & Hostels in Panama
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One country that I have always been keen to visit is the country of Panama, especially since a friend of mine visited and showed me his holiday snaps.
Every new travel adventure requires in-depth research, so here is my guide to visiting Panama.
The Starting Point Bocas del Toro
As starting point I have chosen Bocas del Toro, it is a well-established tourist destination in Panama, with resorts dotted all over its Caribbean shores. However, it also has a large backpacking scene with a great variety of hostels. It is a great starting point, because it will ease the traveller into the idea of backpacking, but you still got the luxury of a sound infrastructure – in case you need it. The only drawback is that due to the touristic infrastructure things might be a little more expensive around Bocas del Toro – especially during tourist season. But being able to explore some of the islands off the coast should weigh up the extra money spent.Trekkers Haven - Boquete
Boquete is a very different scene to Bocal del Toro. It is located up in the mountains and allows visitors to take a break of life and stress. Once you've relaxed enough, it offers some great opportunities for backpackers; one being to conquer Panama’s Volcan Baru (the only volcano in Panama), or white water rafting. If you are not as adventurous, why not just relax and enjoy the views on a horse back, while venturing through the mountains. Boquete is definitely a good location for explorers, especially with its various walking trails with many of the hostels in Boquete being very affordable and accessible for adventurers.
For the Night Owls - David City
Not far from Boquete is David City, which is one of the largest cities in Panama – and will give you a little break from the idyllic landscape, it will allow travellers to put down their backpacks and enjoy the nightlife.
However, if you are not a party animal, David City offers other things such as Golfo de Chiriqui National Marine Park. The park encompasses around two dozen islands. It has a great variety of wildlife. This little spot was a secret Backpacker heaven – however, the word got out over the last few years and tourists have started to flow in. So, if you want to enjoy it, before it becomes a mainstream tourism area – start packing that backpack quickly.
However, if you are not a party animal, David City offers other things such as Golfo de Chiriqui National Marine Park. The park encompasses around two dozen islands. It has a great variety of wildlife. This little spot was a secret Backpacker heaven – however, the word got out over the last few years and tourists have started to flow in. So, if you want to enjoy it, before it becomes a mainstream tourism area – start packing that backpack quickly.
Surfers Paradise - Santa Catalina
If you are into backpacking and surfing, than this little village is the perfect spot for you. Santa Catalina is still one of the areas that are relatively unknown and uncrowned. If surfing is not your cup of tea, it also offers great diving and snorkelling opportunities. You will be able to get a good glimpse of the fantastic marine life, including sharks, manta rays, whales and turtles. Furthermore, it is in very close proximity to the Coiba National Park. The Park was declared a World Heritage Site in 2005 by UNESCO. Santa Catalina has so much to offer that it is well worth sticking around a little longer (if you got the time). Just pick one of the hostels to stay at.
A Bit of History – Villa de los Santos
As one of the most historic villages, it would be a shame not to include Villa de los Santos for your backpacking trip through Panama. The looks of the village do not give its great history away on the spot – but it was here where Panama’s independence started – with the result of Panama and Colombia gaining independence at the start of the 20th century. This historic village allows you to have a taste of the real Panama – inviting you in to enjoy the many folklore festivals, get to know the people, and get of the “gringo trail”.
Finally – Panama City
What would be a trip to Panama without visiting Panama City? If you are expecting a typically Latin American City, than this city will certainly surprise you. Panama City is actually a very modern city with all the luxuries. Due to the large amounts of foreign investments, mainly in the banking sector, Panama City actually has a great skyline of skyscrapers. However, if you do not want to finish your trip through Panama on an ultra-modern note – do not worry. There is Casco Viejo – or ‘the old town’ as it is locally known – which is the traditional part of Panama City and has been preserved beautifully.
If you want to end your trip with a bang – Panama City’s nightlight is rated as one of the best in whole of Latin America – so get your dancing shoes out! Just as a note on the side – the city is surrounded by beaches – however, taking a dip is not recommended. The ultra-modern lifestyle came with some drawbacks, mainly pollution. But Panama is not short of other beautiful beaches, as discovered earlier.
If you want to end your trip with a bang – Panama City’s nightlight is rated as one of the best in whole of Latin America – so get your dancing shoes out! Just as a note on the side – the city is surrounded by beaches – however, taking a dip is not recommended. The ultra-modern lifestyle came with some drawbacks, mainly pollution. But Panama is not short of other beautiful beaches, as discovered earlier.
My initial research was to find a nice route for them to follow – which would enable them to see as much as possible of Panama. Consequently, I also discovered areas where they would be able to get a decent accommodation and be safe too. Having made my research on Panama – who knows I might join in and take some time off to do some backpacking myself.
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