Panama is a Central American country that connects Costa Rica to South America via Colombia. It is well-known for attractions such as the Panama Canal, a global trade and transportation hub that connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans via the Caribbean Sea.
I decided to go to Panama right after my trip to Chicago for my birthday twin’s celebration! This was an experience I will never forget! Their tropical rainforest is the world’s most studied. Panama is the only place on the planet where you can see the sun rise on the Pacific and set on the Atlantic.
I arrived in Panama City and then had a 2-hour car ride to my all-inclusive hotel. The hotel was incredible!! My two-bedroom family suite, which I shared with my 2 friends, had a shower, hot tub, liquor bar, stocked fridge with drinks, and two side balconies with another jacuzzi outside. The island breeze, coupled with a stunning view of the beach, stole my heart for good. I would recommend going to Panama for a vacation to anyone. This is definitely a place worth returning to.
Here are 4 Reasons why you should travel to Panama:
1.Cost Efficient
One of the main reasons I chose Panama was the low cost of my flight there and back, plus the all-inclusive hotel. We all spent about $562 for my room, which three of us stayed in, and flights. That’s a fantastic catch! The only thing I’d have to pay for would be excursions, which are very inexpensive. I spent less than 1,000 dollars on this entire trip. (Money Pic)
2. Less Tourism
I was able to connect with locals and see their way of life in Panama. Our hotel had guests, but it was not overly touristy; even when we entered town through the hotel, it was much more country-oriented than tourist-oriented. Within town, it is more common to hear their native language than English. When I travel to new places, I prefer to immerse myself in the local culture rather than blend it with more American elements. I travel to get away from the American mindset and see what else the world has to offer. Having the ability to bring the memories, people, and culture with me is another item crossed off the list.
3. The Currency
Another amusing fact Panama was the first Latin American country to adopt the US currency as its own. When visiting another country, currency is usually a factor in determining what the value of a US dollar is. You can therefore use US dollars. This alleviates any stress or concern you may have about converting money. You can now relax and enjoy the vibes.
4. Many Islands
Choosing to stay at the RIU Playa Blanca one of the highlights of my trip was the incredible view of the beach and ocean from my room. Along its coast, Panama has over 1,400 islands. The ocean is as clear as the sky, with a constant blue gleam. They have one of the world’s highest concentrations of bottlenose dolphins. Panama has two volcanoes, but neither of them is active. The first is in Chiriqui, and the second in El Valle de Anton. The one in Chiriqui is called Volcan Baru, and it is surrounded by the towns of Volcan and Boquete. The sand is soft and rich, but some beaches are black because they are volcanic beaches and contain volcanic ash.
See the beautiful Riu Plaza and scenery in our Panama Vlog!