AboutLorena Milanes Expertise I can answer questions regarding Panama, its people, culture, places to visit, places to watch out for, hotels to stay, how much your taxi fare should be... specific information on getting around on a safe manner.
Experience I was born and raised in Panama, educated in American schools. Since I enjoy all related to Panama history, I try to keep myself updated on local happenings in the subject. I also enjoy traveling and the internet seems a wonderful tool to use, specially when you are your own guide (which I usually am)- so I am just willing to give some of the help I have received back.
Publications Article - La Prensa Newspaper
Education/Credentials Bachelor's Degree - Marketing and Advertisting
MBA - Emphasys in Management
Expert: Lorena Milanes Date: 6/26/2008 Subject: Driving in Panama
Question Lorena,
My friend and I are travelling to Panama for 10 days in July. We plan to visit Panama City, Boquete, Bocas Del Toro and possible El Valle (in that order). I was wondering if you would recommend we rent a car and drive the entire trip or if it is better to fly? It is much cheaper to drive and I would like to get to see more of the country, but I am wondering if we will spend too much time driving considering we are only there for 10 days. What do you think? Also any must sees or great restaurants in the areas we are planning to visit would be appreciated.
Thanks!
Answer Hi Jamey,
If you really want to drive in Panama, note that people do not obey traffic signs, so you have to be really careful.
I recommend, to make the best of your gas money$ and your time to start your trip EITHER at Boquete or Panama City.
I would start at Panama City, then to El Valle and then Boquete.
If you chose to drive to Bocas note that we are in rainy season which means the road to Bocas del Toro must be a tough one, so consider renting a 4x4.
I would do everything in rental car except Bocas, I would take a plane there, itīs a short ride.
Ten days should allow you to get a good look at what Panama is all about.
In Panama City try to go to:
San Felipe - (Casco Viejo, Old quarter) there is a magnificent museum there, the Museo Interoceanico de Panama, itīs on the main Plaza and itīs free on Sundays if you go before noon.
Panama Viejo - There is a good craft market there, with ruins of the Old Panama City, burnt down by pirates.
Panama Canal - since you are here, you might as well see it !
Albrook Mall - Excellent shopping here, even if you donīt consider yourself a shopper, you have got to see the prices here.
You can see all of the above in 2 days.
When in EL Valle, they have nice restaurants, a little zoo, thermal water and I think they still do canopy...
Please let me know your interests and I will be happy to point you in the right direction :)
Have a safe trip.
Lorena
