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
Question Hey, we are coming to Panama City for our first visit. We got a really cheap flight, but it arrives at 1:55 am there. Our room is in Casco Viejo. I don't have a problem renting a car, but finding the place for the first time in the middle of the night is the problem. It is a room at Casa Sucre. Is that an easily recognizable place? The taxi ride there would be $40, and I wonder if it would be worth trying to find the place on our own to save that chunk of cash. We speak Spanish (or at least my husband does, I try, pero yo necessito practicar), and I am pretty good with directions. Google does have a street map, so I can get an idea of where to go. I am concerned since there aren't too many street signs from what I hear. What do you think? Thank you.
Answer HI Heather,
I highly recommend you take the taxi (if you need transportation service I have someone I can recommend).
Driving from Tocumen airport in the middle of the night to Casco Viejo will take about 20-25 minutes.
The road to and from the airport is dark and not well signalized no matter what language you speak.
Also some parts of Casco Viejo are not that safe - so driving around asking for directions at that time - I would not do.
You can either get the taxi service at the aiport- they should have some at that time and print a map to bring with you, Casco Viejo is not that signalized either, this will help the taxi know its way around.
Another option is contact the person I know and email them the information ahead so when their driver picks you up, he already knows where to take you.
Whatever you decide to do, there are police guards in Casco Viejo´s Avenida B as they stand guard of the "Palacio de Las Garzas" which is our "White House" - so if you DO get lost a good guess is they can help out.
Good luck!
Lorena
