Touring Panama

Gina came down for a visit a couple of weeks ago, and we took the opportunity to do some sight-seeing and see the country. Even though I've been down here for almost 9 months now, I haven't done much of the touristy stuff yet, so this was an opportunity to do that. We spent a couple of days seeing Casco Viejo, Panama City, and Miraflores Locks, then we headed to the San Blas islands in Kuna Yala. If you're going to visit Panama, you should really put the San Blas islands at the top of your list to visit. Don't expect luxury accomodations, just gorgeous white sand beaches and (almost) deserted islands. After San Blas, we headed up to Quebrada Grande where I marched Gina through the hills while giving her the guided tour.

One of several pretty churches in Casco Viejo.

Out for drinks and dinner in Casco Viejo.

We watched as this cargo ship passed through Miraflores Locks, because you can't come to Panama without seeing the Canal. For better or worse, Panama will always be defined by the Canal.

The Canal after the ship had passed through.

On our way, to Kuna Yala. We took a Land Cruiser from Panama City, and then a short boat ride out to Cartí where we were staying.

Our accomodations in Cartí. The cabana was basic, but had what you needed. That's a sand floor you see in the photo. Also, those are the clothes of the owners hanging from the ceiling. Someone lives here when there aren't guests.

Just one of the many gorgeous beaches.

Each island was surround by crystal blue water. Unfortunately, we didn't get to snorkel as much as we would've liked, because our masks leaked badly.

One of the many pelicans who fish around the islands.

Kuna fisherman tossing out their nets.

Sunset in the islands.

A Kuna woman making a mola, and a little girl checking us out.

Isla de los Diablos.

Our international group: 2 Dutch, 2 French, 2 American.

Future homeowner.

This is my chiva, which Gina got to experience in all it's drunken glory. You can fit about 23 people in the back (not comfortably.)