Panama

I came to Panama for a short few days visit before flying to Cuba so it's already a known fact that I will come back to fill in the gaps but let me tell you about my take from this paradise. In Panama you can find jungles with wildlife, the breathtaking beaches of the San Blas islands and Bocas Del Toro, learn about the local Indians or relax and surf at Playa Venao.

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Panama City

Panama City is the capital and largest city of Panama and is the home of the famous Panama Canal which is an artificial 82 km water passage in Panama that connects the Atlantic Ocean with the Pacific Ocean.

Where to sleep?

• Doubletree hotel by Hilton: this hotel was the perfect way to start a trip, it's clean, it's located in a good location and they are so nice that they even welcome you to your stay with the best warm freshly backed chocolate chip cookies I ever had (don't tell mom!).

What to do?

• Old City: A part of Panama City that is filled with colorful colonial buildings and restaurants.

• Panama Canal: The Canal viewpoint is in Miraflores and in it you will see the famous canal that connects two oceans. Tip: next to the viewpoint you will find another viewpoint over the canal and around it if you're lucky you may spot Capybaras. ​

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​Playa Venao

A wonderful beach surrounded with many luxury hotels. Playa venao is a location for the one between you that look for a sunny get away to calm down and feel the sea.

Where to sleep?

• El Sito Hotel: this hotel was just spectacular. The room was gorgeous, the pool was right on the beach with nothing blocking the view and the restaurant was so delicious, the plates were huge and the prices were really fair. Definitely recommended.

What to do?

• Relax: this location is mainly for relaxing, either by the pool or on the beach- take a deep breath and soak the place in.

• Surfing: another thing that this beach is very famous for is its waves! If you’re a pro just rent gear and hit the waves or book yourself a surfing lesson.

• Horseback riding: Rent horses for 15$ each for a lovely horseback ride by the water and scenic views.

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San Blas islands

The San Blas islands are 365 islands of which only 49 are inhabited and they are just heaven on earth. When you Imagine an island paradise in your head this is what you think of, with the bluest water, coconuts everywhere, starfishes and zero electricity you can spend a day here or choose to spend the night on a private island for a complete disconnecting experience.

What to do?

Drive 2.5 hours to Catri which is the port point from which you take the boats to the islands. The one-day tour takes you to several islands and one natural pool and with crystal blue water, coconuts on white sand and starfishes everywhere all will just make you feel that San Blas is heaven on earth.​

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Although it breaks my heart that I didn't have much time in the beautiful country I feel like I tasted the best of it and its always good to leave wanting more. I would say that something between a week to 10 days would be perfect here.

For more pictures click here or search @Travel_Rotem on Instagram!