Panama

For over a century, the Panama Canal has been a vital artery nourishing the world’s economy, with hundreds of passenger ships, cargo ships and tankers sailing through the canal’s original locks every month. The massive engineering feat makes it possible for ships to transit large bodies of water in just hours rather than circumnavigating the entirety of South America to reach their final destination. This man-made marvel is a bucket list item for many world travelers--whether sailing through or exploring on foot, the Panama Canal is one of Panama’s most popular attractions.

Panama’s capital, described as the “crossroads of the world”, sits right at the heart of the country and serves as the main artery into the rest of the country. The number of skyscrapers that line Panama City’s skyline is ever-growing, and the pace of life is never slow. Even with the modernity and constant change, the city’s history remains well-preserved for all to see. See what’s left of the original Panama City at Panama Viejo dating back to the 1600s and spend an afternoon walking the cobblestoned historic center, Casco Viejo.

Sitting off Panama’s northeast Caribbean coast, Guna Yala is a stunning archipelago of 365 palm-fringed islands. An autonomous province since 1924, this intriguing, eco-conscious destination is governed by the indigenous Guna people. A paradise of white sand beaches, thatched houses and turquoise waters, life is refreshingly uncomplicated in Guna Yala. While the locals have embraced outboard motors and mobile phones, they mostly live like their ancestors did.

Settled right at the Atlantic entrance to the Panamá Canal, Colón is Panama’s gateway to the Caribbean, where the culture is shaped by its history. The ruins of Fort San Lorenzo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, tells stories of over 400 years of military history. From the Agua Clara Visitor Center, learn all about the canal from the technology to the history and how the canal unites the world. Opportunities for outdoor adventures are plenty at La Granja Campo y Aventura, the adventure park through the rainforest, featuring canopy ziplines, horseback rides and kayaking tours.

Arguably Panama's most beautiful region and an ecotourism favorite, the Bocas del Toro archipelago consists of nine densely forested islands, scores of uninhabited islets and the Parque Nacional Marino Isla Bastimentos, Panama's oldest marine park. At the southern tip of Colón Island is Bocas Town, the province capital offering dining and shopping opportunities. Sun, sand and surf are obvious highlights – stunning seashores include Bluff Beach to the east and sheltered Starfish Beach to the northwest. Carenero Island is a tranquil aside with some of the province's best seafood.