Panama City, Panama was the first international trip I took after the pandemic—and it was exactly what my spirit needed. The city offered the perfect balance of vibrant Latin culture and sleek, modern energy, making it an ideal destination to ease back into international travel. To fully embrace the moment, I treated myself to a business class seat on Copa Airlines, officially marking the relaunch of my international travel era. I took a red-eye flight and arrived early in the morning, energized and ready to explore.
I checked into the Waldorf Astoria Panama City, where my Hilton Honors membership came with a complimentary room upgrade and early check-in—a welcome luxury after an overnight flight. I started the day with a generous Panamanian breakfast buffet at the hotel before heading out for a walking tour of Casco Viejo, the historic heart of Panama City. With its colorful colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and rich history, Casco Viejo offered the perfect introduction to the city. That evening, I explored nearby food stalls close to my hotel and enjoyed authentic Panamanian dishes that highlighted the country’s diverse culinary influences.
The following day was dedicated to one of Panama’s most iconic experiences: the Panama Canal. This unique Panama Canal tour, which only takes place on Sundays, allowed us to board a boat and pass directly through the canal’s locks. Learning about the canal’s engineering, history, and global significance while experiencing it firsthand was truly unforgettable. The next day brought a completely different kind of adventure—a boat tour to Monkey Island, where I saw multiple species of monkeys up close in their natural habitat.
After days of sightseeing, I headed to the coast for a relaxing overnight stay at the Westin Playa Bonita. The beachfront setting was the perfect contrast to the city, and I treated myself to a rejuvenating spa experience followed by a dinner buffet that was absolutely exceptional. The next day, I returned to Panama City for a city tour, visited the Museum of Old Panama—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—and ended the afternoon unwinding by the hotel pool.
Panama City was the perfect destination to get me back into my travel groove—rich in culture, history, nature, and luxury experiences. If you’re planning your own trip, download my comprehensive Panama itinerary on the Shopping page of my website to help you plan an unforgettable getaway.