Share the article
Last updated
Latin America is incredibly versatile and there are some truly amazing destinations to visit, but many are still overlooked.
Central America is located between Mexico and South America, and is home to only seven countries.
Even then, some countries do not get the recognition they should.
Yet one of them has become very popular with Americans who want to explore the enormous diversity of culture and nature.
While neighboring Costa Rica has become one of the best beach destinations in the world, Panama is more than sun and sand.
Panama expected just under 3 million tourists, with Americans in the lead.
Here are five reasons why Americans love visiting this diverse Latin American country:
The cultural oasis of Panama City
Not every trip to Latin America involves luxury resorts along incredible beaches.
There is of course nothing wrong with that, but neither is exploring historic cultural cities.
Panama City is a mix of old and new and you immediately notice that when you look at the sky.
At first glance you’ll notice the impressive skyline, but don’t let the pizzazz put you off, as this city is packed with history and cultural experiences.
Besides Mexico City, this is one of the few major cities in Latin America that are easily accessible and worth a visit.
Many avoid Guatemala City and San Jose and if we’re honest, travelers don’t visit Central America’s fastest growing country to spend most of their time in San Salvador.
That leaves Panama City as one of the best options for a city break that happens to be surrounded by beautiful nature and offers some of the best views in the country.
But back in the concrete jungle is an incredible nightlife that is inviting to all travelers and the historic district Casco Viejo dating from the 17th century, tucked away from the high-rise buildings.
Enjoy a cigar, buy a classic Panama hat, and enjoy traditional dishes that date back centuries. Some might say that this side of the city is “the New Orleans of Panama.”
Safe to visit
Sometimes larger cities get a bad rap for fear of taking a wrong turn into a dark underbelly of crime-ridden streets.
Some of the larger cities in Central America already mentioned don’t have the best reputation and this extends west into Mexico and east into South America, from Colombia to Brazil.
Panama City, and indeed the entire country, is generally considered a safe destination. Tourists can wander the streets of Panama without fear of becoming the victim of a crime, like many other similar cities.
The US State Department advises travelers to avoid the ‘Mosquito Gulf’, which sounds like a nightmare anyway, as well as the Darien region.
Up and away
Panama isn’t far away when it comes to air travel and there are many flight options to get here, including Panama’s own Copa Airlines.
Copa is the best choice for a direct flight, but for those who remain loyal to US airlines, American, Delta and United offer select flights from Atlanta, Miami and Houston.
You will likely land at Tocumen International Airport, just outside Panama City, the busiest airport in Central America.
Surprisingly affordable
When you arrive in Panama City, the modern cityscape may confuse you, thinking you are about to splurge.
However, that doesn’t have to be the case. Panama is surprisingly affordable and certainly cheaper than neighboring Costa Rica, while competing with their immense beautiful nature as Panama City borders a beautiful tropical rainforest.
Costa Rica is certainly trendier for exploring jungles, waterfalls and even beaches, but travelers can save money by going one country further for a very similar nature experience and plenty more to do in a vibrant cultural city.
It’s not unreasonable to get by on a budget of $500 for a week’s stay.
An underrated beach Holidays
Latin America is also packed with beaches, with Mexico clearly the favorite destination. Panama can’t argue with that, but Panama is full of surprises, including affordable all-inclusive resorts.
Less than 2 hours’ drive from Panama City is the beautiful province of Coclé, full of beach resorts, including brands we love like Riu.
Also less talked about are the islands of Panama – there are 1,000 of them! Perfect for a blissful escape from action-packed city life, the islands of Taboga, Coiba and Colón are some of the most popular.
While the bucket list San Blas Islands are unlike any other as they are inhabited by the indigenous Gunas.
Many are easy to get to and very affordable. Panama’s beaches are yet another great reason why Americans are leading the way to come here for a great trip.
SUBSCRIBE TO OUR LATEST POSTS
Enter your email address to subscribe to the latest Travel Off Path breaking travel news, delivered straight to your inbox.
This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
The opinions expressed here are solely those of the author, and not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included in the post.
