2021 - Panama City, Panama

This trip was a spur of the moment kind. One where the invitation was unexpected and welcome.  It was also an opportunity to get away and travel internationally again which had not been possible due to the pandemic. Since I had been there before and seen the sights I was able to just relax and flow easily. There was no urgency or anxiety to "do" anything. Due to the pandemic  there were some extra steps in preparing to go such as a negative test results less than 72 hours prior to arrival in Panama City and then another to hard and return to the USA. From the moment I landed there was a sense of order. I flew on Copa Airlines and they required that one row exit the plane at a time and they were serious. They did not open the doors until everyone sat back down and waited their turn. Upon Arrival I noticed that everyone was complying and not only wearing their face masks they had them on properly. This was the case everywhere I went. Even outside faces were covered at all times. There was also a curfew in effect of 11PM so most establishments were closing at 10. I did not mind. It meant early dinners and routine bedtimes for me. Leaving me well rested and able to work and be productive in the mornings to wander around or lay by the pool in the afternoons. Overall it was a nice getaway where I was able to disconnect and just BE.

Places to visit if you go to Panama City, Panama

• Casco Viejo - Historic part of the city with cobblestoned street, colonial era landmarks such as the  neoclassical Palacio Presidencial and bougainvillea-filled plazas lined with cafes and bars. 
• The Miraflores Locks  - where you can watch the ships traversing the canal, an essential shipping route linking the Atlantic and Pacific. This is a marvel to see. Just think water elevators for BIG BIG boats.
• Biomuseo - this museum was designed by world-renowned architect Frank Gehry. It is his only work in Latin America. The structure was designed to North and South America, separating a vast ocean in two, forever changing the planet's biodiversity.

Restaurants 

• Casa Casco
• Casablanca
• Azahar
• Petit Paris Cafe
• Isaki

This was an opportunity to visit a fun city again for work so I chose to take advantage and make some time to stay and play.