Cece In The City

Tag: panama

  • My Top 5 Destinations and Hidden Gems of 2024

    2024 has been nothing short of amazing, filled with unforgettable moments and breathtaking destinations. As the year wraps up, I’m reflecting on my top 5 favorite spots that truly stood out:

    1. Panama 🇵🇦
    A dreamy escape out of the country, Panama was the perfect vacation to unwind and recharge. The warm vibes, beautiful scenery, and rich culture made it a trip to remember. Nothing beats the joy of relaxing in paradise!

    2. The Titanic Exhibit, Atlanta
    Stepping into history, this exhibit felt like a journey aboard the Titanic itself. It was fascinating to see the artifacts and immerse myself in such an iconic story. If you’re a history buff or just curious, this is a must-see experience!

    3. Atlanta Botanical Garden – Alice in Wonderland
    Wandering through the magical world of Alice in Wonderland was an absolute delight. The garden was stunning, and I was lucky to visit on a perfect day. The whimsical displays and vibrant blooms made it feel like stepping into a fairytale.

    4. Beat the Bomb, Atlanta
    What’s better than a fun challenge with the kids? This interactive game was a blast—literally! Although we didn’t “beat the bomb,” getting splattered with paint was hilarious and made for an unforgettable day.

    5. City Winery – Kevin Ross Live
    Seeing one of my favorite artists, Kevin Ross, perform live was everything I hoped for and more. His voice, energy, and stage presence were unmatched. City Winery’s intimate setting made it even more special—a night of great vibes and soulful music.

    These highlights made 2024 so special, and I can’t wait to explore even more gems in the coming year. Where should I go next? Let me know your recommendations!

  • Day 4: Beach Bliss and Culinary Delights in Panama

    Day 4: Beach Bliss and Culinary Delights in Panama

    Today was all about sun, sand, and savoring the best of Panama! We woke up bright and early, excited for a beach day. Our guide from Tour Alfaro picked us up for the drive to Colón, a port city rich in history. Colón was once the gateway to the famous Panama Railroad during the mid-19th century, making it a key spot for trade and travel. After arriving, we took a boat ride to Portobelo, a sleepy town with its own history of Spanish colonization and pirate invasions, adding some adventure vibes to the day.

    But the real gem was our destination: Isla Grande. As soon as we reached the island, the sight of that crystal-clear water was breathtaking! The relaxing 2.5-hour drive from Panama City was totally worth it. Beach days are always my favorite—they give you time to enjoy nature, soak in the beauty, and just be in the moment. We swam, lounged, and let the peaceful vibe of the island work its magic. Beach days are rejuvenating, but they also have a way of making you pleasantly exhausted!

    After washing up, we headed out for dinner at La Tapa del Coco, where we were in for a treat! We met the restaurant’s owner, Isaac Villaverde, who was as charming as the food was delicious. The restaurant had a welcoming vibe, and we even got to vote on the best wings they served. Definitely adding this spot to my list of must-visit places when I return to Panama!

    As the day wrapped up, I couldn’t help but feel so grateful for the amazing adventures we’ve had. Tomorrow’s our last day, so I’m going to soak in every moment tonight!

  • Day 3: Monkeys, Markets, and Moments of Reflection in Panama

    Today was all about adventure and a little monkey business! We kicked off Day 3 with a visit to Monkey Island in Carretera Gamboa. With our tour guide, Tour Alfaro, leading the way, we set out on a boat ride that took us deep into the lush greenery. The views were absolutely stunning, but the real stars were the cheeky little monkeys! They eagerly swung by to snack on the grapes and bananas we brought for them. Watching them leap from tree to tree and get up close was such a surreal experience—nature at its cutest.

    After our jungle fun, we made our way back to Casco Viejo, the historic heart of Panama City. This time, we explored the other side of the charming old town. It was filled with vibrant vendors, quaint little shops, and historic buildings that seemed to have stories of their own. Casco Viejo, originally founded in 1673, is full of colonial charm and was once a fortress against pirate attacks! As we wandered through its streets, the heat of the day hit hard, but that didn’t stop us from soaking in the sights.

    Just when the sun was becoming a bit too much, the rain arrived! For about an hour or two, the skies opened up, giving us a refreshing break from the heat. We headed back to the Waldorf Astoria and took full advantage of the time to relax. I spent the rest of the afternoon chilling by the pool, reflecting on life and this exciting new journey of traveling more. There’s something about peaceful moments like these that allow you to really think about where you’ve been and where you’re headed.

    Dinner was a return to the Fish Market, but this time, I stepped out of my comfort zone and tried something new—and let me tell you, it was delicious! After all the walking, the rain, and the incredible food, I was exhausted and ready to recharge for Day 4. Tomorrow, another adventure awaits in Panama!

  • History, Heights, and Heart-Pounding Adventures: Day 2 in Panama City

    Day 2: History and Adventure in Panama City

    We started Day 2 in Panama with a delightful breakfast at the Waldorf Astoria, fueling up for a day packed with history and adventure.

    Our first stop was the Museo de Panamá Viejo, located in the ruins of Panamá Viejo—the original city founded in 1519. As the first European settlement along the Pacific, the area holds great historical significance. Strolling through the ruins, we learned how this once-thriving city was destroyed by the infamous pirate Henry Morgan in 1671. The museum itself offers a captivating glimpse into the country’s colonial past, with artifacts and exhibits that bring its rich history to life.

    Next, we visited the Panama Canal, an absolute must-see. The canal, completed in 1914, transformed global shipping routes and is often referred to as one of the modern world’s greatest engineering feats. Watching the massive ships pass through the locks was mesmerizing, and learning about how this canal connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans was even more impressive.

    For an adrenaline rush, we headed to Poin, where we zip-lined from building to building. The experience was exhilarating, especially with panoramic views of the city below. We also took on “The Edge,” a daring challenge that had us suspended high above the ground—it was heart-pounding fun!

    We wrapped up the day back at the Waldorf Astoria for dinner, enjoying a relaxing meal after such an action-packed afternoon. To cap off the evening, Panama treated us to a peaceful rainstorm, adding a cozy touch as we settled in for the night.

  • Birthday Getaway to Panama: Exploring History, Culture, and Adventure

    Hello, fellow adventurers!
    As many of you know, I’m on an exciting quest to explore all 50 states, with a sprinkle of international travel, and I couldn’t wait to share my Panama adventure with you!

    My brother and I have birthdays super close to each other, so we decided to celebrate with a birthday getaway to Panama. It was a whirlwind trip from Thursday to Monday, and trust me—it was everything we needed and more!

    Day 1: The Arrival
    The flight from Atlanta to Panama was smooth and filled with excitement! We stayed at the Waldorf Astoria, and let me tell you, this place was luxurious. Fun fact: The Waldorf Astoria brand dates back to 1893, named after the Waldorf and Astoria hotels in New York, both pioneers of luxury hospitality. The Panama location didn’t disappoint—it had a gym, bar, pool, and spa, so there were plenty of ways to relax and rejuvenate.

    First Stop: Food!
    After settling in, we were ready to explore and eat! We hit up a local seafood joint where I ordered shrimp tacos—though I should’ve gone with the fish (hindsight is 20/20). The tacos weren’t the best, but the people and vibe made up for it.

    Exploring Casco Viejo
    Next, we ventured into Casco Viejo, Panama’s historic district. Casco Viejo was founded in 1673, after the original Panama City was destroyed by pirate Henry Morgan. Walking its narrow streets feels like stepping back in time, with colonial buildings, charming plazas, and beautiful churches. This district is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and it’s rich with the essence of old Panama, blending history and modern life beautifully.

    The Plaza de la Catedral
    We strolled through Plaza de la Catedral, home to the stunning Catedral Metropolitana, which dates back to the 1700s. The cathedral’s baroque facade and the grand bell towers make it a must-see landmark. This plaza has been the heart of the city’s social and religious life for centuries, a gathering place for the community, surrounded by charming restaurants and vibrant history. The Cathedral itself stands as a symbol of Panama’s resilience, having been rebuilt multiple times over the centuries due to fires and invasions.  We grabbed some sherbet ice cream at Mint Cream (so refreshing in the heat), then strolled around, taking in the beauty of the church at Plaza de la Catedral.  

    A Snapshot of Panama’s Meaning
    Ever wondered what “Panama” means? The name “Panama” is believed to come from an indigenous word meaning “abundance of fish,” and after visiting, I can totally see why—it’s a paradise for seafood lovers and explorers alike. Panama is also known for its rich history as a vital crossroads of trade due to the Panama Canal, connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.

    Iconic Panama Sign & Nightlife
    Of course, no trip to Panama would be complete without a photo at the iconic Panama sign. It sits in the vibrant Cinta Costera, offering panoramic views of the city skyline and waterfront. People were out skating, biking, and enjoying the fresh air—it felt like the heart of the city was alive.

    After a long day of walking and taking in the sights, we wrapped it up with wings while checking out the nightlife. Panama City doesn’t slow down, and neither did we.

    But this is just day one! Stay tuned for Day 2, where the adventures get even better!