Panama Canal Cruise & Panama: A Continent Divided, Oceans United (2012)

The time spent away from the hotels was too long. Too many "opportunities for L&D", to the point that these opps used time better spent enjoying the nice warm weather and seeing what we came to see - Panama.

Traveler: Diane Prentiss from West Roxbury, MA traveled on February 08, 2012

We would have appreciated more interaction with nature and more time spent in the natural environment.
If guides take us out there, we can make our own interactions with local residents...no choreographed encounters needed.

Traveler: Sherri Anderson from Santa Rosa, CA traveled on January 05, 2012

The highlight of this trip is the canal transit, an amazing experience! The pre-trip to Bocas del Toro (Isla Colon) was a nice experience, but the timing is very strenuous (arrive Panama City at midnight, get up at 3:30-4 to fly to Isla Colon!). The main trip is frustrating if you are a naturalist type -- not very much of this amongst the great flora & fauna of Panama. The post-trip to Cartagena was great, but should be cut to 3 days. This trip is still "evolving" and OAT is working on the itinerary. But if you haen't gone thru the canal, the trip is worth it for that experience alone. And the catamaran is a lovely experience.

Traveler: Michael Ballot from Stockton, CA traveled on January 26, 2012

We have taken 2 trips with OAT-to MachuGalla and to Panama.

Pluses--small groups, superb leaders and tour guides, visit to school, flexibility, good boats, places we visited

Negatives--quality of hotels; switched us to one that was inhabitable (no windows)--refused to compensate us. Need to upgrade some of their hotels. A few were excellent. Boat accomendations were good. Home visit can be good (Machu trip) or bad (Panama, where the hostess did not speak English AT ALL and we had no interpreter--an interpreter needs to be there if there is a significant language problem. Food fair.

THE WORST--extremely long holds when you call the company--enough of a problem to make us think hard about going with them again.

If the phone problem is corrected and we feel the hotels are 3 to 4 stars, we would go with OAT again

Traveler: Lynn Taussig from Centennial, CO traveled on January 11, 2012

One of the great OAT itineraries. Besides the crossing of the Canal in a delightful 24 passenger catamaran which provided us with an in depth view of the workings of the locks, up close and personal, the itinerary many stops to view the islands, historic forts, exotic animal and birds in the Discoveries zodiacs and for a special treat kayaking in the Gatun Lake. But what makes the trip ultimately successful are the knowledgeable expert guides or tour managers. Roberto Keane, Iann Sanchez and Carlos educated us about the history and lives of the people that were successful in this magnificent feat and development of Panama into a cosmopolitan city.
The many aspects of Panama were introduces throughout - the heart warming welcome we received from the San Carlos school children and the home hosted lunch with a local family; the warm beaches and beautiful resorts of Coronado; the introduction to the local residents and artisans of El Valle; the Gamboa Rainforest; a visit with the natives of Embrera tribe and introduction to their specific culture, food, dancing, costumes, carvings and basketweaving that they are famous for; a ride on the Panama Canal Railway from the Pacific to the Caribbean. Also, the included special discoveries make the experience special such as the zip line with 11 stations which gave all of us an adrenalin rush.
No hesitation in highly recommending this trip to all who enjoy a learning adventure. One needs to be mindful of the seasons, select the dry season, Dec. through Apr.
This trip can be improved by delivering a true Folkloric Show in the only optional that was offered and I was so looking forward to. OAT needs to reconsider using the original and historic (old) buildings in Gamboa Resort. Would be more appropriate for such a smal group to be housed in the Resort itself, which is
beautiful.
Otherwise book the trip and enjoy!

Traveler: Daria Chaikovsky from Sherman Oaks, CA traveled on January 25, 2012

This was a great trip for my wife and I, in that we learned and experienced how the various cultures of Panama live and go about their daily lives. We didn't realize how much more there was to this country, until we spent eleven days with an accomplished guide like Carlos.

One highlight of the trip was our visit to the school and subsequent home hosted lunch. It is one thing to learn about a country and another to be welcomed into it, as we were by these children and their parents.

We prefaced the previous paragraph with "one" highlight, because there was a new highlight each day on the trip for us, each different, but never the less special in it's own way.

We would recommend this trip for anyone wanting something out of the ordinary.

Traveler: Charles & MJ Snodgrass from Holly Lake Ranch, TX traveled on January 25, 2012

This was our third trip on OAT and again was a wonderful experience. Our guide Beny was one of the best we have had on any trip. The ship Discovery was very comfortable and well equiped. Panama is a very interesting and colorful country. We are looking forward to another trip possibly the Route of the maya.

Traveler: John Reilly from Fort Myers, FL traveled on December 04, 2011

We took the Panama Canal trip 112-11122011. I thought we'd hit the dry season, but noooo. It was hot and wet outside. Bring ponchos and easy-dry clothes! Jose was our trip leader and he was wonderful. Our driver, Eban, was terrific at "backing up" which he had to do often because of the road closures (landslides) and parades.

Our trip happened to be during the November holiday celebrations in Panama...Nov. 3 was Panamanian Independence Day (from Colombia), and the next day was Flag Day and San Carlos Anniversary. So the first day was spent in the old section of Panama City, watching students from all over the country marching to their bands and drum lines. Oh, the costumes! The dance groups! Wow! I don't know how Jose kept track of us in all the commotion, but he did. The marching continued all day.

The next day we went to San Carlos and saw the rural parade version. Kids were not in school (they were marching) so our school visit didn't include interacting with students there. The one lane roads were overflowing with cars, people (all smiling and friendly), beautifully costumed marchers, drums being enthusiastically pounded. This lasted all day, too. We had a nice home visit and managed to communicate with charades, photos, and limited Spanish. One amazing thing I saw was a woman leaning against a power pole, nonchalantly nursing her baby, totally exposed...not at all concerned that she was in public. THAT'S authentic!

The next day was in El Valle, and the holiday celebrated Nov. 5 when the Colombian troops left Colon.

In Portobelo we visited the Church of the Black Christ. While there, we were admiring one of the Red Devil busses that form the major means of transportation in Panama. These look like former school busses, painted in outrageous fashion, and travel at their own schedule, more or less. They are being phased out in favor of a new Metro system with fixed schedules, but the rural areas depend on them for now. The driver indicated we should get on, SO WE DID! He drove us from Portobelo to the restaurant (about 10 min. away) with the loud music booming and us singing, waving, and finger snapping. Mucho fun!

In Gamboa Rain Forest we went by motorized dugout to visit the Embera people. POURED rain as we got into the boats! Where's that poncho? Loved the visit with the Emberas and the food they prepared for us. I wondered how those women dealt with pot spatters while leaning over the bubbling pots with nothing much on but beads and sarongs, if that. The handicrafts were a great value, so get souvenirs there, plus you're dealing with the source of the handiwork.

The next day we boarded the train for Colon. Jose warned us to take jackets because the train's air conditioning was either off (ack) or ON and cold. He was right...cold. The dome car was reserved for us, and we were served coffee. It was raining so hard that sometimes we couldn't see outside, though. The Caribbean side of Panama frequently gets more rain than the Pacific side. Colon frequently floods.

We got stuck in traffic because of flooding and watched loads of school kids walking in the opposite direction, soaked to the skin in their school uniforms. Some walked with their shoes in their hands. It was a "flood day" since the school was flooded.

Once on the Discovery, we encountered heavy weather soon after the life vest drill. The silverware flew off the tables and the glasses broke as they hit the floor. BRING DRAMAMINE because the crew didn't have any. A wonderful dinner had been cooked, but by the time we got into a calmer harbor about an hour away, not many wanted to eat anything other than cereal. I think 23 of the guests and some of the crew were hanging out over the aft rail. There was a video playing in the salon for anybody not out back, but I had to hold onto my chair to keep from being bucked out of it. I must say the crew was very helpful to those who were trying to get about i.e., outside. We had one other day of heavy weather, but it didn't get quite so bad....still pretty rock-y roll-y. Because of the weather we made the transit at Gatun lock at night. The other 2 locks were made during the day, raining and not. After the Miraflores lock we had a BBQ on the back upper deck...wonderful food!

Coming home we had to go thru security inside the Panama airport and AGAIN at the gate. In Atlanta we had to go thru customs and then all the way thru security AGAIN (shoes off, liquids out, etc). Any liquids purchased from Duty Free had to be in your checked luggage (didn't help us since we used only carry ons).

All in all, this was truly an adventure trip. In all my years of OAT travel, I've never been disappointed, and this trip was no exception.

Traveler: Jan Foster from Seattle, WA traveled on November 02, 2011

In October 2011, my wife and I joined OAT's "Panama and the Panama Canal" tour. We had been to Costa Rica (with OAT) and I am very interested in the fauna, particularly insects, of Central America, but our main reason for taking this trip was to see and experience The Canal.

To come right to the point, the OAT tour went beyond all our hopes and expectations. We were given ample opportunity to hike and observe the local flora and fauna. (Those, like my wife, who wished not to hike were always given options). We had pleasant excursions to Old-Town Panama City, native villages, a local school, and small craft markets, where we bought beautiful Molas at fair prices.

But the highlights of the trip were our visits to the Canal, one of them at night, and our actual transit of the Canal on the catamaran "Discovery." The crew of the ship was very competent, attentive, and hospitable, and would have made this a memorable voyage even without the main attraction, the Canal. But seeing the Canal close-up and having its history and operation explained to us in detail was the icing on the cake.

As is so often the case, the tour director of a trip can ake the difference between a good trip and an excellent trip. Our tour Director, Deibys Fonseca, or Davis as he liked to be called, made it an excellent trip. His familiarity with the flora and fauna (especially birds), his incredible knowledge of the history of Panama and the Canal, and his overall congeniality and willingness to assist us were simply outstanding. He rates a 1010, as does the trip.

Traveler: Jack Morrison from Shippensburg, PA traveled on October 16, 2011

This was our 8th trip with OAT. In advance of the trip we probably knew less about Panama than we had known about our other destinations with OAT. For this reason, and thanks to our excellent guides, and the extensive slate of experiences, we feel we came home with a lot of new knowledge. Learning the history of the canal, while seeing it up close in unhurried fashion, was especially gratifying.
We’ve had good luck with almost all our OAT guides, and the Panama cadre is at the top of our list. Deibys Fonseca was the main man throughout the trip. He was aided by guide-in-training, Ariel Herrera, who promises to be a very good addition to the OAT corps. For a young man in his late 20’s, Deibys was remarkably mature, knowledgeable, kind, and accommodating. He was always present and looking after our needs and interests. Educated as a naturalist, he was able to point out and identify all the flora and fauna on our many optional short walks and boat rides in the Panama jungle. He dealt with all our questions, even those on controversial subjects like Panama’s notorious dictator, Manuel Noriega, and the sometimes touchy Panama-U.S. relationship over the Canal Zone. During the 3-day canal trip, Ian Sanchez was chief guide. Older than Deibys, he, too, was well-educated, well-trained, knowledgeable, and personable. Both Deibys and Ian showed us another side to their personalities when they brought out their guitar and drum set, respectively, to add to our entertainment on a couple of evenings.
Spectacular sights in Panama ranged from those of the modern skyline of downtown Panama City from Ancon Hill, to the Chagras River and Canal from a tower above the jungle canopy near Gamboa, to old Spanish cathedrals and forts in various sites, and to the canal, its locks, its large Gatun Lake, and its new channels under construction.
The traditional OAT visits to a school and a home hosted lunch were, if anything, a little more elaborate than our previous experiences on other trips and thoroughly enjoyable. In addition, a half-day and a lunch with the Embara Indians was very interesting. Hotel accommodations were fine, particularly the new hotels in Coronado Beach and Gamboa which had large lobbies with spectacular views.

Nov. 9, 2011

Traveler: David Sears from Houston, TX traveled on September 18, 2011

Visiting an Indian village was the high point of the trip for me. Most of the others on the trip were very excited to see the Panama canal so intimately; I wasn't. The ship and hotels were first rate and the guide ("Moondog") was exceptional. I didn't give the trip an "excellent rating" because Panama is less interesting than most other countries I've visited.

I also went on the Cartagena extension. While the colonial part of the town was well worth seeing, and I was surprised how much I enjoyed the mud bath in the volcano cone, I thought that the trip could easily been been done in just two full days.

Traveler: Ronald Glantz from Tiburon, CA traveled on September 21, 2011

I thoroughly enjoyed the trip. Having read the reviews beforehand I changed my expectations to less of an adventure and more of a vacation. The accommodations were excellent. I loved the Pacific hotel and the resort in Gambia. The boat was beautiful although the rooms themselves were sparse. Panama is all about the canal and I was pleased to learn about its history. We never got very far into nature although we were able to see some interesting animals and birds. I had never been to Panama so it was on my list and I was happy to see it this way.

Our trip leader, Jose, was wonderful. He was knowledgeable. accommodating, and fun. Our group was wonderfully funny, making it a memorable trip as much for the people as for the trip. This is a pretty tame trip. If you are looking for an adventure pick a different one. If you want to see Panama, it is a great way to do it.

Advice: If you are interesting in Kayaking, push your agenda and make sure you get enough time on the water. The boat is uniquely set up for kayaking but doesn't offer enough time or opportunities to take advantage of this feature.

Traveler: Mary Ann Jurney from Saint Paul, MN traveled on October 05, 2011

When I first began to study for my trip to Panama in September, my focus was on the Canal and the part America had played in building it. As I read more books, however, I discovered there was a lovely little country surrounding the Canal that most people know very little about. A small jewel just waiting to be discovered!

At the beginning of the trip, you get to see a very modern Panama City with skyscrapers and a terrific selection of multi-national restaurants. The Panamanians make you welcome with smiles and waves and make every effort to show you their country. You get to stay in an old-fashioned hotel in Panama City, and then a spectacular resort in Gamboa! You get to see the jungle up close and personal with a great view of the Canal from the top of the air tram. And, you get to meet a fascinating native people in the Embera Indians who are gracious and funny and dignified. They also make the most fantastic woven baskets and masks I’ve ever seen! (Be sure you buy some. The prices are really reasonable.) Visit the school at San Carlos and grin as you watch the kids show you their dances and then invite you to join them. And, buy some of the handmade ‘molas’ made by the Kuna Indian women. Again, at very reasonable prices. A wonderful home-hosted lunch was successful because of smiles and hand gestures and good food. No language skills required. And, our trip up the Pacific coast resulted in more impromptu, off-the-track, non-itinerary excursions ever completed on one OAT trip. Our guide, Jose’s, friends included a cashew roaster, a charcoal maker and the citizens of the town of Chame who welcomed us to their festival. Our trip to Portobelo took us back to the days of old Spain and Inca gold and silver and the old fort and church were indicative of early Panama and the pirate days.

Although the rains came almost every day, they were usually short and you had time to get to shelter before the downpour. Your rain gear will be used, but it’s not inconvenient. It can also be humid and warm, but if you carry a cotton bandana, you can mop the sweat from your brow, then rinse out the scarf at night for the next day. And, I did get a yellow fever shot and took Malarone for malaria, even though I only saw a couple of mosquitoes the whole trip!

Before we got to the Canal itself at the latter part of the trip, I knew it is being enlarged and some changes are coming so I wanted to make the transit now while it is still as close to the original as possible. (If you like big parties, make your reservations now for the 100th anniversary in 2014. If you like it a little quieter, book your trip before then.) The Canal part of the trip was completely fascinating, intriguing and impressive. You will be very proud of the effort extended by the United States in building the Canal, especially since it was done with almost superhuman manual labor! Remember, back in the early 1900s, they didn’t have massive equipment or computerization. This feat of engineering is one of the wonders of the world, and after 97 years, still functions almost flawlessly. And, since the Panamanians took over the Canal in 2000, they have continued to run it flawlessly. (There were also some actions the USA took during the construction that didn’t speak well for us and you need to do some reading before you come to understand what and how it happened.) Add the fun of being on OAT’s boat, The Discovery, and you have a great time coming! The crew was fantastic and the food was creative, beautifully prepared and delicious. The boat itself was fresh, clean and spacious with windows everywhere to see the Canal as it slipped by. The cabins were very large with big windows and even the bathroom was roomy. I went kayaking for the first time and had a ball! Ian, the activities director made sure we had plenty to do. Add to the whole trip a phenomenal OAT guide in Jose Manuel, and you will wonder why you didn’t come sooner.

You should see the Panama Canal for the magnificent construction feat that it is; you should see Panama the Country, for the gem it is. You will love them both.

Traveler: Jane Keill from Glenview, IL traveled on September 14, 2011

What a wonderful surprise Panama was. At lunch with a fellow traveler today we all mentioned how much more there is to Panama beyond the canal. I had read the review from the person who didn’t like the extra experience at the Locks at night. I think they missed the point of the experience. There was so much more than just the food. I’ve always been interested in textiles. The opportunity to see the folk dancing up close and in particular to see the needlework on the national costume the pollera was an opportunity seldom offered on a tour. And standing on the balcony overlooking the locks and watching all the traffic going through the locks---a private show for us was well worth the money. We saw no traffic when we visited during the day. The “day in the life” was a fun day. My husband got a chance to play “watchieman” with the retired Panamanian who was selling newspapers from his porch. Lunch was perfect---especially when the son, who was also the chef, had caught the fish the night before. And what’s more fun than seeing kids in school!
This may not have been the most adventurous trip—but I didn’t want that. I wanted to relax and enjoy. Long hikes in humid tropical weather isn’t my cup of tea—but the short walks, the visit to the Ebera people, and the tour of Panama City were perfect for me. I’m a teacher and let me tell, you—my teaching about the rainforest will be much more personal after this trip! Lying in the hammock on our room’s balcony watching capybara, agouti, and beautiful emerald green and royal blue hummingbirds on the pink powder puff tree was quite special. We didn’t just see this along our way we saw poison dart frogs and two sloth---one from the window of the bus.
Going through the Panama Canal was a much more emotional experience than I expected. Our small ship, the Discovery, along with the things we learned about the construction of the Panama Canal, helped make us understand the immense importance of this construction. Being dwarfed by 8 story car carriers, touching the wall of the canal, and getting to help the captain pilot the boat….couldn’t have done that on a giant cruise ship. Sitting and watching the world go by with such wonderful service from the crew was my cup of tea. Where else can you lay in bed on a trip and watch the beautiful stars at night. Hotels and food didn’t bother me. I was happy with all of them---after all, most of the time I’m asleep in the room! I was surprised that the Panamanian food was so bland—but if you eat out on your own—try the Pigtail Soup. I haven’t seen such interesting fruit since I was in Malaysia. Thanks to our guide, Jose who made sure we got to try a great variety when we stopped at a local “farmers market”, my doctor should be happy I got my more than daily allowance of fruit. Pineapple lovers you are in for a treat. This tour makes my 5 star list because of Jose’s knowledge, the Panama Canal and finding so much more in Panama than expected. So what if the food wasn’t the best---I didn’t gain weight, and I came home relaxed instead of exhausted.
Do take rain gear. I did all the hiking in my Birkenstocks and am glad I didn’t carry hiking boots. Natural fibers are better than synthetic. Don’t bother to load your Kindle up with lots of books! If your group of travelers is like the group John and I went with---you won’t be wanting to hide in a book. Interesting people, a fascinating country—and we were never more than 50 miles from the Canal, and just watching the rainforest country roll by as you cruise from the Caribbean to the Pacific. Oh, and that mama humpback whale and her baby---good planning on that one, OAT!

Traveler: Nelda Brangwin from Bellevue, WA traveled on August 13, 2011

This is a Good Trip. You will experience and enjoy much. That said, it is not as enthralling as the OAT Peru or Guatemala Mayan tours for my taste due to the lack of magical places and ruins. Take those first, if Latin American lore interests you, unless you are an engineer seeking the most intimate way to see the canal. I was simply looking for another OAT in Latin America.
Our guide was Jose Manuel. He was quite knowledgable, remarkably able and willing to answer all our questions, and cater to all our request; patient, at our disposition 247 and yet unintrusive. We also had the services of a trip leader in training, Abduel, who also greatly contributed to our ease and good humour, and who also, along with Jose, did his best to meet our every whim or encourage us to our own ‘discoveries’ (in my case a close encounter with a 2 yr old pet monkey named Carlito he encourage me to ‘meet’). (and I was sure was trained to steal my little camera valuables bag)
Our group of 22 was varied in age and composition (from a kayakking 85 to 30?, 3 parent and childs including me and my mom,at least 4 travelling single, the rest couples) and Jose complimented us on how easily we integrated and came to jokes with each other. Of course the majority of the group were Grand Circle members, one couple had made 17 OAT tours so the majority ‘knew how to travel in a group.’ . It was only my 3rd OAT trip (due to age not preference – I’m 48 and know this is the way to go – hardships as many as you wish or don’t wish in the day, full comfort in the evenings, Day in the Life and all).
Some have noted the over-abundance of leisure time on this trip. This didn’t seem the case with our tour. This was true for me only on the last day of the tour upon arrival about noon-time in PC that we were left on our own but Jose volunteered to steer any of us who had further intentions in the city (some to the market, some to buy books, some..) and after a rest check-in break, he cheerfully met and steered us all cheerfully in the right directions until told to desist.
As for other free time, at Coronado Beach one could happily walk the beach (at full moon high tide the waves are treacherously high) but there is a big pool, and at Gamboa there were many exhibits and paths to take if one did not wish to enjoy the huge swimming pools or view of the wild pigs and other creatures from one’ s private hammock on the balcony. (note this was called an ‘upgrade’ and 1st night we didn’t have a hammock, I requested one for the 2nd and in fact it did block some of the fantastic view for two)
On board the Discovery, we never returned too early that any could be bored. There was plenty of space on the decks for either finding a congenial group to chat with or a private reading or sunning nook. You certainly don’t find this on a cruise ship. You could always go and steer the ship with the capitain. And yes there is a well-stocked library, but just find the time..we were on and off with excursions and passing through the locks even an un-engineering type must marvel.
The crew, as many have said, were only too eager to engage us guests. Private chats with the capitan, the cook and the girls on staff improved both my Spanish and their English. Yes, as others have written, the food is superb on board. We chuckled a bit at the daily choice of fish, chicken or beef throughout the tour, but then again, what else to offer? Personally I found the beef everywhere in Panama the best choice. The cuisine is not so extreme as to have its own character, the exotic fruit that Jose made us sample both from a market and at a Taiwanese-run nursery was a treat.
I must mention the heat. Despite having done both Peru and Guatemala in August, Panama was the 1st time I had to agree that only cotton clothing can be worn and head coverings a must. A single day in the pool at Gamboa (yes, my mother had ‘stomach troubles’ so we took the day off and missed the Indian village – tho I am glad I did not miss getting a ‘chain link fence’ henna tattoo) and I am as brown as a season in Boston. This is a great place to take a ‘day off’ if you are so inclined.
In between the total ‘melt-downs’ (in fact take a bandana handkerchief to sop it up) there is tropical rain. Only a rain poncho can cover your day pack, no rain gear will suffice. I was given a plastic disposable poncho on the aerial tram ride and carried it with me forever after. That said, I only got mosquito bites at the ‘extra’ visit to the sugarcane farm when it was pouring rain all day (we cut the cane, horse-pressed the juice, boiled it up, stirred and ate the candy!) alas there was no rum for sale, I asked) This is a ‘Jose’ leader extra so may not be on your tour. It is a bit rough, especially in the rain (and mud) so you may not encounter a single mosquito, not even in the Gamboa Rain Forest enjoying your balcony on your double hammock. The gekko tiny lizards don’t come out until very late and they stick to the ceiling eating the mosquitoes.
There isn’t much to buy for souvenirs when you get by the hats,(men’s classic $17 1st stop 1st tour day get it here) embroidery and baskets. Cheap wood and shell jewelry. I never saw any tiles or pottery or other such ‘finds’.
The Day in the Life came at the beginning which was good to ‘get rid’ of our gifts. It was a bit rushed and crowded and there was little time for true interaction with ‘the kids’ in between dance performances. I managed to distribute individual little balls to all and then play a bit of a game (a number in Spanish and the kids to say it in English) to give out the rest but it was only in full disregard for the official presentations. They do then pass a basket for anonymous donations of supplies to which I also contribute the requisite pencils whatever, but I like to have something I can make sure the kids get that day as a little reminder and that provides an opp for interaction should it be possible. If you want to give more, just send a donation on the form provided. (It was in Peru my 1st OAT that I kicked myself that I had already just placed my ‘donations’ in the anonymous basket at the teacher’s desk and there was time for ‘games’ and true interaction )
Our home visits were individual discoveries for sure since each group of 5 or so went on our own. Marvelous Karina (mother of a pupil) and her mother and auntie hosted us (the girls barely ate with us). We had a nice meal and fotos of home or postcards are of value here in the difficult conversation spaces but our Karina was ready and willing to attempt and encourage our interaction. They are right that something even of condiments or other non-perishable foodstuff that come from ‘home’ are a conversation opener. A tee-shirt is a tee-shirt. (and rarely worn in these parts).
My personal highlights were the encounter with my monkey and riding the suicidal waves at Coronado Beach with a French Canadian ex-pat.
My disappointment was only with Panama City itself and the hotel location there. So purely ‘ratty’ Miami Beach. Met a few ex-pat Americans there who confirmed it is not a destination in itself.
A note for smokers: the country is no-smoking. Having balconies at both Coronado and Gamboa this is not a problem if you bring your own little ashtray, on board Discovery all outdoor areas are available (and they are plenty), just ask at the bar for an ash tray and you’ll get one with a wet napkin inside. PC hotel was the only bother. But there is, and I hesitate to tell the world, a grand rooftop garden up on the 6th floor rooftop where you will meet, or I did at least, some very interesting people (another OAT guide who happily spent his leisure time chatting me, and a Texan couple there to buy shares in a PC hotel) a secret hideaway, but who reads these reviews ; )
Our only optional was the folklore at Miraflores from the PC base 2nd night. What else are you gonna do that night in PC? Go! Stuff yourself! ‘Ceviche’ cold ups of seafood in lemon and paella here exquisite. And have the evening canal views to yourself because the 2nd daytime viewing from there is packed to the ‘bleachers’ with people. The sight of the fish-headed dancer enough is reason.
OAT does rave about its ability to put its small groups in small ‘local’ hotels but aside from the Discovery cataraman, this was not the case. Coronado Solarium and Gamboa Resort were great, but they were not off the beaten path of tour bus crowds. Of course both were nearly empty as any destination in that hemisphere would be in August. I would not at all consider them ‘local’ but they were wonderful.
A good trip, I am in gratitude to my fellow travellers and very accomodable trip leaders and Discovery crew who did everything they could to make us comfortable, knowledgeable and happy.

Traveler: Catherine Lockhead Strzepka from North Weymouth, M traveled on August 13, 2011

Great leader , Jose - great hotels and ship-- friendly country, Interesting story the canal -wonderful fellow travelers. Food good not great a bit repetative . I had no bug bites and to my knowledge no one else did ether. it does rain not just sprinkles. no need for any warm clothing. once again OAT performed beautifully.

Traveler: John Brangwin from Bellevue, WA traveled on August 13, 2011

My PanamaColombia experience ranks right up there among the most memorable of my 12 OAT trips due, in large part, to our outstanding trip leader, Yesenia Yépez. She combines extensive knowledge of Panama with humor, caring, and enthusiasm. She was a joy to travel with and we really enjoyed meeting her family.
While I’ve been on more active OAT trips, this one turned out to be more active than recent reviews had suggested. Maybe that was because Yesenia is as passionate about walking and hiking as I am. She gave us many opportunities to walk with her, including wildlife viewing treks in the early morning and evening. Also, I often took advantage of free time to walk and explore our surroundings, including the beautiful black sand Coronado Beach.
We were able to truly appreciate the remarkable engineering feat that is the Panama Canal because we visited the Miraflores Locks Visitor Center before our transit and then heard the real-time descriptions by Ian onboard the catamaran. The Captain and Pilot were also very informative and congenial. The crew’s performance was amazing, the food was outstanding, and the kayaking was great fun.
Panama is captivating, but the pre- and post-trip extensions should not be missed. Bocas del Toro is a beautiful area of the Caribbean. For almost all activities we took boat rides, which gave us the opportunity to see fascinating mangrove swamps and lots of dolphins. We also snorkeled to see red starfish--on our trip this snorkeling seemed perfectly fine for beginners and no fins were required. Yesenia led us on enjoyable walks along the beach and through the rain forest to the less sheltered coastline of the Caribbean.
Cartagena, Colombia, was a very pleasant surprise and our excellent leader, David, was rightly proud of his city. In contrast to the city’s attractive high-rise area, the picturesque old town was quaint and charming, with an active nightlife, great restaurants and bars, and wonderful sunset viewing. I especially appreciated being able to comfortably walk around, day or evening, to explore this area on my own. And don’t miss the volcano mud massage!

Traveler: Joanne S from Colorado Springs, CO traveled on May 01, 2011

We are first-time OAT travelers who booked the April 20th "A Continent Divided" trip because of the Panama Canal. We did come home satisfied to have seen one of the seven wonders of the modern world, but we were more impressed with the natural wonders of Panama: its warm and generous people, the verdant green of its rainforests, and its food, especially the dripping sweet pineapple and fish (or “feesh,” as our trip leader called it), which we ate nearly every day and never the same way twice. One was a fish that my husband caught in Gatun Lake with a member of the Discovery crew, who cooked and served it to him.

Having a native Panamanian as our trip leader was important to us, and Joshua Hall did not disappoint. His passion for his country, his knowledge of its history, its flora and fauna, and his magnanimous personality are infectious. On several birdwatching walks, he actually called specific species in to us.

Highlights included our pre-trip to beautiful Bocas del Torres on the Caribbean; our stay at the storybook lodge of Gamboa Rainforest Resort, where our room included a hammock on the balcony; our school and home visits and an incredible Good Friday candlelight procession that we actually witnessed twice in the village of San Carlos; and our journey through the Canal on the Discovery, where we were we ate like kings and were spoiled by the crew (they actually called each of us by name at our first meal on the ship and thereafter).

One of the few things I would change is the dinner and folkloric dance show at Miraflores Locks. I agree with Sue (see previous review) that it was greatly overpriced. I found the folk dances we were treated to the next day by students at the OAT-supported school in San Carlos much more genuine and thoroughly charming. Be aware that the snorkeling experience in Bocas is not for beginners and will be more enjoyable if you bring fins. Also, don’t waste suitcase space on hiking boots or fleece jackets as recommended in the OAT brochure—this is not a strenuous trek and Panama is hot.

Our weather at the beginning of the rainy season was near perfect and there were remarkably few bugs.

This trip was an experiment for my husband me, usually solo travelers. We made new friends on this trip. We learned that Panama is a country with little racial prejudice where outsiders are genuinely welcomed. We heard the incredible howls of Howler monkeys. We saw a Broad-billed Motmot. We dipped water out of the Caribbean to flush a toilet. We rode the Red Devil. A three-toed sloth, a creature that normally relieves itself only once every two weeks, came down to the water to poop right in front of our boat. Convinced that we never could have experienced so much on our own, we will travel with OAT again.

Traveler: Mary Graham from Gardners, PA traveled on April 17, 2011

This was my fourth trip with OAT and my first as a single traveler (widowed.)

Our trip leader, Joshua Hall, was outstanding and helped to meld us into a very companionable group - most important from my point of view.

Bocas del Toro was a joy and it was here that I found Joshua to be a "think on his feet" kind of guide. An event that people thought they would experience was cancelled - the horse back ride - and though disappointed we very much enjoyed our time at the Smithsonian Institute research center which Joshua arranged even though it was supposed to be closed that day.

. The Playa Torguga hotel was very pleasant and the view from my room of the ocean and the town across the bay was most enjoyable.

Our hotels were more than adequate with the Hotel El Panama, in the heart of the city, a surprise in that I could go birdwatching in the morning on a level above the street.

The Gamboa Rainforest Resort was a joy. The view of the Chargres River as you walked into the lobby was wonderful. I walked the grounds alone on several occasions and felt quite safe. There are a lot of activities offered at this resort and I would have appreciated more time there rather than at the Solarium whose black sand beach was not particularly pleasant to walk on due to the many motorized vehicles dashing up and down.

The catamaran Discovery was just the right size to experience the canal and spend time in Gatun Lake. I am glad I did not have to share a cabin with anyone as they are quite small, though adequate for a couple who don't mind being in such close quarters. The crew and the captain were extremely pleasant and helpful and meals served aboard were all of the highest standard. Our naturalist guide, Ian, was most knowledgeable and always helpful.

There is no need to carry a hair dryer on this trip, all hotels and the boat had them.

I was surprised how few bugs there were, mostly mosquitos in Gamboa - to be expected - in the evenings.

My one disappointment was that this trip was nowhere near as active as I had come to expect from all the reading that I did. I had hoped for more walkinghiking in the natural areas. For such a small country we seemed to spend a lot of time on the bus. I did think that the time spend in Portobello could have been put to better use.

The optional dinner at the Miraflores lock I found to be over priced for a mediocre meal and too crowded for the dancers to properly perform - they blocked other patrons from getting to their food, not a good idea.

The trip is worth taking and meeting the Panamanian people in various settings was a good experience.

A bonus was going to Joshua's home and meeting his Mother, Grandmother and brother. I hope that you all get to spend time with these lovely people.

Traveler: Susan Margaret Gardner from Parker, CO traveled on April 17, 2011

I have been on two GCT trips and heard good things about OAT, so when bored and cold this winter, I decided to take advantage of the last minute travel deal to Panama.

Each day as we made long bus rides, walked through city streets, visited schools and families, I wondered when the ‘adventure’ was going to begin.

Finally on day 7, yes, day 7, we zip-lined through the jungle canopy …now that was an adventure, even though we were rushed along.

That afternoon we boarded the Discovery, which was a very nice, comfortable three days, but not much adventure. The two kayak trips were of 30-45 minute duration and we were kept in close proximity of the ship and monitored by motorized zodiacs.

I expected much more activity with an OAT trip. Our hiking consisted of a short walk along a paved road, trying to spot wildlife while looking out for vehicles.

Our trip leader, John Posner, was nice and accommodating, but lacked an adventuresome spirit. I expected the leader of an OAT adventure to be a fit, active, naturalist; ours was not.

Though this trip was relaxing and comfortable, it is not what I envisioned from OAT.

The daily beer runs that were provided helped ease the disappointment.

If you want an adventure, don’t take this trip. If you want a comfortable, leisurely trip through the canal with a taste of Panama thrown in, this is the trip for you.

Traveler: Anita Kuehne from Raleigh, NC traveled on February 19, 2011

As 18 time travelers with OAT (solely), we feel we need to respond on-line to the trips we take with Overseas Adventure Travel. And as with all escorted trips, there are positives and negatives – we are, after all, dealing with human beings, airlines, daily schedules, and the weather.

The Positives:
1. Discovery Ship – This was truly the highlight of the trip. The catamaran was spotless, well apportioned, and comfortable. The staff was SUPERB. Everyone was friendly, welcoming, and always smiled. The food was always outstanding and served in large quantities. The two cooks are true masters of their trade. Drinks on board were reasonable.

2. Trip Through The Panama Canal – For many people on this trip this was the goal – going through the Panama Canal. For me, an American History teacher, it was not significant, until we went through it. I was awed by the true immensity of the project begun by the French and completed by the USA in 1914. The number of ships that make the crossing, the people and machinery that make it work, the cost per ship, and the construction of the much larger parallel canal.

3. Days 4 and 10 – Away from the Discovery, these were the two best days and reflective of other OAT trips we have taken. We were active from early in the morning to late in the afternoon. On Day 4 we walked narrow paths in the jungle, climbed steep and wet paths, saw a huge variety of animals and birds, and experienced a variety of activities. On Day 10 we visited Portobello, a colonial city, rode the Red Devil, visited Fort Gulick and its Zip Line, and then transferred to Panama Canal Railroad to travel from the Caribbean coast to the Pacific.

4. Impromptu Happy Hour - On Day 5 we arrived at the Gamboa Resort, in the middle of the jungle and a US military facility that now caters to the tourists. Gustavo, our Tour Director, invited all of us to his cabin in one of the original barracks built for the administration of the Panama Canal in the early 1900’s. Gustavo provided appetizers and beverages. Almost everyone came to the impromptu event which was appreciated. A good time was had by all.

5. People of Panama – I am continuously heartened by the welcome we, American travelers, get from people all over the world. Panama is no different. They are warm, welcoming, friendly, and go out of their way to help out. A quizzical look on a face gets an immediate response of “How can I help”. I only got one NO! when I tried to take a picture in Portobello. After a little conversation, explanation, and joking they smiled and allowed me to take multiple pictures of everyone.

6. US Dollar – Panama uses the American Dollar so this was a nice benefit. Easy to use and compare when we went to supermarkets, shopping, etc.

The Negatives:

There were also negative aspects that in some cases were beyond the control of OAT.

1. Hotels – Most hotels are still making the transition to the tourist trade. The Gamboa Resort room was dark, wet and smelled of mold. The Solarium was brand new and we were the only people there.

2. Included Meals – I have written to OAT many times about the included meals. In Panama these Lunches and Dinners were set meals even though in many of these same restaurants offered very diversified buffets. These meals were OK, generally three choices. My concern comes from the food wastage. I spoke to our Tour Director and he had no real answer. I pointed out how many people had only eaten a portion of their meal. In a country where too many people are going hungry, we waste food as our portions were so large. I also need to mention that many of our meals were warm to cold. Even our Farewell Meal was cold. I spoke to the restaurant manager and OAT area manager about this problem and that this was not the only meal.

3. TIPSGratuity – We were informed, from the first day in Panama that we needed to provide a tip for our OAT provided meals. We showed Gustavo our OAT Trip Guide and he continued to tell us that we needed to provide a 10 to 15% gratuity for all meals other than breakfast. We plan our tips before we leave home and were surprised that there was an expectation for the Naturalist aboard the Discovery. Usually OAT is good about these guidelines, but slipped up here.

4. Trip Intensity – Of the 18 trips we have been on with OAT, this was the least active trip. Too many days we had one activity, lasting at the most 4 hours and then we were given free time for our own “Discovery” other wise known as the OAT Day at Leisure. Having just returned from Israel, the most physically demanding OAT trip, the Panama trip was very disappointing.

5. School VisitHome Hosted LunchEmbera Indian Village – The concept of visiting a school, home hosted lunch, and an Indian tribe have been hallmarks of OAT travel. We have had wonderful experiences. Unfortunately, these three were so contrived and disappointing. Too many OAT trips visiting these same groups per month. There was no sparkenergy in any of these.

6. Optionals – I will speak here of the three we participated in Panama and Colombia. MIraflores dinner was OK but the show was minimal – 4 dancers who were brought in to dance and performed for less than 30 minutes. When we got to the Gamboa Lodge we found almost all of our time was on our own. The Lodge has an extensive list of local tours. The tours were well done and not that expensive; it is our opinion that OAT could have included at least one in our package.

The two in Colombia were very over priced and nominal. Carriage ride was poor and dinner was OK. Way over priced compared to the super dinners we had on our own around the Old Town. Rosario Island was a questionable experience. Speed boat to the island was packed, 50 passengers – they had to remove a passenger before the boat could leave. Lunch was OK, but to snorkel one had to pay $15. To see an Aquarium it was $30. The only thing to do on this small island was to sit in the sun. Compared to other OAT trips, these were the least value for the money.

POST TRIP TO CARTAGENA, COLOMBIA
Overall, we enjoyed these 5 days. OAT put us on Avianca Airlines from Panama City to Bogota and then to Cartagena. With delays, etc. the connection was close to 8 hours.
There is a direct flight from Panama City to Cartagena on Copa that is 65 minutes. What is OAT doing?

Our hotel in Cartagena was situated in a perfect location. Old Town. But the hotel had some problems, ceiling leak in our bathroom, breakfast buffet was minimal and sparse. The staff was superb.

Our Tour Director David was excellent – David went out of his way to show us his city and surrounding country side. On Christmas Eve day he took us on a walking tour of the different areas of the city, taking the time explain the historical, social, political and religious aspects that made each different. He made a point of helping us feel comfortable, knowing which restaurants to visit, taking care of problems as they arose, even taking us when we asked about a place, even though it was after he was supposed to leave us.

Departure from Colombia to the USA was a new experience. We went through 5 security checks, with one of our suitcase being taken completely apart. We were forewarned but it still was an experience.

See Optionals above.

In conclusion I would like to say that Panama is a beautiful country with fantastically friendly people. It is our hope that OAT and their in-country management can give the traveler a full trip commensurate with their promise and tradition.

Colombia may be a new travel location for OAT and we hope that they are given a chance.

For a closer look at these two trips, please go to our website www.garciatrips.com. There you will see GPS maps of our wanderings, videos, five pictures per day and the daily journals of our trips.

Traveler: Vic & Gennie from Monument, CO traveled on December 12, 2010

I just returned from this fabulous trip through the Panama Canal. Every day was an adventure. The food was terrific and the lodgings all wonderful. The time spent aboard the "Discovery" was superb and nobody wanted to leave at the end of our time aboard. Our tour guide, Ana Lesne, was outstanding - the very best! She was well-organized, always a smile, and did all the little extra things to make the trip more enjoyable. It's obvious she loves her job. The pre-trip to Bocas del Toro is a must! Don't take this trip without going there. As it was July, it rained some every day which was a blessing and did not hinder our activities at all. I'd do it all again in a heartbeat!

Traveler: William Jones from Goodyear, AZ traveled on July 11, 2010

The trip was everything we wanted...Nice adventures but relaxing. The reviews listed do a nice job but there have been some changes as the trip evolves. One change is Coronado beach and the Solarian Hotel. It is a lovely beach resort. Take advantage of the black sand beach and go walking, exploring the tide pools, the warm water, the pools on the property. It is a new place and very few people were there at our visit. Be sure to go to the top of the 23 floors and enjoy a moonlight swim,seeing shore birds swoop past at eye level. There is a weight room with a spectacular view and a pool table for fun. Mosquitos are not a problem. A little spray in the evenings and long pants and shirts for a hike or two took care of that. The heat was similar to San Antonio in the summer. For the main trip you don't need yellow fever shots or malaria pills. One passenger on the boat got sea sick. We wished we would have explored the train a little more. Shoes are an issue with me. I found joggers, teva sandals and regular sandals handled it just fine. I would have liked to see the orchid house in El Valle. It would have been an opportunity to see special flora indigenous to Panama that we couldn't see otherwise.

Traveler: Dawn Schiegg from San Antonio, TX traveled on May 26, 2010

We just returned from this trip and were wowed by it! We thought we would enjoy the transit (and it was fabulous!), but we were surprised by how wonderful the other parts of the trip were.
This is our third OAT trip, and all have been great. We have really enjoyed our guides, but Ana Lesne who led this trip for us, was outstanding! She did many little extra things that just made this trip for us.
I would highly recommend this trip.
(The only downside -- it is HOT! in Panama, so be prepared if you book this trip.)

Traveler: Virginia Ford from Port Ludlow, WA traveled on April 14, 2010

Our three day trip through the Panama Canal on a catamaran that carries 24 passengers and a crew of ten was absolutely outstanding. We enjoyed OAT's three included tours from the catamaran and a close-up look at life along the canal. We even spent a night aboard ship on Gatun Lake.

There are many other highlights on this two-week OAT tour: snorkeling and watching dolphiins in Bocas del Toro, visitiing Fort San Lorenzo at the mouth of the Chagres River, walking through the forts and the 16th century Customs House in Portobello, walking around the historic and pictruesque village of San Pedro on Taboga Island, sitting under Tanqui Water Fall, sharing a meal and dancing with members of the Embera Tribe in their village, riding across the isthmus on the Panama Canal Railroad, birding at Gamboa, kayaking and seeing three species of monkeys and dozens of tropical birds on islands in Gatun Lake.

Our visits to a local Women's Co-operative Farm, a school, and a family home; our rides on a local "Chicken Bus" and a "Red Devil Bus;" and, staying in World War II Officers Quarters at a former US military base along the canal were experiences to be treasured for a lifetime.

Our visits to Colonial Panama CIty, Colon, museums, churches, local restaurants, and other cultural sites were a rich experience thanks to Alex, our enthusiac and knowledgable guide. Alex shared his insights into the history and culture of Panama which made our trip incomparably better than the standard eight-hour Cruise Ship passage of the canal.

Traveler: Jerome&Barbara from Novato, CA traveled on December 07, 2009

This was a wonderful trip. It was my 10th with OATGCT. This trip was in Dec. It was the beginning of the dry season and the weather was great. Our guide, Ella, was a last minute replacement for a sick guide and she was wonderful. You can tell she really loves and knows Panama. I loved the history and people. It was so wonderful to really get to see them. The ecolodge and the Gamboa stays were wonderful. I especially loved kayaking on the river and the canal. Nothing like seeing one of the huge ships up close. The Discovery was the best part. The crew was wonderful. I can't imagine going through the canal on one of those "floating cities" and say you saw the canal. This is the only way to really see it. Going on an eco-expedition on Lake Gatun to see the fauna was not to be missed. Portobelo and San Lorenzo were very historic and interesting. But I really loved the post-trip to Cartagena. It is an old walled city with a great history. The only "low-light" of the trip is to the Totumo Volcano. It is really just a large mud spatter cone and the mud pit is rather like a pig-sty. And it smells like one. The rest of the trip was fantastic. I would heartily recommend it to anyone.

Traveler: Barbara from Saint Louis, MO traveled on December 03, 2009

This was our first trip with OAT and we were more than impressed! We had a great trip and would definitely recomment this Adventure. We were with a really nice group of travelers and our guide, Eduardo, was the best tour guide we have ever had on any of our travels.
Trip highlights were: experiencing the Canal passage at eye level on Discovery, the service provided by the crew on the Discovery, visiting the Embera Indians (their lifestyle really seemed unspoiled by tourist visits), meeting such a nice and happy family during the school and home visit and boat ride thru the rainforest.
The only less than spectacular aspects of the trip were the Smithsonian Tour (it was not worth either the time spent or the separate charge) and the Exhibits Tour at the Gamboa Resort.

Traveler: June and Jim from Overland Park, KS traveled on September 28, 2009

We took the pre, post and main trip starting on Oct 27, 2009. This was our 15th trip with OAT plus we had one with GCT. It wasn't the best OAT trip we have taken but it does make the top ten list.

Reyna, the leader for the main trip did a good job but once again, not the best we have experienced. Javier, the leader for the post trip seemed to have little experience with OAT and not a very good command of English. The pre trip was by far the best part of the entire experience.

Reyna did one thing thing that was unique to our OAT trip that was excellent and should be adopted by all OAT leaders. She managed the seat rotation in the bus and eliminated any squabbles over why certain people always ended up in the front.

This trip, although not the best experience with OAT was good and well worth the time and money. Oat is still, in my mind, the best bang for the buck and we have already booked our next trip with them.

Traveler: Lawrence from Oro Valley, AZ traveled on October 23, 2009

Alexis (Alex), our guide was terrific. He loves his job, loves the people of Panama, and it shows. This is a jam-packed trip of constant adventures, all fun and interesting. We had a wonderful group that bonded quickly and partied well! We were there in November, the rainy season, so it was cooler than the dry season, very comfortable and it didn't slow us down one bit! Somehow hiking in the rainforest and swimming in a waterfall in the rain is as it should be. Be sure to take clothes that dry quickly and you don't mind getting muddy. Take shoes comfortable to hike in and can be washed off. Most of us lived in expedition type clothes,(pants with zip off legs and sun shirts), except on the ship when we brought out the shorts and T's. Carry DEET wipes in your pocket in case you run into bugs. We had very little problems. The Smithsonian tour was very interesting. They are studying invasive species in the waterways, acres of trees in the jungle, flora and fauna. Some of the cost of the tour goes to the Smithsonian so we felt it was worthwhile. That tour is not available to the general public. The eco lodge was gorgeous and very comfortable. I would never be able to find it again as it is in the mountains, well hidden. The school visit was a lot of fun and they can use crayons, pencils, maps, books, etc. Gamboa was a delight. Birdwatching at 6 AM is a must, and where else would you find a 2 toed sloth at the front door? The visit to the Embera village was a wonderful experience. They prepared a lovely lunch, elegantly served in rolled banana leaves! They make beautiful woven baskets so wait until you get there to buy. The ship is first class with stable kayaks, delicious food, wonderful crew. We had been through the canal on a cruise ship but nothing can compare with seeing it from the Discovery. A totally different experience. Have Dramamine handy in case the 1 12 hour crossing in the Caribbean is rough. We were welcomed warmly by everyone we met and it was a terrific experience.

Traveler: Sue from Enumclaw, WA traveled on November 12, 2009

I really enjoyed this trip especially the day with the Embera Indians. Beautiful people who make lovely baskets, carvings and "tatoos." The trip on the catamaran through the canal was awesome. The crew was excellent and the experience inspiring. Loved the ship.
Our guide, Reyna, also was able to take us to places not open to the public since she had previously worked for the canal.
We even celebrated 5 birthdays one evening including a cake.
I enjoyed the visit to the Smithsonian, however, I think the $50 was a bit high for what it was. We were there on a Sat. and on one except our guide was there. It would have been interesting to see it in operation.

Traveler: Ann from Fort Wayne, IN traveled on September 17, 2009

Traversing the Panama Canal in a 24 passenger catamaran is the best! We had the greatest views and even met the Canal pilot. Reyna took us places we never knew still existed and helped us learn about our neighbors to the U.S. I was able to compare current views with my memories from 53 years ago when I lived there as a Sophomore at Balboa High School and my Dad was a "mule" operator at Pedro Miguel.
All in all, a wonderful trip and excellent value for the money. I would not recommend the Smithsonian optional trip however.

Traveler: Joanne and Gary (Gerhart) from Lead, SD traveled on August 17, 2009

Great trip. We had much fun and learned a lot.. Our pre trip to the Boca del Toro area was a wonderful way to start the trip. The islands are somewhat remote, beautiful, and interesting. The small town has numerous early 20th century buidlings from its days as the headquarters of the United Fruit Company. All fun and a great guide.

The Panama trip was wonderful. Ana, our guide, was among our best guides ever. The canal is so interesting that it easily warrants the time devoted to it. And we very much enjoyed the visits to more remote areas including a remote Embera indian village.

Our post trip to Cartagenia was superb. A wonderful walled city with much charm, fine restaurants, etc. And the side trips were truly memorable.

Another hit from OAT!

Traveler: Nick from Walnut Creek, CA traveled on July 06, 2009