Anton Valley/Panama City

Our German boys were extremely thoughtful and very quiet, but the fiesta/ whatever the hell it is partying went on into the small hours again so we weren’t sorry to be upping sticks. S much better but it was still boiling in AV so it was time to move on.

Our hosts were very concerned about us which was nice, but not enough to refund the two nights we paid in advance for. The lady didn’t charge us for the laundry she did, but unfortunately Steve’s cotton T-shirt could now fit me so thanks probably aren’t in order.

The drive to Panama City is about 21/2hours from Anton Vallee so not too long, but it takes concentration to avoid both the potholes and also the accidents. We saw two accidents; both due to inattention. It’s not uncommon to see people driving around Panama City with the front of their car missing and bumpers hanging off. Rear-ending appears to be a national pastime.

We couldn’t get into the Tryp Wyndham this time which was a shame as we had come to appreciate its quietness and general “feeling at home” vibe. Instead we booked into the Gran Evian next door. Much more expensive with a swanky reception area, it was third time lucky as far as our room was concerned.

The first room had someone’s stuff in it and the second one was too noisy.

It’s always a bit strange when you go back to the place you first arrived in. Our experience here was exactly the same as when we went back to Capetown I.e how come it’s got so busy?

Our local beer haunt was mega busy, most annoying, and the traffic had got even busier. What was going on? It transpired that a dragon boat competition had been on, drawing people from all parts of the Americas and Canada. Most of them stayed in this area (cangrejo) because it’s central and not too expensive.

We found this out from the participating Canadian ladies who were staying in the hotel. It’s all done now so hopefully we’ll go back to being the only ones in the bar again. Not very sociable are we?

So our final days here in Panama are passing in a very pleasant mix of pool time, wandering about exploring and eating stuff (we had the most delicious ceviche at the fish market today, definitely going back there) and shopping.

We thought about visiting the Isla Tobago (30 minutes ferry ride away) but it’s all very complicated re timings and we just couldn’t be bothered. It’s also 34degrees here and very humid. S is much better but we are taking it easy.

So that’s it from Panama unless something particularly eventful happens. Do I recommend it? If you want nightlife, 5 star facilities and good infrastructure you are better off elsewhere.

If you want empty beaches , prolific wildlife and a country that caters to its own people rather than tourists, you’ll enjoy Panama. Don’t leave it too long though, change is on its way.