Bright Lights, Big City

After another great, long hitch hiking ride in from the countryside, we were in a bit of shock (if that’s the right word) at stepping into Panama City. All of a sudden our country roads turned into five lane one way streets that more resembled Froger (some scares but we have yet to be splatted) than the lonely chicken crossing the road. Our food which normally came from our neighbors or a tree outside became supermarkets with imported fruits and 500 types of cheese- none that we could afford, but still, 500 types! Skyscrapers were everywhere as well as nice air conditioned malls complete with Cinnabon and McDonalds. We felt like we were back in America, and with so many people speaking English, sometimes we were truly confused.

But as we got settled in and began to get our bearings on the confusing city streets, our outlook started to change a little. We started talking to local street venders (who were definitely Panamanian) and began to find those little local treasures of delicious, amazing, cheap food that are served with total Central American flair. We also found the incredible charm of Casco Viejo, or Old City, with its crumbling Spanish architecture reminiscent of Havana, and colorful outdoor markets lining the streets. It is also home to restored million dollar apartments and the President’s house, right next to some of the worst slums of the city. The crown gem of the area is a falling down building right on the water that’s now a skate park and the perfect place for a picnic we found.

Although we’re more of country folk, Panama City has treated us well, especially with the hospitality of Couch Surfer Tamir, and all of the people at Zuly’s Hostel. Starting off with big wins at the casino, our time in the city has also led us to Onno who will be our fearless captain on the great blue Pacific coming up. We’ve dined on delicious vegetarian cuisine and Indian as well and found time to cook and celebrated Christmas with new good friends.

But luckily we’ve also gotten away from the city as well. Five days at the home of Ricardo on Playa Coronado certainly did the trick of getting us relaxed and ending out 2009 and starting up 2010 right. A place with a pool in the hot Panama sun was just what the doctor ordered, plus surfing, river swims and reading on the beach. Plus being a truly international house, it was a great CS experience- mostly Panama, plus US, Canada and Denmark. Now we know that 2010 will just hold even more adventures and we’re excited to see what those will be! HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL!!!!