From the port in Colon at the north (Caribbean) end of the canal a bus took us to "colonial" Panama City. Amidst a downpour (this is the rainy season from Feb to Nov.) we walked around the a promenade known as Las Bovedos and the French Quarter dedicated to the French who tried and failed to dig the canal between 1880 and 1900.
As the rain stopped we took a fascinating walk looking to the canal on one side and on the other side walking thru an area of buildings dating from the 17th century. The government has supported stimulus for private investment and so there are now beautifully renovated buildings next to those that were neglected for years. I would love to return in a few years to see the renovated area.
We then rode along a causeway that connect several islands, passing the construction of a museum designed by Frank Gehry (architect of the Guggenheim), ending at a resort hotel with a great view of the new Panama City. Among the skyscrapers (which were built mostly from 1960 or 1980 onward) is a condominium built by Donald Trump in 2001.
Our tour ended with a visit to the Miraflores locks observation center where we could see the ships going through from a different vantage point and enjoy a video of the history of the construction. It's hard to imagine what a monumental undertaking it was, requiring great vision, courage and faith in the future. I hope we can have leaders today who will build for our children's future!Back on the ship we ended the day with a seminar on foot Reflexology, a stretch class, and an evening of entertainment with comedian juggler Barry John.
Tomorrow we will dock in Columbia -the last one before home! (I will be ready to come home!)
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Location:Panama City
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