Ho Hum - my vacation has now ended. I leave tomorrow to return back to the States. Overall, it was an excellent adventure. Being an urbanite, I had thought Panama City would be the favorite of the 3 towns that I had visited. Well, it was not.
Our Hotel in Panama City was surrounded by major construction. The city is building a major highway that I was told had a targeted completion date of this coming Spring (before their national election). Unfortunately, this construction was wrapped around our hotel. It got so loud at night that the hotel had to provide earplugs to all their guests (with an apology letter).
With the construction, came dust and Lots of it.
I developed a hacking cough and had to douse myself with Nyquil and other medication.
Moving on ...
Of the 3 areas - I love Bocas Del Toro the most!
I purchased most of my souveniers at Bocas - the one item I really liked are the Mola Art. Handcrafted, intricate and colorful. This art was applied to anything such as handbags, scarfs, oven mits, blankets, towels. wallart. They make excellent token gifts.
To end,
there was one ugly Panamanian moment we had experienced. It was at the airport - coming in.
Our tourism company had reserved a driver to pick us up. At the airport, he had a big sign with our name and greeted us. He grabbed our bags and led us out of the airport. As we walked to his limo van, there were a group of airport baggage claim staff (in uniform) there helping people with their luggage.
One aggressive staff member immediately grabbed a bag from our driver's hand and placed it in the back of the limo-van.
We really didn't need his help but this airport employee had placed upon himself to grab one of our luggage, walk 4 feet to the car and place it in the trunk.
While we were in the van, this guy poked his head in our vehicle, held out his hand and ASKED FOR A TIP!
We just looked at each other in puzzlement.
I was probably the only one who saw his puny action and now he is demanding a tip for his pathetic service.
I just handed him a dollar to basically tell him to go away!
So take note when visiting Panama!
Beware of the airport baggage claim staff. They are aggressive and will provide service without asking and in return, they want a gratuity for their service that you did not need.
