Wife and I want to take a vacation somewhere different and this is the front runner. Anyone been, have suggestions on areas, places to stay and things to do? Also curious to see if you view it as safe.

yes, been there back in the early 80's. not a great vacation destination IMO unless something drastic has changed. find something on the Caribbean side.

Yes it�s ok. Just be vigilant as you would in any large city. I have been for business. Did an eco tour and also the Miraflores locks.

I go for work. It's safe if you are smart about where you are in the City. Since I am there for work I don't do much tourist stuff but the people are friendly and "Old Panama City" is pretty cool. Lots of interesting history there. The beaches do not look like anything I'd be interested in but maybe there are some nice ones somewhere.

I went to Panama City, Fl for spring break once, does that count? I don�t remember much about the trip though.

keep in mind also that your into the rainy season. it will rain just about every day and be humid as all get out. The rain forest is an overrated experience.

I used to spend a month or more in Panama City every quarter.

It has changed a lot since I was there I am certain.

The old town area is interesting. If it�s still there, La Cascada, has decent sea food.

Lake Gatun is filled with Peacock bass, but their growth is a bit stunted due to overpopulation. There are guides that will take you fishing there too.

You should be able to book a fishing trip at the yacht club. We did great with the dorado.

Colon is a dump.

There is a decent Marriott with a casino.

My favorites houses of assignment are La Gruta Azul and the Ancon Inn. Might just be me.

The Panamanian people are generally warm and friendly. The only people that robbed us were police. Like most third world countries...don�t make yourself conspicuous.

Same.

How about Cuba instead?
Fishing is incredible and it would be like traveling back in time 70 years.

Do they call the us army jungle combat school the us army rainforest school now?

I was air force. We only dabbled in it. For a young single man the city has its perks.

Would LOVE to go there but we are kind of last minute and it's my understanding you have to have a sponsor orbsomething and pretend like it's a learning trip. Not sure we have time to throw that together.

Any 15 year olds who resemble me are purely a coincidence.

Probably should of been clearer I think our plan is to stay at a beach hotel near the city and go into the city a day or two ifbthat is even possible. Anyone have recommendations fora resortish style place to stay that we can still take a day trip to the city for 100 or so? I'm having problems determing online ig you can stay out of the city but visit the city economically.

If you get a chance for a day trip check out Boquete, cool little colonial style town with fantastic coffee. Other than that all I did was fish the Hannibal bank and isle Montusa area . If you are game for 100 lb + yellowfin on topwater it is a must do. And they do have black and blue marlin with 4-500 lb'ers very common.