Panama's Other Treasures
(washingtonpost.com) There's a lot more to Panama than its famous canal, although as one of the candidates for eighth wonder of the modern world, it is definitely worth a visit. About 14,000 ships a year make the delicate maneuver through its three sets of locks between the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. At the visitors center in Miraflores you can learn about the locks system, pressure valves, tow ships and more, and watch transiting vessels in action.
But don't stop there. The country is an up-and-coming eco-destination known for its great natural beauty and bountiful wildlife, and it's much less touristed than, say, Costa Rica. Your family can take a jungle cruise or go white-water rafting, snorkeling, diving, kayaking, mountain biking, hiking, birding, surfing or sport fishing. If you're not feeling adventurous, you can chill on one of the many white-sand beaches. And of course there's always that tropical-rain-forest staple, zip-lining under the nearest tree canopy.
Consider staying at an ecolodge that combines adventure excursions with family-friendly amenities. Gamboa Rainforest Resort (877-800-1690, http://www.gamboaresort.com), for example, has swimming pools, a butterfly farm, reptile displays and more, and runs its own jungle cruise. Its Family Safari package for two adults and two children includes four days' accommodations, breakfasts, guided tours and airport transfers, for $1,270 through Dec. 15, $1,660 thereafter.
For more info on Panama: Panama Tourist Bureau, http://www.visitpanama.com/.
