Five days. Country number fifty-five. First time ever in Panama City, Panama and I walked away wondering why it took me this long to get there.
Before this trip, I made a conscious decision to do something different. Instead of just booking the flight and letting autopilot take over, I put our pocket guide Passport Knuckle Ride: Staying Sane While Traveling In A Crazy World to the test. And yes, if we’re going to recommend something to you, it felt only right that I use it on myself first.
The workbook that comes with the pocket guide forced me to slow down and actually write out my assumptions about Panama City. Safety concerns, general uncertainty, and a vague sense of “I don’t know enough about this place so maybe I shouldn’t go.” None of these thoughts came from firsthand experience, they came from headlines, half-heard stories, and the usual social media noise. The guide does a great job of calling you out on that, gently but firmly.
So I documented the process. In part one of a short video series, I talked openly about my misconceptions before traveling. In part two, filmed a couple days after arriving, I had to admit how wrong I was. Panama City wasted absolutely no time proving that point.
This city is modern, organized, and confident. It’s a place where business suits and linen outfits coexist effortlessly. Where waterfront skylines meet historic neighborhoods. Where people are warm, helpful, and genuinely proud of their city. I felt safe walking around, exploring, eating well, and soaking in the atmosphere, something I clearly underestimated.
Let’s talk food for a second, because Panama City shows up. Fresh seafood, bold flavors, and a mix of influences that somehow all work together. The weather is warm and humid, but the kind that makes cold drinks feel earned and evenings outdoors irresistible. And yes, linen pants become non-negotiable very quickly.
One of the most impactful moments of the trip was visiting the historic Panama Canal. Seeing it in person is humbling. Watching ships from all over the world pass through this narrow stretch of water is a reminder of how interconnected everything really is and how small our personal misconceptions look in comparison. It’s impossible to stand there and not feel a sense of awe.
Here’s the honest truth, I delayed visiting Panama City for years because I assumed it wouldn’t be safe. That misconception was completely wrong. Panama City is a thriving, economically driven, forward-moving place that deserves far more attention than it gets.
If you’ve never considered Panama City, Panama, put it on your list and take it seriously. And if you haven’t checked out our pocket guide Passport Knuckle Ride: Staying Sane While Traveling In A Crazy World, I highly recommend purchasing this inexpensive pocket guide. It’s not just about understanding the country you’re visiting, it’s about understanding the baggage you bring with you.
You can find the guide at www.rhythmandroam.com. Trust me, your travels will be better for it. ~Paul