Travel for the Over 30s

With the economic downturn many people are looking to get extra value for their vacation dollar. They can’t afford a two-week break, an extended weekend may just have to do. If that’s your situation and you live in North America then Panama may be a country to consider.

Panama is considered an eco-destination with much of the country covered in its Word Heritage listed national parks. Even if you are focused on getting up close and personal with nature I would schedule a day or two in the capital. Panama City dates back over 500 years and the atmospheric “Casco Viejo”,the old city, is certainly worth a look. As of course is the fascinating Panama Canal and Miraflores Locks which are only a short drive from the center of town. With 13,000 ships using the canal annually - you’d be unlucky not to see at least one!

Panama has just as much to offer than its better known neighbor, Costa Rica, but is maybe just that little bit off the beaten track. Not that you have to stay in a cheap hostel, or worse, when you get there - though you can if you must. Hotels in Panama cover the full range of cheap and basic to 5-star and luxurious - for my money for a short-break I’d probably consider staying at one of the best Panama hotels : the 5-star luxury casino hotel, Veneto.

The Veneto is the biggest casino in Panama and therefore home to the anything goes gambling culture of Panama and its related nightlife. This place certainly won’t feel like Vegas - it has a rawer, central American edge to it. Nightlife, girls and serious money on the tables is all part of the scene at the Veneto - possibly not family-friendly but definitely edgy and fun for the rest of us!

For your money you will get rooms and suites that are comfortable and offer the normal facilities for a 5-star property. There is a great pool area to chill out in during the day. At night you have several dining options in-house and many more just down the street. But the real action is centered around the casino which offers everything from poker and blackjack tournaments to craps and roulette table games. If losing money isn’t your thing then check out the ever changing entertainment program - and remember to polish up your salsa skills for the local dance floors.

If you need a bit of “me time” then head to the hotel’s spa which includes everything from facials to pedicure, hot stone message to hydrotherapy.

So for me a short break in Panama can be a great combination - you can do a few days at an upmarket hotel and really chill out but there are certainly enough natural and cultural attractions in the country to keep you entertained. Panama boasts a modern infrastructure which will make North American visitors feel right at home. It is of course a Spanish speaking country, but the currency will be familiar - United States dollars are the official currency.

So if you are looking for a mini-break or something longer grab a cheap airfare deal, book a great Panama hotel and pack your best dancing shoes - and welcome to Panama!

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