Hey y’all, we’re Margaret and Byron—married, podcasting, and living life Beyond I Do. We just got back from a five-day trip to Panama City, Panama, and whew... it was everything we needed! A mix of sunshine, history, good food, and real convos with locals and expats. If you're planning a Panama City vacation or just daydreaming about your next adventure, this guide is for you.

Day 1: Wheels Up and Mic On 🎙️

We left Atlanta early, caught a four-hour flight, and landed in Panama City ready to soak it all in. (Pro tip: Couples Therapy was a good go-to in-flight binge. We’ve now added it to our show list.)

We checked into the TRYP by Wyndham Panamá Centro—booked it through Expedia, and y’all, the view from our room? Chef’s kiss. If you’re on the hunt for Panama City hotel deals that are clean, affordable, and close to the action, this one’s it.

No time to rest, though. We had two podcast episodes to record for The Beyond I Do Podcast. The Wi-Fi held up, and we traveled with our lighting, so we got to work.

We wrapped the day with BBQ at Leños & Carbón. Yeah, BBQ in Panama. And yes, it was legit.

Day 2: Night Vibes and Cultural Flavor

Breakfast and dinner at the hotel hit the spot. While Margaret had a virtual therapy session (y’all know I’m still a work in progress), Byron took some well-earned pool time. That evening, we hopped on a night tour of Panama City. If you’ve never seen the city glow after dark, you’re missing out.

  • Amador Causeway: This stretch connects a few islands and has views that belong on a postcard. We took the classic “Panama” sign pic—because, of course.

  • Dinner at Sabroso Panamá: We tried local dishes and watched traditional Panamanian dances. The food? Fire. The vibes? Even better.

  • Casco Viejo: The Old Quarter is dripping with history, color, and soul. Think cobblestone streets, lively plazas, and buildings that tell stories. We even passed by the Presidential residence!

Day 3: Canal Views & Oxtail Goals

We started with another solid hotel breakfast and jumped into a half-day Panama City day tour. If you're building your own Panama City travel itinerary, make sure these stops are on it:

  • Iglesia de San José: Home to the famous Golden Altar.

  • Chinese Monument: Honoring 150 years of Chinese influence in Panama.

  • The Panama Canal: Y’all... we watched a ship carryin’ 5,000 cars pass through the locks. That engineering is no joke. A must-see if you're searching for "what to do in Panama City, Panama."

We wrapped the day with dinner at Daquiri 23, an expat-owned spot that had us hooked with oxtails and wings that were so good! The music, the crowd, the whole vibe—truly awesome.

Day 4: Chill Mode Activated

This was our recharge day. Slept in, then walked to Subway for lunch (don’t judge—it hit the spot). Total meal cost? $8.45. That’s two waters, two cookies with caramel dip, and a footlong pizza.

We worked a bit poolside in the afternoon, then ended the night back at Daquiri 23. It turned into a dope meet-up with more expats. If you’ve ever wondered about living in Panama City as an expat, those convos will give you perspective.

Day 5: Sunrise and Takeoff

Our driver pulled up at 4 a.m. sharp to take us to the airport. Leaving Panama wasn’t easy—we had full hearts and new memories that’ll stick with us for life.

Final Thoughts: Would We Go Back? 100% Yes.

  • Weather in Panama City in April: Hot and humid, mostly high 80s to low 90s. Expect quick showers that cool things off.

  • Cost of food and drinks: Super reasonable. You don’t have to break the bank to eat good.

  • The language barrier? Real. But with translation apps and patient locals, we made it work.

  • Panama City drivers: Fast and fearless. Just buckle up and ride.

  • Best moment? Seeing a statue of President Jimmy Carter—didn’t expect that history lesson tied to our Georgia roots.

Watch the Journey & Listen In

🎧 New to us? Tap in to The Beyond I Do Podcast where we keep it 100 about marriage, real life, and travel as a couple.

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