I was recently in Panama, splitting time between The Buenaventura Golf & Beach Resort, An Autograph Collection Hotel and The Santa Maria Hotel & Golf Resort, The Luxury Collection, an urban resort on the outskirts of Panama City. It was my first time visiting the country and my itinerary featured several highlights.

I experienced quite a feast at El Faro Beach Club at Buenaventura on my first full day in Panama. The beachside barbecue was not only fun, but also quite delicious. The various dishes just kept coming from the kitchen. Lunch was followed by another highlight, an Interactive Artisan Workshop, where we learned bracelet making from an indigenous Kuna woman. My bracelet, with its blue, green and black beads, is still proudly displayed on my wrist.

As I moved from Buenaventura to Panama City, I had the opportunity to visit the Cocoli Locks Center to see the Panama Canal’s new expansion and to watch a crossing at the Miraflores locks. It was fascinating to see the ship pass and to learn more about the massive undertaking. It’s hard to believe the Panama Canal was constructed as it was in the early 1900s, before the advent of modern technology.

Wandering the streets of Casco Viejo is a must! Panama City’s old town boasts charming architecture and historical landmarks. It was extremely hot on the day of my visit, but I still enjoyed being outside savoring the ambience of the district. Finish with a sweet bite at Tropical Chocolate Café.

— Kimberly Krol, editor in chief