Exploring Panama City!

Welcome to the first day of Marine Biology in Panama 2024! 

Today we (minus a few people sadly delayed in Houston) spent the day exploring Panama City. First, we walked to Restaurante Benidorm for breakfast and explored more of the neighborhood surrounding our hostel, Canova Hospidaje. 

Our driver then took us to the Miraflores Locks at the Panama Canal, where we watched the last ship of the morning pass through with the help of the “mule” trains. We, along with many Panamanian children on field trips, watched an IMAX movie about the formation, operation, and sociopolitical aspects of the canal. 

Our next stop was the National Handicraft Market, where many of us shopped for souvenirs, including hand-sewn textiles, prints, and beaded bracelets. We also got the chance to become better acquainted with Panamanian wildlife when we saw a spider and a millipede next to the van.

Next, we traveled to the Mercado del Marisco, or the fish market! As Maya said, it was a great showcase of the diversity of marine fisheries in the area. There were many stands selling fish and octopus, and even one particularly memorable stand carrying large, live lobsters and crabs. After exploring the market (including the back alley, which we were allowed into because Richard told them we were marine biologists), we ate lunch. Our meals included ceviche, garlic octopus, prawns, and even a whole snapper “a la macho."

We then drove to the Biomuseo, a museum showcasing the natural history and biodiversity of Panama. We looked at many exhibits about the wildlife, the formation of the isthmus, and the anthropogenic causes of declines in biodiversity. After exploring the museum, we took in the view of nearby ships.

Our missing group members then made it to Panama City! We took one final van ride to Casco Viejo to explore old town Panama City before getting a tour of the church of St. Joseph and grabbing dinner at Restaurante el Nacional. Finally, we came back to the hostel in preparation for our early morning flight to Bocas del Toro. We had a blast today and we’re excited for what tomorrow brings!