If you’re planning a trip to Panama, I can guess the number one thing on your itinerary: a visit to the Panama Canal. It’s true–if you’re heading to this Central American country you’d better not miss your chance to visit its most famous landmark. However, there’s lots more to the region than its hardworking canal system. Here are 3 of my top picks for places to visit in Panama after you’ve spent a day or two learning about and admiring the Panama Canal:

Casco Viejo [Photo Credit: Creative Commons 2.0, Yari Vallarino]

Casco Viejo, or The Old City, is a charming place to spend the day and see an entirely different side of Panama’s capital. Cobblestone streets and decaying buildings are being restored, with new investment and energy infiltrating the neighborhood in the form of boutique hotels and trendy cafes. Friendly street vendors sell homemade goods that make excellent souvenirs, and if you have the time I highly recommend you strike up a conversation with a few of the locals here to learn more about the area. Be on the lookout for some stunning views as you navigate the interwoven streets, plazas, and stairways of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Pipeline Trail in the Bajo Mano Forest, Boquete

You’ll have your choice of a number of trails in the Boquete region, but the Pipeline remains one of the more popular thanks to the abundant wildlife and scenic waterfall that serve as a reward to those who make the 2- to 3-hour roundtrip journey. Birding enthusiasts will definitely want to visit with a qualified guide who can help them spot a quetzal, the national bird of neighbor Costa Rica, along with dozens of other types of birds that inhabit the area. Between the dense vegetation and beautiful wildlife–including monkeys and sloths, in addition to all those birds, the Pipeline Trail is a photographer’s dream.

Playa Estrella [Photo Credit: Creative Commons 3.0, JurriaanH]

Bocas del Toro is an archipelago located at the northwestern corner of Panama. It consists of 9 main islands and has historically been popular among partying college students, though a growing number of 20- and 30-somethings with more nature-focused interests are elevating the region’s reputation above that of a simple Spring Break destination. Playa Estrella, or Starfish Beach, is one of the area’s main attractions, although there’s no guarantee you’ll see what all the fuss is about on any given day. Some days dozens of huge starfish appear in the shallow, perfectly clear waters, and on other days not a single one presents itself. Practice your patience and indulge in a sense of optimism as you make the fun journey across the main island, Isla Colón, to sit beachside and (hopefully) see these beautiful creatures. And please, whatever you do, pay attention to the signage everywhere that reads “No Tocar Las Estrellas” and keep your hands off the fragile starfish, despite seeing a few idiots who somehow can’t fight the temptation.

Ready to put your Spanish skills to the test? If you need a little extra help before you feel ready to chat it up with the locals in Panama, be sure to reach out to us at Spanish Trainers. Whether you’re looking for private lessons or classes in a small group setting, we’ll help you get set up with an instructor in your area.