By Panama City is one of the most dynamic and exciting cities in Central America, home to the famous Panama Canal, which connects the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. However, it is not only known for its channel, but also for its rich cultural, historical and fashion heritage.
Victoria Cruises Line is pleased to present the most interesting sights of Panama City, and we will also learn about the history of the famous Panama hat, which, although it originates from Ecuador, has become world famous here.
Panama City
Most people think of Panama when they think of the Panama Canal, which the marketers working on the country’s image could have guessed when they chose the slogan „Mucho mas que un canal”, i.e. more than one canal.
History:
Panama City was originally a Native American fishing village. The name Panama means „many fish”. From the Andean countries, the precious metals were transported north by sea to Panama City, and from there by pack animals across the isthmus to Portobello on the Caribbean coast for shipment to Spain. The city flourished until ravages by pirates prevented trade.
In 1502, Columbus discovered the western territories of today’s Panama on his fourth voyage. Already in 1501, Rodrigo de Batisdad, an official from Seville, launched an expedition with the consent of the Spanish crown. He was the first European to set foot on the mainland of the isthmus and discover the eastern areas of Panama.
Following instructions from the Queen of Spain, Columbus searched for gold on the Atlantic coast of the isthmus.
Railway, then navigable canal across the isthmus.
In an atmosphere of political uncertainty, the United States of America and France wanted to build a railway and shipping canal somewhere in Central America in order to speed up travel between the Pacific and Atlantic oceans. In 1855, the first intercontinental railway line of the New World was built, which led from Panama City to the city of Colón. This railroad played an extraordinary role during the California gold rush.
In 1876, intoxicated by the successful construction of the Suez Canal, the French created an international company to develop and build canal plans. Construction began on January 1, 1880, but it failed because they did not anticipate that the canal would have to be carved into the rock of the mountains, as the lowest point between the two oceans in Panama was 100 meters above sea level.
It was completed by 1914 under the supervision of the United States.
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Half day City and Panama Canal Tour
Halfway between North and South America
Panama City is a very interesting mix. The downtown business district is pure Miami, with glass skyscrapers and an orderly oceanfront promenade. And the old town is like the most atmospheric part of Havana, with cool rooftop bars, music schools and beautiful squares. The direct meeting of the two cultures gives the city a very unique overall picture.
Its currency is unusual for a sovereign state, Panama actually has two official currencies, the US dollar shares official status with the Panamanian balboa, tied at a one-to-one exchange rate, Panama mainly produces its own coins.
What to Do in Panama City
- Panama Canal: in the visitor center of the Miraflores lock, you can watch the passage of huge ships and learn about the history and operation of the canal through an interactive exhibition. This visit is an unmissable experience that shows how this engineering feat changed the world
- Casco Viejo: Panama City’s historic district, a real time travel. The cobbled streets and colonial-style buildings of the district, founded in 1673, are reminiscent of Spanish colonial times. Discover the St. John the Apostle Cathedral, the National Theater and the French Plaza, which preserves the memory of the French engineers who participated in the construction of the canal.
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Panama City: Legends and Hidden Gems of Casco Viejo Tour
- Amador Causeway: this colorful building faces the Pacific Ocean near the end of the canal and is home to the Biomuseo, which showcases Panama’s rich biodiversity and geological history. The building was designed by the famous architect Frank Gehry
- Mercato de Mariscos: that is, the fish market, one of the most exciting places in Panama City. Let’s try the famous ceviche, which is made from fresh fish and citrus juice.
- Monkey Island boat tour: this is an island at Gatuan Lake where there are several types of monkeys, you can meet hooded monkeys, howler monkeys, and even sloths and toucans that live on the island.
- Embera Indian village tour: the Embera are an indigenous tribe that lives in the Panamanian rainforest, along the way we can get to know their culture and traditions
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Embera Indian Village & Waterfall Tour & Lunch
After the City Tour, visit one of the most amazing destinations in Panama, San Blas
San Blas is the epitome of a tropical paradise, consisting of 365 islands and caves, 49 of which are inhabited. Tourism in the San Blas Islands is completely managed by the locals, who welcome visitors with a warm smile and an open heart. The islands vary in size, some are tiny with only sand and palm trees, while others are more developed and home to large communities, schools and churches. Since the islands are close to the equator, it is warm all year round. If you’re a snorkel fanatic, don’t leave your equipment on board the Victoria Majestic, because you’ll need it here. As we explore the islands, we see starfish everywhere. Although they are beautiful, never lift them out of the water, the ocean is their home.
Although the name of the famous Panama hat appears to be of Panamanian origin, it actually originates from Ecuador. It became popular in the mid-1800s when Panamanian laborers wore the hats while working on the Panama Canal. American gold diggers also discovered the practicality of the hat and wore it when they traveled to California during the gold rush.
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Panama City: San Blas Island Hopping Day Tour
A little Panama hat history:
In 1904, when US President Roosevelt was photographed wearing an Ecuadorian straw hat at the Panama Canal, this was the moment when the Ecuadorian „Montecristi hat” became known around the world as the Panama hat.
The base material of the Panama hat is Ecuadorian Toquilla straw, not a single hat style. This means that Panama hats come in a variety of shapes and colors.
How it is made:
the hats are made from fine toquilla palm leaves that are woven by hand. The weaving process is long and complicated, which contributes to the high quality and durability of the hats. Each hat can take up to several months to complete, especially for the finest, highest quality pieces, which are woven so densely that they appear almost waterproof.
The Panama Hat is stylish and elegant, a perfect addition to any summer outfit. Thanks to its light and breathable material, it provides excellent protection from the sun. Over the years, many famous personalities including politicians, actors and musicians have worn the Panama hat, increasing its fashion and prestige.
Now that you’ve learned all the essentials about Panama hats, it’s time to find out which hat best suits your personality:
Classic: Fedora Panama Hat if you prefer clean lines, tailored styles and always choose a timeless piece over trends. Suitable for both men and women
Adventurous: Outback Panama Hat if you have an unyielding desire for adventure, today it covers all areas of your life, why would you choose anything else
Stylish: Safari Panama We believe that you get what you pay for, so invest in a quality panama hat rather than a bunch of trendy items that will be out of style in a few months. This high-quality hat is ideal for daytime events and will make you feel like a Hollywood star
Relaxed: Outback Panama If you value comfort, like a natural color palette and tend to look relaxed, then this is the perfect choice, whether in the mountains, at a garden party or on board the Victoria Majestic
Bold: you will have no problem standing out from the crowd with a panama hat with a wide brim. A study of form and function – while offering optimal light protection – this unique headpiece does not let you down
Choosing the size is also an essential aspect, remember that your waist should be proportional to your shoulders. A narrow flange is responsible for slim body proportions, a wider flange is responsible for wider shoulders.
Both Panama City and the famous Panama hat have rich historical and cultural significance. Explore this fascinating city with Victoria Cruises Line and take home a piece of this iconic fashion history.