Adventure Travel Photography Blog
Casco Viejo is the old quarter in Panama City and is designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The hip and eclectic area features many restaurants, bars, shops, churches, and plazas. While I was studying Spanish for two weeks at Casco Antiguo Spanish School, many times I spent 30 minutes either before or after class just taking in the scene. Each plaza has a unique vibe. See the differences below.
TAKE A SEAT
While studying Spanish for two weeks at Casco Antiguo Spanish School in Casco Viejo, I spent much of my free time strolling the streets of the Old Town. I loved taking in the different scenes which range from ruins to restored buildings and everything else in between. Unlike many places in Europe, the churches are free to visit.
While I visited the churches at various times of the day, I found that popping in just before class between 7:30 and 8am or just after an early dinner before they close at 8pm are the most rewarding as the atmosphere is very tranquil. Both the art and architecture vary in each place of worship making each visit interesting, even for the non-religious tourist.
Below is a list of the churches in Casco Viejo:
DISCOVER
About one year ago, I visited Panama for one week. I spent half my time in Panama City and the other half in Boquete. I really enjoyed both places, so much so, that I returned to Panama City for the opportunity to improve my Spanish at Casco Antiguo Spanish School.
Though I didn’t learn of the school while in Panama, at the time I also wasn’t looking for classes despite feeling like Americans are the only people in the world that don’t know at least two languages. Frustrated with only getting by, however, I ultimately reached out to David, the owner of the school.
LEARN SPANISH
I found a cheap flight to Panama, so I picked up a Lonely Plant guide and figured out a week’s itinerary…three days in Panama City and three days in Boquete. Aside from the Panama Canal, I hadn’t heard much about the country, so I went with guarded expectations. I was pleasantly surprised.
I found the wonderful Latin America culture coupled with some American conveniences such as safe drinking water, easy and cheap Uber rides, excellent food, and US currency. To me, this was perfect!
EXPLORE!