City Getaway

"Making your way in the world today takes everything you've got. Taking a break from all your worries, sure would help a lot." The immortal words sang at the beginning of Cheers ring true irregardless of where in the world you are. For people living in Panama City there are always the options of places like the hilltop village of El Valle. But if you prefer a little beach action, then the Pacific island of Taboga is the best choice.

This island of peace and relaxation, a mere 20km of the Panamanian coast, wasn't always so peaceful or relaxing. Due to it's strategic position, it was constantly changing hands in bloody battles. The Spaniards, French, Chileans and Americans all took a stab at holding the island. Some of these scars remain until today. Ruins and dug out bunkers are scattered about the island as a reminder of more troubled times. But now, the worst thing the place has to endure are weekend warriors unloading by the boat full from the capital.

While the ruins and such might interest the odd history buff, they are most certain not the main reason the tourist come. The tiny island is bless with some of the cleanest beaches within striking distance of the city (keeping in mind "clean" is a relative term). There's some snorkelling around the island that local fishermen will be more than happy to bring you to (for a price). And of course, where there is snorkelling, there's diving. If you have a need for speed, jet-skis can be rented to selfishly disturb the peace. While most turn right off the main dock to the beach, there are a few things to the right. Along the only road (with no traffic) you come to a fork. Heading uphill will bring you to what is supposed to be the second oldest church in the western hemisphere. There's is small square beyond that. If you've had one too many Red Bulls and vodka, you could continue to climb Cerro de la Cruz for nice views.

Isla Taboga may not be one of those "change-your-life" kind of places. But it's something to do if in Panama City for a couple days. Getting there is pretty simple. Ferries depart from the Causeway in Panama City, a taxi costing $5 from the city centre. The boat ticket is $11 for a round trip ticket. Departure times vary by day, but the schedule is well adhered to. The biggest issue is accommodation. Since the backpacker place, Kool Hostel, closed a couple of years ago, the options are limited to $60+ hotels or $15 private rooms that leave much to be desired. Food is also quite overpriced, even more so at the hotels. In my opinion, Taboga is definitely better as a day trip as opposed to an overnight. Although i guess i can see the romantic-ness for a couple with a bunch of money to blow and no need to leave the room. Wink wink, nudge nudge.