Old City and Museo de Canal

Old city, Panama

The Old City, locally referred to as Casco Viejo is, arguably the most charming part of Panama City. Going (for the last fifteen years) through extensive restoration, Old City preserves its 18th century look and feel, yet with all modern conveniences just around the corner.

Walking along its narrow, cobbled streets, among the elegant houses build in Spanish colonial and French Belle Epoque styles you will be carried back to the times and setting of a historical novel. If you are in the mood for a romantic walk try to plan your visit around the sunset time. All in all, Old City is definitely a "must" on any visitor's list.

If you are a history buff, and have some extra time, I'd highly recommend going to the Panama Canal Museum (no the same as at the Miraflores Locks) (www.museodelcanal.com). Museum is located right in the middle of the Old City, and takes about 2 hours to explore. The building that houses the museum originally was build as the most expensive and fashionable hotel in the city, later donated to the city turned into Panama Historical Museum.

A short walk (5-10 minutes) from the museum you will find a nice kosher ice-cream parlor with great selection of flavors and topping. Most of ice-creams are halav stam, with one or two halav israel and parev options. Right behind the cafe, along the original city wall is a short promenade where local crafts and souvenirs are sold by members of Panama indigenous tribes. (#Panama,#CascoViejo,#Kosher, #kosherfood)