Panama City, Panama Travel Guide

Panama City, Panama is often called the Dubai of Central America. Banking along with the Panama Canal has spawned a high-rise metropolis nestled along the Pacific Ocean. Panama City is central American hub, which is fitting since it was the first European settlement along the Pacific Ocean. The ruins of the first European settlement at Panama Viejo date to 1519 and are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The revitalized historic quarter of Casco Viejo brims with hip rooftop bars, trendy restaurants and quaint cafes. Hotels line the Panama Canal, and you can watch ships sail through the canal from your hotel room or viewpoints around the city. Panama is also a fantastic destination to view native wildlife like sloths and toucans, even within the city. Here are tips for visiting Panama City!

A sweeping view of the downtown Panama City and the Pacific Ocean from atop Ancon Hill, with a partly cloudy blue sky.

Unique Florida Gulf Coast Destinations

The Gulf coast of Florida is a paradise for visitors. Warm winter temperatures are a welcome reprieve for northerners seeking to escape snow shoveling. Lined with sandy beaches, nature preserves, vibrant communities and historic towns, there’s a variety of things to do for couples, families and solo travelers. Here are some of the most unique destinations along the Florida gulf coast!

Austria’s Wachau Valley, a UNESCO Site

The gorgeous Wachau Valley of Austria is nestled along the Danube River between the towns of Melk and Krems. It welcomes visitors with hilltop vineyards, scenic Austrian villages and storied castles. Quaint towns offer an idyllic setting for a relaxing and romantic getaway. Highlights include Melk Abbey, a striking example of Baroque architecture, run by the Benedictine Monks. Another is sweeping vistas from atop Dürnstein Castle.

Passengers aboard Emerald Cruises' Emerald Destiny ship watching as we sail into Into Durnstein, Austria along the Danube River.

Great Ways to Save Money on Hotels

Last updated on February 3rd, 2025 at 04:24 pmTravel is wonderful, and everyone loves getting more value for their money. There are a lot of ways to save money on hotels, from traveling in off-season to travel hacking. Bonuses and perks from travel rewards credit cards can save you and your family and friends big…

Grecian fresco at the Palmer House Hotel in Chicago

How to Spend One Week in Paris, London & Amsterdam

A week’s vacation in Paris, London and Amsterdam is a fantastic idea, especially for English-speaking beginners to European travel. London is the world’s grandest English-speaking city, with a wealth of world class attractions. Paris is one of Europe’s most elegant and romantic cities, with an array of highlights to dazzle your eyes and palate. Dotted with canals, Amsterdam’s historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the world’s most bicycle friendly city. We previously lived in Amsterdam and know these European cities well. So here’s how to spend a great week in Paris, London and Amsterdam!

White church, a top a green hill and dusk sky in Paris