A man, a plan, a canal: Panama!

Billing itself as The Hub Of The Americas, this is the home of COPA airlines and is designed for quick and easy changes between international flights as you immediately emerge into the transit area from your jetbridge. Immigration was fast and efficient and there's free WiFi.

• +507 238 2700

• Avenida Domingo Díaz, Panama City, Panama

• http://www.tocumenpanama.aero

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The US had control over the Canal Zone until 1999 and the area which used to be a US military base is now known as the City Of Knowledge and attracts hi tech firms and international organisations. This hotel is close to the canal so you can see ships passing in the distance. Comfortable and good value, though not much else in the area.

• +507 317 4000

• Avenue Omar Torrijos Herrera, Clayton, Panama Canal, Panama

• https://www.ihg.com/holidayinn/hotels/us/en/panama/pcyhi/hoteldetail

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A must see in Panama, here you can see both huge "panamax" ships as well as small yachts navigate the locks to the Pacific Ocean. There's a museum with the history of the canal and a short film but the main draw is the observation decks. The ships come in two periods each day, around 8am till 10am and 1pm till 4pm while an announcer give you background information on the ships and locks. An impressive feat of engineering, the ships look comically large navigating through the narrow locks.

• +507 232 3120

• Panama City, Panama

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Good drinks, OK food on a nice outdoor deck in the city of knowledge area. they have live jazz some nights.

• +507 301 1954

• Clayton City of Knowledge, Calle José del Cid, Edif. 126, Panama City, Panama

• https://www.latabernadelcanal.com/

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Large but chill beach resort with 6 huge pools and a beach overlooking the Pacific Ocean. A little away from the city.

• +507 304 6600

• Km 6 Road to Veracruz, Panama City, Panama

• https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/ptybw-the-westin-playa-bonita-panama/

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