Shopping- With hundreds of companies selling their products out of this walled in shopping zone, you’re bound to find something you like at a bargain price. This is the largest tax free-trade zone outside of Hong Kong so shoppers…start your engines.

Isla Grande- Located about 15 kilometers East of Portobello lies Isla Grande. There are no roads on the island which makes it great for someone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Panama City. The island’s neighbor, Playa Blanca, is home to some of least-disturbed coral reefs on the coast. The snorkeling and chill factor is exceptional here.

Lago Gatun- Once the world’s largest dam, Gatun slowed the flow of the Rio Chagres creating Lago Gatun. When the spillway is open and millions of gallons of water spill into Lago Gatun, this hotspot is seriously awe-inspiring.

Spanish Forts- Portobello is a definite stop if you are a history buff. It’s Spanish fortifications still stand, almost speaking of their past. West of town lies Fuerte Santiago, built in the early 18th century. Closer to town is Fuerte San Jeronimo, which still has the original cannons left by the Spanish in 1821 when Panama won its independence. After that you can check out where the King’s soldiers counted gold and silver bullion at a 17th century royal customs house.

Filed under: Colón on June 10th, 2008