There’s more to Panama than the canal. Panama’s ethnic mix is reflected in its arts. This is a proud nation that honors its many Indian tribes and its rich Spanish legacy. And with some of the finest deep-sea fishing, snorkeling and birding, once you embrace Panama, you’ll find it hard to leave.

The friendly Cuna Indians live quietly on these primitive islands off Panama's Caribbean coast. The arrival of visitors to their home is still a special occasion for these isolated island dwellers. They are happy to be photographed in their colorful attire, for perhaps a small tip. Bargain for one of their fancifully designed handmade embroideries called molas.

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Linking the Atlantic to the Pacific, the Panama Canal provides one of cruising's most unforgettable experiences. Over 10 years were needed to complete the canal's 51 miles in 1914 - so avoiding the lengthy and often dangerous voyage around Cape Horn. 'The Big Ditch' lifts vessels by a fascinating feat of mechanics aided by on-shore 'mule' locomotives through three great locks, traversing man-made lakes, channels blasted through rock, and the dense jungle. Two other special highlights of the canal are Gatun Lake and the Gaillard cut. Gatun Lake is one of the world's largest man-made lakes covering 163 square miles. Gaillard Cut is an 8 mile channel built through solid rock which was the most difficult excavation in the canal construction.

Darien is the region forming part of the easternmost Isthmus of Panama and the link between Central and South America. It is a hot, humid area typified by tropical rainforests, mangrove swamps, and low mountain ranges with cloud forest and is one of the most biologically diverse regions of the world. You can explore the Sambu river of the Darien National Park which was added to the World Heritage List in 1981. It is home to the indigenous Choco Indians and many endangered species such as harpy eagles, jaguars and several types of Macaw.

Isla Coiba is part of a park protecting three kinds of ecosystems: the island, the reef and marine life. This park is a group of islands with Coiba being the largest. This is one of the most extensive marine parks in the world. Coiba itself, is the largest island of the American Pacific and because of its geographical isolation the forest on the island has remained untouched. Activities available on Coiba include fishing, diving, snorkeling, bird watching, and hiking and enjoying beautiful flora and fauna. The beaches have very fine sands and waters are crystal clear. This island is internationally famous because of the big blue and black marlins that have been caught around here. On some of the beaches turtles come to nest between April and September. On the south coast of the island it is possible to see humpback whales migrating. Watch hundreds of dolphins chasing schools of tuna. This is the only place in the world where you can find whole troops of red Guacamayas. These are only some of the attractions for nature lovers besides flora, fauna and bird watching.

Monkeys, parrots, jaguars, tapirs, and toucans inhabit the primitive rain forest of Costa Rica which lines the Golfo Dulce, or Sweet Gulf. Nature preserves and isolated beaches provide sanctuary for a great diversity of wildlife. The Golfo Dulce is home to the highest concentration of biodiversity in Costa Rica. The tropical haven includes species and habitats such as sea turtles, dolphins, humpback whales, mangrove forests and estuaries.

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Manuel Antonio National Park was established in 1972 by Costa Rica to preserve the biodiversity of one of the most beautiful areas in the world. Its stunning beauty and diverse wildlife is unequaled. Walk through rainforests to expansive, sandy beaches - then take a dive to coral reefs under the sea. The forest is home for sloths, iguanas, the rare adorable squirrel monkeys and millions of colorful little crabs. The trail around Punta Catedral affords some spectacular views. The southern facing beach, Playa Manuel Antonio, is a picturesque half mile long, white sand crescent with deep green foliage on one side and a private, secluded cove on the other. Standing with your feet dug into the sand watching waves crash against rocks on either side of the lagoon, it is easy to believe you are a thousand miles from anywhere.

Renowned as one of Costa Rica's premier destination resorts, Los Suenos abounds with outstanding recreational facilities and offers a wide array of optional excursions. Spend the day as you wish, experiencing your choice of activities. Play a round of golf on a unique 18-hole rainforest course where it is not uncommon to see monkeys, sloths, toucans and macaws along the fairways; sky-walk in the rainforest; go horseback riding in the adjacent national park; or enjoy your favorite watersports, including boating, snorkeling and deep-sea fishing.