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Does Panama have anything Costa Rica doesn't? (Besides the canal)

Does Panama have anything Costa Rica doesn't? (Besides the canal)

Old Jul 28th, 2017, 10:40 AM
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Does Panama have anything Costa Rica doesn't? (Besides the canal)

So I know there are differences but besides the canal and a few more islands...what else does it offer? What would be the 3 or 4 places that would blow my mind and simply don't exist elsewhere?
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Old Jul 29th, 2017, 04:52 AM
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It also has Panama City, which is light years beyond San Jose (and you can see monkeys +sloths inside the city limits). It has species of bird and animal one doesn't see in Costa Rica. Food is much more interesting, there's a stronger historical/architectural element, there's Bocas del Toro, San Blas. Also, the border area with Costa Rica in the highlands is more accessible while not being touristy (as long as you stay on the other side of Volcan Baru from Boquete.
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Old Jul 29th, 2017, 04:54 AM
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In particular, you can actually rent a cabin inside La Amistad International Park near Cerro Punta, where you have ring-tailed cats and quetzals outside your bedroom window.
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Old Jul 31st, 2017, 07:03 AM
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As RAC says, Panama City is a bustling, cosmopolitan city with great shopping, dining, and nightlife. San Jose is quite provincial by comparison.

Panama is quite a multicultural society. Costa Rica is not.

Panama has better roads. It's just easier to get around.
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Old Aug 14th, 2017, 04:35 PM
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Thanks Traybabyg and company,

Sorry I was off the grid for the last week. Ya clearly panama has some upside. I have just heard some mixed reviews about the attitude of the people of Panama not being as cool. Ya no question the architecture looks to be a differentiator. I am sure the party scene is better in Panama City as well. I'll check out San Blas - it looks pretty awesome.
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