MORE PANAMA...

Well.....there were so many colorful photos that I didn't get posted, that I am writing a miscellaneous post on Panama!  

My purpose in traveling was twofold: one to attend this wonderful international conference, and two, to experience Panama, its city and sea, its countryside and rainforest, its people and its health care, and the Canal.

Ship coming through the Miraflora locks

My new best friend, Victor...you remember him..

took us all over the day after we arrived. I met 2 other nurses and we prowled together.  We went on a daylong drive/walk to see the beautiful old city,

the canal fron a distance and from the top of a hill.  We walked in the rainforest, but didn't spot too much fauna.

View back at the city from the rainforest just outside..

 We walked along a promenade by the sea where my favorite artisan markets are.

 I bought some beautiful Molas, the hand stitched, unique fabric art work.

And yes there really are PANAMA HATS!  Hand woven of Avila grass.     

We spent a day on the island of Contadora, a picture perfect place of sun and surf and beautiful villas.  

More later!   Enjoy this beautiful country in photos!