Transcanal (Panama)

Still remarkably untouched despite the rapid growth of the surrounding tourist market, Panama represents the perfect off-the-beaten-track destination.  It abounds with pristine beaches, rugged mountains and lush rainforests and boasts the peace de resistance of sightseeing highlights: the Archipiélago de las Perlas, or Pearl Islands, with 90 underexposed named islands, 100 unnamed islets and stunning white-sand beaches and turquoise waters.

Trekking opportunities are plentiful in Parque Nacional Volcán Barú, which sports Panama’s sole volcano. For a touch of culture, the Interior is filled with charming colonial towns, plentiful crafts and friendly locals. Panama also boasts the advantage of having short, refreshing spurts of rain followed by drenching sunshine; rather than the never-ending downpours synonymous with the tropics.

Alternatively, there’s the cultural and business hub of Central America; Panama City. A bustling centre for global banking and trade, Panama City bursts with fine cuisine and spectacular bars. But there’s also a hidden treasure to this city: Casco Viejo. This rough diamond of a neighborhood is lined with historic buildings and cobbled streets perched on the edge of the sea and currently undergoing a long-overdue restoration.