RSC

Can anyone tell me the easiest route from Panama City to El Valle de Anton? I am renting a car and headed up there this weekend but haven't the slightest idea how to get there. For convenience, consider my departure point as Multiplaza Mall.

Also, any suggestions as for the best things to do, places to stay, eat, etc. in El Valle? We also may stop by Santa Clara on the way back if it's worth it? Thanks.

soltero

Via Israel (which runs in front of Multiplaza) to Avenida Balboa. At the Shell station before the overpass, turn right. Stay straight, and you'll see signs for Puente de las Americas -- the bridge over the canal. That puts you on the Interamericana Highway. Just stay on it. At around 90+ kilometers, you'll go by San Carlos. Maybe 10 minutes beyond that, you'll see signs on the right for El Valle and Las Uvas. Turn right, head up into hills to El Valle. Easy.

The best place to eat and stay in El Valle, by far, is Los Mandarinos. Google it. But it is certainly not the cheapest. Another good place is Los Capitanes.

Also, just beyond (1 km west of) San Carlos, there's a nice beach called El Palmar, and there's a good place for lunch there, overlooking the sand and sea: Bay View Resort.

RSC

Thank you. I'll let you know how the trip goes.

soltero

I forgot to mention: If you go to El Palmar on a Saturday or Sunday, there will be a guy at the entrance asking for money. Don't give him any. Just tell him, politely, that you are going to the Bayside Resort (where they have their own parking lot).