January 13th

Buenos tardes!

Today was definitely the most relaxed day of the trip so far. We boarded the bus at 9 am and headed for a seafood market. Despite the smell, it was interesting to see all the fish vendors with all of their different fish. We didn´t stay very long, considering there wasn´t much to look at, but it was a beautiful day out. On top of the seafood market there was a restaurant that serves fresh fish that they catch themselves. It was only about 9:30 in the morning when we arrived, however, so no one had a chance to experience any of the food.

After we left the fish market, we headed to an Artisans Market down the street to do some shopping. The market was full of unique, colorful souvenirs that we were able to purchase and barter for. There were items such as bags, wooden artifacts, paintings, t-shirts, and much more. We spent approximately 2 hours combing through the different sections of the market. All the items were relatively inexpensive, especially after you negotiated a lower price. The market is also called YMCA by many of the Panamanians because it is in a building that was formerly owned by the YMCA. Around noon, we loaded up the bus once again, and headed back to the hotel to grab lunch and have free time for the rest of the day and night.

We´re so excited for tomorrow´s trip to the Panama Canal. It´s hard to believe that it is our last day in Panama, considering all of Friday will be spent travelling home. It´s been a great, busy trip so far and tomorrow looks like it will be fun as well!

Hasta Luego, Megan Goodnow and Michaela Phillips