My posts have been very limited over the past few weeks as my husband and I escaped on a warm trip to the Panama canal via Norwegian Cruise line.  Another tick on our bucket list.  We were fortunate to visit ports in Mexico, Guatemala, Nicaragua, Costa Rica and Colombia.  Of course though the highlight was going through the Panama Canal which was quite the process; arriving at the first set of lochs around 0800 am and exiting at least some 9 hours later.  

We first visited Cabo San Lucas.  I was amazed how much this town had changed since my last visit 20 years earlier.  The port area was very built up with an array of holiday condos and exclusive shopping areas. 

Cabo San Lucas

It is certainly now a bustling place and we appreciated having some fresh fish tacos and margueritas at Captain Tonys.

Despite having limited time in each port through different excursions we were at least able to get a glimpse of the culture, scenery and architecture of each country.  I was very taken with the colourful traditional costumes both in Nicaragua and Costa Rica when we were entertained by young dancers.  

Without a doubt though I was amazed by the old town of Cartegena, Colombia with its warm coloured buildings and balconies overflowing with tropical flowers.  Around every corner there was something of interest to see.  We went on a walking tour through the town and visited several museums which filled us in on the history of this area going back to the Spanish Inquisition.

Cartegena, Colombia

I was only able to capture the outline of the city of Panama from a distance as it was not one of the stops on the cruise.  Fortunately I did have my zoom lens which enabled me to zone in on some of the modern architecture.  Surrounding the city are rich green tropical forests.

 Panama City Skyline

It has been a bit of shock returning to the snow again but at least I have the memories of warm balmy days and ocean breezes.  As ever, I am always interested in seeing the bright tropical flowers which were in abundance everywhere along our trip.

Loved watching the sunsets at the end of the day.