Pacific Pathways

Cristóbal lies at the northern entrance to the Panama Canal. It is part of the province of Colón, a port city at the entrance to Limon Bay, at the Atlantic (Caribbean) entrance of the canal. (Interestingly, Cristóbal Colón is the Spanish translation for Christopher Columbus.) The port, Old Cristóbal, was first built by the Panama Railroad Company in the 1850s, and dredged material became landfill for the present Cristóbal. Read more about Cristobal, Panama

Puntarenas is the capital and largest city in the province Puntarenas, on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica, and is one of the country’s most important tourist regions. Its coasts are decked with plenty of islands, inlets, beaches and beautiful natural treasures, many of which lie within protected zones, and it is also home to some of the country’s highest mountain peaks. Of great interest is a small ‘old town’ where the buildings are of both historical and architectural interest. Read more about Puntarenas, Costa Rica

Puerto Corinto, named in honour of the Greek city of Corinth, is Nicaragua's largest and only Pacific port for imports and exports. The city is actually on Punto Icaco island that is connected to the mainland by bridges. Here is a small tropical paradise on the NW Pacific Coast of Nicaragua. Read more about Puerto Corinto, Nicaragua

Puerto Quetzal is a city on the Pacific Ocean in the south of Guatemala in Central America. While the city offers family fun, upscale restaurants and markets, it mainly serves as a tourist's gateway to the inland attractions of the unique ecosystems and remains from the Maya civilisation. Many visit the UNESCO World Heritage-listed city of Antigua, about two hours away, and on the trip are amazed by the green tropical vegetation of the beautiful tropical lowlands, as well as the views of active volcanoes. Read more about Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala

Best known as one of Mexico’s oldest and most well-known beach resorts, Acapulco is located on a deep, semi-circular bay on the Pacific Coast and has been a port since the early colonial period of Mexico’s history. It is considered by many to be one of the most exciting cities in the world, Acapulco is famous for its explosive nightlife, postcard beaches, unlimited water sports, first-class hotels, and gourmet restaurants, alongside the breathtaking beauty of Acapulco Bay. Traditional or historical Acapulco that has remained unchanged through time is certainly one of the main attractions. Read more about Acapulco, Mexico

Cabo San Lucas, or just Cabo, is an interesting destination that captures the essence of the Baja Peninsula Mexico. Once a base for pirate vessels waiting to pounce on Spanish treasure ships, today with its many resorts, championship golf courses, world-class dining, and amazing outdoor activities, it is a great tourist attraction. Future plans include an artificial island to sit in the bay, complete with restaurants and bars. Read more about Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

Ensenada, about 100 km south of the US/Mexican border at Tijuana, is just far enough from the border to offer a more authentic Mexican experience than the eight border towns. Ensenada is one of the oldest municipalities in Baja California, and one of the largest in the world by land area. Situated on the beautiful island-studded Bay (Bahia) of Los Angeles, it offers aquatic activities such as windsurfing, kayaking and whale-watching. Read more about Ensenada, Mexico

Los Angeles, also called LA, or the City of Angels, is situated in southern California, and as the home base of Hollywood is the Entertainment Capital of the world. There is so much to do in this famous city, such as visit LA's most popular beach Santa Monica that offers ocean activities, shopping, street performers and more, or simply investigate the fantastic shopping venues. Helicopter tours are now becoming extremely popular, as one gets to see beaches, movie star homes, the Hollywood sign, downtown, and all of the attractions through the eyes of an expert. Read more about Los Angeles, USA