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BonaFideWorldGuide
United States
Приєднався 18 жов 2018
Aloha. I'm Capt. Charlie Ellis. I'm a licensed Captain, PADI Scuba Instructor, Entrepreneur, Writer, World Traveler, Videographer, and aspiring "foodie". I launched this channel to chronicle my expeditions and domestic excursions, both above and below water. Thanks for stopping by!
A Walking Tour of Casco Viejo Panama
Casco Viejo, Panama is a vibrant, historical gem that effortlessly blends the old with the new. As you step into this UNESCO World Heritage Site, you're immediately transported back in time, surrounded by colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and rich history that tells the tale of Panama’s past. This charming neighborhood, nestled on a small peninsula extending into the Pacific Ocean, offers a unique opportunity to experience Panama’s cultural and historical richness.
The Heritage and History of Casco Viejo
Casco Viejo was founded in 1673, following the destruction of the original Panama City by the infamous pirate Henry Morgan. The city was strategically relocated and rebuilt, with fortified walls and a grid layout, to better defend against future attacks. Today, those fortifications, along with the stunning Spanish colonial architecture, remain as a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of its early inhabitants.
Walking through Casco Viejo, you'll find yourself surrounded by beautifully preserved buildings that have witnessed centuries of history. The majestic churches, such as the Metropolitan Cathedral, stand as a reminder of the city’s strong religious roots. The cathedral, with its grandiose twin bell towers, is one of the most iconic landmarks in Casco Viejo.
Another significant historical site is the Palacio de las Garzas, the official residence of the President of Panama. This stately white building, adorned with beautiful balconies and a rich history, is a symbol of Panama’s political heritage.
Touring Casco Viejo on Foot: A Journey Through Time
One of the most distinctive benefits of touring Casco Viejo on foot is the ability to immerse yourself fully in the area’s atmosphere. The narrow, winding streets invite exploration, each corner revealing something new-whether it's a quaint café, a vibrant mural, or a hidden courtyard. Walking allows you to experience the neighborhood’s intricate details, from the wrought-iron balconies draped in bougainvillea to the colorful colonial facades that have been lovingly restored.
As you stroll through the streets, you'll pass by Plaza Bolívar, a picturesque square named after the liberator Simón Bolívar. Here, you can take a moment to relax, perhaps enjoy a coffee from one of the nearby cafés, and watch as the world goes by. The plaza is surrounded by historic buildings, including the Iglesia de San Francisco de Asís, one of the oldest churches in Casco Viejo.
The San Felipe Food Market and Iconic Seafood Market
No visit to Casco Viejo is complete without indulging in its vibrant culinary scene, and the San Felipe Food Market is the perfect place to start. Located in the heart of the neighborhood, this market offers a feast for the senses.
The market is a great place to try some traditional Panamanian dishes, such as sancocho (a hearty chicken soup) or ceviche (a tangy seafood dish marinated in lime juice). The atmosphere is lively and bustling, providing an authentic glimpse into daily life in Casco Viejo.
Just a short walk from the San Felipe Food Market, you’ll find the iconic Seafood Market, known locally as Mercado de Mariscos. This market is a seafood lover’s paradise, offering the freshest catches from the nearby Pacific Ocean.
One of the highlights of visiting the Seafood Market is the chance to try the famous Panamanian ceviche, made with fresh fish or shellfish and marinated in a zesty lime dressing. Many stalls at the market serve ceviche in small cups, allowing you to sample different varieties as you explore.
Unwinding at Element: A Curated Cocktail Experience
After a day of exploring the historical sites and vibrant markets of Casco Viejo, there’s no better way to unwind than with a visit to Element, a bar renowned for its curated cocktail experience. Located in a beautifully restored colonial building, Element offers a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere, making it the perfect spot to end your day.
Whether you prefer a classic cocktail or something more adventurous, Element has something to offer. Their signature drinks often incorporate tropical fruits, fresh herbs, and house-made infusions, resulting in a drink that is as much a work of art as it is a refreshing beverage. As you sip your cocktail, you can enjoy the bar’s ambient music and perhaps even strike up a conversation with fellow travelers, sharing stories of your adventures in Casco Viejo.
Why Casco Viejo Should Be on Your Panama Itinerary
Casco Viejo is a neighborhood that encapsulates the spirit of Panama. Its rich history, vibrant culture, and distinctive charm make it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Panama City. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply someone who enjoys exploring new places, Casco Viejo has something to offer. The neighborhood’s blend of old-world charm and modern vibrancy creates an experience that is both timeless and contemporary.
The Heritage and History of Casco Viejo
Casco Viejo was founded in 1673, following the destruction of the original Panama City by the infamous pirate Henry Morgan. The city was strategically relocated and rebuilt, with fortified walls and a grid layout, to better defend against future attacks. Today, those fortifications, along with the stunning Spanish colonial architecture, remain as a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of its early inhabitants.
Walking through Casco Viejo, you'll find yourself surrounded by beautifully preserved buildings that have witnessed centuries of history. The majestic churches, such as the Metropolitan Cathedral, stand as a reminder of the city’s strong religious roots. The cathedral, with its grandiose twin bell towers, is one of the most iconic landmarks in Casco Viejo.
Another significant historical site is the Palacio de las Garzas, the official residence of the President of Panama. This stately white building, adorned with beautiful balconies and a rich history, is a symbol of Panama’s political heritage.
Touring Casco Viejo on Foot: A Journey Through Time
One of the most distinctive benefits of touring Casco Viejo on foot is the ability to immerse yourself fully in the area’s atmosphere. The narrow, winding streets invite exploration, each corner revealing something new-whether it's a quaint café, a vibrant mural, or a hidden courtyard. Walking allows you to experience the neighborhood’s intricate details, from the wrought-iron balconies draped in bougainvillea to the colorful colonial facades that have been lovingly restored.
As you stroll through the streets, you'll pass by Plaza Bolívar, a picturesque square named after the liberator Simón Bolívar. Here, you can take a moment to relax, perhaps enjoy a coffee from one of the nearby cafés, and watch as the world goes by. The plaza is surrounded by historic buildings, including the Iglesia de San Francisco de Asís, one of the oldest churches in Casco Viejo.
The San Felipe Food Market and Iconic Seafood Market
No visit to Casco Viejo is complete without indulging in its vibrant culinary scene, and the San Felipe Food Market is the perfect place to start. Located in the heart of the neighborhood, this market offers a feast for the senses.
The market is a great place to try some traditional Panamanian dishes, such as sancocho (a hearty chicken soup) or ceviche (a tangy seafood dish marinated in lime juice). The atmosphere is lively and bustling, providing an authentic glimpse into daily life in Casco Viejo.
Just a short walk from the San Felipe Food Market, you’ll find the iconic Seafood Market, known locally as Mercado de Mariscos. This market is a seafood lover’s paradise, offering the freshest catches from the nearby Pacific Ocean.
One of the highlights of visiting the Seafood Market is the chance to try the famous Panamanian ceviche, made with fresh fish or shellfish and marinated in a zesty lime dressing. Many stalls at the market serve ceviche in small cups, allowing you to sample different varieties as you explore.
Unwinding at Element: A Curated Cocktail Experience
After a day of exploring the historical sites and vibrant markets of Casco Viejo, there’s no better way to unwind than with a visit to Element, a bar renowned for its curated cocktail experience. Located in a beautifully restored colonial building, Element offers a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere, making it the perfect spot to end your day.
Whether you prefer a classic cocktail or something more adventurous, Element has something to offer. Their signature drinks often incorporate tropical fruits, fresh herbs, and house-made infusions, resulting in a drink that is as much a work of art as it is a refreshing beverage. As you sip your cocktail, you can enjoy the bar’s ambient music and perhaps even strike up a conversation with fellow travelers, sharing stories of your adventures in Casco Viejo.
Why Casco Viejo Should Be on Your Panama Itinerary
Casco Viejo is a neighborhood that encapsulates the spirit of Panama. Its rich history, vibrant culture, and distinctive charm make it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Panama City. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply someone who enjoys exploring new places, Casco Viejo has something to offer. The neighborhood’s blend of old-world charm and modern vibrancy creates an experience that is both timeless and contemporary.
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Відео
Exploring The Extraordinary Bastimentos Island, Panama
Переглядів 439Місяць тому
Nestled within the Bocas del Toro Archipelago, Bastimentos Island emerges as a verdant paradise, brimming with untamed tropical beauty and a vast array of adventures for the intrepid traveler. This island, often overshadowed by its more touristy neighbors, offers a unique blend of serene beaches, vibrant wildlife, and rich cultural experiences. For those planning a visit to Bastimentos Island, ...
Offshore Fishing in Belize : Spring 2024 Sailfish Run
Переглядів 6102 місяці тому
Fishing in Belize is synonymous with shallow water angling, but the best kept secret of this unparalleled sport fishing destination is its location along the migration path of Atlantic Sailfish. The island of Ambergris Caye sits adjacent the Mesoamerican reef system, which spans nearly 700 miles, the largest barrier reef in the western hemisphere. Proximity to this extraordinary reef, which dro...
A Golf Cart & Margarita Tour of San Pedro, Belize
Переглядів 6 тис.2 місяці тому
Greetings from San Pedro, Belize - one of the most celebrated destinations in the Caribbean for sport fishing, diving, secluded beaches, and of course...margaritas! At the end of my trip in April 2024, the winds picked up to a mighty 20knts , which kept us land locked for a few days. While we did enjoy a few days of great fishing, I figured it would be best to enjoy a windy day doing one of my ...
Diving The 2nd Largest Shipwreck in The World :: The USNS Vandenberg
Переглядів 6 тис.2 місяці тому
Welcome to a Florida Keys wreck diving experience like no other! In this video, we take you on a deep dive to visit the USNS General Hoyt S. Vandenberg, the second-largest shipwreck in the world. Located just a few miles off the coast of Key West, Florida, this magnificent wreck affords visiting divers the opportunity to explore towering super structure and dozens of challenging swim throughs. ...
A Walking Tour of the San José Central Market
Переглядів 8595 місяців тому
Join us on an urban expedition as we peel back the layers of San Jose's cultural tapestry, unraveling the vibrant threads that converge at the Central Market. A prominent fixture in the heart of Costa Rica's idiosyncratic capital, this bustling marketplace is more than just a hub for commerce - it's a living, breathing microcosm of the country's rich heritage and culinary prowess. In this immer...
![That Time I Went to Cuba [2015]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/38SFoPI3DWM/mqdefault.jpg)
That Time I Went to Cuba [2015]
Переглядів 5246 місяців тому
It was the summer of 2015, and armed with my GoPro Hero 3 , I joined an accomplished Key West fisherman and his father to visit Havana. The concept of visiting Cuba, a place which had defied the conventional perceptions bestowed upon it, carried an allure which my inner journalist couldn't resist. Having lived in Miami for 15 years, I was both intrigued by Cuba, and moderately resentful of it. ...
Shark Diving the USS Spiegel Grove
Переглядів 3,1 тис.7 місяців тому
In this video, descend with us into the challenging blue depths off Key Largo, FL, where history and adrenaline collide on the wreck of the legendary USS Spiegel Grove. This 510-foot behemoth, once a Cold War warrior, now rests as the third largest artificial reef ever created, teeming with marine life and aquatic adventure. Join us as we navigate the labyrinthine corridors of the ship's comman...
I FOUND the BEST Scuba Diving in St. Thomas, USVI
Переглядів 3,4 тис.7 місяців тому
St. Thomas boasts some of the most spectacular underwater topography in the northern Caribbean, making it one of the best scuba diving destinations for U.S travelers. In this video, we join a diving excursion with Aqua Marine Dive Center, which is one of the most established dive shops in St. Thomas. Ever dream of weightlessly weaving through coral canyons, sunlight dappling the turquoise depth...
A Boat Tour of St. John, USVI
Переглядів 15 тис.8 місяців тому
St. John is paradisiacal vision of the Caribbean. There are few tropical places on earth more visually enthralling, spiritually enriching, or soulfully inspiring. In this video, I take a 17' rigid bottom inflatable boat on a tour around the island of St. John to visit several exquisite white sand beaches and the world famous Maho Bay. St. John is a pristine paradise which affords visitors the o...
Cooking with a Thai Master Chef in Belize
Переглядів 1,9 тис.9 місяців тому
Belize is a pristine tropical paradise known for its exceptional diving, fantastic fishing, and diverse cultural heritage. While the country is not famous for its cuisine, the culinary scene on Ambergris Caye and neighboring Caye Caulker is rapidly evolving. Traditional Belizean food typically reflects a blend of Spanish, Mayan, Mexican, Creole, and Caribbean style cooking, but in the past few ...
A Walking Tour of Caye Caulker
Переглядів 944 тис.9 місяців тому
There are many things to do in Caye Caulker, Belize. From snorkeling, diving, and fishing to savoring Caribbean style street food - Caye Caulker (interchangeably referred to as "Key Caulker" by many travelers) is a tropical lifestyle enthusiast's dream come true. This idyllic island just off the coast of Belize, accessible by airplane or ferry boat, is the perfect destination if you're looking ...
Great Harbour Cay Bonefishing
Переглядів 76411 місяців тому
Great Harbour Cay is a rugged spit of land well removed from the over-tourism that has come to define the Bahamas. With a population under 500, the island is known for its minimalist lifestyle - a place where the only things to do include relaxation on white sandy beaches, lounging at Great Harbour Cay Marina, fishing, and diving. But this salty piece of land holds a secret - it is home to what...
Sea Hunt Islamorada Ep. 2 : "The Treasure"
Переглядів 95811 місяців тому
In this episode of Sea Hunt Islamorada - CJ and Evan set out to discover the most spectacular treasure ever found in the Florida Keys! With a secret map in hand that documents the location of a famed Spanish galleon lost during a horrendous hurricane in 1735, CJ and Evan use their state of the art skin diving equipment and a special metal detector on loan from the university to track down the t...
Lionfish Hunting and Cooking in Islamorada
Переглядів 7 тис.Рік тому
The notorious Lionfish is one of those invasive species you just can't seem to eat enough of! Lionfish hunting in the Florida Keys is one of my favorite hobbies - and it doesn't get much better than a genuine Lionfish catch, clean, cook with a few close friends. There is no shortage of this scourge of the sea in the Florida Keys, and for over 19 years now, i've been spearing and preparing these...
Cenote Tak Bi Ha : Diving "Hidden Water"
Переглядів 1,2 тис.Рік тому
Cenote Tak Bi Ha : Diving "Hidden Water"
Cenote DreamGate : Diving Into Eternity
Переглядів 2,3 тис.Рік тому
Cenote DreamGate : Diving Into Eternity
Cenote Angelita : Diving The "Underwater River"
Переглядів 4,1 тис.Рік тому
Cenote Angelita : Diving The "Underwater River"
Swimming with a BILLION Bait Fish at Alligator Reef Lighthouse
Переглядів 849Рік тому
Swimming with a BILLION Bait Fish at Alligator Reef Lighthouse
The BEST Permit Fishing in Belize : Cayo Rosario
Переглядів 3,5 тис.Рік тому
The BEST Permit Fishing in Belize : Cayo Rosario
This is Anilao : Batfish, Frogfish & Electric Clams
Переглядів 345Рік тому
This is Anilao : Batfish, Frogfish & Electric Clams
This is Anilao : Diving Sombrero Island Reef
Переглядів 3,5 тис.Рік тому
This is Anilao : Diving Sombrero Island Reef
This is Anilao : Welcome to AquaVenture Reef Club
Переглядів 1,5 тис.Рік тому
This is Anilao : Welcome to AquaVenture Reef Club
Diving The Akitsushima Wreck in Coron Bay
Переглядів 817Рік тому
Diving The Akitsushima Wreck in Coron Bay
Diving the Okikawa Maru & Lusong Gun Boat
Переглядів 731Рік тому
Diving the Okikawa Maru & Lusong Gun Boat
Air, Land, & Sea : A Shallow Sport X3 Odyssey
Переглядів 3,4 тис.Рік тому
Air, Land, & Sea : A Shallow Sport X3 Odyssey
Great video Charlie! That drink reminds me of Straight Lightning in PEI. It’s legalized moonshine. Really good on a cold night to warm you so fn fast. Thanks for sharing!!!
I lived on 2nd Avenue East in Cudjoe Gardens.
Great video, lots of information. Thank you.
Many fish in Vicinity of those sharks. Plenty of food. Why attack humans.
Great vid I wasn’t into you a lot I came from nicks ch but you ok and I thought at first you was tryna get at Sara so I didn’t like you at all but you cool I’m watching
Another amazing video Charlie. The drinks looked so good and I was glad you were both able to walk out of there. ❤😅❤
Great video, watch this over and over, thank you for sharing guys! Quick tip, you'll want to use Coco Lopez Coconut "Cream", you wouldn't want to use coconut milk, just sayin! Cheers! Shady friend🍹😎🤙
🎉
4:09 spent the day at The Lazy Lizard Lounge a few years back!! ❤
Great video of the market's. The meat place look excellent and good prices👍
That looks so good , the one at lazy day
Yes i said it.
How much are the drinks, is the island expensive?
Drinks are anywhere from $3 to $5 for a beer (USD) and $5 to $10 (USD) for a cocktail. Overall - Caye Caulker is not as expensive as Ambergris Caye, but costs are rising due to increasing tourism.
Nice video. Many people do not realize that there are many safe & affordable vacation spots in the caribbean other than the more well known & popular ones like Jamaica, Barbados. I thoroughly enjoyed your video. Thanks. I will now be looking into how to easily get there from the northeast mainland USA.
Thanks for watching! Yes - Belize (particularly Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye) are safe & affordable. The more popular a destination becomes, the more expensive you can expect it to be...but for now...Belize is still a relatively affordable place to explore. Hope you make it down there!
Thumbnail game strong
Que impresionante y hermoso.
Enjoyed the video. Always great to see the Spiegel and the Benwood. Last summer the shark was dragging about a 100 feet of that line. It is shorter now. Eventually it'll be gone I hope. He seems to be a resident. Thanks for sharing this. Safe diving to all.
im waiting for another video
I've been snorkeling Alligator Reff since 1980. At that time could actually climb up on dock and access lighthouse. Been all the way to top several times, great view, especially seeing big fish cruising the area. Back in those days, if another boat was there it was crowded
If only I could have seen the reefs of the Florida Keys in the early 1980's. Occasionally I see underwater photos from the 70's and 80's and they are absolutely extraordinary. Breaks my heart to see what's happening now.
I know damn well you didn`t eat all of those completely or should I say all the same day.
What do you mean? You don't eat four fish sandwiches per day?
LMAO, Triplets
I can't speak for the fish sandwich but the best conch fritters are at Alabama Jacks on Card Sound. I've had a great grouper sandwich at the Lorelei
You ain't kidding! I have a "Quest for The Best Conch Fritter" video in the works (going on 8 months now) but it is NOT easy to eat large quantities of those!
Yesterday I was watching Kelly's latest video and you were cooking up some amazing food as always. Today You're wandering thru the jungle and feasting on the native cuisine. Keepin it real and providing great info on amazing places
Thank you my dude! It is always a privilege to fish and share a fine meal with the Stanzfam and friends. Kelly is super cool. And one hec of a diver. If you get the chance, definitely slide down to Panama and explore the Bocas del Toro region - it's epic.
Awesome video and content Charlie as always. It was great seeing you also on StanzFam video cooking up some of your amazing sea food. It is always great seeing you my friend. Yes, stay salty! ❤😊❤
Thank you! I've had the fortunate privilege to prepare and share some amazing meals with Stanzfam and friends the past month. It's been quite a run. Always make me smile to get a note from you!
Saw some cute dresses for Stanz girls 🎉
We did find some wonderful treasures for Sadie and Claire. I strive to bring them artifacts from each one of my expeditions.
Beautiful. Reading your descriptions is like reading a novel and making you feel like you're right there ❤
Thank you! That makes me smile. I do love to write. Striving to follow in the foot steps of the late great Anthony Bourdain, and all the other traveling journalists before me.
Jungle hike,nice beach, goof food, excellent
Thanks Steve! Hi to Jenny!
Really cool 👍
More bona fide world guide! Please!!!!!
New episode premiers in two hours! Thanks for watching!
Hey Great Review… I’m Booked For August Taking The Family… What’s Is A More Family Environment Island San Pedro Or Caye Caulker ?
Yeah man! Thanks for watching. If I had to choose a family friendly destination, I would definitely lean towards Caye Caulker. It's more relaxed, slower pace, and less crowded than San Pedro. Plenty of places to take it easy, without the crowds and tourist parties. But - with that in mind - you should definitely check out BOTH San Pedro and Caye Caulker while you're in Belize.
@@BonaFideWorldGuide Will Do… Thank You…
Coming in September. Can't wait!
That's a perfect time to explore the island. Less busy than most of the summer months. Be sure to ride up to Secret Beach!
Oh I plan to. Probably visit Caye Caulker for a day too.
If anyone is watching from Ramons village snorkel tours, then SHOUT OUT TO KOALA! He helped my son overcome the fear of getting into the water, so he can see the fish and sharks at Hol- Chan Reserve. Thank You KOALA❤❤❤❤❤❤❤😢😢
Hi! we were just there a week ago. We stayed at Caribbean Villas! I recommend it! Great food, great prices, great views! great service!
You know it! Caribbean Villas is one hec of a destination. Thanks for stopping by to check out the video!
Great video Charlie! Found out about you through StanzFam channel that I stumble upon recently. Looking through all videos, I see that you've been to my motherland, the Philippines. Can't wait to watch that video. I love your cooking in StanzFam channel. It's great that you incorporate your culinary knowledge that you've learned from your travels in the videos. Subscribed from the concrete jungle of NYC!
My man! Mabuhay! Thanks for subscribing and I really appreciate your comment. I strive diligently to share what i've learned, during my time abroad, to enhance the lives of those around me. You can certainly experience a culture through its food and music, which is my main motivation to prepare and share fine meals with good people. Great to have you on board here - stay tuned for a whole bunch more content on the way.
That was a great video in a new sub to your channel the food looks delicious and the views of the Island were beautiful. I liked that it wasn't so crowded so you picked the best time to go. What was the temperature there when you were filming this video?
Welcome to the channel and thanks for subscribing! The temperature in Belize is normally 82 to 90 degrees. Occasionally, a bit cooler in the winter months, and hotter in the summer. That video was filmed in November - and it was ~87 that day!
2nd divesite Layag Layag?
Anong chika?
Banana Daiquiri
Anyone have any insight regarding the stands right at the corner outside Super Aki? Drove past them multiple times and they always had a line of locals....
I have not been to that particular line of stands on Ave Coba, but i'm sure there are a few impressive vendors. Taco stand real estate on Avenida Satellite is fierce! And there are more vendors arriving to the area every week.
Another captivating dive by Bonafide and Mermaid. I would love an invitation to see this in person…
In which Country Is Belize...
Belize is a country
@@nickisnormal8331lol!
When and why did it become acceptable for women to wear those bikinis with just a string running up the back? That's not covering up, but showing full nudity in the back. Any woman who does that is a major red flag.
The yellow coconut is really called a King Coconut that is available in Sri Lanka and Kerala as well.. The more orange coloured one is really tasty... Try it Charlie sometime..
Absolutely! I love coconuts - i'll keep an eye out for that King Coconut next time i'm on that side of the world.
Love the Energy, Grate Video.
Thanks my dude!
Was truly blessed/privileged to have visited Belize in the early 1970s. When it was simply known for diving and what was known as bullets small bags of GANJA .... YOU BETTER /BELIZE IT❤❤
Yes! I can only imagine how spectacular the diving must have been. I do my best to document the reefs now...before they are gone.
Beatiful! How do you pay , USD or card ?
You need to add Dougs invented float. Founder is from Isles of Capri, Fl The Zero Gravity Float™️ is simple and functional. From beach pillow to float with beverage holders. Attached a leash for ideal snorkeling, bring your water bottles with you. Cheers 👍
Great video Charlie! Beautiful sailfish. Thanks for sharing!!!
Gracias! It's surprisingly difficult to kite fish while filming yourself. We stitched the video together as best we could.
You and Ken make some rocking videos!
Ken is the luckiest guy I know. It all works out when he's steering the ship. Or golf cart.
Cool
lol ! You must of been editing for the last three weeks another great video!
I brought in some industrial help. :)