May 29  Halfway into our trip and we just entered Panama last night.  We chose to skip Nicaragua due to unrest (but more specifically because of dozens of roadblocks).  Panama City is a prosperous, friendly place, and Bill has met people he knew 15 years ago.  Our spending has accelerated, but no more free beaches; we had to leave the truck and gear at Freddy's house.  He and his family have been tremendous help, providing a hurried trip to the airport and a place to park the beast.  Check out the buildings in the background; doesn't that look like the 'sail' hotel in Dubai?

Tomorrow we will rent a car and head to Inyaki's eco-lodge.  We have not heard from him in weeks, so hopefully he has returned to Panama.  Excellent museum on the construction of the canal.