Shopping in Central America
-
A
La Maya Hatcha
A decent option if you're hankering for a thick English-language novel - classic or trashy - for the road.
reviewed
-
B
Driftwood Books
This tiny 2nd-story shop is jammed with used, mostly English-language books, for sale and trade (two for one), and displays a collection of vintage bells.
reviewed
-
Doña Elba Cigars
If you aren't getting up to Estelí this trip, stop by here for a cognac-cured taste of Nicaragua.
reviewed
-
C
Dyslexia Books
Secondhand and new books, mainly in English. Some politics and a good selection on indigenous culture.
reviewed
-
D
Organic Market
Don't miss the weekly Organic Market, when area vendors and growers sell snacks typical of the region.
reviewed
-
E
El Gato Negro Coffee & Book Exchange
New and some used books in English and other languages; also check Ricardo's Bar and Big Wave Dave's.
reviewed
-
F
Asotrama
Asotrama, the shop belonging to the association of Maya women weavers, is just uphill from the park.
reviewed
-
G
Xela's central market
Xela's central market is three floors of reasonably priced handicrafts and souvenirs. Bargain hard.
reviewed
-
Mercado Central
The Mercado Central, behind the church, sells everything from carrots to clothing.
reviewed
-
Isla Flamenco Shopping Plaza
A small mall, but nearby you'll find the best selection of open-air restaurants in the city.
reviewed
Advertisement
-
Casi Todo Bookstore
New and used English-language books to buy or trade. Located at the west entrance to town.
reviewed
-
H
Bookmarks
This bookstore has a fantastic selection, though it's somewhat smaller than La Casita's.
reviewed
-
Palí
Opposite the park, you can put your own meal together, then indulge in Eskimo ice cream.
reviewed
-
I
Pan y Más
This small 1st-floor shop has fresh cookies, bread, good bagels, plus light sandwiches.
reviewed
-
Roxanne Massage
You could get a massage from Roxanne, at Roxanne Massage, who's also a home decorator.
reviewed
-
J
Casa del Sol
This place sells the highest-quality artesanía (handicrafts) in town.
reviewed
-
K
Metromedia
Sells an excellent and wide selection of English- language books and periodicals.
reviewed
-
L
El Dorado Mall
Near one of Panama City's newer Chinatowns; has restaurants, shops and a cinema.
reviewed
-
M
La Casa de Todo
As the name suggests, the House of Everything has just about…well, everything.
reviewed
-
N
Outlet Mall
This smaller, economical spot is across from the Iglesia de San Pedro.
reviewed
Advertisement
-
O
Despensa Familiar
Despensa Familiar is a large supermarket on Parque Central.
reviewed
-
P
Centro Nacional de Registros
One of the best places to find city maps is the Centro Nacional de Registros.
reviewed
-
Q
Hamlin y White
New and used books in several languages, including many Lonely Planet titles.
reviewed
-
R
Supermercado Más X Menos
Self-caters should check out Supermercado Más x Menos
reviewed
-
S
Bazar Lempira
Although mostly kitsch, this small, over-stuffed shop has a few good buys.
reviewed