DISQUS

Collins P · 9 months ago

Christine,

Loving these 2-part articles! The fiery energy of Panamanian Carnival makes Mardi Gras seem like a teenage drunken stupor! It's always good that these happy accidents happen when traveling, so much for a relaxing week(end?).

The overwhelming energy that engulf a worn out traveler to keep going seems almost inhuman when you look back on it. I spent two months in Japan on hyper-drive... I know the feeling!

Safe Travels!

<abbr>Collins P´s last blog post..Protecting Yourself Against the Elements – Part 3: High Altitudes</abbr>

Topher · 9 months ago

Christine,
Were these photos taken with a point and shoot camera, or are you still traveling with your Canon DSLR? If you are, are you nervous about carrying your equipment (expensive body and very expensive lens)? Do you take it with you everywhere, or do you sometimes leave it with your belongings?

Christine · 9 months ago

@Topher I used a point and click. Without a press pass and a rooftop view, I wouldnt dare bring my SLR into the crowd. In fact even with my little camera, I had a wide thermos I would stuff it into for water proof protection, as they were constantly spraying the crowd with water.

Regarding traveling with the camera, in general I feel safe about it. If I´m staying in a hostel with lockers, it goes in there. The biggest risk is if someone robs me on the street, they are making off with about $6K in gear. So I try not to get robbed. :) Usually this just means not walking alone or taking a taxi after dark.

nun · 9 months ago

Um, speak for yourself?

Heatheronhertravels · 9 months ago

Oh to have the stamina to party like an 18 year old again!

<abbr>Heatheronhertravels´s last blog post..The Amateur Traveler visits Rethymno in Crete</abbr>

RennyBA · 9 months ago

I think I know what you mean, but the pics where great anyway :-)

Btw: Thanks for the add at travelblogexchange!

Wishing you a great end to your week :-)

<abbr>RennyBA´s last blog post..Boats in hibernation on winter docks in Norway</abbr>

Tanya · 9 months ago

I would definitely not last long on that schedule. What an amazing experience, though! Sounds like the late nights (early mornings?) were all worth it.

<abbr>Tanya´s last blog post..Take Me Home, Country Roads</abbr>

Sara · 9 months ago

I Wish I had a 1/4 of the energy those people have!Sounds like a fun trip: )

<abbr>Sara´s last blog post..CATCH ME IF YOU CAN...MAN LATE FOR FLIGHT CLAIMS TO BE AIR MARSHAL</abbr>

Nik · 9 months ago

Five days ~!? Whoa whee... I don't hold my liquor well at all so ... I'm guessing I'll probably pass out halfway through the first day..

Ha! Sounds like one hell of a fun trip :)

<abbr>Nik´s last blog post..Glacier Exploring at Mount Cook</abbr>

Jen · 9 months ago

Really love the photos! I would love to go to the Carnival but I'm definitely not sure I could hack the pace!! Would you go back? x

wandermom · 9 months ago

What Heather said...

<abbr>wandermom´s last blog post..More Ryanair Madness</abbr>

Erica · 9 months ago

Before today I hadn't read your blog in about two weeks. Feels good to be back 'cause I've missed reading your posts.

The Carnival in Las Tablas does sound intense. No more than 3 hours sleep per night 5 days in a row; I wouldn't get by with that either.

<abbr>Erica´s last blog post..Koh Lipe: A Slice of Paradise in Thailand</abbr>

Trott Felipe · 9 months ago

I don't know about the whole "Americans are Wimps" part, but great article. Definitely proof that the "Latin" people know how to party better. I witnessed this when I lived in Madrid as well.