Today, I would cycle to another significant stopping point of my journey – Panama City. First though, I had to get across the Bridge of the Americas.
Cycling into Panama City
(Blog post written April 25 2010)
I was on the road for 07.00, and after a quick stop off for a can of Monster, pushed on until I reached the Bridge of the Americas.
(For those of you who may be unaware of what Monster is – Monster is an energy drink).
Monster has a strange effect on me, and whether or not its physical or psychological, it definitely gives me a boost.
I feel a lot stronger after drinking one. It wouldn't have the same effect if I drank one every day, so I normally reserve it for “City cycling”. Of course, I could just be talking out of my arse… you'll need to make your own mind up !
Cycling across the Bridge of the Americas
On reaching the Bridge of the Americas, I was pulled to one side at the army checkpoint.
The official line is no cycling over the Bridge of the Americas in Panama, but there is a 50/50 split of touring cyclists who manage to talk their way into cycling across.
Unfortunately, I fell on the “no cycling” side today, despite me trying my hardest, and was put in the back of a truck for the span of the bridge.
A bit annoying, but on the positive side, I got to chat with some randoms in the back of the truck I otherwise wouldn't have met.
Tip – Cycle into Panama City on a Sunday
On the other side of the bridge, it was back on the bike, and into Panama City. I had geared myself up for craziness, but I think because it was Sunday, the traffic was much quieter, and I had one of the easiest entries into a capital city yet.
A handy bike path that followed the waterfront also made life a little easier.
Locating Hostel Zulys, I booked into the dorm and relaxed. One continent down and one to go!
I celebrated in style with not only a McDonald's lunch (surely I am due to be sponsored by them at some point!!), but also a visit to an Italian restaurant at night where I managed to eat two meals. Sweet !!
Read more about cycling from Alaska to Argentina
You might also like to read:
Hey Dave, how’s it all going!?
I crossed the Bridge of the Americas by bike two days ago. Can I ask you to update this page with: DO NOT CYCLE ACROSS THE BRIDGE OF THE AMERICAS.
There is a huge amount of construction going on on the road north of the bridge. They’re building a line of the metro and what looks like a motorway too. I’m not sure if the road they’re using right now is what you used or temporary, but it is the most dangerous thing I have ever done. There’s no hard shoulder, it’s super busy, and the Panamanian drivers give no space. The bridge is fine, the road is a few hours of hell.
I was talking to a French person who lives in Panama City last night. They said a friend of theirs had the exact same experience. Except in the rain, which sounds worse.
It’s genuinely a death trap. I feel very lucky. Please get the word out and help make sure no one else tries to ride it. There’s another bridge — Puente Centenario — that is supposed to be quieter.
Hope all’s good!
Ben
Hopefully this comment will draw it to people’s attention! Always good to get recent feedback from other people cycling these routes.