Hi,

My son is finishing up a year of working holiday in Canada soon. His plan is to take a bus from Montreal to Florida on 10/26, stay there for a few days, then fly to Cancun, Mexico. From there, he doesn’t have a precise plan yet, except to head down to Panama if the security situation in the countries he’ll cross allows it. Then, in March 2026, he’ll take a flight to Martinique, where he’d like to either find a sailboat (as crew) for the return transatlantic crossing (option 1) or do a sailing internship that includes the crossing (option 2).

So my questions are: - Will he be able to re-enter Mexico without an exit date or proof of a flight back to Belgium? Would being able to prove his return by sailboat with a specific date (option 2, the sailing internship) make things easier? - Are there any countries to avoid between Mexico and Panama? He’s traveling backpacker-style on a small budget.

Thanks for your answers.

Claire

I posted a few questions recently about Costa Rica and Panama, since we're still hesitating between the two for a trip in July.

Our plan would be to drive up through Panama to Bocas del Toro, then fly back (a classic loop).

We have tons of questions, since travel blogs and sites are often so glowing, which is why we'd love to hear real firsthand experiences.

1-We're really drawn to small colonial-style villages. Are there any similar to Casco Viejo in Panama City elsewhere in the country? 2-Which island is worth the detour, and are there any paradise-like beaches (clear water, snorkeling right from the beach) outside of Bocas del Toro and San Blas? 3-Which coast is better between Panama City and Bocas del Toro?

We're traveling with a child, so we'll avoid anything like treks or waterfalls that are hard to access.

Thanks in advance if you can help us out! 🙁

Hi there! We’ve decided to head to Panama this summer and would love to do a road trip with a rental car—there are four of us, and our kids are 20 and 23. Do you have any recommendations on must-see spots and things to avoid? Any great tips for accommodation, restaurants, or activities? Thanks so much for your help

MSC World Cruise 2027 (MSC Magnifica - 121 nights) Hello everyone, My name is Marco, I'm 75 years old, and I've booked a Balcony cabin for two at a very advantageous promotional rate for the MSC World Cruise 2027 aboard the MSC Magnifica, departing from Marseille on 6 January 2027. I'm looking for a non-smoking travel partner (friend, cabin-mate, fellow traveler) who would like to share this wonderful adventure with me in a friendly atmosphere, with a 50/50 split on accommodation costs. About me: Profile: Marco, 75 years old, active, sociable, respectful, and non-smoking. Location: Toulon area (Var, PACA). Lifestyle on board: Calm, easy-going, tidy, and respectful of everyone's space. On shore: I enjoy discovering new cultures, strolling, sightseeing, and making the most of each destination at my own pace. Booking details and budget: Ship: MSC Magnifica (World Cruise 2027). Departure: Port of Marseille (6 January 2027). Cabin type: Balcony cabin booked at a promotional rate (total cost around 35,000 €, approximately 17,500 € per person). Bonus included in the offer: Wi-Fi and phone packages to stay connected, plus an onboard credit of 600 €. Terms: 50/50 split on the cabin cost. Each person covers their own additional personal expenses and excursions. What I'm looking for in my future cabin-mate: A non-smoking, kind, clean, pleasant, and even-tempered person. A teammate to share good moments with, like a drink on the balcony, meals, or shows, while maintaining our independence day-to-day. The project is already confirmed and booked on my end. If you're from the Toulon area, Var, or the PACA region, we could easily meet for a coffee to get to know each other and discuss! For those living farther away, a first chat by phone or video call would be perfect. Don't hesitate to contact me via private message! Best regards, Marco