Partying on wheels … and it’s legal

On the Town
Partying’s got a new name, Chiva, Panamanian traditional “Diablo Rojo” buses modified into a mobile disco on wheels, that’s right.

The “Chivas” take you around the city’s main streets, while enjoying music played by a DJ, varying from salsa, merengue, reggae, reggaeton, pop, rock and anything you like. There is also traditional live Panamanian music played by “Murga” or “Tamborito” groups.
Want a drink? Have a sip, because you can also partake while on the bus. They offer an open bar of national drinks and sometimes more. A little food is also included: a mix of “picaditas” smashed plantains, sausages and fried chicken.

The tour lasts for three hours, and it usually starts at 8:00 p.m. until 11:00 p.m. A tourist guide accompanies the group and tells the history of the places as you go through Cinta Costera, Balboa Avenue, Amador El Causeway, and tourist centre Mi Pueblito Afro Antillano where the Chivas makes a pit stop to check out the “Chiva’s Bar and Restaurant ” where you will also find several souvenir shops selling Kuna crafts.

Traditionally from Colombia, the “Chivas” have been a city attraction for 10 years ago. You can organize your own private event like bachelorette parties, birthday celebrations, or just simply a friend’s reunion.
You could also choose to go on a “mix” Chiva where you go around the hotel area picking up excited people for the ride. The price is $20.00 a head and includes all the goodies I’ve mentioned.

I have ridden on several Chivas before, and can vouch that if you are with your friends or a really nice group of people, you will definitely have an awesome time partying.
And there are many Chiva options. They seem to come in all shapes and sizes, with or without air conditioning, limousine chivas, hummer chivas, there’s even a fire-fighter’s car turned into a Chiva, imagine!

So there you have it, next time you want something a little different, try a Chiva. You won’t forget the experience. {jathumbnail off}