Mike, the Two Oceans Rail way trip I took was in Panama from Colon to Panama City.
It was a great way to spend the day and learn a lot about the past and future of this country. You do not need the Dome car. The renovated rail passenger cars are beautiful, air conditioned (bring a sweater or light jacket) and the panoramic windows provide unobstructed views. Once you board the bus, you stop at Miralores Locks to witness the entire operation. Plus a stop was made at the Bridge of the America's and on Panama City Bay. It was the only ship's tour that we purchashed but it was well worth it.
At Limon, Costa Rica go to the red canopy tent and buy a local tour from there. We took the Tortugera Canal and Bananna Plantation tour with other stops @ $45per couple. Our driver even stopped at a local supermarket for me so I could buy coffee and vanilla.
He helped with currency conversion, too.
Bon Voyage
