To Panama and back: The record of an experience

"To Panama and Back: The Record of an Experience" by Henry T. Byford is a travel memoir written in the early 20th century. The book chronicles the author's personal journey to Panama, particularly focusing on his experiences as a physician attending the Pan-American Medical Congress. It provides insight into the challenges and curiosities of traveling in that era, especially when exploring foreign cultures and climates. The opening of the narrative introduces Byford's motivations and expectations for the trip, highlighting his reliance on limited resources for guidance regarding Panama, as there were no proper guidebooks available. He transitions from Chicago to New Orleans before boarding a ship bound for Panama, detailing various humorous and culturally rich encounters along the way. Byford reflects on the contrasts between Northern and Southern customs, particularly in regards to food and hospitality, while also indulging in witty observations about the colorful characters he meets during his travels. This beginning sets a tone of adventure combined with a critical eye toward societal norms and provides a glimpse into the vivid life of early 1900s travel.