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Panama often-called “Bridge of the Worlds, Heart of the Universe”. In fact Panama, ever since the beginning of Spanish colonization, has been a transit center for commerce. The Spanish used Panama for the gold transportation from the Inca mines in Peru and Ecuador across the Isthmus and onward to Spain. Today Panama continues to be the crossroad of the world with its canal (www.pancanal.com), the “Eighth Wonder of the World, transporting goods and passengers all over the world. Security: According to an article, published by Newsweek, Panama was rated amongst the top countries, by the prestigious Pinkerton Intelligence Agency, for tourist safety. Panama has no army and uses the U.S. dollar as currency, therefore political stability and a peaceful place to relax and enjoy your vacations. More incidents of violent crime occur in cities like Rome, Paris or Washington D.C in 24 hours than they occur in the whole of Panama in an entire year!
Health/Water:
Weather: Panama largely avoids the Pacific rim’s earthquakes and its “ring of fire,” and escapes the Caribbean’s devastating tropical storms and hurricanes. Tourism in Panama is a year-around activity. The temperature never varies, 25°C to 30°C (77°F - 86°F) and the sun shines everyday, all year long. However, there are two "seasons" in Panama: the "dry season" from December through May and the "green season" from June until November where you will get a few hours of tropical showers to freshen up the atmosphere…but most activities and tours can be planned around it. Passport: Very important issue: make absolutely sure that it is valid and the expiring date is not less than 3 months before your departure date or you will not be let on-board. VISA Requirements: Depending on your nationality, you may be required a visa or a $5.00 tourist card. Tourist cards may be bought at the departure counter or on arrival. A tourist card gives you an automatic 30-day stay, and is extendable for another 60 days. Travellers should consult with the Panamanian consulate or embassy in their country to obtain the latest information on entry requirements. Time Zone: Panama's time is the same as the United States Eastern Standard Time (GMT -5)
Electricity
and telephone system:
The voltage is 110V - 60HZ. Telephone and international cable
services in Panama are excellent. We have a direct-dial system to
locations inland and all over the world. Our country code is 507. Currency: The local currency is the Balboa (equal to the US$) but you will only see coins as the currency used in Panama is the US Dollar. ATM machines are available all over the country. Yes- that’s right-no currency exchange hassles for Americans! Indeed, the US dollar is one of Panama’s great tourist conveniences. This is one country where you don't have to be a mathematical genius to figure out what that meal just cost. ATM & Banks: You will find them everywhere in Supermarkets, Casinos &Malls and will dispense US$5, US$10 & US$20 bills - US$50 and US$100 bills are not widely accepted and will require for you to give your passport.
Language:
the native tong is Spanish
and even though Americans were present in the former
Canal Zone for 100 years the population does not speak it...only in the
upper class.
Pricing:
The tourism industry in Panama is just developing and therefore
prices are reasonable. Panama is the "affordable exotic destination",
meaning it offers exotic, unique and off-the-beaten-path kind of
experiences with no tourist hordes and plenty of pristine nature.
Religion:
most
Panamanians are Roman Catholic. However, due to the great diversity in the
country, there are numerous churches, temples and synagogues all over the
country. There is freedom of religion in Panama.
Economy:
Panama
has a primarily service-based economy. The major services include the
Panama Canal and related maritime services, tourism, residential tourism, a
large international banking centre, the largest free trade zone after Hong
Kong and the growing tourism industry. Bananas, shrimps and coffee
are the major agricultural exports. Its practical aspect: in no other country could you be in the pacific and after an hour drive reach the Atlantic. Major attractions are at short distance from Panama city giving the opportunity to be based in the capital, enjoy daily tours and take advantage of it’s night life…dancing away to the rhythm of salsa & merengue!!!! The diversification of Panama City: Its prime location with an excellent infrastructure, together with its world-class services, makes it the meeting and incentive capital of the Americas. Panama binds three cities in one: the modern with its tall skyline of modern office buildings and hotels also known as the “Small Miami ”, the old historic part known as the “Panama La Vieja” with its ruins and the “Casco Viejo”, the colonial side (Old City) build by the Spaniards in 1670. This combination gives the city a special and interesting atmosphere. Geographical position: Geography gives Panama one of the world’s most amazing collections of flora and fauna. North and South American animals and vegetation come together in a clash of color and life: a bird watcher’s paradise, a fisherman’s dream and a nature lovers delight . It's an ecological paradise where over 25% of the total surface of the country is protected by 14 national parks that shelters and protects 900 species of birds and nearly 1,200 species of orchid. Pipeline Road, the scene of a world record (350 bird species counted in one day) is scarcely a half an hour from Panama City. In Panama, you can get very close to the best of tropical nature without traveling long distances, giving up your creature comforts or putting yourself in any kind of danger. Panama is also privileged to be home to the Smithsonian Institute of Tropical Research, the world's primary tropical scientific investigation center, which for 80 years has been cataloging and monitoring this vast ecological heritage. Fun: Few peoples can rival with the fun loving nature of Panamanians! Their love to party is reflected by the wide selection of many top-drawer restaurants, fast food outlets, nightclubs, discos and casinos...something for every taste and pocket. The “action” all takes place in three sectors: the modern district (Marbella-Bella Vista), Casco Viejo and the Amador Causeway. Shopping: Options range from local markets to multi million dollar super malls and luxury goods. Panama is a tax free heaven country with one of the world's largest banking centers with no less than 130 first rate international banks and is home to some of the top companies in the world ( Federal Express, DHL, Sears, Price Costo, Bell South…), retaining the Colon free Zone, the second largest free trade zone in the world after Hong Kong!
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