Planning Your Trip to Panama – Find here Travel and Tourism Information About Panama
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ITS has assembled Basic Information about Panama. We have Travel Information divided into several sections for easier viewing.
These sections are: About, Cuisine, History, Culture, Weather, Natural Aspects and Travel Tips.
Panama Travel and Tourism Information
Panama is the best kept secret of the Americas. Located between the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean, the visitor can swim on one coast, and then dive on the other – reveling in both oceans which are only separated in some places by eighty kilometers. Those who have not visited Panama have no idea of all that this country has to offer: eco-tourism, guided tours, beautiful islands and beaches, fascinating historical and archeological sites, and for the adventuresome, opportunities to practice your favorite sports. The most biologically diverse country in the western hemisphere, Panama has hundreds of species of plants and animals just waiting to be discovered.
Although a very small country, Panama is extremely cosmopolitan. Not only does it connect Central to South America, it is also home to the Panama Canal. Linking the Atlantic to the Pacific, the 82 km canal is a great engineering feat which slices across the Panamanian Isthmus.
Panama is a place to learn new things whether it is searching for new adventures or just relaxing on the beaches and enjoying the sun and crystal clear waters. The cultural diversity of the population is shown through the markets, shops, and local architecture, a mixture of the ancient Spanish and modern American with oriental touches.
Here, you can also appreciate the waterfalls and rivers that are part of the local scenery. For those who love hiking and trekking, in addition to mountains, they can explore coral reefs which hide many exotic sea creatures.
Information About Panama Cuisine
Information About Panama History
Information About Panama Culture
Information About Panama Weather
Information About Panama Natural Aspects
Information About Panama Travel Tips
- Consular Travel Visa – To enter the country, you must have an up-to-date passport, visa, or tourist ID. The tourist ID’s are given to you when you enter the country and are valid for 179 days; they can be renewed for up to 2 additional months.
- It is not necessary to have a visa to enter the country for stays that are less than 180 days
- There is an exit tax when you leave the country of US$20.00
- The national currency is the Balboa. It is a good idea to check the exchange rate before you travel.
- Water: In general, the water is safe, however it would be wise to drinkonly bottled mineral water. When you leave the large cities and go to smaller towns, be careful; for your own safety, we recommend that you only drink bottled water. As in all countries, the hygiene and cleaning of food depends on the establishment you are in. In general, serious problems do not exist.
- It is not necessary to take any vaccines to visit this country, though it is recommended to take anti-malaria pills.
- In Panama the regular tip varies from 10%-15%. This is usually charged on your bill in hotels and restaurants.
- In hotels, there is a 10% tax per day.
- The official language is Spanish. English is also spoken in the major cities. There are minority groups that speak French, Italian, Chinese, and Greek among others.
- The main religion is Catholicism.
- Electricity is 120 volts at 60 Hz and 220 volts at 60 Hz. Plugs are the same as the ones used in the USA.
- It is recommended that you take light clothing, a jacket for the evening, comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
- Regulations and requirements are subject to change without prior notice. It is wise to have a check-up with your doctor before you leave on your trip.
- Be on the alert for thieves who prey on unsuspecting tourists. Do not take unnecessary risks.
- The main airlines in the country are: Aeroperlas, Alas Chirinacas, Ansa, Chitreana, Parsa, and Transpasa.