Q: Where is Panama? Panama FAQ Answer:
Panama is located between Central and South America. See Panama
Maps.
It covers 75,517 sq. km (29,208 sq. miles), and is somewhat smaller than the
state of South Carolina.
Panama is between 50 and 120 miles wide (89 and 192 km) and is bordered by
1,287.7 km (805 miles) of Caribbean coastline
and 1,700.6 km (1,062.8 miles) of Pacific coastline. Return to top
Q: What language they speak in Panama? Panama FAQ Answer:
Spanish is the official language. English is widely spoken in the
business, banking, retail and international communities, in tourist oriented
activities
and in both the cities of Panama and Colon. Return to top
Q: What currency they use in Panama? Panama FAQ Answer:
The currency is "Balboa" which has the same value as the US dollar.
The US dollar is legal tender in Panama, which doesn't print bank notes but
only mints its own coins. Coinage is either Panamanian or the US equivalent
in 50¢, 25¢,
10¢, 5¢ and 1¢.
Credit cards and travelers checks are widely accepted. Return to top
Q: Does Panama have Beaches and Islands? Panama FAQ Answer:
Panama has two coasts, Caribbean and Pacific and more than
a thousand islands with a wide selection for you to choose from
consisting of exotic islands and retreats with full service Beach resorts.
Snorkeling, diving, fishing, surfing, and swimming are all popular pursuits. Return to top
Q: Is Panama safe? Panama FAQ Answer:
Panama is a very safe place. However at night try to avoid some peripheral areas
and parks. When using public transportation as buses or taxis, mind your
personal effects, pick pocketing is a particular concern for travelers. Don't
wear expensive jewelry, don't carry large amounts of cash. Your safety and
security are relative to, and are dependent upon your individual actions and
decisions. In case of emergency dial "104", National Police free line.
From time to time, there may be demonstrations or other manifestations of
anti-American sentiment by small but vociferous groups. While there is no
evidence that U.S. citizens or tourists might be targeted
(most demonstrations relate to labor disputes or other local issues)
and while such protests are typically non-violent, it is nonetheless a good
security practice to avoid demonstrations.
The area of Darien Province between Yaviza and the Colombian border along the
upper Tuira River is unsafe due to the presence of drug smugglers, bandits
and Colombian guerrillas and paramilitary forces. However, the vast majority
of Darien National Park is relatively safe, though it is advisable to visit
the park with a guide due to the inherent risks of travel in remote jungle
with ill-defined trails. Other areas are generally very safe. Return to top
Q: What is Panama time zone? Panama FAQ Answer:
Panama is in the Eastern Standard Time Zone (EST),
five hours behind GMT. Daylight saving time is not observed. Return to top
Q:
When is the best time to
visit Panama? Panama FAQ Answer:
There are two seasons in Panama.
The dry season (Panama's tourist season) lasts from January to mid-April and
the rainy season from mid-April to December. Rainfall is heavier on the
Caribbean side of the highlands, but most people live on or near the Pacific
coast. Temperatures are typically hot in the lowlands (between 70F and 90F)
and cool in the mountains (between 50F-64F).
The weather can be hot and steamy in the lowlands during the rainy season,
when the humidity makes the heat more oppressive. Rain in Panama comes in
sudden short downpours that freshen the air and are followed by sunshine. The
dry season is the most comfortable time for hiking. The Darién Gap can be
crossed only at that time. Return to top
Q:
What about Panama government?
Panama is Democratic Independent Republic.
Panama's politics takes place in a framework of a presidential representative
democratic republic, whereby the President of Panama is both head of state
and head of government, and of a pluriform multi-party system. Executive
power is exercised by the government. Legislative power is vested in both the
government and the National Assembly. The judiciary is independent of the
executive and the legislature.
In Central America, it is the second most industrialized country, behind El
Salvador, Panama is also the 3rd largest economy in Central America, after
Guatemala and Costa Rica and has the largest expenditure on resource
consumption, making the country the largest consumer in Central America. Return to top
Q:
What to Wear in Panama? Panama FAQ Answer:
Shorts, t-shirts, and sandals year round. In Panama mountains you may need
a light jacket and sweater. During the rainy season it is still warm but you
should pack an umbrella or poncho.
Here are some recommendations of what to pack:
- Sunglasses
- Swimsuit
- Beach towel
- A hat
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellant
- Light raincoat and/or umbrella
- Sweater/light jacket
- Long Pants: evenings can be cooler in some parts of Panama
- Clothing comfortable for hiking, touring, etc. (70-90 degree weather)
- Hiking shoes - Day pack (fanny or backpack)
- Your Passport
- Driver's license
- Credit card or traveler's checks
- English/Spanish dictionary
-
Panama Map and Guidebook
- Drugstore items (toothpaste, soap, lotion, razor, etc.)
- Sandals
- Camera and film Return to top
Q:
Do I
need a converter/ adaptor for the electricity in Panama? Panama FAQ Answer:
The standard in Panama is the same as in the United States or Canad
110 volts AC (60 cycles). Sometimes there are unpredictable variations with
some sockets that are 220 volts. Ask the hotel before plugging in your
devices. Plugs are typically the 2 pronged flat type, three-pronged outlets
can be scarce, so it's helpful to bring along an adapter. Return to top
Q:
What is entry and
exit requirements for Panama? Panama FAQ Answer:
US and Canadian citizens only need a valid passport and a tourist
card. Tourist cards are the most common entry document for short stays
(valid for 30 days). Cards may be purchased in advance from your travel agent
or airline, or upon arrival at a land border or at Tocumen International
Airport in Panama City. Travellers can request an extension to their tourist
card prior to the expiry date (maximum additional 30 days), however the
Migration authorities of Panama may refuse the request.
Citizens of other countries should consult with the Panamanian consulate or
embassy in their home country to obtain the latest information on entry
requirements. In some cases, no tourist card is necessary and in other cases,
you will need a visa.
A valid
Canadian passport is
required for Canadians intending to visit Panama. The passport must be valid
for at least six months beyond the date of your expected departure from the
country. Canadians must also be in possession of a tourist card.
Tourist Card: Required (available upon arrival)
Business Vis Required
Student Vis Required
Visitors to Panama are required to have the equivalent of US$500 or a credit
card, plus a return or onward ticket.
A US$20 airport tax (cash only) is charged upon departure. Return to top
Q: What is
Panama Religion? Panama FAQ Answer:
Freedom of religion is constitutionally guaranteed although the prominence
of Roman Catholicism is officially recognized. Return to top
