You can get almost anywhere by bus, but if your time is limited take advantage of regional airlines like Aeroperlas to save yourself a few days of travel time.
Rainy day
Even during the dry season it’s not a bad idea to pack waterproof shoes and a rain coat. There’s always a chance of a light sprinkle.
Land-sea combo
Consider a cruise. Panama City and the Canal are both major cruise ship ports, making it easy to pair a trip to Panama with a trip to the Caribbean, Mexico, or South America.
Come decirlo?
Locals appreciate foreigners who attempt Spanish, but years of U.S. control of the canal has given Panamanians some of the best English skills in Latin America.
Heat wave
Combat scorching temperatures year-round with sun block, breathable clothing, and sandals. Don’t forget to drink lots of water to avoid dehydration.
Panamanian time
Expect tardiness – it’s not uncommon for guests or tour guides to show up thirty minutes to an hour late. The bus is also far from on time and "two-hour" tours frequently take four hours.
Small change
Although credit cards and $20 bills are standard use in Panama City, unless you have small change, your scratch may be worthless in the provinces.
Currency
The Balboa is the Panamanian Dollar, but it hasn’t been printed since 1941 when the country started using the US dollar. They still mint their own coins, but they are used interchangeably with their U.S. equivalents.
Carnaval
Tens of thousands of people crowd the streets at key parties around the country during Carnaval. Try Panama City for reggaetón, parades, and heavy drinking. For a traditional Catholic fest, visit Las Tablas.
Baseball
In January, when the last vestiges of the rain season have disappeared, baseball games occur throughout the country. Grab a seat, a dog, and enjoy.
Traditional cuisine
Ropa Vieja, one of Panama’s most traditional dishes, is shredded flank steak served with rice in a tomato-based sauce.
Museum of biodiversity
The Frank O. Gehry designed Bridge of Life (aka Museum of Biodiversity) will become a window into Panama’s rich natural life when it opens steps from the canal at the end of 2008.
Devilish entertainment
Portobelo’s “Diablos and Congos” Festival in late February is a landmark festival of Panama’s Cimarrones - West African slaves who ran into the bush to set up new villages - and features congo dancing, devil costumes, and cultural workshops.
Duty-free
All of Panama isn’t duty free, but certain areas are, including the Tocumen airport, the area around the city of Colon, and cruise ship terminals.
Electronic steals
People flock to Panama from around Latin America to purchase electronics and jewelry, which tend to be less expensive than other countries, including North America. Tocumen airport is a virtual car-stereo warehouse.
Molas
Complex reverse appliqué embroidery called molas are hand-stitched by Kuna women, and are among the country’s most memorable crafts. Find them in artisan markets throughout Panama.
