Panama

Panama has a tropical climate with two main seasons:

• December–April (Dry Season): Best for beaches, outdoor activities, and sightseeing.
• May–November (Rainy Season): Fewer tourists, lush landscapes, and great surfing.
• Year-Round: Panama City and the Canal are great to visit any time of the year.

• Panama Canal & Miraflores Locks – One of the greatest engineering marvels in the world.
• Casco Viejo (Old Town) – A UNESCO-listed historic district filled with colonial architecture, restaurants, and nightlife.
• San Blas Islands – A stunning archipelago home to the indigenous Guna people, perfect for island-hopping.
• Bocas del Toro – A Caribbean paradise with crystal-clear waters, beaches, and marine life.
• Boquete – A mountain town famous for coffee farms, waterfalls, and cloud forest hikes.
• El Valle de Antón – A volcanic crater town with hot springs, waterfalls, and great hiking.
• Pearl Islands – A remote island group known for luxury resorts, white-sand beaches, and whale watching.
• Coiba National Park – A UNESCO-listed marine reserve perfect for diving and snorkeling.
• Amador Causeway – A scenic waterfront area with great restaurants, biking, and city views.
• Emberá Indigenous Villages – A chance to visit native communities and learn about traditional ways of life.

• Sancocho – A hearty chicken soup with corn, yuca, and herbs.
• Ceviche – Fresh marinated seafood, often served with plantain chips.
• Ropa Vieja – Shredded beef in a tomato-based sauce, served with rice and beans.
• Patacones – Fried green plantain slices, served as a side dish or snack.
• Carimañolas – Yuca fritters stuffed with meat or cheese.
• Hojaldres – Panamanian fried bread, similar to beignets.
• Tamal de Olla – A Panamanian-style tamale cooked in a pot instead of wrapped in a leaf.
• Chicheme – A sweet corn and milk drink, popular on hot days.
• Panamanian Coffee – Some of the best coffee in the world, especially Geisha coffee from Boquete.

• Domestic Flights: The fastest way to reach remote islands like Bocas del Toro or the Pearl Islands.
• Metro & Public Buses: Panama City has a modern metro and an extensive bus system.
• Taxis & Ride-Sharing: Uber and Cabify operate in Panama City and other urban areas.
• Car Rentals: Best for exploring mountain towns like Boquete, but not necessary in cities.
• Boats & Ferries: Required for San Blas, Bocas del Toro, and Coiba National Park.
• Walking & Biking: Casco Viejo and the Amador Causeway are pedestrian-friendly.

• No visa required for stays up to 90 days for travelers from the U.S., Canada, U.K., EU, Australia, and many other countries.
• Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date.
• A return or onward ticket is required upon entry.

• Currency: Panama uses the U.S. Dollar (USD) and the Panamanian Balboa (PAB), but USD is the main currency.
• Credit cards are widely accepted, but cash is needed for small businesses and remote areas.
• ATMs are available, but bring small bills, as change can be difficult to get.

• Spanish is the official language.
• English is widely spoken in tourist areas, especially Panama City and Bocas del Toro.
• Common Spanish words to know:
  • Hola! – Hello
  • Gracias – Thank you
  • ¿Cuánto cuesta? – How much does it cost?
  • Baño – Bathroom

• Greetings are warm, often with a handshake or a light kiss on the cheek.
• Panamanians are polite and appreciate respectful behavior.
• Tipping is common in restaurants and for service providers.
• Avoid discussing politics, as it can be a sensitive topic.
• Follow eco-tourism guidelines in national parks and indigenous areas.

• Restaurants: A 10% tip is standard unless already included in the bill.
• Taxis: No tip required, but rounding up is common.
• Hotels & Tour Guides: A small tip for excellent service is recommended.

• For peak season (December–April): Book 6–12 months in advance for flights and hotels.
• For off-season (May–November): Book 2–3 months ahead for better deals.
• For popular experiences (San Blas tours, Panama Canal cruises, Bocas del Toro resorts): Book at least a month in advance.

• COVID-19 restrictions have been lifted, but always check for updates before traveling.
• Some national parks require permits—check in advance for hiking or wildlife tours.
• Drinking tap water is safe in Panama City, but bottled water is recommended in rural areas.

Contact us at 281-229-0862 or admin@pointmetoparadise.com