Information

Population- Approximately 3.3 million

Background- Panama was explored and settled by the Spanish during the 16th century (partly by Christopher Colombus), and was a part of Colombia until, backed by the U.S., Panama seceeded from Colombia in 1903 and promptly signed a treaty with the U.S. allowing for the construction and the canal and U.S. sovereignty in the area surround the canal (The Panama Canal Zone). The U.S. continued to control the canal until 1999 when remaining U.S. military bases where transferred to Panama and control was given back to the Panamanian government.

Time Zone- Panama falls under Eastern Standard time zone, but does not follow daylight savings, so in the summer months the country falls under Central Time zone.

Language- Spanish. Like the rest of Latin America, almost all Panamanians speak Spanish, though you will also hear a smattering of indigenous languages (like Kuna in the San Blas Islands). If you don’t speak Spanish, you can get by with a few useful phrases like Donde estan los banos, No hablo espanol and una cervesa, por favor. If you don’t speak any Spanish, pick up a phrase book and you should be able to get by ok.

Currency-Panama uses the United States dollar as currency. This makes it easy for travelers from the U.S., who don’t have to worry about conversions or exchanging money. Panama does produce their own coins (balboas), but they are the same size and shape as U.S. coins and can be used interchangeably with U.S. coins.

Banks and ATMs-Banks are ATMs are easy to come by in towns of any substantial size, but travelers going to smaller or more remote locations should definitely plan on getting enough cash out for their stay there. Towns like Santa Catalina on the Pacific coast and others have no ATMs and cards are never accepted at the local establishments. Avoid a bus ride back into the big city and get enough cash out before you head out to these smaller, less traveled towns. Credit cards are accepted at some locations in the bigger towns and cities, but not enough places accept cards to justify not always carrying cash. In Panama, cash is the easiest medium to deal in, so make sure you always have some on you.

Electricity-Panama uses 120V, 60 Hz, which is the same as the U.S. and has standard U.S. two and three prong outlets.

Internet Access- Internet access is easily and found and accessed in Panama City. Other towns and cities of decent size, or that see a fair number of tourists, will also have an internet cafe or two. However, don’t count on a fast or always working connection and/or computer. Also, places like San Blas and other more remote towns do not have internet access, so keep in mind that it will not be a reliable means of communication in all parts of the country.

Phones and Cell Phones- Much like internet access, phone access is very good in the larger cities and more patchy in the smaller towns and remote areas. Most hotels and hostels will have access to a land line telephone. International phone cards, which can be found at most grocery and convenient stores, are the cheapest and easiest way to make calls home. For US$5, you’ll have about 2 hours of international talk time. There is relatively patchy, yet semi consistent cell phone service for certain carriers throughout Panama. AT&T definitely works, Verizon definitely doesn’t. Check with your service provider before leaving about coverage and international rates.

Weather- Panama has a tropical and humid climate throughout most of the country, with daily temperatures averaging around 85 degrees F the entire year. Cooler temperatures, ranging from 50-70 degrees F depending on elevation, exist in the highlands. There is also a dry season, which typical runs December-April, and a wet season during the remainder of the year. However, the Caribbean coast line can deviate from this standard rainy season. September and October tend to be the rainiest months. There is no real differentiation between summer and winter, and daylight remains almost constant throughout the year.

Passports, Visas and Entrance Requirements-You must have a current passport to enter Panama. A five-dollar tourist visa will be issued to you upon going through customs and is good for 90 days. Visas are required for stays of more than 90 days.

Malaria, Vaccinations and Dengue Fever-Malaria does exist in Panama, though it is usually only found in the remote jungle areas of the Darien in the southern portion of the country. Unless you are planning on spending a fair amount of time in this area, malaria medication is definitely not necessary and is not a problem in most areas of the the country. Dengue fever, however, can appear in the developed regions of Panama. It is not super common, but its a good idea to be aware of symptoms in case you get sick. Common symptoms include fever, chills, diarrhea, vomiting, dizziness and sometimes a red patchy rash. If you come down with any of these symptoms, see a doctor.

Bugs Other Pesky Creatures- Being a tropical country, Panama is host to its fair share of bugs. Mosquitoes (which can carry dengue fever and malaria) are common throughout the country. Bring a good bug spray and don’t be afraid to use it liberally. I called it “Panamanian Perfume” and tended to put it on every time I got dressed for the day. Along the Caribbean coast, especially in Bocas, you will find chitres or sand flies on the beaches, which will kindly leave you with itchy bites. Avoid being out at the beach at dusk and again, don’t be afraid of that bug spray!

To Drink or Not to Drink? Panamanian Water-Unlike in other Central American countries, you can actually drink water from the tap in many areas of Panama. Panama City and Boquete are for sure safe bets. Be more aware of the water on any island or in remote areas. The moto should usually be, if in doubt, buy bottled water or filter the water before drinking. Nobody wants to spend part of their trip on the toilet. That said, however, save a few bucks and drink up in Panama City.