Why visit Panama?
Panama…Convergence of the world, species and indigenous people
Panama, privileged with a unique geographic position is the bridge that connects two continents and the passage between the two oceans, chosen by history to play an important role at the time of the European colonization of America.
Columbus first visited Panama in 1502 and since that colonial period the isthmus of Panama have been of singular interest, here is the famous “Camino de Cruces” name given to the road that was used to transport gold and other treasures, from the Pacific to the Atlantic oceans in order to send them to Europe, becoming at same time a favorite target for pirates like legendary Henry Morgan.
Now a day is a city of modern skyscrapers, and one of the most important financial centers of the continent, with great nightlife and a vast supply of gastronomic options with restaurants for all taste and budgets.
Facts about Panama
Population
The population of the country is close to 4.4 million people of diverse origins: Spanish descendants, blacks, Indians, immigrants from North America, Europe, Asia, East India and other countries. Panama is truly a melting pot of races. Nearly 49% of the population lives in urban areas. Panama City has an estimated population of nearly one million. Density is of 30.8 persons per square kilometer. There are 7 indigenous groups in Panama: Kunas in the San Blas Islands on the Caribbean; Embera & Wounaan; in the province of Darien; Ngobe Bugle in the provinces of Chiriqui, Bocas del Toro & Veraguas; and Teribes & Bokotas in Bocas del Toro province.
Money
Since 1904, the United States dollar has been the legal currency in Panama. Balboa, the Panamanian monetary unit, is par valued with the dollar.
Customs and VISA Requirements
Most European countries, United States and Canada citizens need only a valid passport to enter Panama as tourist, however, this can change. Check with your home embassy for the current requirements before traveling.
Religion
Most Panamanians are Roman Catholic. However, due to the great diversity in the country, there are numerous churches, temples and synagogues all over the country. There is freedom of religion in Panama.
Language
Although the official language in Panama is Spanish, English is widely spoken and understood in the major cities.
Climate
The country enjoys an agreeable tropical climate and an average daytime temperature of 80 degrees Fahrenheit, with cooling in the evenings. The average humidity is 70%. The rainy season goes from May to December. Throughout the dry season, trade winds keep the air continuously cool. In the mountains, the average temperature is between 50 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit.
Electricity and Public Services
The current is 110w – 60hz and 220w. Telephone and international cable services in Panama are excellent. We have a direct-dial system to locations inland and all over the world. Our country code is 507.
Health/Water
No vaccines or pills are necessary prior to visiting our country. Remember, the tropical sun can be strong; so it’s wise to take protective sunglasses and sunscreen with you. Although Panama is indeed a tropical country, mosquito control is effective.
Time Zone
Panama time is the same as the United States Eastern Standard Time (GMT -5).
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