A speck of isthmus in the wide aquamarine blue of the Caribbean Sea and the azure depths of the Pacific Ocean is a country of wonders and rich culture. A narrow strip of land connecting the Americas, Panama is an idyllic destination with an incredible amount to offer. The country boasts numerous tourist attractions, a rich natural landscape and friendly, welcoming people.
Panama attracts upwards of two million tourists every year, many returning again and again to the oceanic paradise. It’s one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations, and it’s easy to understand why. If you’re planning a trip to Panama for your next vacation, we’ve put together a guide with everything you need to know. Read on to check it out.
Visit at the Right Time
If you want to enjoy the bright sunshine and clear waters of Panama, then the best time to visit the country would be after December. Generally, December to March/April offers the perfect weather conditions for a vacation. In addition, visiting at this time means you’ll have the chance to enjoy the country’s Christmas and Easter celebrations.
However, if you are on a tighter budget, visiting over the Christmas period may be a little too expensive. The rainy season of May to early December is much quieter, and prices drop as a result. This could be a better option if you’re looking for a more affordable trip.
Whenever you visit, keep in mind that it can be a long flight, especially if you’re travelling from Europe. Click here to check out live baccarat, the perfect entertainment for a long journey!
Verify your Visa
According to the Panama Immigration Decree, citizens of the US, Canada, Australia, South Korea, Japan, and the UK can travel to Panama without visas.
However, if you are not from one of the aforementioned countries, you’ll need to secure a visa from the Panamanian Consulate before traveling to the country. You will also be required to have a $500 minimum to have your visa confirmed. Any amount below $500 will not be considered.
Make Sure You Have the Right Currency
Panama has a flexible currency system. The country has a native local currency, but US dollars are also widely accepted. The Panamanian Balboa (PAB) is used by the citizens but tourists often use US dollars for ease and convenience.
If you’re travelling from America you’ll be fine to use dollars, but if you’re coming from Europe you’ll have to exchange your currency for dollars or PAB.
Panama is still a cash-focused society, so options for online payments may be limited or unavailable. For this reason, it’s important to always keep cash on hand, especially for taxis, hotels, and restaurants.
Research Tourist Attractions before Visiting
There are plenty of places to visit in Panama. The country is home to UNESCO World Heritage Sites and also the famous Panama City and Panama Canal. Being the heart of Central America, Panama flaunts jewel-toned oceans and seas along with lush wildlife and stunning highlands.
With the sheer volume of options available to you, sometimes it can be hard to make a decision. To help you out, we’ve put together a list of some of the top attractions. Add some of these to your itinerary for the perfect Panama vacation!
- Panama City – The buzzing capital of Panama is ideal for new tourists who want to experience the essence of the Panama lifestyle. The capital is glamorous and chic, similar to any other metropolis. The historic old town of Casco Viejo is an unmissable stop!
- Panama Canal – The meeting point of the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans is one of Panama’s most iconic locations, the Panama Canal. The area is home to numerous tourist spots like Gatun Lake, Biomuseo, Miraflores Visitor Center, and more.
- Bocas del Toro – If you’re looking for a vacation adventure, a visit to the city of Bocas del Toro should be at the top of your list. Here, you can enjoy fantastic nightlife, festivals and parties, as well as activities such as snorkeling, island hopping ,and fishing.
- Boquete – For a quiet, solitary experience away from the bustling beaches, the highlands of Boquete are perfect. This area offers lush green meadows and picturesque views away, perfect for if you’re looking for the chance to unwind and take things slow.
- Portobelo – Portobelo is a serene city rooted in history, with a number of fascinating historic sites to explore. The city is also known for its rich art and music scenes, perfect for all you culture lovers!
Wherever you decide to visit on your vacation in Panama, make sure to sample some of the local cuisine. The food in this country is second to none and makes use of everything from delicious local fruits to fresh seafood. Try out classic Panamanian dishes such as Sancocho, Ceviche, and roasted cobia fish!
Practice Your Spanish
While the official language in Panama is Spanish, many people also speak English, especially in more urban areas. However, if you want to impress the locals, you should practice some Spanish ahead of your trip.
Perfect your buenas, gracias, and por favor to surprise any Spanish-speaking Panamians you come across! You don’t have to be fluent, but knowing a few phrases can leave a good impression and show you’ve made an effort.
Practicing your Spanish ahead of your trip to Panama will have practical benefits as well. If you’re traveling in more rural areas, English won’t be widely spoken or understood. This is where knowing some Spanish can come in extremely useful.
Concluding Thoughts
A Panama adventure can give you some of the best memories of your life and your trip can be smooth and hassle-free if you plan properly ahead of time. However, failure to do so can quickly see your dream vacation turn into a holiday from hell.
Before booking your Panama trip, use the guide above to ensure you have everything you need. Choose the right time to visit, make sure you have a visa if necessary, get the right currency, plan your schedule, and practice your Spanish before you go!