Panama, located on the coast of both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, is a country in Central America bordering Colombia and Costa Rica. It is situated on the isthmus that creates the land bridge connecting North and South America, and thus is called the “crossroads of the Americas”. It also controls the Panama Canal, which connects the Pacific and Atlantic Ocean through the Caribbean Sea. Panama is emerging as a very attractive tourist destination, thanks in large part to its diversity. It also has modern roads, hospitals, and airports, and is more developed than other Central American countries.

Getting Around

Stunning view of Panama City by the sunset.

Buses are a popular means of transportation in Panama. There are two types: highway buses and city buses. Highway buses make trips from terminals in Panama City to various places on the Pan American Highway. They cost about $1 American per hour traveled. To get on the bus, stand on the side of the road, and hold your arm out while making a pointing motion to the ground to get the driver to stop. To get off, either tell the driver in advance, or yell “parada!” to stop the bus. The other option, city buses, tends to be crowded and does not have air conditioning. They cost 25 cents, and can be fun, but be aware of potential danger from both the driving and possible criminals. The road system in Panama is in very good condition, so either taxis or renting a car can be another way to get around. For taxis, be sure to negotiate the fare beforehand. If you do rent a car, you will be able to reach some destinations that which cannot be accessed by public transportation. At rush hours there are dreadful traffic jams, however, as well as very few street signs and a lack of traffic lights, making driving somewhat of a dangerous venture.

Things to See & Do

Panama la vieja cathedral

The strongest attraction in Panama is its diversity. In a week, you can visit historic ruins, beaches, see mountains, and enjoy the modern city. There are four things that are absolute musts: the first is the Panama Canal. The are several ways to experience the canal; you can tour one of the two museums devoted to it, which demonstrate the technical aspects of the Canal; you can cross it, which takes four hours total; or you can travel the length of the canal by train, which also takes you through the jungle. Second, be sure to tour Panama Viejo, the first city of Panama. It was colonized by the Spanish in 1519, and has been attacked by pirates numerous times. It is a beautiful historical site. Next, to see the diversity of Panamanian society, travel to Casco Antiguo, Panama City’s second biggest tourist destination. Lastly, be sure to tour the jungles surrounding the Canal area. Other things to do include: hiking the Quetzal Trail, horseback riding, scuba diving, rock climbing, and white water rafting.

Idyllic house

Food & Drink

Gatun Locks 2

In the larger cities there are all types of food, including Italian, Chinese, Indian, and Mexican. It comes down to whatever you are in the mood for. Outside of these cities, however, the food options are largely Panamanian, which typically means beef and seafood. Most dishes are served with coconut rice and squash, and cost somewhere from $1.25 to $5. Be sure to check out the “Fondas”, which are extremely popular. Located in industrial areas as well as near stadiums and schools, Fondas offer a quick and cheap lunch, which includes rice and beans with chicken and salad. For drink options, there are a few national beers to choose from, but they are nowhere near as good as the import choices. Beers are relatively cheap, as one 12 oz. can costs as low as 30 cents. The national liquor is Seco, a raw white rum. For other rum choices, Ron Abuelo and Carta Vieja are two classic domestic options.