Panama Travel

Travel FAQ

What time is it? Panama does not observe daylight savings time so for half the year you observe the same time as it is on the East Coast of the United States ... during daylight savings, the country is an hour behind the East Coast.

What language do the people speak? Officially Spanish is the language of Panama, but with so much United States influence for more than 100 years, you’ll find English spoken nearly everywhere, especially in the major cities. The further out in the country you go, the more Spanish or local Indian dialects you’re apt to hear. Usually tour guides and taxi drivers will speak English, and of course, the hotels, resorts, dive and fishing operations will always have someone on staff who is English speaking.

What money does Panama use? The legal currency since 1904 is the United States dollar which is locally called the Balboa. Panama no longer prints paper money and her coins (called centavos) are equivalent in value to US coins and are interchangeable. Be sure to carry some small bills for tipping which usually runs about 10% if not already included ... and definitely put aside $20 for the international departure tax.

Do I need a visa? Probably not if you’re traveling from Canada, the United States or Europe -- outside of these areas, please check with your local Panamanian consulate. But you will need a tourist card which your airline will supply for $5.00, along with your passport. You can travel here for 30 days on your tourist card, and easily extend it for an additional 60 days through the Immigration office.

Can I drink the water? When in Panama City, you can drink straight from the tap -- the water quality is excellent. Other areas are usually very good too but if there’s any question, use bottled water to be extra safe. Most hotels and resorts will advise you of the quality of their tap water.

Do I need to take any medical precautions? No, unless you’re planning a visit to the heavily jungled province of Darien along the border with Colombia which isn’t advised any way. Elsewhere, no vaccines or pills are necessary. Mosquito control is pretty effective in the country but it’s always wise to travel with some sort of repellant especially if you plan to be outside at sun down, go on a jungle trek, or go hiking in low-lying areas. You won’t need anything in Panama City. Do remember, however, that you’re in a tropical climate where the sun can be very hot so please pack sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses.

What about medical facilities? Medical care is first rate and very reasonably priced in Panama City where most doctors speak English and many were US trained. Even in outlying areas, you’ll find that doctors are very professional, well trained and probably speak English ... the only difference is their equipment isn’t as high tech as in Panama City.

Am I safe traveling in Panama? The well known Pinkerton Intelligence Agency has given Panama its highest ranking for tourist safety -- the same given to the United States. Having said this, you should always take care wherever you are when traveling, meaning don’t leave your wallet unattended in your hotel room, or your camera lying around on the beach. Reports of pickpockets or purse snatchings are almost unheard of but given that a certain number of any population is always dishonest, why test fate? Just take the same precautions as you would at home and you’ll be fine.

Is the government stable? Yes. Panama is a democratic and independent republic with a publicly elected President and two Vice Presidents. The past U.S. presence has guaranteed a stability in the country that is one of the highest in Latin America. Since the transfer of the Canal in 1999, big business and banking continue to frequent Panama making for a secure government profile. You’ll see branches of Chase Manhattan, HSBC, Republic, Scotiabank, Dresdner and other familiar international banking brands. Price Smart/Costco, Federal Express, DHL, Marriott, Holiday Inn, Sheraton, Continental, American and Delta all have offices here. Get a taste for fast food, and you’ll find MacDonalds, KFC, Pizza Hut, Dominos, TGIF, even Dunkin Donuts.

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