- Climate:
Panama's climate is pleasantly
tropical, and temperatures are practically uniform the year around, from
73 to 83 degrees fahrenheit in costal areas. Nights are generally cool.
In the highlands, temperatures range from 52 to 65 degrees fahrenheit.
There are two seasons — rainy and dry. The rainy season begins in April
and ends in December. During the rainy season you can expect a shower about
once a day with an occasional all day rain. Panama averages 65 inches of
rain annually in the Pacific area and 120 inches on the Atlantic side of
the isthmus. During the dry season the trade winds blow steadily.
- With over 900 species of birds,
more species of mammals
and amphibians than any other Central American country, over 10,000 species
of plants and more than 1,350 species of endemic plants and animals, Panama
has one of the richest tropical environments on earth. It's landmass encompasses
a dozen life zones including two of the largest tracts of primary forest
standing in Central America. Nearly 14.5% of the total land mass is protected
by the Institute of Natural Resources in 26 separate reserves and refuges.
- Language:
The official language is Spanish.
In the principal cities, many people also speak or understand English.
Minority groups speak Italian, French, German, Chinese and Hindustani.
- Currency:
Panama's monetary unit is called the Balboa and is equal to our dollar. In fact American paper bills are used. One dollar is referred to a Balboa. Coins are identical in shape, size, weight and value to ours but are printed with a bust of Balboa and the penny with a bust of Uracá, a legendary Indian folk hero. American and Panamanian money is completely interchangeable with American Money.
- Water:
Panama's water is the purest in the
world and in the major cities it can be drunk from the tap. Sanitation
standards in restaurants are also high. Milk is pasturized.
- Medical Services:
Medical services are excellent
and include some renowned specialists. Many doctors are internationally
trained and most speak English.
- Entry Regulations:
Depending on your citizenship,
you must have a valid passport with either a visa or tourist card. If entitled
to a tourist card, your airline or the consul can supply you one at a cost
of $5.00.
- Credit Cards:
Major credit cards are accepted
throughout Panama City.
- Tipping:
10 - 15% - Porters and bell boys receive $1 per bag. Guides should be tipped at your discretion.
- Telephones, cable, and internet service:
Excellent international
telephone and internet service. Most hotels have cable TV with U.S. news programing and movie channels..
- Time:
Eastern Standard (Central Standard
during our daylight savings time)
The Panama Canal
