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A Guna indigenous boat on it's way to a Guna Yala island. Lonely Planet calls these 365 islands the #3 “tropical paradise” in the world.
23rd EDITION . January. 2014 Publisher & Editor-in Chief Nancy Hanna Editor Regis Hanna Jr. General Coordination Kira Morelos Salt+Pepper Inc. Graphic Design Julie Paredes Sánchez Salt+Pepper Inc. PrePress Eder Martes Salt+Pepper Inc. Photos ATP and contributors Special thanks to our clients and sponsors FIRST PRIZE The Panama Planner won first prize in the category of Best Tourism Guide from the prestigious Colombian Association of Graphic Arts Industries. The Panama Planner is a project of The Panama Planner S.A. CONTACT US Tel: +507. 399.0609 panamaplanner@panamainfo.com
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written consent of the Panama Planner. BUY IT Arrocha and Gran Morrison FIND IT Top hotels rooms
07. PANAMA CITY WHY PANAMA WHAT TO DO AND SEE NIGHTLIFE DAY TRIPS 22. PANAMA FOR BUSINESS 26. BEACHES PANAMA'S RIvIERA PEDASI BOCAS DEL TORO SAN BLAS ISLANDS PORTOBELO PEARL ISLANDS SPORTFISHING SURFING 42. HIGHLANDS AND MOUNTAINS BOQUETE vOLCAN EL vALLE DE ANTON NATURE ADvENTURE ECOTOURISM 52.PANAMA’S BIODIVERSITY 56. INDIGENOUS CULTURES HANDICRAFTS
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60. PANAMA MAP 62. CASCO VIEJO MAP 63. HISTORICAL SITES PANAMA CANAL CASCO vIEJO 66. GOLF 68. THE ADVANTAGES OF LIVING IN PANAMA 71. PANAMA CITY NEIGHBORHOODS RETIREMENT LIvING 73. MEDICAL TOURISM 76. RESORT COMMUNITIES 78. BUSINESS SERVICES 80. RESTAURANTS PICKS 82. RESTAURANT GUIDE 84. GENERAL INFO TOP TOUR OPERATORS
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RIcARDO MARTInELLI: PRESIDEnT OF PAnAMA businessman. Using free market solutions and populist programs, his goal is to make Panama a model for Latin America and the best place to do business in Latin America.
President Martinelli, now entering his fifth and final year of office, comes from the private sector and is one of Panama's most successful
Major projects underway include one with Microsoft to make Panama "paperless:"Panama will join a small number of countries where most government transactions are digitized. Ready by 2013, the system will dramatically speed up transactions and reduce corruption. During his 5 year term which ends in August, $20 billion has been invested in infrastructure and other projects. Central America's first subway solving Panama City's severe traffic problems will open in January 2014. The five billion dollar Panama Canal expansion which will be ready in 2015. Martinelli has a BA from the University of Arkansas and an MBA from the Costa Rica INCAE school of business, affiliated with Harvard University.
FREE HEALTH InSuRAncE FOR TOuRISTS All tourists entering Panama at Tocumen International Airport receive a pamphlet and ID card that entitles them to receive free health and accident insurance for up to 30 days. This includes up to $7,000 for a hospital stay and $40,000 for emergency transportation. VISIT PAnAMA FOR FREE Those flying on Copa Airlines can stop over in Panama and see the sights for a few days and then continue on to their final destination without any additional costs. Ask Copa or your travel agent. Solomon Shamah I Tourism Minister
EDITORIAL
WELCOMETOPANAMA Panama is fast becoming the business capital of the Americas, an exotic new tourism destination and the preferred place to live for businessmen, investors and retirees in Latin America. Eighty-five international companies including Caterpillar, Dell, Proctor and Gamble, Hewitt Packard, 3M and DHL have all moved their regional headquarters to Panama. A Free Trade Agreement with the USA streamlines business practices and is bringing scores of new businesses to Panama. For tourism, if you are a lover of uncommercialized beaches, mountains, exotic nature, few places fit the bill like Panama. Looking for a place? Panama is the place to retire where your money will go a long way and you’ll live in style and safety, Panama is the place. You can live the good life in a cosmopolitan city, or in a beach or mountain resort community. Panama has a long history as a business and investment crossroads, boasting a financial sector with more than 100 banks, the Panama Canal, the largest free zone in the Americas, a modern infrastructure and of course the US dollar as its currency. If you’re lucky, you just might find yourself doing a bit of everything: tourism, business and living in Panama.
Nancy Hanna Publisher and Editor thepanamaplanner Panamainfo Guide Travel App 06 . www.thepanamaplanner.com
The award winning Panama Planner is designed to be your complete country guide as you get acquainted with this remarkable Central American country. You can also buy our Panamainfo Guide App in the Apple Store to find out more where to stay and what to do and see. Enjoy Panama and come back soon!
why ? panama PANAMA HAS A GREAT VARIETY OF ATTRACTlONS Easy-to-get-to Caribbean-style beaches, exotic tropical rainforests, beautiful mountain refuges, a fun cosmopolitan Miami-style capital city, golf, historical sites, diving, rafting, surfing, sportfishing, not to mention that 8th wonder of the world-The Panama Canal. PANAMA IS SAFE Panama is the safest country for tourists and businessmen in the region. The petty street crimes that hinder tourists in other places are uncommon. PANAMA IS CHEAP Panama is rated the 5th cheapest capital city in the world by a 2012 survey in The Economist. PANAMA IS TOURIST FRIENDLY English is spoken as a second language and Panamanians are among the friendliest people in the world. FREE TRAVEL INSURANCE FOR TOURISTS If you come in through the Tocumen International airport, you will receive a document giving you you FREE travel insurance for 30 days. PANAMA IS A TOP ECOTOURISM DESTINATION Panama has the most accessible pristine rainforests in the world, some just an hour from the international airport. As a narrow land bridge connecting two continents, it has some of the world' s most bio-diverse rainforests. PANAMA HAS A WIDE SELECTION OF BEACH AND ISLAND VENUES With both a Pacific and a Caribbean coast and more than a thousand islands, there is much to choose from for beach vacations, from full service resorts, to exotic island retreats.
PANAMA HAS THE US DOLLAR AS IT’S CURRENCY The dollar is Panama's currency - a great convenience. In Panama there is no need to change money or to puzzle over what that meal just cost.
flights to Panama: Los Angeles, Washington, New York, Newark, Miami, Houston, Atlanta, Fort Lauderdale, Orlando, Dallas, Chicago Boston and Las Vegas. There's also a direct flight from Toronto.
PANAMA HAS A FIRST-WORLD INFRASTRUCTURE Panama has a first-world infrastructure including a US style capital city with high-speed internet, the second largest Free Trade Zone in the world, a banking sector with more than 100 banks, first rate hotels and restaurants. The highway infrastructure, medical care, and business services are excellent. Even the tap water is safe to drink - a rarity in Latin America.
PANAMA IS WORLD CLASS FOR ADVENTURE Surfing, rafting, trekking, rappelling, and kayaking are world-class experiences for both the hard and soft adventure seeker.
PANAMA IS ATTRACTIVE FOR INVESTMENT With the second most competitive economy in Latin America according to the World Economic Forum's 2013-2014 Competitiveness Report, Panama also has foreign investment incentive laws, a simplified tax structure and boasts a 8% GDP growth rate. PANAMA THE BUSINESS CAPITAL OF THE AMERICAS Cosmopolitan Panama City is a popular alternative to Miami as a regional business and meeting hub. Panama's International Airport handled 10 million passengers in 2013. PANAMA IS CONNECTED Panama City has direct flights to 86 cities in the region— more than any other Latin American country. Four international fiber-optic cables run through Panama making it the most connected country in Latin America. PANAMA IS CLOSE As part of Central America, Panama is just a short plane ride away. Thirteen major US cities have direct
PANAMA HAS WORLD CLASS SPORTFISHING, DIVING, SAILlNG AND YACHT FACILITIES One place in Panama, Piñas Bay, holds 250 world fishing records. Out of the hurricane zone and with modern amenities, Panama is also a popular yacht destination. PANAMA HAS NO HURRICANES OR MAJOR EARTHQUAKES Panama is blessed to be the only country in Central America that’s hurricane-free. Panama also has none of the destructive earthquakes that plague its Central American neighbors. Your Panama vacation will never have to be re-scheduled due to natural events. Your property investment will always be safe from these natural disasters. PANAMA: TOP FOR RETIREMENT Panama was recently selected by Forbes, Bloomberg Business Week and International Living magazines as one of the top places in the world for retirement. PANAMA: USA TAX EXEMPT FOR MEETINGS & CONVENTIONS For business meetings and conventions Panama City is a sophisticated, safe City with an unbeatable variety of activities.Your meeting is also IRS tax exempt. www.thepanamaplanner.com . 07
THE PANAMA CANAL A Man, A Plan, A Canal: Panama Rises "Panama is running the Canal at least as efficiently as the United States.", - says a Latin American specialist at the American Enterprise Institute in Washington D.C., stating that the gamble the United States took in turning the Canal over "has paid off brilliantly." -Smithsonian Magazine. The Panama Canal is #5 on National Geographic's 100 Journeys of a Lifetime, must- see destinations. It has been called "The Eighth Wonder of the World."It took 250,000 people from all corners of the globe more than 10 years to build. For it's time, the achievement was the equivalent to putting a man on the moon. See 5,000,000 ton vessels rise and drop more than 50 feet in the locks as they make their way over the Isthmus from one ocean to another. Stop by the Miraflores Visitors Center - with breathtaking views of ships transiting the locks, interactive exhibits and a Canal-view restaurant. The Center is just 20 minutes from downtown Panama City. Another great way to see the Canal is to take a mini-cruise or boat tour from Panama City. See Tour Operators page 88
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business hub of the Americas
With a magnificent skyline, Panama City is a fast growing business hub and preferred destination for meetings. 85 major international companies have established headquarters here.
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pa n a m a  
what to do and see
PANAMA CITY a city of easy cosmopolitan living, a delightful combination of the historic and the ultra-modern. it is also one of the safest cities in the americas.
location Central America. South: Pacific Ocean. north: Caribbean Sea. east: Colombia. West: C. Rica faSt factS The Biodiversity Museum designed by Frank Gehry opens in January 2014. hiGhliGhtS Business Hub, Panama Canal.
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There are actually three Panama Cities: the historical ruins of the 16th century city, called Panama Viejo, the 17th century Spanish colonial Casco Viejo section of the city and the modern skyscraper city with its prosperous business district, Manhattan-like skyline, lively nightlife, great restaurants, historical sectors, and the only rainforest within city limits in the world. Newsweek Magazine says: "To escape to sunnier shoresthere's no hotter destination than Panama City. Best known for being home to the architectural feat called the Panama Canal, this lively Latin American city is just a stone's throw from some of Central America's richest rain forests‌"
day tour of panama city Visit the "three" Panama cities: the ruins of the 16th century original city, Casco Viejo (the colonial city), and the modern skyscraper city. the panama canal A must-do is a visit to the Panama Canal Visitors Center at Miraflores Locks (most city tours top here). Interactive exhibits explain the history and workings of the Canal, its naturerich rainforests and waterways. Admission is $10 which gives you access to the museum, a movie and a terrace view of the locks. Another option is to take a "mini-cruise" or boat tour in the Panama Canal as a d ay trip. See tour operators page 88
PANAMA CITY night liFe Panama City is famous for its lively nightlife. Few nationalities rival the fun loving nature of Panamanians. It all takes place in three sectors of the city: the business district, Casco Viejo and the Amador Causeway. CAsCo Viejo historiC DistriCt Enjoy a drink, meal, stroll or nightlife in the cultural ambience of this 17th century old city undergoing restoration. You'll find chic restaurants, nightlife spots and boutique hotels in beautifully restored historical buildings. Enjoy a meal or drink on the picturesque Plaza Bolivar, walk the ocean side promenade to the French Panama Canal monument and shop at the best souvenir stores in the city. AmADor CAusewAy Discover spectacular views of Panama City's skyline and the Panama Canal at this one mile causeway, created by connecting four small islan ds in Panama Bay using rock excavated from the Panama Canal. Enjoy open air restaurants, ocean and amazing Canal views, bicycle rentals, walking paths, the Smithsonian Institute of Tropical Research Aquarium, a cruise port, a yacht club, and souvenir shops. pAnAmA Viejo Visit the ruins of the first city on the Pacific Coast of the Americas. Founded in 1517, Panama Viejo was used as a transit route for all treasures from the Inca empire on their way across the Isthmus to Panama´s Atlantic Coast and then by ship to the Old World. Once a thriving city of 10,000, it was burned down in a battle with the English pirate Henry Morgan in 1671. The site includes a museum and souvenir shops. Best to go with a tour operator or a guide book in hand because most of the signs in the museum are in Spanish. 14 . www.thepanamaplanner.com
tour pAnAmA City by lAnD AnD seA in the Amphibious AquAbus See the major sights as the Aqua Bus dips from the street into Panama Bay and into the ocean at the entrance to Panama Canal. This two hour tour will be one of your most unforgettable Panama City experiences. pmatours.net
The most popular handicrafts are "molas," intricate reverse appliqué embroidery sewn by the indigenous women of Guna Yala. Other handicrafts include hand-woven baskets of the Embera people of the Darien jungle and tagua nut sculptures-tiny figures skillfully carved from the rainforest tagua nut.
City sightseeing bus tours One of the best ways to see Panama City is to hop on a red double decker City Sightseeing Bus, which departs near y our downtown hotel, and takes you to all the major sights, including the Panama Canal. citytourspanama.com
where to FinD hAnDiCrAFts For fine handicrafts and jewelry to to Reprosa in Casco Viejo and the business district.
metropolitAn pArk eCologiCAl tours Panama City's Metropolitan Park is the only rainforest within the city limits of a modern metropolis. We recommend you hire a tour guide to explain the flora and fauna. There's a panoramic city view from the top. trADitionAl pAnAmAniAn DAnCe Tinajas restaurant in t he business district and Los Diablicos in Casco Viejo and on Amador causeway have Panamanian folkloric dance shows. Call for the schedule. Tinajas: 263.7890 Diablicos: 228.9495 Dine out! As an international crossroads, Panama offers a surprising variety of fine cuisine at reasonable prices. see pages 85 - 87 shop Panama is the region’s favorite shopping destination. Four large shopping malls with hundreds of stores offer everything from bargains to high end luxury: Multiplaza, Albrook Mall, Metro Mall and Multicentro. souVenirs AnD hAnDiCrAFts shopping Panamanian native handicrafts rival Mexico's for their beauty and creativity.
Arthur Frommer on CAsCo Viejo:
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“Casco Viejo is a hot spot for nightlife and dining with chic bars and restaurants in historical settings. As a unesCo World Heritage site, Casco Viejo is also attracting more and more real estate investment. A walk in Casco Viejo reveals a vibrant neighborhood and dozens of elegant historical buildings restored or being restored and converted into historical apartments, business locales and ho tels. Casco Viejo is clearly on its way to becoming one of the most attractive Spanish colonial destinations in the Americas. Preserved as the conquistadors left it, Casco Viejo vies with Old Havana and Old San Juan in authenticity — but it is beginning to leave the others behind with the restored beauty of its courtyards, and the sparkling tiles and marble that line many of the cafes, restaurants and sh ops that occupy these historic structures. Just as Panama City's downtown across the bay is transforming itself into a totally unexpected, skyscraper-packed Hong Kong, Casco Viejo is in the process of being restored into the most tastefully attractive area of the city”. Arthur Frommer. Houston Chronicle, 2007.
non-stop nightlife
Casinos and lively nightlife in the business district and in the Casco Viejo historic sector make Panama City a safe and fun place to party the night away.
PA N A M A C I T Y
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FAST FACTS You can take a taxi almost anywhere in the city for less than $10. FINE CUISINE Called by Trip Advisor one of the Top 10 Food & Wine Destinations in Central & South America, Panama's international cuisine has Caribbean, European and American influences. TRAVEL SAFE Panama has the lowest rate of crime against tourists in the region. DRESS APPROPRIATELY Some clubs and bars won't let you in if you are wearing shorts or sandals. NIGHTLIFE HOT SPOTS Panama has four nightlife areas: the business district, Calle Uruguay, Amador Causeway and the historic Casco Viejo district.
NIGHTLIFE Panamanians love to party, a fact reflected in the variety of night spots including discos, nightclubs and casinos. It all takes place in three sectors of the city: the business district, the Amador Causeway and Casco Viejo, a historic section of the city with a great ambience due to the many Spanish colonial buildings.
business district
HARD ROCK HOTEL MEGAPOLIS A nightlife hub, the Megapolis has several exciting spots to spend the night—everything from the Stage bar with live rock music, their Pool Bar, and the exciting roof-top bar with 360° views of Panama City's Skyline. ISABELLA An stylish mix of disco, bar and lounge. Located high up on a terrace of the upscale Multiplaza Mall, and even offers valet parking. LI BAR A new upscale bar that caters to
the young professional with 80's and 90's music and gourmet cuisine. WINE BAR A place for wine lovers, the Wine Bar has a selection of more than 300 wines. A great spot for relaxing conversation. LA RANA DORADA A stylish brewpub named after Panama's endangered Golden Frog. Great beer and tasty food. In Casco Viejo & El Cangrejo. STEINBOCK A German pub with the best selection of German and www.thepanamaplanner.com . 17
European beer in town.
NIGHT LIFE
casco viejo
tantalo rooFtoP Bar With the most spectacular views of the Panama City skyline in Casco Viejo and a chic ambience, this is a great place to have a few drinks. Sunset is especially beautiful. PlaZa BoliVar The best place in Casco for romantic outdoor dining and drinks.
Casinos
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Veneto Wyndham Grand Hotel & Casino. Crown Casino Sheraton Hotel. royal Casino Marriott Hotel. riande Continental Hotel & Casino. Fiesta Casino El Panama Hotel. MajestiC Multicentro Mall.
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diVino enoteCa Quality international wines- a place where guests can come and share their ideas about culture and philosophy and mostly their passion for wine. Snacks are tapas style plates with an Italian touch. Mojitos sin Mojitos Great for beer, BBQ and burgers in a patio setting surrounded by the historic stone walls of Casco Viejo.
uruguay street in the business district A dozen or so trendy nightlife spots-one for just about every crowd. They're all close together so you can make the rounds.
seis Don’t be fooled by the small size of this club. It’s one of the few whose ambiance and events has a loyal clientele. loFt This hip club hosts some of the best local and international DJs. It has two sections: one with all night-long trance and another with the latest Latin music. PriVe Chic and classy, with a great selection of trance, this lounge is frequented by a 25 to 30 year-old upscale crowd. PUre A popular place with some of the best events in town. A minimalist décor and a DJ that pleases with the latest beats. londoner A fun place to go with friends. Very low key, English den-style pub known for its great calamari, Scotch, and a pool table.
amador causeway
A strip of land that connects three small islands, with panoramic views of the Panama Canal, Bridge of the Americas and the Panama City skyline. This is a great area with lots of restaurants and bars to explore.
see the ancient art of weaving by the embera tribe.
pa n a m a c i t y
what to do + see
DAY TRIPS FROM PANAMA CITY No other capital city in the world has such a variety of world-class attractions and activities nearby. You can take an extraordinary array of day tours right from your hotel in Panama City. For example, Panama has some of the most accessible rainforests in the world. The Metropolitan Natural Park is a 655 acre tropical forest inside the city limits. It hosts 200 bird species and 40 mammal species—all just a short cab ride away from your city hotel.
did you knoW?
The Isthmus of Panama emerged from the ocean 15 million years ago— permanently changing global ocean currents. As the only land bridge for animal and plant species between North and South America, Panama is incredibly bio-diverse.
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monkey island tour This tour, along with the Embera Indian village tour, are the best day tours to take from Panama City. On a Monkey Island tour in the Panama Canal waterway, you travel by boat to places where several types of monkeys cavort in the rainforest. A sure family hit. See monkeys with: Jungle land explorers gatunexplorer.com ancon expeditions anconexpeditions.com embera indian village tour One of the most popular local tours
begins just an hour from Panama City. Take a motorized canoe, the only means of transportation in this area, up a scenic rainforest river, to an authentic Embera Indian village, right out of the pages of National Geographic. The village Indians will share their native foods, perform a tribal dance, and offer native body paintings while explaining their way of life, traditions and beliefs. panama canal mini cruises You don't have to take a cruise to "cruise" the Panama Canal. Instead you can can take a partial transit of the Panama Canal to and
PANAMA CITY from the Amador Causeway in Panama City. You will pass under the Bridge of the Americas at the mouth of the Canal, see rainforests along the way and hear the story of one of mankind's greatest achievements. Panama Marine Adventures Tel: 226.8917. pmatours.net dAy TriP To TABoGA iSLANd Taboga is a picturesque island just a 45 minutes trip by ferry from Panama City. Spend the day on the beautiful beaches, take a walk in the rainforest, the historic village and enjoy panoramic views of the ocean and Panama City. Ferry info: 314.1730 SuMMiT GoLF cLuB Just thirty minutes from downtown Panama City, Summit Golf Club offers verdant tropical scenery, an 18-hole sand based championship course, designed by Jeffrey Myers and set on Bermuda Tidway grass. There's an onsite Radisson Hotel. summitgolfpanama.com GAMBoA rAiNForeST reSorT dAy TriP The Gamboa Rainforest Resort is nestled in the Panama Canal Rainforest. The resort offers day packages that include a rainforest aerial tram, nature exhibits and lunch at Los Lagartos.
Los Lagartos Restaurant is perched over the Chagres River from where you'll see nature and wildlife. Less than an hour from downtown Panama City, Gamboa tours does hotel pickups.Tel: 314.9000 gamboaresort.com PANAMA rAiNForeST diScovery ceNTer A 100 ft. tall nature observation tower deep in the rainforest of a national park where you get close views of exotic tropical birds and fauna. Normally you would have to travel miles to see this kind of nature - but the Discovery Center is just a few minutes from Panama City. Admission is only $15-$20. Group rates are available. pipelineroad.org BArro coLorAdo iSLANd Barro Colorado Island is a working laboratory run by The Smithsonian Institute of Tropical Research. Located in a lake forming part of the Panama Canal, it hosts an amazing 381 bird species,102 mammal species and 1316 plant species. Previously only research scientists were allowed on this island, but now tour operators are allowed to take tourists on day trips. www.stri.si.edu cANoPy Tower Named by Travel and Leisure magazine as one of the top 25
ecolodges in the world, Canopy Tower offers a close to nature experience with world class bird watching. Only 30 minutes from Panama City in the Soberania National Park. Enjoy birds and other animals in the pristine rainforest, spectacular views, and unique tree-high lodging. Day tours are available. canopytower.com PiPeLiNe roAd Just an hour outside Panama City, experts consider Pipeline Road to be one of the top places in the world for nature observation and bird watching. Hiring a nature guide is essential. PorToBeLo dAy TriP A picturesque bayside town, Portobelo has the ruins of four Spanish forts and a restored customs house. This is the place where all the gold and silver plundered from the Incas in Peru passed through and was a favorite target for pirates such as Sir Francis Drake. It is advisable to go with a tour operator. anconexpeditions.com wHALe wATcHiNG From July thru October, take a day trip to Isla Taboga to see whales and dolphins. Or an overnight whale-watching trip in the spectacular Pearl Islands. whalewatchingpanama.com www.thepanamaplanner.com . 21
BUSINESS DID YOU KNOW? Panama ranks 2nd in Latin America in global economic competitiveness according to the World Economic Forum's 2013 report. WORLD ECONOMIC REPORT 2013-2014 "The country has been relentlessly with one of the best port (6th) and airport (5th)networks, closely aligning with its overall economicdevelopment strategy of becoming a major transporthub for the region." - World Economic Report: 2013-2014 BUSINESS HUB Panama is a major logistical hub with the Panama Canal, the intercontinental Panama Canal Railway, and the second largest Free Trade Zone in the world. AIR CONNECTIONS In 2013, Panama's Tocumen airport handled 10 million passengers—three times Panama's population size.
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where the world meets
PANAMA: BUSINESS HUB OF THE AMERICAS "If you are a US business, your meeting or convention in Panama is IRS tax free due to a special treaty Panama has with the USA."
Why have 85 major international companies including Dell, Hewlett Packard, Procter & Gamble, Caterpillar, DHL, 3M and the United Nations all decided to put their regional Latin American headquarters in Panama? The answer is simple- Panama is the best place in Latin America to both do business and live. After 9/11 it has become difficult for US and foreign companies to predictably get US visas for their employees for meetings in the USA. A new business meeting and convention destination was needed- and Panama fit the bill for a number of reasons. Panama City has one of the most
modern infrastructures in the Americas and the highest level of security for both tourists and businessman in the region. Called the Hub of the Americas, Panama has the best logistical connections by air and sea of any country in the region: 86 direct flights to cities in the region and around the world. 100,000 Dollars in incentives & IRS tax deduction for your convention If you are a US company your meeting or convention will be IRS tax free due to a special treaty. More info: gerencia@atp.gob.pa
DOING BUSINESS IN PANAMA Panama as a Business Hub Continues to Get Positive Press “With a current growth rate of 7.3%, Panama will have the highest growth in 2014.” World Bank, Global Economic Projections 2014. “Panama may be at the Crossroads of the Americas, but it is also at the crossroads of international business. Panama has been building its economic muscle at a breakneck pace of 9% a year. And this is at a time when many first world economies have started to slow or falter.” Washin gton Times. 2013 “The economy of Panama is slated to continue thriving in 2013 after posting double-digit growth for two straight years as a boom in construction and transportation tied to the expansion of the Panama Canal continue to drive economic growth. Panama's gross domestic product expanded a whopping 10.7% last year, driven by large infrastructure projects that include the expansion of the Panama Ca nal as well as a boom in real estate in Panama City, where high-rises increasingly dominate the skyline.” Wall Street Journal. April 2013 “Panama: The 5th cheapest city in the world for foreigners to live.” Economist Intelligence Unit's Latest Worldwide Cost of Living Survey 2012 “Is Panama the next Switzerland? Panama could become the Switzerland of Latin America because its close proximity to the U.S., its use of the U.S. dollar as legal tender and the Panama Canal make it a logical place for folks to meet and do business when the U.S. isn’t an option according to Noel Thompson, the CEO of Thompson Global Partners.” Wall Street Journal Total Return Finance Blog. April 2013
“After three years of sharp rises in the competitiveness rankings, Panama consolidates its position at 40th place as the most competitive economy in Central America, and second in Latin America, behind Chile. In the past year, Panama has continued to improve its competitiveness edge by reinforcing its strengths. The country has been relentlessly improving its infrastructure (37th), with one of the best port (6th) and airport (5th) networks, closely aligning with its overall economic development strategy of becoming a major transport hub for the region. Its financial market (16th) and an assessment of its technological adoption (11th) are also persistently improving, especially via foreign multinational corporations setting up operations in the country.” World Economic Forum Competitiveness Report 2013-2014 “Panama’s current and future infrastructure projects read like a wish list for any global travel hub: airport expansion, new road ways, a new rail system, thousands of new hotel rooms, large-scale event venues and fast-growing mega-malls…Building the appropriate infrastructure for a surge in visitors is a constant challenge. Tocumen, which serves as a hub for Copa Airlines, recently debuted a new northern concourse, and a $670-million contract has been awarded to build a southern concourse with at least 20 new gates within the next three years.” Latin Trade Magazine. 2013 “Panama's ratings are supported by strong economic growth outperformance that has facilitated the convergence of its per capita income to levels comparable with rated peers. Panama's five-year
average growth of 8.6% materially exceeds the 2.9% for the 'BBB' median.” Reuters. May 2013 “President Martinelli's aggresive $20 billion investment plan is driving a growing economy and launching new infrastucture projects. His tax reforms are encouraging businesses to expand.. More and more Fortune 500 companies like Proctor & Gamble, General Electric, Caterpillar, Johnson & Johnson and Dell have moved key operations to Panama.” meetpanama.com.pa 2013 “Panama is amazing," says Antonio Arranz, vice president of operations at the Latin America division of DHL. The express delive ry services giant just expanded its Panama hub, which already played a key role in its Latin American distribution thanks to the country's central location between Central and South America. “We are seeing double digit growth.” Latin Business Chronicle. “It’s been 12 years since Panama regained control of its canal, and the country’s economy is booming. Cranes stalk the skyline of the capital, Panama Cit y, where high-rises sprout one after the next and immigrants arrive daily from around the world. Among those who have landed en masse in recent years are American expatriates and investors, who have banked on Panamanian real estate by building hotels and buying retirement homes. Development projects is the Panama Canal itself, which is in the early stages of a multibillion-dollar expansion. The project will widen and deepen the existing canal and add two locks, doubling the canal’s cargo capacity.” New York Times. January 2012 www.thepanamaplanner.com . 23
ECONOMY DID YOU KNOW? Panama has the lowest unemployment rate in the region (3.5%) and the highest GDP growth rate in the region. HIGHLIGHTS According to the 2012-2013 World Economic Forum report Panama ranks 4th in the world in the availability of financial services, 2nd in the affordability of financial services, 12th for ease of access to loans, and 9th in the world in efficiency of its financial markets. INVESTMENT GRADE Ratings agencies took note of Panama's progress: Fitch Ratings. Standard & Poor's, and Moody's all rate Panama as investment Grade.
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THE BEST ECONOMY IN THE REGION “Panama is rated investment grade by the three main ratings agencies”
Panama has a recession resistant economy. It's GDP grew at 7.3% in 2013. It's projected by the World Bank to have the highest growth in the region in 2014. It's also an attractive investment destination: in the last three years, this country of just 3.2 million, received more than 5 billion dollars in direct investment. Growth is powered by a competitive economy, a simplified tax structure and a world-class physical and financial infrastructure. Another advantage is the fully dollarized economy with a history of low inflation. President Martinelli's goal is
to make Panama a logistic, financial, and business hub, that is the "Singapore of the Americas." During his administration Panama's business competitivity jumped 19 places- it's now rated 40th in the world and 2nd in the region by the World Economic Forum. Fiscal initiatives include a major tax reform and simplified tax structure with rates competitive with those in other countries, while maintaining fiscal discipline. A bold infrastructure modernization plan is underway to support Panama’s emergence as a world-
class business, transportation and tourism hub, and further diversify the economy. Ratings agencies took note of Panama’s progress: Fitch Ratings, Standard & Poor’s and Moody’s all rate Panama as investment grade. Panama's economy is based on a well-developed services sector that accounts for nearly 80% of its GDP: the Panama Canal, banking, a Free Trade Zone, tourism, insurance, container ports, and logistical services. Another attraction for international businesses is a special economic zone created by Law 41 which provides major incentives for corporate headquarters, to make their home in Panama. To date 85
major companies have set up their headquarters or are in the process. Panama Pacifico, a whole new city in a lush special economic zone just outside Panama City has sectors for corporate headquarters, light industry and homes.
City the 5th cheapest capital in the world for foreigners to live. Another advantage of Panama is that Panamanians know how to work with foreigners due to their long history as an international crossroads.
PANAMA: THE BEST AND CHEAPEST PLACE TO LIVE AND WORK IN LATIN AMERICA
For executives and their families, Panama City is the best city to live in the region. There's a wide selection of fine neighborhoods for safety, modern shopping malls, fine dining, three accredited international schools, the best health care in Central America and plenty to do.
Panama is politically stable, safe, friendly to foreigners and uses the US dollar as currency. The Capital, Panama city, is a sophisticated metropolis with a first-world communications infrastructure. Panama City is also one of the cheapest capital cities in the world. The Economist's magazine "Survey on Cost of Living" rated Panama
A variety of beach and mountain destinations are ideal for family vacations and excursions. Executives can take direct flights to 86 cities in the region.
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JW Marriott Panama golf and beach resort on the Pacific.
PA c i f i c c O A s T
less than 2 hours from panama city
PANAMA’S RIVIERA WHAT TO DO beAcHes There are many good beaches with easy access. Santa Clara has the best day trip facilities. You'll love the fact that even though this is the Pacific, the water is warm.
lOcATiOn Province: Panama Panama City, Pacific Ocean. fAsT fAcTs The new Rio Hato Intl. Airport will be finished here towards the end of 2013. HigHligHTs Beaches, world-class golf courses, surfing, wakeboarding and kite-surfing.
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gOlf The area has four golf courses: the new Buenaventura Resort Golf Course, widely regarded as the best golf course in Latin America, the Mantarraya Golf Club at the Decameron Resort, the Coronado Golf and Beach Resort, and the Vista Mar Golf Resort. surfing Year round surfing. The best surfing beaches are Rio Mar, Rio Teta, Malibu, Serena and El Palmar. JeT sKies & KiTe flYing Resorts will rent out jet skies and
there's seasonal kite surfing on Chame beach. DAY TriPs The all inclusive Decameron Resort offers day packages. For free beach trips, Santa Clara beach has the best facilties, restaurants and beach item rentals. resTAurAnTs La Fogata: In front of the Decameron Resort, some of the best seafood in Panama. Las Pipas: Right on the beach with ocean views, and excellent seafo od. Tel: 6575. 7386 WHere TO sTAY JW Marriott at buenaventura marriott.com royal Decameron resort decameron.com Wyndham grand Playa blanca wyndham.com
Pa N a M a ’ S R I v I E R a
PANAMA´S RIVIERA Nitro City nitrocitypanama.com Playa Blanca Resort playablancaresort.com
TRavEl TIP Make sure to apply sun protection between 9AM2PM—near the equator, Panama's sun-rays are very strong. HIGHlIGHTS Panama's Riviera boasts a variety of resort communities for those looking for vacation or retirement homes. 28 . www.thepanamaplanner.com
RESORT COMMUNITIES This area is the preferred location for the vacation homes of Panama's wealthiest families and the most popular beach destination for second homes and resort communities. For foreigners, there's a well organized ex-pat community and support network. BUENavENTURa The Pacific coast´s premiere 5 star beach resort and residential community with a JW Marriott, luxury homes, villas and condos, lakes, a private beach and the best golf course in Latin America. The JW Marriott at Buenaventura
is in a class of its own with sumptuous rooms, facilities and fine dining. buenaventura.com.pa COSTa BlaNCa vIllaS One of the Pacific Coast´s most successful residential communities with villas along an 18 hole golf course. Home owners enjoy the benefits of the adjacent Royal Decameron Resort. costablanca.com.pa CORONadO The original Pacific Coast resort community with established ho mes and condos, the largest shopping center and many services. coronadoesvida.com HOW TO GET THERE Take a car or bus on the modern four lane highway from Panama City in just over an hour.
Dive both the Caribbean and Pacific oceans.
underwater fun + beautiful beaches
PA C I F I C C O A S T
PEDASI.AZUERO Pedasi is arguably Panama's most attractive small town. A fishing hamlet on a dramatic coastline nestled among long rolling Tuscan-like hills, Pedasi is known for the authentic beauty of both its nature and the local people. It has an active Ex-Pat community that works with the locals to make the town a great place to live for all. Pedasi is home to world class attractions: sport fishing, surfing, snorkeling and diving. It has the feel of a destination in the making. A common reaction of visitors is "how long will it last like this"? This very attitude enables Pedasi to preserve the intimacy of the place. Working side by side with the locals, the town offers an increasing number of restaurants and services catering to internationals.
WHERE TO STAY Villa Romana villapedasi.com Villa Camilla villacamillapanama.com Casa Campo casacampopedasi.com Casita Margarita pedasihotel.com Azueros Villa Rentals azuerosvillarentals.com WHAT TO DO ISLA IGUANA NATIONAL PARK A wildlife refuge a short boat ride from Pedasi. Enjoy beautiful beaches surrounded by 14 species and 20 hectares of live coral reef. Snorkeling or diving you'll see hundreds species of tropical fish.
DID YOU KNOW? Every year thousands of turtles flock to La Marinera beach, a protected area in the district of Tonosi, to lay their eggs— about 40,000 of them. If you are lucky enough, you may get to see them hatch and race by the thousands back into the ocean.
On the hiking trails, see seabirds, www.thepanamaplanner.com . 29
Whale watch in the Pearl Islands, Taboga and Pedasi.
PEDASI . AZUERO
breathtaking natural beauty
PACIFIC COAST PEDASI huge iguanas and humpback whales in season. WORLD CLASS SPORTFISHING Fantastic light-tackle fishing along Pedasi's "Tuna Coast," replete with schools of yellowfin tuna, marlin, sailfish, red snapper, and many more. PEDASI FISHING condoroutfitters.com
LOCATION
Province: Los Santos Las Tablas, Azuero Peninsula. Pacific Ocean
FAST FACTS
Panama is gaining a reputation as a top surf destination. In 2013 Panama's Santa Catalina beach hosted the 2013 Reef ISA World Surfing Games.
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SURFING Surf at the world famous Playa Venao, 20 minutes from Pedasi, with a consistent south swell and both left and right breaks. WHALE WATCHING July to September see Humpback whales as they migrate from South America to the warmer waters of the tropics.
HORSEBACK RIDING Beach and mountain rides include rainforest, mountain and ocean views. RESORT COMMUNITIES ANDROMEDA Oceanfront gated community with 200 residential and commercial lots and a beach club, all with views of the Pacific Ocean. Landscaped by Central America's leading landscape design firm, to maximize of green spaces and preserve the natural beauty. Residents will enjoy the Andromeda Beach Club, long stretches of sandy beach, a resort swimming pool, tennis, basketball and volleyball courts, a children's playground, a business center, walking trails
Island Luxury Beaches Accommodations www.redfrogbeach.com 507-836-5501
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caribbean coast
BOCAS DEL TORO In which exotic location did 17 countries including France, Italy, Spain and Russia film their famous Survivor series? The answer is the islands of Bocas del Toro. Bocas, as it is known locally, is one of Panama's top tourist attractions. Where else can you enjoy gorgeous beaches with scarcely a soul in sight, fringed by rainforests so fine Lonely Planet Guide calls them "a biologist's fantasy." Add a char ming laidback town, a friendly English speaking population, historical ambience, lively nightlife and you have a destination. BOCAS DEL TORO
Condé Naste Traveler : "The Seductively Sleepy Islands of Bocas del Toro" “The pace was deliciously slow and seductive. I sat on the deck behind the Hotel Bocas del Toro as water taxis buzzed across the turquoise water to nearby Bastimentos and Isla Carenero. The waiter brought me another Balboa beer, and a blue-sky panorama of Caribbean beauty unfolded before me...
LOCATION Bocas del Toro Archipelago, Caribbean Sea. FAST FACTS In 1502 Christopher Colombus passed through here and, impressed by its beauty, named a couple islands after himself, which are still called 'Colon" and 'Cristobal" Islands. HIGHLIGHTS Surfing,eco-tourism,snorkeling.
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In the Caribbean, where the food is so often disappointing, it’s clear that the Bocas archipelago is upping the ante. And as I dug into my dessert of banana wrapped in rice paper, lightly fried in coconut oil, and drenched in pineapplerum sauce, I thought about how eating beautifully prepared, locally sourced food could be counted as a cultural experience, an infusion of virtue to round out the gloriously sloth-like days of a Caribbean escape." Condé Nast Traveler 2013 WHAT TO DO BEACHES The two most beautiful beaches are Red Frog and Zapatillas Key.
You can visit them by water taxi. BASTImIENTOS SKY RAINFOREST ZIPLINE Seven thrilling ziplines and an obstacle course in the canopy of a lush rainforest valley. Tel: 836.5281 DINE OUT Bocas has a number of good restaurants. For your chill-out day at the beach, hang out at beachside Paki's Point restaurant and bar, just 20 minutes from town. In town, take a 2 minute water taxi to Bibi's on the Beach on Carenero's Island for the ocean views and great sea food. SNORKELING Hospital Point and Coral Keys are the best places. DOLPHIN OBSERvATION Tour Bocas' bay on a yacht. SE E RED FROGS On your Red Frog beach tour and at the Smithsonian Lab. NIGHTLIFE Nightlife spots line Boca's downtown, and a two minute boat ride takes you to the popular Aqua Lounge. RENT A BIKE OR ATv Bocas is the perfect place for bike riding around town and to Bluff beach. RESORT COmmUNITIES RED FROG BEACH RESORT Located on Bastimientos Island on one of Panama's most spectacular beaches, the resort has ocean views, lush nature, beautiful home rentals, a marina and a hotel in the works. redfrogbeach.com
t p to pa paradise arrra a ad a diiisse off relaxation... d rreeella axxxa attio tioon n...
Plan P lan your your escape escape to to a tropical tropical island island paradise, paradise, surrounded surrounded by by beautiful beautiful golden golden sand sand beaches beaches and and the the warm warm waters waters of of the the Pacific Pacific Ocean! Ocean!
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IIsla sla C Contadora, ontadora, P Panama anama
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San Blas islands: home to the Guna indigenous tribe.
SAN BLAS
The number 3 tropical paradise in the world. Lonely Planet
SAN BLAS ISLANDS SAN BLAS ISLANDS AND INDIGENOUS VILLAGES Set in indescribably beautiful aqua waters, the San Blas Archipelago are 365 Caribbean stunning islands offering an opportunity to visit the island villages of the Guna Indians to learn about their culture and way of life. Surrounded by nature, you'll will feel truly away from it all. The natural native lodgings made from thatched palms blend perfectly with the tropical scenery.
LOcATION San Blas Archipelago, Caribbean Ocean. fAST fAcTS The 365 islands of Kuna Ayala are considered some of the most beautiful in the world. HIGHLIGHTS Pristine island beaches, indigenous cultures,snorkeling.
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WHAT TO DO BEAcHES Spend the day on a beach so beautiful you'll feel you went to heaven. SNOrkEL The snorkeling is excellent. Coral reefs form gardens in an array of hues and shapes with colorful fish.
VISIT A GUNA INDIAN VILLAGE Right out of the pages of National Geographic, walk into their world and learn about their way of life. BUy NATIVE HANDIcrAfTS Buy the famous mola embroideries directly from the Kuna woman artisans. SAIL THE ISLANDS San Blas Sailing offers yacht tours. sanblassailing.com HOW TO GET THErE A plane ride from the National Airport to most islands. Some places are accessible by a new road to the area. WHErE TO STAy yanup Island Lodge yanupisland.com coral Lodge corallodge.com
SAN BLAS SAN BLAS GUNA YALA ISLANDS "Look up ‘tropical paradise:’ there will probably be a picture of the Guna Yala archipelago. These small islands (also known as the San Blas Islands) are part of the semi-autonomous territory of the Guna people and feature palm trees, gorgeous beaches, thatched huts and timeless charm. Big business hasn’t gained a foothold because the Guna rule the roost, with a series of laws to preserve the natural environment. So no ugly hotels spoiling the view and no package tourism polluting the vibe, just plenty of uninhabited islands to explore." Lonely Planet. The San Blas islands (aka Guna Yala) have been the subject of numerous National Geographic articles. Indeed your experience will be “right out of the pages of National Geographic."
There are three types of island lodgings: stay in an authenic Guna island lodge over the sea or with sea views, on a yacht or at the nearby, upscale Coral Lodge. For the amazing experience of being close to nature, close to a native culture and truly away from all things modern, we recommend to stay at a Guna Island lodgeespecially the highly rated Yandup Island Lodge. yandupisland.com If you want all that extraordinary nature but more luxury and personalized service, take a yacht trip with San Blas Sailing, a great outfit. sanblassailing.com If you want all the creature comforts yet also to be close to nature, go to our favorite romantic getaway, Coral Lodge, on the coast near San Blas.
San Blas offers two unbeatable attractions: Caribbean islands of stunning pristine beauty and an opportunity to get to know the Guna Indians, an ancient, living Indian culture with a unique way of life.
From there you can take day trips to the islands. Coral Lodge has Tahitian-style cabins over the sea with wrap around decks, indoor jacuzzis and an excellent onsite restaurant. corallodge.com
The Guna Yala archipelago has 365 islands, picturesque and palm tree covered, mostly uninhabited and set in indescribably beautiful aqua waters.
Nearby trips include boat rides to a pristine island to sunbath and snorkel (which you'll most probably have all to yourself) a boat trip to snorkel at the famous sunken ship site and a tour of an island Guna village.
When famous author John Le Carre (The Tailor of Panama) stayed in the San Blas, taking in an island view he said "This is not paradise. This is heaven."
In Guna Yala, lunch and dinner will be freshly caught lobsters and fish - bring something else if you're not a seafood fan. www.thepanamaplanner.com . 35
discover unspoiled coastlines
PORTOBELO + PEARL ISLANDS "Portobelo Bay is an unbeatable combination of history and Caribbean beauty." The historic town of Portobelo is one of the most scenic destinations in Panama. Portobelo Bay was the epicenter of the Spanish Empires' trade in the 16th and 17th centuries. Attractions are the stunning turquoise bay dotted with yachts, a restored Custom house, the ruins of five Spanish forts, an acclaimed boutique resort, rainforests, diving and snorkeling.
PORTOBELO
WHERE TO STAY Set on the bay, El Otro Lado is Panama's top Boutique Hotel. Featured in Travel & Leisure. elotrolado.com Casa Congo A charming B & B with bay views next store to Portobelo's best restaurant. WHAT TO DO TOUR SPANISH EMPIRE RUINS Tour the ruins of five 17th century Spanish forts and visit the restored Custom house. DINE El Palenque Restaurant Enjoy delicious Caribbean cuisine made with fresh, locally sourced products. A thoughtful menu offers a variety of traditional dishes as well as more modern fare.
LOCATION
Province: Colon. 1.5 hours from Panama City on the Caribbean coast.
fAST fACTS
The infamous pirate Henry Morgan attacked Portobelo in 1668.
HIGHLIGHTS
Island day trips, diving, and sport-fishing.
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SHOP SOUVENIRS Congo House Gallery & Workshop is an inviting art and gift gallery featuring local painting, sculptures, furniture, photographs and unique Portobello handicrafts crafts. THE PEARL ISLANDS: Panama's Pearl Island Archipelago
has 130 spectacular South Pacific islands with tropical vegetation and white sand beaches. It's the only place CBS's Survivor series was filmed three times. WHAT TO DO RELAX in spectacular island scenery. This is what you came for—you're truly away from it all, surrounded by pristine nature. You may be the only ones on the beach. WHALE WATCHING See hunch back whales July thru October. Go with Panama Whale Watching. panamawhalewatching.com SWIM WITH DOLPHINS Your guide is a professional animal trainer. panamawhalewatching.com DIVING AND SNORKELING Excellent diving and snorkeling due to an abundant marine life. panamawhalewatching.com SPORT fISHING The sport fishing is world class200 International Game and Fishing Association (IFGA) records have been broken here. DAY TOUR Take a day tour by boat to the Pearl Islands from the Amador Causeway in Panama City. sealasperlas.com WHERE TO STAY Hacienda del Mar haciendadelmar.net Perla Real pearlareal.com
world heritage
A silent witness to epic battles, fascinating history and pirate attacks, Portobelo is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
red Frog island resort yacht marina.
BeaCh hopping
!
did YoU knoW ? The Atlantic and Pacific Oceans are only 1.5 hours apart in Panama, making it very easy to enjoy what both have to offer. FasT FaCTs Panama is recognized as an official 'whale watching zone'. In fact the 64th Annual Meeting of the International Whaling Commission took place in Panama July 2012. Marine liFe When the Panamanian isthmus rose out of the ocean 15 million years ago it permanently separated marine species into the Pacific and Atlantic, forcing them to evolve separately. This made Panama a prime research subject for the Smithsonian Institute (in Panama since 1923) on how new species are formed and develop.
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pacific+caribbean atlantic coast
DIVING.SAILING SPORTFISHING "With more than one thousand islands, Panama offers a wide variety of diving adventures and world-class sportfishing."
diving and snorkeling Teeming with life and color, Panama's coral reefs are one of Nature's wonders. With more than one thousand islands and coasts on both the Pacific and the Caribbean, Panama offers a wide variety of diving adventures and experiences.
diving outfit with 30 years of experience. scubapanama.com kiTe Boarding in season Chame Bay on the Pacific Coast an hour from Panama City is the best place. The kite boarding season is January thru April.
The best places for diving are the Pearl Islands, Coiba Island National Marine Park and Portobelo. Coiba is worldfamous for big fish diving and pristine conditions. The best places for snorkeling are Coiba Island, the Pearl Islands and Bocas del Toro.
The pearl islands Contadora, San Jose and the islands of this beautiful archipelago just off the coast of Panama City are great for diving and snorkeling. The snorkeling is so good here that you may decide you don't need to dive.
diving ToUrs Panama's original and most popular
With few tourists, you’ll enjoy nearly untouched surroundings.
CHIRIQUI GULF This area is just beginning to be developed and is lesser known. It has dozens of picture perfect islands and beaches. The sport fishing is top notch. COIBA ISLAND NATIONAL MARINE PARK Coiba Island is the largest island in Central America: 80% of the park is oceanic and the area has the largest coral reef in the Western Pacific. It is considered one of the top choices in the world for "big fish " diving. The snorkeling is also excellent. SAN BLAS ISLANDS The San Blas Islands are a spectacular archipelago of 365 islands with a variety of secluded snorkeling venues. BOCAS DEL TORO Bocas is a beautiful Caribbean archipelago near the Costa Rican border with a variety of snorkeling and diving sites. PORTOBELO AND ISLA GRANDE Just two hours from Panama City is the historic town of Portobelo, home of a r estored 16th century Spanish treasure house. Countless Spanish ships docked here to carry booty taken from the Inca empire back to the Old World. Portobelo was the scene of many pirate attacks including raids by English pirate Sir Francis Drake. Not only does it offer reef diving and snorkeling, but also the opportunity to explore a number of new and old sunken ships. A 16th century ship wreck believed to be the “Vizcaina” which belonged to Columbus - has been found nearby. SPORT FISHING The name "Panama" comes from the native languages and means "abundance of fish." Panama lives up to its name as a world-class sport fishing venue. Panama's Piñas Bay is home to more world fishing records than any other place in the world - 250 to be exact.
Other favored sportfishing spots are the Pearl Islands, just 15 minutes by plane from Panama City, Montuosa, and Hanibal Bank near Coiba Island in West Panama. For fresh water fishing, Lake Gatun in the Panama Canal is just 45 minutes from Panama City. PANAMA CANAL FISHING The Panama Canal adjacent to Panama City is a world renowned fishing spot for sought after gamefish like snook and Peacock Bass. Fisherman typically reel in about 20 to 30 fish per person. While you fis h, you'll enjoy peaceful pristine rainforest and wildlife. Panama Canal Fishing panamacanalfishing.com Tropic Star Lodge tropicstar.com Hacienda del Mar haciendadelmar.net Las Olas Resort lasolasresort.com Sea Gull Cove Lodge seagullcovelodge.com SAILING PANAMA BAY With its majestic entrance to the Panama Canal and Manhattan-like skyline, Panama Bay is a dramatic setting for a day sail or sunset cruise. Day sails to Taboga Island and the Pearl Islands are also popular. Yacht tours of the San Blas Islands and the Pearl Islands: sanblassailing.com PANAMA CANAL CRUISES You don’t have to take a cruise to sail the Panama Canal. Tours are available from Panama City with a partial or full transit of the Panama Canal. Panama Marine Adventures ptymarineadventures.com PEARL ISLAND FERRY Take a luxury ferry trip to the Pearl Islands for a day trip or to stay for a vacation. www.sealasperlas.com www.thepanamaplanner.com . 39
santa catalina, one of the top surf spots in the world.
sURF
point breaks + great swells
PANAMA:THE NEXT BIG SURFING DESTINATION "Panama’s most active swell periods are between May-October on the Pacific, and between November-August on the Atlantic."
Panama is just becoming known as a prime surfing destination. Some of the most popular surfing beaches for weekend surfers are only a 1 hour drive from Panama City.
did YoU KnoW? Panama is becoming a surfing hot-spot it hosted the Billabong ISA World Surfing Games in 2011 , the 2013 ISA World Surfing Games and now the 2014 ISA World Masters Surfing Championship.
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These include beaches such as Malibu, Teta, Palmar, and Rio Mar. With a good south swell these spots produce great surf. Hard-core local and visiting surfers venture off to the more remote regions of Panama for more challenging surfing, to places such as Venao Beach near Pedasi, Santa Catalina on the Pacific coast, and Bocas del Toro islands on the Caribbean Coast.
The most popular surf breaks on the Pacific coast (in the Los Santos province), are Playa Venao (beach break), Santa Catalina (point break) and Cambutal (multiple point breaks), which are about a 4 to 5 hour trek from Panama City by car. Pedasi . Venao Beach Enjoy lots of gnarly point breaks between Pedasi and Playa Venao. Playa Venao hosted the ISA World Championship event in April 2012 with 300 competitors. sanTa caTaLina Located in the Veraguas Province on the Pacific coast, the Santa Catalina beach just hosted the
PANAMA SURF
2013 ISA World Surfing Games. This beach is a 4 to 5 hour trek from Panama City by car. A big advantage of Santa Catalina is its proximity to Coiba Island, Cebaco Island, and the Silva Islands (Morro Negrito), all of which are great uncrowded surfing terrain. BOCAS DEL TORO ISLANDS On the northern Caribbean coast of Panama (border of Costa Rica). Bocas del Toro offers a variety of hotels, restaurants, and night life, as well as a wide spectrum of island reef and beach breaks. All easily accessible by boat taxi, these spots are just a few minutes from this quaint Caribbean island town. Bocas del Toro is a 1 hour flight from Albrook Airport in Panama City, or an 8 hour trek by car and boat ferry to the island. GET ADVICE Panama is very tide sensitive, with 12 to 20 foot tide swings every 6 hours, and the Caribbean Coast is seasonal, so wherever you decide to surf in Panama, get advice on tides, places to stay, and spots to surf, which could save you a lot of time and money in your search the best waves. For more information about surfing in Panama, check out: panamasurftours.com www.thepanamaplanner.com . 41
CHIRIQUI . BOQUETE
a journey off the beaten path
BOQUETE: PANAMA’S MOUNTAIN PARADISE
LOCATION Province: Chiriqui. Near the Costa Rican border. HIGHLIGHTS Spring mountain climate, colorful flora, world-class rafting, kayaking, birding, hiking, coffee farm tours and some of the best coffee in the world.
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The picturesque village of Boquete is Panama's most prized mountain destination.
a growing number of "baby boomers" buying vacation and retirement homes.
A verdant valley town surrounded by steep slopes, its filled with flowers, nature-rich rainforests, coffee farms, a river and some of the friendliest people anywhere. With a near-perfect climate even on drizzly days, Boquete will often surprise you with lots of rainbows (we once counted four at one time).
WHAT THE PRESS SAYS ABOUT BOQUETE The Los Angeles Times says: "Far from the monotony of the historic canal, this endearing town in the cool, lush Panamanian highlands boasts a wild bounty of colorful flora, fauna and scenery."
Selected by AARP's publication Modern Maturity and by Fortune Magazine as one of the top four places to live outside the USA, these days Boquete is welcoming
The San Francisco Chronicle, wrote: "A Panamanian Shangri-La in the cool highlands of Chiriqui where there were rushing, troutfilled streams, a lush mountain rainforest, abundant orange groves,
adventure
Enjoy world class rafting and kayaking on the Chiriqui Grande river near the mountain town of Boquete. We recommend going with Boquete Outdoor Adventures.
BOQUETE HIGHLANDS coffee plantations, and a picturepostcard town chockablock with flower gardens." "This idyllic place," - was known only "by - the well-to-do of Panama ... we too have become smitten with the place." WHAT TO DO BOQUETE TREE TREK CANOPY ZIPLINE Zip through the treetops of centuryold forests, above the pristine rivers and waterfalls. boquetetreetrek.com HAVE A CUP OF THE WORLD'S BEST COFFEE Boquete is home to the best coffee in the world. It’s called "Geisha" and Boquete made it famous. In 2007, this coffee broke the world record selling for $300 a pound wholesale. The best places to enjoy a cup of Boquete coffee are at Finca Lerida, a working coffee farm with spectacular views, and at Cafe Kotowa in the building at the entrance to Boquete and at Cafe Ruiz, just outside town. COFFEE FARM TOURS A must-do, the tours visit a coffee farm and end up up with a "Cupping"—the coffee equivalent of wine tasting. boquetesafari.com RAFTING Boquete has Year-round river rafting for both families and thrill seekers. We recommend Boquete Outdoor Adventures. boqueteoutdooradventures.com 44 . www.thepanamaplanner.com
BIRDING Boquete is a great place for birding and one of the few places where you can see a Quetzal in season and regularly off season. Finca Lerida Ecolodge is designed for birders, and Quetzales are seen regularly. KAYAKING Kayak on scenic rivers, lakes and on the nearby ocean. Go with expert Jim Omer of Boquete Outdoor Adventures which offers custom sea kayaking and multisport adventure travel vacations for families, couples, and private groups. boqueteoutdooradventures.com GOLF Golf at Valle Escondido a scenic, challenging 9 hole golf course. The resort is open to all so enjoy a meal, coffee or a drink at El Pueblito. THE GOOD LIFE FOR EXPATS Along with the Coronado Beach area, Boquete has the best organized and most active community of American and foreign residents. They work together with locals to make Boquete a great place to live for both locals and foreigners. SPAS AND ALTERNATIVE HEALTH Valle Escondido Resort A beautiful full service resort with a luxurious spa with beauty, health and relaxation services. veresort.com The Haven Spa This boutique hotel is renowned
VOLCAN HIGHLANDS both for it's spa services and cutting edge alternative health treatments. thehavenspa.com STROLL AROUND TOWN Get a feel for the people and area by walking around townto the Flower Fair near the river, to one of the good restaurants, bakeries or souvenir shops. HIKE AND BIKE Boquete's environs offer numerous trails fit for hiking and biking. We recommend a hike to the top of Volcan Baru where on a clear day you can view both oceans. HORSEBACK RIDING Boquete is ideal for horseback riding with plenty of paths and country roads.You can rent a horse with or without a guide or take a guided tour. A popular tour by Boquete Safari Tours takes you up in the mountains where you can see both oceans on a clear day. boquetesafaritours.com SHOP FOR A RETIREMENT OR SECOND HOME There are a variety of attractive offers. Good places to start: LOS MOLINOS A prized location with a spectacular canyon and views of Volcan Baru and the Pacific Ocean.This project has high-quality comfortable homes with floor plans developed to address the current and future needs of residents.Attractions include a system of lakes, ponds and flower-filled gardens. Stay at onsite Boutique hotel La Casa del Risco. losmolinos.com.pa
VALLE ESCONDIDO Panama's original upscale retirement community in a spectacular valley with a 9 hole golf course. veresort.com
Punto, Volcan, Guadalupe and Bambito with a number of attractive, rustic lodgings options. The area is inhabited by Ngobe Indians who labor in strawberry, flower and potato farms.
HOW TO GET THERE Take a flight from Albrook airport in Panama City to David or you can come by car from Costa Rica. From David you can take a taxi or bus to your final destination. You can also take a bus from the Albrook Bus Terminal - it's about a 7 hour trip to David. Boquete is 30 minutes from David and Volcan 45 minutes.
HIKE TO A VIEW OF TWO OCEANS The Volcan peak is one of the few places in the world where you can see both the Pacific and Atlantic oceans from the summit. It's a moderately difficult all-day hike.
VOLCAN A destination rivaling Boquete in both beauty and nature. The centerpiece are two national parks-Volcan and the Amistad, which straddles both Panama and Costa Rica. Highlights include panoramic volcano views, dense rainforests, coffee farms, birding, Barriles - a fascinating pre-colombian excavation, and the town of Volcan with services, restaurants and a very satisfied population of foreign retirees. COFFEE FARM TOURS lagunasadventures.com TWO NATIONAL PARKS The Chiriqui highlands are home to two two national parks: El Volcan, the volcano area towering over Boquete and La Amistad, a highland rainforest near Volcan famous for Quetzales. AMISTAD NATIONAL PARK It's cool highlands has cloud forests trails and the quaint towns of Cerro
OVERNIGHT IN A CLOUD FOREST Los Quetzales is the only place in Central America where you can stay overnight in a national park. Los Quetzales' cabins deep in the cloud forest are famous in the birding world and in demand in high season. losquetzales.com HORSEBACK RIDING Rent a horse to ride through beautiful highland lanes and pasturelands. lagunasadventures.com BIRDING Spot a quetzal in season and other species year round. TROUT FISHING AT BAMBITO Enjoy a relaxing day of trout fishing, rent a horse or a mountain bike to take in some mountain scenery. DRACULA ORCHID FARM A few minutes walk from Los Quetzales Ecolodge is this marvelous orchid farm regarded as one of the world's finest. Showcased are 2200 species of orchids. The farm is the work of conservationist Andres Maduro. www.thepanamaplanner.com . 45
highlands+mountains ATRACTIONS NISPERO ZOO
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A small zoo with many of Panama's exotic native critters. AMPHIBIAN RESCUE CENTER See a variety of colorful indigenous frogs and learn about the challenges they face to overcome the deadly fungus Batrachochytrium dendrobatidi which threatens them with extinction. BIkE RIdINg Rent a bike for $2 an hour and tour the town and surroundings HORSEBACk RIdINg Rent a horse to enjoy the town
E L VA L L E
LOCATION Province: Cocle. Penonome. Two hours from Panama City. fAST fACTS The radiant Golden Frog, once revered by the natives that lived here, is an endangered species unique to the volcanic town of El Valle, where conservation efforts are underway.
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EL VALLE DE ANTON "El Valle is the cool mountain escape from the heat and bustle of Panama City."
EL VALLE. ANTON El Valle is a cool, picturesque mountain destination, a favorite escape from the tropical heat of Panama City. Just two hours from Panama City, it has near perfect spring-like weather year round and a unique setting. El Valle is nestled in the second largest volcanic crater in the world— two miles wide — created when the enormous volcano blew its top off five million years ago. Steep mountainsides and jagged peaks make for spectacular scenery and the rich volcanic soil turns everything into a garden. One of the preferred pl aces for the weekend homes of Panama's most prominent families, as you stroll the country lanes, you'll see these magnificent houses — like pictures out of Architectural Digest.
Casa de Lourdes, is a Panamanian gourmet restaurant with mountain views. Chef Lourdes Fabrega is regarded as one of Panama's finest chefs. Right next to Los Mandarinos Hotel. Reservations: 983.6450 Another great place is Pedro's Pub at Los Mandarinos Hotel, an IrishPanamanian style pub. For good Italian food go to Buon Appettito WHERE TO STAy LOS MANdARINOS An upscale boutique hotel with spectacular mountain views, beautiful accomodations, a first class spa, ideal meeting facilities and two restaurants. losmandarinos.com
WHAT TO dO HANdICRAfTS MARkET Shop at the famous handicraft market next to a farmers market.
CANOPy LOdgE Sister to the famous Canopy Tower, an upscale eco-retreat for birders and nature lovers. It is nestled right in the rainforest with beautiful accomodations, excellent cuisine and a variety of nature activities. canopylodge.com
CARINAgUA SPA A beautiful haven with the best of spa services and holistic healing services. Ask about their Day Trip Packages from Panama City. cariguanaspa.com
CAMPESTRE HOTEL A country-style lodge with beautifully remodeled rooms. A good place for families. Reasonable rates, and spectacular mountain views. hotelcampestre.com
CANOPy AdVENTURE A thrilling zipline ride down a rainforest mountain and over a waterfall. canopytower.com
PARk EdEN Cozy romantic cottages surrounded by a lovely mountain garden. parkeden.com
gOURMET CUISINE WITH SPECTACULAR VIEWS
HOW TO gET THERE It's a two hour drive from Panama City on the Panamerican Highway.
rainforest
Panama City is the only city in the world with a rainforest in its city limits. Sloth moms and their babies are a common sight in the rainforest of the Metropolitan Park.
WHAT THEY'RE SAYING ABOUT PANAMA AS A TOURISM DESTINATION “August 2014 marks 100 years since the completion of the Panama Canal, and that's likely to attract more attention to the destination," says Mary Moses, general manager at PEAK South America. However, Panama has a lot more to offer travelers than just the canal, volcanoes, rainforests, coffee plantations and beautiful beaches on both the Atlantic and Pacific coasts." CNN:Top 11 Places to Visit in 2014 “Packed with a rich tableau of colonialera and contemporary culture, Panama has emerged in the past five years as a potent touristic rival to neighboring Costa Rica. Along the Pacific, surfers flock to tiny hamlets like Santa Catalina to ride world-class waves. Divers and snorkelers take to the crystalline waters surrounding the idyllic Bocas del Toro archipelago on the country' s Caribbean coast.” Wall Street Journal, May 2013 “Over the past 13 years, Panama City has been racing to become a worldclass metropolis, and for travelers, the changes have been enormous. In 1997 there were perhaps 1,400 hotel rooms in Panama City. Now there are more than 15,000 with another 4,582 rooms in the pipeline, according to STR Global, a London-based agency that tracks hotel markets. In the last two years alone, Trump, Starwood, Waldorf-Astoria, Westin and Hard Rock have opened hotels here. A new biodiversity museum designed by Frank Gehry is nearly complete.” 'Panama City Rising", New York Times May 2013 “Panama is much more than sunny beaches. Now, I think full disclosure is warranted here: our reason for coming to Panama was of singular purpose ... to enjoy the sun, sand and surf at a beach resort in a beautiful tropical setting. And 48 . www.thepanamaplanner.com
as I lay sipping my cold beverage on the first day of our trip under a scorching sun, my initial thought was mission accomplished. As we would learn over the course of the week though, Panama had much more to offer - and we were doing more than scratching the surface in our relatively brief stay.” Vancouver Sun, May 2013 “Panama is the rising star- among 140 countries covered by the report the most marked improvement goes to Panama. The country moved up to the 37th position from the 56th position, and due to its rich endowment of natural resources, Panama has a natural competitive advantage.” Tourism Competitiveness Report November. 2013 “High-profile projects include the construction of three firsts: The Panamera, the first Waldorf Astoria hotel in Latin America (set to ope n in June 2012); the Trump Ocean Club, the region’s tallest building, which opened last summer; and Frank Gehry’s first Latin American design, the BioMuseo, a natural history museum scheduled to open in early 2013. Even Panama City’s famously dilapidated historic quarter, Casco Viejo, has been transformed. The neighborhood, a tangle of narrow streets, centuries-old houses and neocolonial government bui ldings, was designated a Unesco World Heritage site in 1997 and is now a trendy arts district with galleries, coffeehouses, street musicians and some of the city’s most stylish restaurants and boutique hotels.” New York Times. January 2012 “If ever there was a time to visit Panama, this is it. In 2014 its famous canal celebrates 100 years of connecting the Atlantic and Pacific oceans, and Panama City is gearing up for the milestone with
a slew of major developments.” Condé Nast Traveler. 2013 "But it turns out Panama is somewhere you won’t want to leave. And savvy backpackers, surfers, hippies, and ecochic A-listers are quietly turning it into a new Caribbean hotspot with a Spanish skew, a place of Rasta-run beach huts, of strong community cultures, of gallery forests that emit a palpable twilight thrumming. It’s got world-class break, and white sand as fine as dust motes." "Turn a street corner and here is a gleaming, 21st-century city with the nightlife to match; turn another and the air is heavy with the scent from a hundred fallen mangoes; wreck-dive or kite-surf; shop for the colour-explosion textiles of the Kuna people depicting psychedelic monkeys...One of the many curious beauties of Panama is tha t it's small enough to get almost anywhere in a day and be back in the city for sushi and cocktails at night." Conde Nast Traveler. 2012 “Enjoy the best of both worlds in 2012, a city vacation to Panama City then hop on over to Islas Secas, to experience an off-the-grid escape. Travelers can explore 16-private islands, dive into seas teaming with uber-large fish and virgin coral reefs, snorkel gin-clear wat ers, hike virgin forests and spot 100′s of rare birds.” Travel & Leisure. January 2012 "Poised at the junction of North and South America, Panama possesses a laundry list of new attractions, hotspots and luxury hotels that are making it an up and coming travel destination. The result? Panama City is transforming into an energetic, modern metropolis, with investors preparing for moneyed visitors by upping its luxury quotient." Forbes. 2012
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ADVENTURE
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DID YOU KNOW? Panama has the most diverse wildlife of any of the Central American countries and the largest rainforest in the Western Hemisphere outside the Amazon Basin. JUNGLE METROPOLIS Panama has the most accessible rainforests in the world. The Metropolitan Natural Park in Panama City is a 655 acre tropical forest inside the city limits. It hosts 200 bird species and 40 mammal species— all just a short cab ride away from your city hotel. AIR TRAFFIC Panama has more than 976 bird species, more than the United States and Canada is rated as one of the best birding lodges in the world. RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL Before you travel, read up on local cultures and learn a few words of the local language travelling with respect earns you respect.
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world-class attractions nearby
NATURE. ADVENTURE Anywhere else you would have to take a jungle safari to experience the intense nature that's a short drive away in Panama. Panama's national parks cover more than 25% of its land mass and are some of the most accessible in the world.
Mother Nature outdid herself in Panama. Its unique position as a land bridge connecting two great continents gives it one of the richest and most complex ecosystems on the planet. One indicator of this astonishing biodiversity is Panama's 976 bird species, which is more than both the United States and Canada combined. It has one of the most lush flora anywhere including more than 1500 species of orchids. Panama's national parks cover more than 25% of its land mass and these nature rich rainforests are some of the most accessible
in the world. Panama City's Metropolitan Park is the only tropical rainforest in the world located within a city. The Panama Canal Rainforests, which form part of Soberania National Park are just 45 minutes from the city by car. Panama made the National Geographic List for "The World's 25 Best New Adventures." Anywhere else you would have to take a plane or jungle safari to experience the intense nature that is a short drive away in Panama. As the proud home of the world renowned Smithsonian Institute of Tropical Research, scientists come from around the
birds galore
As a land bridge between North and South America, Panama has an astounding number of bird species970 including 338 species of humming birds alone.
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ECOTOURISM
top ecolodges
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FOR A CLOSE TO NATURE EXPERIENCE rainforest /jungle ecolodges al natural alnaturalresort.com canopy tower canopytower.com canopy lodge canopylodge.com los Quetzales losquetzales.com island eco lodges eclypse de Mar eclypsedemar.com punta caracol puntacaracol.com
jungleland floating lodge junglelandpanama.com coral lodge coralodge.com Hacienda del Mar haciendadelmar.net la loMa jungle lodge thejunglelodge.com yandup island resort yandupisland.com 52 . www.thepanamaplanner.com
world to research the local flora and fauna. rafting For families looking for a fun adventure or more experienced rafters, the white water rafting in Panama is world-class. There are rivers where you can run 20 sets of rapids in a single afternoon. Any number of first ascents have yet to be adventured. rafting locations The Chiriqui Province in West Panama and the Chagres River in the Panama Canal Rainforest near Panama City, in Cocle province. rafting coMpanies Boquete outdoor adventure boqueteoutdooradventures.com kayaking Panama is a paddler's paradise. A renowned international kayaking instructor of Boquete Outdoor Adventures is quoted in Lonely Planet as having said that "Panama has three elements that make it a paddler's paradise: terrain, rainfall and accessibility." "Both river and ocean kayaking offer extraordinary experiences." Boquete Outdoor Adventures is Panama's premier rafting and kayaking company offering tours in Chiriqui and Bocas del Toro provinces, as well as Coiba island. Boquete outdoor adventure boqueteoutdooradventures.com extreMe adventure trekking ocean-to-ocean treks One of most popular adventure tours is The Camino Real Trek: hiking and canoeing ocean-toocean on the original Spanish cross-isthmus path. It's rated as one of the top 25
adventure tours by National Geographic Adventurer. See anconexpeditions.com BoQuete outdoor adventures Offers both kayaking and rafting extreme adventures, including an ocean adventure to Coiba Island. boqueteoutdooradventures.com darien jungle treks Live with and explore the jungle with the Wounaan Indians of the Darien Jungle, discovering and sharing their life as primitive farmers, fishermen and artists. ocean-to ocean treks and darien jungle experiences ancon expeditions anconexpeditions.com Boquete outdoor adventures boqueteoutdooradventures.com exotics panama panamaexoticadventures.com Birding like nowHere else on eartH Panama is a birders dream-cometrue due to easy access to birdrich locations. "This first day in Panama exceeded all the expectations Scott and I had about our trip. I told Carlos (one of the bird guides of the Canopy Tower) I had seen more birds in this one day than I did in a week in Costa Rica. His simple reply was, "Welcome to Panama!" top Birding spots Former Canal Zone - Pipeline Road and Canopy Tower, 45 minutes from Panama City. Colon Province - Fort Sherman and Achiote Rd. Darien Province Darien National Park - Cana Valley, Pirre Station. Chiriqui Province - Boquete, Bambito, Cerro Punta, Volcan. El Valle de Anton, Cocle.
experience
THE FRANK GEHRY BIODIVERSITY MUSEUM “Frank Gehry creates a dramatic new form of expression. He is the mind behind Guggenheim Museum in Spain, and the Walt Disney Concert Hall, Los Angeles.”
The Biodiversity Museum, designed by the famed architect Frank Gehry inaugurated in January 2014, is sure to be another major tourism attraction like the Panama Canal.
ECOLOGY
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DID YOU KNOW? Panama's tropical habitats are home to some of the most diverse and exotic species of plants and animals on Earth. HYPERDIVERSE COUNTRY Some scientists call Panama "hyperdiverse" given that flora and fauna from both North and South America meet here on this land bridge. UNIQUE ECOLOGY In 1980, in the tropical rainforests of Panama, scientists discovered 1,200 species of beetles living in and around just 19 trees. Fully 80% of these species were previously unknown to science. WILDLIFE REFUGE The Panamanian government has designated 30% of the country - 5 million acres - as national parks and wildlife refuges. Darien National Park, a designated UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, is the largest and most pristine national park in Central. America.
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This world class museum with its stunning design, will celebrate Panama's worldchanging emergence as an isthmus 15 million years ago and its extraordinary biodiversity today. It's also the first Gehry designed building in Latin America. It features eight interac tive exhibitions about Panama's emergence from the ocean and its biodiversity. Scientists from the Smithsonian institute of Tropical Research and the University of Panama provided the scientific content. The museum's exhibits and educational games were developed by Bruce Mau Design, one of the leading design firms in the world. The exhibit themes are: The Gallery of Biodiversity, Panarama, Building the Bri dge, Worlds Collide, The Human Path, Oceans Divided and The Living Web. A tropical botanical garden surrounding the museum is designed by Edwina Von Gal, a distinguished New York landscape artist. Located on Amador Causeway, in Panama City, the museum site has panoramic views of the ocean and large cargo ships entering the Panama Canal. It's expected to be major tourism attraction along with the Panama Canal. www.biomuseopanama.org PANAMA AND ITS UNIQUE BIODIVERSITY With its huge expanses of rich tropical rainforest, the Isthmus of Panama is one of the most biologically diverse areas in the world. Panama's unique ecology started 15 million years ago with the geological emergence of the Isthmus from the ocean
– an event scientists consider to be the most important geological event of the last 60 million years. Before the emergence of Panama, North and South America were two separate landmasses. Afterwards, Panama became the only land bridge reconnecting the ecosystems of the North and South American continents, which had been separate for tens of millions of years. Although Panama is small compared to the other land masses, its emergence had an enormous global impact: it cut off the flow of currents between t he Pacific and Atlantic Oceans causing the re-routing of ocean currents all over the world- a worldwide climate changing event. The result is that today, Panama has an impressively biodiverse collection of flora and fauna from both continents. BIRDING PARADISE Birds are a primary indicator of biodiversity and Panama takes a grand prize with 972 species of birds, more than the United States and Canada co mbined. There are also 125 animal species found only in Panama. According to the Audubon Society latest bird census, the Panama Canal Rainforest, just outside Panama City is one the "Top 10 Places in the World for Bird Species" with 298 species. SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTE OF TROPICAL RESEARCH Because of its unique biodiversity, Panama is also privileged to be home to the Smithsonian Institute of Tropical Resear ch, the world's primary tropical scientific investigation center. Since 1923, hundreds of scientists from around the world have been cataloging and monitoring this vast ecological heritage at the institute. www.stri.si.edu
iNdiaN CommuNitieS
legendary wisdom and mythical experiences
SEVEN LIVING INDIGENOUS CULTURES "Swim in the river, hear a talk on ancient traditional Embera indian medicine or have a temporary tatoo of vegetable dyes from the forest painted on you".
did you KNoW? More than 500 years after the arrival of the first European explorers Panama still has seven autonomous indigenous cultures. HigHligHtS Indigenous village daytrips, handicrafts
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"Right out of the pages of National Geographic” is the only way to describe the delights of a visit to the communities of Panama's seven living Indian cultures. Their simple, fascinating way of life has changed little since Columbus discovered America. In other places you would have to travel far to see an authentic Indian culture, but in Panama the communities are easy to get to. Embera communities can be visited on a day trip from Panama City. embera village day tour This is one of Panama's most
popular tours. Just an hour and a half from Panama City, you take a motorized dug-out canoe up a beautiful river surrounded by rainforests to an authentic Embera Indian village. Greeted by dozens of friendly Indians in traditional attire, you start with a visit to their common lodge, built on stilts. A tribe member tells you about their way of life, history and beliefs. Watch the women demonstrate how they make their intricately woven baskets. Next, they perform a traditional dance in the village center and you can even join in if you like. Then it's on to lunch, consisting of
experience
A visit to an authentic village of an Embera indigenous tribe is one of the most popular day tours from Panama City. You get there by boat up a rainforest river.
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INDIAN CULTURES traditional food prepared in a thatched roof kitchen. After lunch you can have a (temporary) tattoo of vegetable dyes from the forest painted on you and shop for beautiful Indian baskets and tropical wood carvings. Later you may take a short walk to the local herb garden and hear a talk on ancient traditional medicine. Before your canoe ride back, you can swim in the river. Imagine experiencing all these things in one day: a scenic canoe ride through rainforest where you see both tropical birds and wildlife, on-site about Indigenous Cultures by the Indians themselves, and cultural education in tribal dancing, handicrafts and medicinal herbs. So much for having to fly to the Amazon to experience all this! anconexpeditions.com OVERNIGHT DARIEN JUNGLE RAINFOREST TOURS Travel by boat and live in the villages of the Embera and Wounaan Indians experiencing their way of life, culture and the richness of the tropical rainforest. ExOTIcS ADVENTURE panamaexoticsadventure.com SAN bLAS ISLANDS - GUNA YALA "An independent island society off the coast retains its culture in idyllic surroundings. Life has been carefully and tenaciously - frozen in time. The Comarca Guna Yala is a strip of land string of 365 islands that stretch 200 miles along the Caribbean coast. For the tourist the lure of the islands is irresistible, particularly as there are few places to stay, keeping it untouched, uncommercial and as soothing as you could hope with clear seas and palm-lined beaches and always in the distance the misty ridge 58 . www.thepanamaplanner.com
of the mainland mountains like a barrier to the outside world.” The London Times. 2009 The San Blas Islands, also known as Guna Yala, are a double attraction: they have both a living Indian culture and pristine tropical islands. You will experience the extraordinary beauty and peace on these white sand Caribbean islands and at the same time live with and learn from the legendary Guna people. The Gunas support themselves by selling millions of coconuts from the palms that dot their islands as well as by selling their internationally renowned Mola handicraft - a reverse stitched embroidery. You can visit the San Blas Islands with a tour operator or you can go yourself and stay at an island ecolodge like Yandup Island Resort. To get to San Blas, take a short plane ride from the domestic airport in Albrook. cORAL LODGE Set on the coast near San Blas, this is a perfect scenic, romantic getaway. corallodge.com YANDUP ISLAND RESORT Experience pristine island surroundings and the fascinating Guna Indian culture. yandupisland.com HANDIcRAFTS Panama's handicraft artisan markets are wonderful places to view and purchase a variety of outstanding Indian workmanship. For starters, it's best to learn the names of some of the crafts available: mOLAS Intricate reverse embroidery needle
work, hand-sewn by the Guna indians of the San Blas Islands. Molas are soId as wall hangings, pillow cases, and can be sewn on purses, dresses, blouses,etc. TAGUA cARVINGS Panamanian wildlife intricately carved from small tagua nuts known as "vegetable ivory." The tagua nut comes from a rainforest palm tree. Artisans Market on Amador Causeway. EmbERA wOVEN bASkETS These baskets are made from tightly woven palm leaves and are colored exclusively with natural dyes from the jungle. wHERE TO bUY INDIAN HANDIcRAFTS: - Artisans Market on Amador Causeway. - Reprosa Shops in the business district and Casco Viejo for exquisite baskets and wood. - Souvenir shops in Casco Viejo. - Artisans Fair in El Valle de Anton. - Gran Morrison Variety Stores. wHERE TO bUY PRE-HISPANIc AND SPANISH cOLONIAL REPRODUcTIONS: For a jewelry gift go to Reprosa’s beautifully appointed stores in the Business District and in Casco Viejo. reprosa.com Authentic Indian and Spanish molds are used to make beautifully crafted jewelry. Their stores also have high quality tagua and cocobolo carvings. We recommend their showroom/factory tour in Panama City for $10. Call 271.0033.
THE sCooP
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PaNaMa HaT
Most everyone likes to buy the elegant, tropical "Panama Hat". You'll also find the exquisite “Pintados hats” woven from white palm fibers and decorated with black geometric patterns. They're an essential part of Panama´s national costume and a chic fashion statement as a souvenir.
HaNDiCraFTs Tours
One of the most popular tours is to the Reprosa factory and showroom in Costa del Este. Reprosa offers the highest quality Panama handicrafts and the most amazing collection anywhere, yet something for every budget. reprosa.com.T: 271.0033
raiNForEsT DEsigN CaMEos
Local businesswoman Roslyn Zelenka creates some of the most beautiful cameo jewelry anywhere. Her designs are inspired by the tropical flora and fauna and carved by Panama's Wounan Indians. Find them in the Marriott Hotel Gift Store. rainforestdesign.com
ancient arts and living indian cultures
HANDICRAFTS
From the famous Guna Indian's molas to the tagua nut and cocobolo wood creative carvings. Panama has such a fascinating selection of handicrafts because it is home to seven living Indian cultures. Panama's handicraft artisan markets are wonderful places to view and purchase a variety of outstanding Indian workmanship.
Even though Panama is a small country, its native handicrafts rival those of Mexico in both variety and artistry. Panama has such a fascinating selection of handicrafts because it's home to seven living indigenous cultures. Their ancient arts, traditions and outstanding manual abilities, make for native masterpieces. Indian handicrafts include: Molas Panama's most famous native handicraft. Molas are colorful, intricate reverse embroidery needle work with geometric or local animal designs. They are hand sewn only by the Guna Indians of the San Blas
Islands and worn on their traditional clothing. The most popular mola souvenir items are dresses and other forms of clothing with mola decorations, framed molas and bags with molas stitched on them. It is a pleasure to buy the molas directly from the Indians who make them. You can do this if you visit the San Blas islands or you may find the Indian women at a handicrafts market in Panama City or Bocas del Toro. Tagua NuT CarviNgs Clever and creative carvings showing different forms of Panamanian wildlife created from a tagua nut by highly skilled www.thepanamaplanner.com . 59
prize winning
Panama's national dress, the Pollera, is one of the most beautiful national dresses in the world. Made of white linen with colorful, complicated hand stitching, it can take up to two years to make.
HANDICRAFTS Indian artisans. The tagua nut comes from a rainforest palm tree and is so hard it is known as "vegetable ivory." At the turn of the century before plastic was invented, tagua nuts were exported to the States and Europe for buttons. EmbEra WovEn baskEts Absolutely perfect baskets (similar to Navajo baskets) woven by Embera Indian women from jungle palm leaves and tinted with natural dyes from jungle plants. They can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of months to make and are quality treasures for any home. CoCoboLo CarvInGs Cocobolo is a beautiful hardwood
from the rainforests. Carved by Indian masters for hundreds of years, the carvings are inspired by nature, animals, flowers and plants. LUXUrY IndIan HandICraft JEWELrY Rainforest Design, offers stunning, intricate cameo pieces with rainforest and fauna motifs carved by highly skilled Wounaan Indian artisans from Panama's Darien Province. Available at the Marriott gift store. rainforestdesign.com Reprosa in the business district and Casco Viejo has stunning reproductions of pre-Hispanic figures and Spanish colonial jewelry.
They have a jewelry gift for every budget. For tours call: 271.0033 www.reprosa.com WHErE to fInd IndIan HandICrafts Panama CItY There are several excellent souvenirs stores in Casco Viejo near Plaza de Francia. Reprosa in the business district and Casco Viejo has high quality native handicrafts. Gran Morrison Variety store has a large selection EL vaLLE dE anton A mountain town 1.5 hours from Panama City. El Valle has a great outdoor artisans market offering a wide variety of souvenirs.
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HISTORICAL SITES DID YOU KNOW? Panama Viejo was the first European settlement on the Pacific Coast of the Americas? A city of 10,000 at its peak, it was destroyed by English pirate Henry Morgan in 1671. PIRATE BUZZ The Captain Morgan brand of rum sponsored an expdition in Panama to find the lost fleet and loot of the infamous pirate Henry Morgan. After three years they found a wreckage with swords, cannons, and barrels that may very well have belonged to Morgan. TOUR OF A LIFETIME Ancon Expedition's Camino Real Trek , a trans-isthmus tour was just selected as a "50 Tours of a Lifetime" by National Geographic Traveler. OLD AND NEW Casco Viejo, Panama City's historic district was founded after the destruction of Panama Viejo. It has recently undergone a
renaissance as a chic urban hotspot.
panama’s rich historical heritage
HISTORICAL SITES
"Founded in 1673, after Panama Viejo was destroyed by pirate Henry Morgan, Casco Viejo the second Panama City. "
CASCO VIEJO Founded in1673 after Panama Viejo was destroyed by pirate Henry Morgan, Casco Viejo was Panama city's downtown until the 1930's when it declined as wealthy families moved to new sectors. Since the last decade Casco Viejo is being authentically restored to its former brilliance and is fast becoming one of the premier Spanish colonial destinations in the Americas with fine restaurants, souvenir and handicrafts stores and a lively nightlife. A walking tour of this sector is an ideal way to see the sights. You can go with a guide or take the walking tour outlined in the Lonely Planet and Frommer's guides. You'll find a proud, living community jutting out
on the panoramic Panama Bay, full of history, color and authenticity. PANAMA VIEJO Panama Viejo is the site of the 16th century ruins of the original Panama City the first city founded by Spain on the West coast of the Americas. It was the main transit point for treasure sacked from the Incan Empire in Peru. Treasures were off loaded here and taken by mule across the isthmus to a treasure house in Portobelo where ships took the loot to Spain. The treasures proved a lure to pirates and the city was burnt down in an attack by English pirate Henry Morgan. These pictures que ruins of a once thriving city include a museum with history exhibits and findings from archaeological excavations. www.thepanamaplanner.com . 65
HISTORICAL SITES
THE PANAMA CANAL AT MIRAFLORES VISITORS CENTER Since the time of the Spanish conquerors, men dreamed of a canal across the Isthmus. Panama became the center of the world's attention in the 1900's when French builder of the Suez Canal, Ferdinand de Lesseps attempted and failed to build a similar sea level canal in Panama. In 1904, Panama signed a treaty granting the United States rights to build a canal. Learning from the success and errors of the French, the Americans succeeded due to brilliant engineering feats, a superb administration and the identification of the mosquito as the cause of malaria and yellow fever. Get to know the Panama Canal by a visit to the Miraflores Visitors Center, just half an hour from downtown Panama City. Right on the Canal, you'll see ships trans iting the locks, state-ofthe-art exhibits and a short film that explains the history, operation and the ecology of the Panama Canal. Entrance fee: $10. PANAMA RAILROAD Take a train ride across the Isthmus on the historic Panama Canal Railway, first opened in 1855 and built by the Kansas City Railroad. The railroad was built as an alternative route for the gold seeking because the cross-country route was too dangerous.The scenic ride goes to the city of Colon on the Atlantic, passing through the Panama Canal watershed, and rainforests. Because the train departs in the morning and returns in the late afternoon, we recommend you go with a tour operator who can guide you in some day activities, such as visiting the Colon Free Trade Zone or the San Lorenzo Fort. www.panarail.com PORTOBELO Set on a beautiful Caribbean bay,
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Portobelo today has a restored treasure house and the ruins of four Spanish forts. Most of the treasure looted in Peru went through this city. Portobelo is 1.5 hours from Panama City. You need to take a car or go with a tour guide. FORT SAN LORENZO These stunning ruins of a Spanish fort built in the 1570's to ward off pirates jut out into the Caribbean Ocean at the mouth of the historic Chagr es River. The access road has lush jungle and wildlife. FORMER AMERICAN CANAL ZONE Tour the turn-of-the-century charm of the former towns of the American Canal Zone and the imposing Panama Canal Administration Building with its powerful murals of the Canal's construction. CAMINO DE CRUCES This road was first created by Indians to cross the 50 mile isthmus, ocean to ocean. The Spanish conquerors used the s ame road. It was partly submerged when the Panama Canal was built but a portion of the original road still exists and can be walked today near Gamboa, just outside Panama City. BOCAS DEL TORO This laid back town, one of Panama's most popular beach destinations, was once a busy, turn-of-the-century trading center for bananas, chocolate and tropical hardwoods. Many original buildings remain, such as the H otel Bahia which occupies the original headquarters of the United Fruit Company. In the 1500's Columbus restocked his ships on these local islands and named a few of them. COCLE The town of Nata in Cocle Province is home to the first church built on the American continent - the Basilica of Santiago Apostol. Built in 1522, the church was recently restored with elaborate wooden carvings.
colonial
Casco Viejo, Panama City's historic sector is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
take a swing
GOLFING GOLF
Panama offers the best championship golf courses in Central America on the Pacific coast beaches and in the cool mountain highlands.
Panama has the best championship golf courses in Central America. These include the only seaside golf course in the region, (which is near the capital) and the only golf course with a computerized GPS system. You can also enjoy cool highland mountain golfing in Boquete. The Seaside courses are just over an hour from Panama City. GOLFING NEAR PANAMA CITY TUCAN COUNTRY GOLF A resort community just 15 minutes from Panama City with a 18 hole golf course with sweeping views of the Panama Canal and Panama City and a variety of villas and condos. FAST FACTS Panama has the best variety of golfing venues in Central America. HIGHLIGHTS Play in the City surrounded by rainforest, in the cool Boquete highlands, or on the beach-lined coastline.
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SUMMIT GOLF AND RESORT Half an hour from downtown Panama City amidst tropical scenery. This championship course was designed by Jeffrey Myers. summitgolfpanama.com GOLFING ON THE PACIFIC COAST NEAR PANAMA CITY THE JW MARRIOTT AT BUENAVENTURA A Jack Nicklaus Championship course
regarded by many as the best golf course in Latin America. CORONADO GOLF CLUB A top golf course with ocean views, created by the designers Tom and George Fazio (18 holes, par 72 with 7092 yards). coronadoresort.com MANTARAY GOLF COURSE Next to one of Panama's best beaches. At the Royal Decameron Resort, just 1.5 hours from Panama City, this 18 hole, par 72 course was designed by Randall Thompsen. It includes two driving ranges and 6 flood lit par 3 holes for after-dark enjoyment. GOLFING IN BOQUETE, CHIRIQUI QUEBRADA GRANDE GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB AT VALLE ESCONDIDO A challenging 9 hole par 3 and pa r 4 course in Boquete (west Panama). Two tee boxes per hole allow for 18 holes to be played. The course winds its way through a valley and an operating coffee plantation. veresort.com
golfing
Panama has the best championship courses in the region.
community
Enjoy luxury living at Playa Bonita Residences, 15 minutes from Panama City on a beach, next to a rainforest.
a friendly place to start over
LIVING IN PANAMA "Spin aside, Panama is increasingly popular among retirement-age types, looking to hedge against - or skip out on -the recession." bloomberg business Week.
When you stay for extended periods of time in another country, it's nice to feel away from it all, but not completely. Panama, because of a ninety year American presence and a long history as an international crossroads, has American-style infrastructure and international ambience. This, among other factors, makes it one of the best countries in the world to live in. If you are an American thinking of retiring in Panama, we recommend you buy soon as new U.S. laws have been enacted that soon make it more difficult to transfer money abroad. Panama is safe Panama has the lowest rates of crimes against tourists in the region and a relatively low crime rate in
general. One of the first things foreigners who live in Panama will tell you is how safe they feel compared to other places in Latin America. Panama City, like every big city has some neighborhoods which are best to avoid, but in general you can go about Panama City without a worry. americ an-style infrastructure, by-Product of a historical relationshiP One of the best things about living in Panama is the American style infrastructure: 50,000 Americans made their home in Panama up until 1999 when Panama took control of the Panama Canal. Those Americans call Panama their “Paradise Lost.” Panama has a distinct, delightful Caribbean Latin culture.
a d Va n ta G e s did you KnoW ? Panama has the best retiree benefit program in the world, with discounts on hotels, restaurants, transportation, prescription medicines, movies and even domestic and international airline tickets. fast facts Almost universally available WIFI, the widespread use of smart-phones, and a robust financial sector are only a few examples of how Panama is part of the latest technological trends—a truly modernizing country. loW cost of liVinG According to a 2012 survey by The Economist, Panama City has the 5th cheapest cost of living in the world for a capital city. safety Panama is one the most stable and safe countries in the region.
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LIVING IN PANAMA the advantages of living in panama THE PANAMANIAN PEOPLE “GLOBALIZED,” PEACEFUL, FRIENDLY AND FUN-LOVING Another reason why Panama is a great place to live is because of the Panamanian people. To begin with there is a saying that Panama was “born globalized.” As a historical crossroads, Panama is home to immigrants from everywhere. Numerous communities made up of varied nationalities have grown and gotten along amicably. Most people a re "mestizo"- the European-Indian population typical to Latin American countries. Blacks who originally came to help with the construction of the Canal make-up a large Antillean population. European, American, Chinese, Jewish, Islamic and Hindu communities also have a significant presence. Panamanians are friendly and fun-loving. Their sense of beauty is visible in many ways- from the delicacy of the I ndian’s handicrafts to the beautifully groomed women and Panama City's many attractive neighborhoods. PANAMA IS CLOSE Panama is easy to get to. Located in Central America, it is just 3-5 hours away by plane from the States. Nonstop flights from Miami, Dallas, New York, Washington D.C., Atlanta, Houston, Newark, Los Angeles, New York, Ft. Lauderdale, Chicago, Toronto and Orlando are offered by Delta, Contin ental, American, Copa and Spirit Airlines. From Europe there are direct flights from Amsterdam on KLM and from Spain on Iberia. THE DOLLAR AS THE CURRENCY: A GREAT CONVENIENCE The convenience of having the U.S. dollar as the unit of currency cannot be underestimated - it makes daily life much more hassle free for foreigners. The U.S. dollar is a major factor in explaining why Panama boasts of the lowest inflation rate and one the most stable economies in Latin America. 72 . www.thepanamaplanner.com
“The U.S. dollar is a major factor in explaining why Panama boasts of the lowest inflation rate and one the most stable economy in Latin America.”
DEPENDABLE TRAVEL IN PANAMA Travel within Panama is dependable and inexpensive. Taxis in Panama City are cheap and reliable. You can go just about anywhere within the city for less than $10. The highway system and the feeder roads off the main highways are excellent. The Interamerican Highway which extends from the border of Costa Rica to Panama City is a modern four lane highway. FIRST CLASS MEDICAL SERVICES AT HALF THE PRICE OR LESS Panama has the best medical services in Central America. And more than any other place in Latin America, you can readily find English speaking, American trained doctor s and dentists. Full coverage health insurance policies are reasonably priced. Punta Pacifica Hospital is a new stateof-the-art facility and the only hospital in Latin America managed by John Hopkins. hospitalpuntapacifica.com Hospital Nacional is an excellent Panamanian hospital which has an international office and caters to foreigners. hospitalnacional.com ENGLISH SPEAKING DENTISTS Many dentists speak English, are American-trained, and charge at least 50% less than dentists in the U.S. HEALTH SAFETY Another big plus is that you can drink the tap water, a rarity in Latin America. Sanitation is good: the “Montezumas revenge” illnesses that tourists are prone to in other countries of Latin America are almost unheard of in Panama. PANAMA HAS NO HURRICANES OR MAJOR EARTHQUAKES Panama is the only country in Central
America that is absolutely hurricanefree. Panama also has none of the destructive earthquakes that plague its Central American neighbors. Your property investment will always be safe from these natural disasters. GOOD SHOPPING Panama is a paradise for shopping with plentiful stores to satisfy American and European consumers. You'll find everything from bargain hunter stores to the most prestigio us luxury brands. The supermarkets are the best in Latin America. Riba Smith, El Rey and Super 99 stock just about everything you can find in an American grocery store and at cheaper prices. There are four major shopping malls: Multiplaza in Punta Pacifica, Multicentro on Balboa Ave., Albrook Mall and Metro Mall near Tocumen International Airport. INTERNET AND SERVICES Highspeed internet access in Panama i s as good or better than in the USA. Phone service and other basic services are also excellent, unusual for Latin America. GOOD SCHOOLS Families will find a number of excellent private schools to choose from. There are three American accredited schools: the International School of Panama, Balboa Academy, and the Oxford International School. BANKING CONVENIENCES AND A STRONG FINANCIAL SERVICES SECTOR ATM machi nes provide access to your USA bank account and are located throughout Panama City as well as in many locations in the countryside. Canadian Scotia Bank specializes in services to foreign residents for both personal and corporate accounts. Panama has financial privacy laws and no taxes on offshore profits.
tropical paradise
For 2014, Forbes Magazine rated Panama as the best place in the world to retire. The relatively low cost of living, safety and stable government , set Panama apart.
one of the top retirement destinations in the world
PANAMA CITY NEIGHBORHOODS
Panama City has beautiful, varied neighborhoods to choose from including Miami-style ocean front condo sectors, suburban homes in Costa del Este, restored historic homes in Casco Viejo and former Canal Zone homes nestled against rainforests.
Ocean FrOnt neighbOrhOOds: Punta PaciFica, Punta Paitilla, balbOa avenue These neighborhoods offer residences with incredible views of Panama Bay, the Pacific Ocean, the entrance to the Panama Canal, Amador Causeway and Taboga Island in the distance.
living did yOu KnOW? Panama is consistently rated as a top retirement destination by major travel and retirement publications such as International Living, AARP, Forbes, Kiplinger, and U.S. News & World Report. Fast Facts A Panama City metro system is the biggest project in value terms. The 1.5 billion dollar investment for the first 14 km line will transform the life of residents with fast travel between outlying urban areas and the city center. ecOnOMy In the last 10 years Panama's economy has grown at an average of 8.5% of GDP, the fastest rate in in Latin America, and among the highest in the world. It finished 2013 with a 7.3% growth rate.
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established neighbOrhOOds: san FranciscO, Marbella, el cangrejO and la cresta These neighborhoods are attractive, central, safe and prices are less than bay front neighborhoods, yet many buildings have beautiful city and even ocean views. uPscale FlOrida style develOPMents: cOsta del este and cOsta sur Costa del Este is an upscale residential area with homes and condos. If you didn't know better, you would think you were in a fancy Florida neighborhood. It is conveniently connected to both the downtown and the international airport by beltway. Costa Sur near to Tocumen has new medium range homes.
an attraction of the Former American Canal Zone where plain military housing is being remodeled into beautiful tropical homes. Residents enjoy community tennis courts and multiple parks. Popular neighborhoods are Albrook, Cla yton, Gamboa and Amador Causeway. Panama Pacifico is a whole new master planned city in the Howard section of the Canal Zone. cascO viejO: the histOric sectOr A Spanish colonial gem set on scenic Panama Bay and located in the historic UNESCO World Heritage site, Casco Viejo is one of the most popular places for investment and for foreigners to live. The sector has French and American style buildings from the time of the construction of the Panama Canal. In the last 10 years dozens of historic buildings have been beautifully restored. Arthur Frommer of the Frommers guides writes that Casco Viejo is "beginning to leave behind Old San Juan and Old Havana in authenticy and beauty." For Casco Viejo restored and unrestored homes, apartments and commercial builidings:
PanaMa PaciFicO: a Master Planned cOMMMunity Designed as a business-residential community, Panama Pacifico has pristine nature, miles of trails, top schools and all the services.15 minutes from downtown Panama City. panamapacifico.com
arco Properties arcoproperties.com Tel: 211 .2548
FOrMer aMerican canal ZOne Lush green common areas are
inmobilaria san Felipe sanfelipe.com.pa Tel: 6616.7818
cosmopolitan spirit
Blessed with an oceanfront location and mild year-round climate, Panama City is a melting pot with a relaxing atmosphere. Maybe that´s the reason so many people feel at home here.
what they´re saying about living in panama “Panama: the number one retirement Destination 2014.” International Living. 2013 “it's not just retirees who are taking advantage of the appeal of Latin american countries. Kent Davis, who grew up in hawaii, moved to Panama when he was 27. now, six years later, he calls his life in the country "fantastic." Mr. Davis, the founder of the real estate firm Panama equity, says homes there aren't necessarily any cheaper than they are where his mother lives in richmond, Va. but the cost of doctors, dentists, and car repairs is about one-fourth what it is in the us. in addition, so-called jubilados (retirees) receive a one-time exemption of duties on the importation of household goods and a wide array of benefits..... it's one of the best retirement programs in the world, according to international Living magazine, which rated Panama at the top of its annual "global retirement index" six years in a row.” Christian Science Monitor. 2013 "Panama is the world's top retirement haven. Panama City no longer qualifies as cheap, but other spots in this country certainly do. Panama continues to offer the world's gold standard program of special benefits for retirees. the currency is the u.s. dollar, so there is no exchange rate risk if your retirement savings and income is in dollars. the climate in Panama City and on the coasts is tropical,
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hot, and humid. however, the climate in the highlands can be temperate and tempting. Panama is the hub of the americas, meaning it's easily accessible from anywhere in north and south america and europe." U.S. News and World Report, “The 18 Best Places to Retire" Overseas”. 2012 "but some countries stand out for the amount and quality of benefits they offer foreign retirees. Panama tops the category with an organized program of discounts and perks called the pensionado. the program is open to foreigners and there’s no minimum age requirement. with it you have serious discounts, money off that makes a big difference to your costs. Like 20% off any professional services used in Panama; 50% off for movies, theaters and sporting events; a 30% discount on public transport, 25% off the price of food eaten in a sit down restaurant; 15% off in fast food joints, 15% off in hospitals and private clinics… 25% domestic flights on CoPa… the list goes on…" International Living. 2012 "when sid and barb williams began searching for the perfect place to retire, they never thought they’d wind up living outside the united states. Panama not only offers a warmer climate than their hometown of Cincinnati but also provides a lower cost of living,
generous financial incentives for retirees, and a reliable and affordable health-care system." Washington Post. June 2010 10 Exotic Retirement Spots for 2011 “Panama City has the best infrastructure in all of Central america, but it no longer qualifies as super-cheap. other places in the country can be affordable, but the cost of living and real-estate prices in the capital and more-developed parts of the country have risen. Moderately priced: specifically Las tablas, boquete and Panama City." US News & World Report. 2011 "while Panama enjoys the same low cost of living and extraordinary weather as most of Latin america, it has one benefit that overshadows most of the perks of its nearby competitors: the Pensionado visa program for expats...speaking of health care, the options available in Panama are surprisingly good, particularly in Panama City. the hospitals are new and modern; many doctors are english-speaking and u.s.-trained. Development in Panama has been booming in recent years. you’ll now find many gated communities and luxury developments." Forbes. 2013 The Best Places to Retire Abroad "Panama is a smart choice for retirees who want it all—in a country that really wants them.” AARP Magazine. 2010
Panama offers first class medical treatments
h e a lt h did You KnoW? Regular Panamanian health insurance plans are available for foreigners who sign up before they are 60. If you are already over 60, there are reasonably priced health insurance plans starting at $300 a month. american standards Panamanian hospitals are required by law to only use medical instruments approved by the American Food and Drug Administration (FDA). medical research Panama has signed an agreement with the United States to create a Commemorative Gorgas Institution, a laboratory that will serve as a reference point in Latin America for respiratory diseases. eXPansion Panama is improving its national healthcare system by building 5 new hospitals in key areas around the country.
MEDICAL TOURISM Panama has the best medical care in Central America and is becoming a Mecca for "medical tourism". It offers first-class medical treatment by American-trained doctors in hospitals that are on a par with the USA at about 50% the cost or less. What is medical tourism?
A "medical tourist" goes to another country to get the same treatment done but at a fraction of the cost.
American-trained doctors in hospitals that are on a par with the USA at about 50% or less cost. in Panama a medical tourist
Panama: one of the Best Places for first-class medical treatments at affordaBle Prices.
Panama has the best medical care in Central America and is fast becoming a Mecca for "medical tourism". Why? Because Panama offers first-class medical treatment by
. Gets a medical treatment with the same techniques, facilities and medications as in the USA. . Chooses from a wide selection of English speaking, American-trained doctors. Stays in hospitals that compare favorably to the best US hospitals. . Can enjoy cosmopolitan Panama www.thepanamaplanner.com . 77
City- Central America's safest and most modern city. YouR tReatment is usa tax DeDuctible
According to the IRS, most travel expenses due to medical reasons are tax deductible. Panamanian DoctoRs aRe knoWn as fine PRofessionals
Americans living in Panama will tell you care in Panama is as good or better than in the States and the doctors are warm, knowledgeable and unhurried. no moRe Waiting There's no need to wait any longer for the medical and beauty treatments you've been longing for. Come to Panama- get well, get beautiful and then take a vacation
or pocket the difference. health seRVices hosPital nacional A top hospital choice for foreigners living in Panama with a international department to serve you. hospitalnacional.com alteRnatiVe health alta Vita sPa This is Panama City' s only complete luxury spa and holistic wellness center. Founded by Americans with over 40 years experience in the health field. Tel: 390.9919 avspapanama.com the haVen sPa anD alteRnatiVe health clinic This is a wide range of spa and alternative health treatments in the
beautiful mountain village of Boquete. thehavenspa.com Dental caRe in english American trained, English speaking dentists providing wide range of dental Services from fillings to teeth whitening to implants. clinic foRD Dental sPa With the look and comfort of a spa, the Ford Clinic, offers the best in cosmetic dentistry, make overs, and regular dental services. Cosmetic dentistry, implants, Extreme Makeovers. Business District. Tel: 223.4742 / 4574 smilepanama.com eisenmann Dental clinic Business District.Tel: 269.2750 dentalpanama.com
PANAMA: NUMBER ONE FOR RETIREMENT LIVING If you're thinking of a retirement or vacation home in a safe, beautiful, inexpensive place with a modern infrastructure, then Panama is a smart choice. In November 2012 Forbes Magazine selected Panama as one of the 15 top foreign retirement havens. Panama is also top rated for retirement by AARP Modern Maturity magazine, Fortune Magazine and International Living. RetiRement oR PENSIONADO Visa PRogRam The Panamanian government actively encourages retiree’s to relocate here. 78 . www.thepanamaplaner.com
To receive a retirees visa, there are just three requirements: a proven monthly income, a health certificate (only AIDS may disqualify you) and a police report. It offers the world's best retiree benefits program. see box on next page. What Panama has to offeR the RetiRee - One of the safest countries in the region. - An extraordinarily beautiful country with a wide variety of residential options which include mountain, beach
and city communities. - The opportunity to buy and own property in Panama enjoying the same rights and protections as Panamanians. - Never getting bored in Panama with its variety of fascinating tourism destinations and Central America's most sophisticated capital city. Friends and relatives will love to come visit. You might want to volunteer in a service project or even start a business.
the Best RetiRee INCENTIVE PROGRAM IN THE WORLD
I 10% 15% 25% 25% 30% 50% 50% 50% Importation of all your personal and household goods free of taxes.
OFF
OFF
OFF
prescription dental and restaurants. medicines. eye exams.
OFF
domestic and international airline tickets.
OFF
bus, boat and train fares.
OFF
closing costs for home loans.
OFF hotel
accomodations
Monday Thursday.
OFF
entertainment
including movies, concerts, theater. (movie tickets for $2.00 !).
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Casa bonita residences, just outside Panama City.
lIFEsTYlE dId YOu KNOW? Panama topped International Living’s annual Global Retirement Index for six years straight and was ranked number 2 in 2013. FAsT FACTs The cost of living in Panama is much lower than in the U.S. and Western Europe, a factor that has attracted many foreigners to retire early in Panama. MOVING IN Panama’s strategic location at the continental level (out of reach of hurricane routes), the use of the US dollar as the local currency and the excellent prices in the real estate market with first class finishings, make Panama an ideal destination to live. COsMOPOlITAN lIVING Panama is an exciting cosmopolitan metropolis, where you can experience the best of all worlds: a rich history, the blending of Western and Latin American culture.
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a variety of lifestyle choices
RESORT COMMUNITY ROUNDUP This is an exciting time to shop for property as Panama is just beginning to develop as a retirement and vacation destination of choice.
NEAR PANAMA CITY PANAMA PACIFICO Just over the Bridge of the Americas, 20 minutes from downtown Panama City, a whole new tropical city is being built. From a world-class golf course to hundreds of hectares of open space, homes in Panama Pacifico link residential, recreational, natural and business spaces together. panamapacifico.com TuCAN COuNTRY Club ANd REsORT Tucan is one of the most developed resort communities in Panama City with an 18 hole golf course and dozens of homes and
condos built. Just 15 minutes from downtown Panama City, it features spectacular views of both the Panama Canal and Panama City and is set against a rainforest in a beautiful tropical garden. Choose from a selection of terrace condominiums, townhouses and villas. tucancountryclub.com bEACH ANd IslANd REsORT COMMuNITIEs PACIFIC COAsT bEACHEs buENAVENTuRA REsORT JW Marriot Hotel Panama's most exclusive beach resort community, with a JW Marriott Resort, is an oasis of luxury and good taste. At the heart of this community is
an upscale beach resort with gourmet cuisine, an expansive seaside pool, tropical gardens on a beautiful beach, spa, and a staff that aims to meet world standards of service. Facilities include a beach-front club house, walking and riding paths, lakes and tropical gardens, and a Jack Nicholaus champion golf course. buenaventura.com.pa USA:305.704.7955 Panama: 507.304.8888 COSTA BLANCA VILLAS AND GOLF Costa Blanca offers beautiful 2-5 bedroom villas next to the Royal Decameron Resort and a 19 hole golf course. Located on one of Panama's best beaches it is just one and half hours from Panama City. Ownership includes golf club and a beach club membership with access to a club house, jacuzzi, pools, tennis courts and ecological paths. costablanca.com.pa Tel: 300.2020 PEDASI. AZUERO PENINSULA ANDROMEDA An ocean front luxury resort community just a kilometer from the charming town of Pedasi, 200 residential and commercial lots and beach club all with views of the Pacific Ocean. Landscaped by Central America's leading landscape design firm, to maximize of greenspaces and preserve the natural beauty. andromedapedasi.com Tel: 832.2316 COSTA PEDASI Oceanfront gated community on 235 acres with ocean views, a beach club, community swimming pool and other amenities. Phase 1 is 80% sold. Homes start from $219,000 and lots from $90,000. costapedasi.com Tel: 317.2088 / USA:877.285.4508 BOCAS DEL TORO RED FROG BEACH CLUB Find paradise at this relaxed
Caribbean island retreat set around what is arguably the most beautiful beach in Panama. Enjoy a home overlooking three miles of amazing white sand beaches, and 1700 acres of dense rainforest jungle abounding with life. Home to Bocas del Toro's best marina. Many gorgeous homes have already been built and are available for short term rentals. redfrogbeach.com HIGHLANDS AND MOUNTAIN RESORT COMMUNITIES NEAR PANAMA CITY LOS ALTOS DE MARIA The most popular mountain community, Los Altos de Maria is a gated mountain community with perfect springlike weather yearround. Mesmerizing mountain views and waterfalls, a club house and bird-watching stations. The only mountain project close to both Panama City and the Pacific Coast beaches and golf courses. altosdelmaria.com Tel: 260.0290 BOQUETE HACIENDA LOS MOLINOS Set in one of Boquete’s most prized locations, enjoy majestic canyon views of both Volcan Baru and the Pacific Ocean. Los Molinos is one of Boquete’s most complete resort communities. It offers high-quality, comfortable homes with floor plans developed to address the current and future needs of residents. Stay at the boutique hotel Casa Risco overlooking the canyon. losmolinos.com.pa Tel: 263.4832 VALLE ESCONDIDO Panama's original premier residential resort community featuring a paradisiacal flower filled valley with custom homes, villas and condos overlooking a golf course and river. Amenities include a 9-hole golf course, a private equestrian center, two restaurants and a first class spa and gym. veresort.com Tel: 720.2897
LIVING "Panama has more architectural variety than any country in Latin America. From modern to Spanish colonial ."
This is an exciting time to shop for property as Panama is just beginning to develop as a retirement and vacation destination of choice. Choose from beachfront lots, homes or condos on both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean. Panama's highlands offer perfect all-year-round spring weather. You can live well on a retirement budget of $2000.00 per month which would include full time maid services. www.thepanamaplaner.com . 81
multiplaza mall: shopping and entertainment!
do business did you KnoW ? Panama has an agreement with the United States so that conferences and meetings in Panama are IRS tax deductible for US citizens and companies. business FRiendly GoVeRnment In the 2012-2013 World Economic Forum's report Panama ranked 11th in the world for government provision of services for improved business performance. Panama also ranked 5th in the world for having rules that encourage Foreign Direct Investment and 11th in the world for government procurement decisions that foster technological innovation. WoRld business The Colon Free Zone is the second largest in the world. 82 . www.thepanamaplaner.com
for those moving to panama
GettinG AcquAinted Network, enjoy the company and learn from others who have made the move to Panama. youngexpatsinpanama.com
mAil seRVices: An essentiAl Get your own P.O. Box in the USA and receive mail and packages safely from the United States delivered right to your home or office in Panama.
Who's neW club An international women's club welcoming women to Panama. Tel: 264.0567 wnpan.org
mailboxes.Tel: 260.8916 Aerocasillas.Tel: 304.1414 airbox.com.pa
otheR seRVices eAsy tRAVel PAnAmA Personalized ground transportation and bilingual tourist guiding services. Tel: 6617.4122 easytravelpanama.net
lAW FiRms FoR immiGRAtion, inVestments And business WilliAms & AssociAtes Tel: 397.1700 williamslawpanama.com chen, Fuentes, simAnA Tel: 205.1698 cfsa-law.com
“Panama is politically stable, safe, friendly to foreigners and has the US dollar as currency.”
AroSemenA, noriegA & ContrerAS Tel: 265.3411 anorco.com SPAniSh LAngUAge SChooLS PAnAmA City SPAniSh PAnAmA Centrally located in El Cangrejo, Spanish Panama offers home stay options, salsa lessons and excursions. Tel: 213.3121 spanishpanama.com ePA eSPAnoL en PAnAmA Tel: 391.4044 espanolenpanama.con BoqUete SPAniSh By the river Tel: 720.3456 spanishbytheriver.com
BoCAS deL toro SPAniSh By the SeA Tel: 757.9518 spanishbythesea.com ShoPPing mALLS Panama has four modern, beautiful shopping malls each with a wide variety of stores, food courts, restaurants and movie theaters. A real shopping paradise. mULtiPLAzA mALL In Punta Pacifica, this is Panama's most upscale mall. You'll find almost everything you can at an American shopping mall from a Mac Store to Cartier to a Forever 21 to Louis Vuitton. metromALL This mall has just about everything
you are looking for, from clothes to electronics. It is located close to the Tocumen International Airport. Shuttle service is offered for free to and from the Tocumen International Airport. ALBrook mALL This mall has great bargain stores as well as many luxury stores. The Felix Maduro department store in Panama's Macy's. On weekends, this mall is crowdedgo at 10am when it opens. mULtiCentro Located on Balboa Avenue and connected to the Radisson Decapolis Hotel, Multicentro has a wide selection of stores. www.thepanamaplaner.com . 83
have a bite
Panama was recently selected by Trip Advisor as one of the top 10 food and wine destinations in Latin America.
enjoy a tropical flavor feast
RESTAURANT PICKS
Panama City’s numerous fine restaurants take advantage of the abundance of fresh local seafood, fruits and vegetables from Panama's micro-climates.
ThE bUSINESS DISTRICT MAITO Fusion cuisine Panamanian style and international dishes with fresh local ingredients. A low key elegant décor and both indoor and outdoor seating. Tel: 391.4675 SAL SI PUEDES. bRISTOL hOTEL The creation of Panama's famous chef, Cuquita Arias, called "the Martha Stewart of Panama" by Travel and Leisure magazine. Panamanian cuisine made from the freshest, native ingredients in a hip modern setting. Tel: 265.7844 ROSA MEXICANO Called the "gold standard" for Mexica n food by Zagat's, this highly lauded American restaurant is now in Panama's business district. The perfect place when your longing for the yummiest tacos, burritos. guacamole and frozen pomegranate margaritas. Located on Uruguay St. Tel: 301.0488 MARKET A stylish low key eatery with arguably the best Angus steak and prime rib in town and great burgers. American comfort food like mac & cheese, fried chicken wi th mashed potatoes and gravy and a BBQ pulled pork sandwich and fries. Tel: 264.9401 marketpanama.com LA ChESA A historical private home converted into a restaurant with feel of exclusivity and homeyness. A prix fixe menu of classic
Northern Italian cuisine is complimented by a selection of premium Italian wines. Tel: 269.1225 SEGUNDO MUELLE Peruvian restaurant with the most extensive seafood menu in the city. Panama has a bounty of fish and shellfish and this is a great place to enjoy it. Tel: 391.9234 CAFE ChIC A little bit of Paris right in the business district, this popular cafe is the place to enjoy classic French cuisine at reasonable prices. Tel: 391.7070 bRAVA ESPUMA PIZZERIA In the hip Radisson Decapolis, known for it's great pizza and a good selection of imported beers.Tel: 215.1524 LAS TINAjAS Typ ical Panamanian cuisine along with performances of typical folk dancing. Shows are Tuesday, Thursday and Friday nights at 9pm. Tel: 263.7890 LA POSTA Enjoy fine tropical cuisine in an Old Havana setting, this is one of the most popular restaurants in the city. Tel: 269.1076 IN CASCO VIEjO ThE hISTORIC OLD CITY LOS DIAbLICOS Enjoy a Panamanian folkloric dance show and the best Panamanian traditional dishes in beautiful Casco Viejo. Dance shows: Thursday, Friday & Saturday 5:30 pm. Sundays: 7:30 pm
R E S TA U R A N T S
RECOMMENDED RESTAURANTS OUTSIDE PANAMA CITY
PANAMA´S RIVIERA Pipa's beach and bar Playa Blanca
Cafe Coronado Coronado
Buon Appetito Pedro's
EL VALLE Casa de Lourdes Taverna Firenze
bOCAS DEL TORO Guari Guari Bibi's on the Beach
La Fogata Farallon
LAS CLEMENTINAS In a beautifully restored historic building, Las Clementinas features Panamanian and international classic dishes lovingly updated and made with care–the kind of comfort food that foreigners fall in love with when they visit and Panamanians crave when they travel. TANTALOS KITChEN & ROOFTOP Both fami lar and adventurous cuisine with a good selection of tapas. Lots of atmosphere and afterwards to the Rooftop Bar for the best views of Panama City. Tel: 262.4030 EGO Y NARCISO Gourmet international cuisine specializing in seafood and steaks. Upscale yet casual ambience with both indoor and outdoor seating on Plaza Bolivar. OUTSIDE PANAMA CITY LOS LAGARTOS At the Gamboa Rainforest Resort on the scenic Chagres River terrace, this restaurant offers a thrilling show of tropical wildlife. Throw some bread into the riverbelow and you will see alligators, tropical birds, dozens of large turtles and fish flock to munch. Tel: 314.9000 MIRAFLORES RESTAURANT At the Panama Canal Excellent buffet but the big attractionwatching ships pass through the locks as you dine - an amazing experience. Ask for a terrace table. Tel: 232.3122
Paki Point bOQUETE The Rock Panamonte Moniche—
Finca Lerida Mike's Global Grill PEDASI Villa Pedasia Cafe Maudy's
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SEAFOOD
PA N A M A N I A N C U I S I N E
Sal Si Puedes-Hotel Bristol
Aquilino de la Guardia & Calle 50 Tel: 264.784
Las Clementinas
Casco Viejo. Calle 11, Avenida B
Tel: 228.7617 Tinajas
Calle 51, Bellavista Tel: 269.3840 Diablicos Casco Viejo & Amador Causeway TelL 228.9495 I N T E R N AT I O N A L
La Posta
49th St. Bella Vista Tel: 269.1076 Cafe Chic Calle Uruguay Tel: 391.7070
Manolo Caracol
Third St. Casco Viejo Tel: 228.4640
Miraflores at The Panama Canal
Visitors Center, Miraflores Tel: 232.3122
Mostaza
3rd St. & Ave. Casco Viejo Tel: 228.3341
Hard Rock Cafe
Balboa Ave. Multicentro Tel: 208.2800 FUSION
Maito
End of 50th St. Tel: 391.4675
Ego Urbano
Casco Viejo Tel: 262.2045 SEAFOOD
Segundo Muelle San Francisco Tel: 391.9234
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El Caribe Via Argentina, Cangrejo Tel: 214.6207 Siete Mares El Cangrejo Tel: 264.0144
Martin Fierro
Eusebio Morales St. El Cangrejo Tel: 264.1927 MEXICAN
Rosa Mexicano
Calle 47 & Aquilino de la Guardia Tel: 301.0488
S PA N I S H
Tantalo Kitchen
8th y B Ave.. Casco Viejo Tel: 262.403
Origenes
58th St. Obarrio Tel: 393.2419 I TA L I A N
La Chesa 49th St., Bella Vista Tel: 269.1225 La Valentina
67th San Francisco & Via Israel Tel: 399-8702
Tre Scalini
Business district & El Dorado Tel: 260.0052
Rausch Restaurant
Esplendor Hotel. Samuel Lewis 209.9600
La Forchetta
Cathedral Plaza Tel: 212.0051
CHINESE
Lung Fung
Transistmica & 62th St. Tel: 260.4011 J A PA N E S E
Sake
Punta Pacifica, Torre Americas Tel: 301.7250
Matsuei
Ave. 2A, El Cangrejo Tel: 264.9562 FRENCH
Chic Cafe
Uruguay St. Business District Tel: 391.7070 LEBANESE
Fenicia
Across from the Continental Hotel Tel: 269.0188
Beirut
52 St. Banking District Tel: 214.3815
Albertos
Amador Causeway Tel: 314.1134 STEAK AND GRILL
Market Calle Uruguay & Bella Vista Tel: 263.4469
Gauchos Steak House
48th & Uruguay, Bella Vista Tel: 263.4469
Martin Fierro
Eusebio Morales St. El Cangrejo Tel: 264.1927
MOROCCAN
Indigo
A Avenue & Calle Central Tel: 228.1822 GERMAN
Steinbock
Cincuentenario Way Tel: 263.9510 INDIAN
Masala Justo Arosemena St. Bella Vista Tel: 225.0105
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top tour operators ancon expeditions Tel: 269.9415 anconexpeditions.com panama trails Toll Free USA:1.877.290.2454 panamatrails.com Boquete Outdoor adventures Tel: 720.2284 boqueteoutdooradventures.com easy travel Tel: 6617.4122 easytravelpanama.net ecocircuitos Tel: 314.1586 ecocircuitos.com eco-margo tours Tel: 264.8888 margotours.com Gamboa tours Tel: 269.1262 gamboatours.com Jungle land explorer Tel: 6615.4773 gatunexplorer.com panama marine adventures Tel: 226.8917 ptymarineadventure.com panama trails Tel: 836.6093 panamatrails.com Barefoot panama Tel: 6780.3010 barefootpanama.com scuba panama Tel: 261.3841 scubapanama.com whale watching panama Tel: 6758.7600 whalewatchingpanama.com
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by panamainfo.com
01 climate
Dry season from mid-December until May. Green season from May until mid - December. In the "green season," it usually rains for about two hours in the afternoon, 3 times a week.
02 GettinG here
Direct flights to Panama from the USA, Canada & Europe. miami: Copa, American atlanta: Delta chicago: Copa, United los angeles: Copa new York: Copa, Continental newark: Copa, Continental las Vegas: Copa Orlando: Copa Fort lauderdale: Spirit Air Dallas: American toronto: Copa Boston: Copa amsterdam: KLM madrid: Iberia
03 Visas
Citizens of most countries -including the European Union, USA, Canada - do not need a visa for up to 180 days.
Only use numbered yellow taxis.
08 atm machines
You can get cash by accessing your foreign bank account at ATM machines.
09 health anD saFetY
Panama has the lowest crime rate against tourists in Central America and one of the lowest in all the Americas. Use common sense like you would anywhere else.
10 tap water
Panama is the only country in Latin America where it's completely safe to drink the tap water. No shots or special pills are necessary if you are visiting cities and all destinations on the beaten path.
11 mOneY matters
The Us dollar is the unit of exchange in Panama. Credit cards are accepted in hotels, better restaurants and major stores in Panama City. Outside of Panama City, you will need cash.
12 panama traVel app
04 tOUrism hOtline
Get PanamainfoGuide, Panama's top rated travel app in the Apple Store.
05 lanGUaGes
13 recOmmenDeD weBsite
For emergencies or questions dial 311. Most Panamanians speak some English and many speak it fluently, especially those who cater to tourists.
06 DriVinG in panama
Panama has one of the best road infrastructures in Latin America. Main highways to access the feeder roads off the Panamerican Highway to the various popular destinations.
07 taxis
You can go almost anywhere for less than $10 in Panama City.
panamainfo.com is Panama's most complete online guide to hotels, destinations, business and real estate in Panama.
14 DOmestic airlines
The domestic airport is in Albrook, about 45 minutes from Tocumen international airport. Air Panama has flights to major tourism destinations like Bocas del Toro and David, near Boquete. air panama airpanama.com
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