UPDATE Panama UPM 5 March 2014 by MGG Caddy S.A.

MGG Caddy S.A. ITB-Berlin 2014 - ENG

Selected Travelinfos Protection Fee $4,75 UPM Nr.5 / 3-14

Travel Info´s - Panama - 2014

Pelican Island Guna Yala

America Brücke Panama City

Dear reader of UPDATE Panama, I am pleased to present our new booklet. Once again, we have collected informations for you to give you a Alex.Stewowitsch closer look to a wonderful country. A country, where the tourists are not in the majority and a country that will inspire you and will comply with all your dreams. You will ind everything you expect and much more! You decide if you prefer to travel cheap with the backpack around the country or if you like to stay in a 5 star hotel to enjoy the luxury by the pool. For me and you one important point while traveling in Central America is security and you can be sure to have a good feeling about that in Panama. Whether night or day, by bus or in a rental car! The medical care is assured throughout and on a good level overall. Whether you decide to have all vaccinations depends mainly on your personal attitude and actual of the places you wish to visit. If you are traveling with a guided tour group or with a rental car on your individual route, you will ind friendly and open-minded people and a country that is evolving every day infront of your eyes. I would like to invite you cordially - discover Panama! However, this includes much more than the famous Panama Canal, which is currently celebrating its 100th anniversary. Have fun with this booklet, we'll see us in Panama. Your Alexander Stewowitsch

Content

Comarcas

Why Panama Panama Map Overview Bocas Del Torro San Blas Caribbean_ The PaziďŹ c Las Lajas Finca Buena Vista PanaHouse Las Lajas Beach Paradise Inn Azuero Panama Canal The Highlands Chiriqui Map Chiriqui POI Hotl Isla Verde Golf in Boquete Thales/Boquete Business Info District Boquete Map Highlands Infos Bird Watching Fauna & Flora Darien Chiriqui's hidden wonder UPM #1 Bird List Panama City Infos Restaurant Diablicos Bio Museo Night Life PTY Tucan Resort Amador Causeway Casco Viejo Map PTY Metropolitan Map PTY Downtown Map Comarcas

Network

Internations

Activities

Aktivities / Tours

74-85

Restaurant

Restaurant List

84-85

Hotel

Hotel List

86-89

Others

When to Visit Panama

90-91

Welcome

Caribbean Side

PaziďŹ c Side

Canal Highlands

Fauna/ Flora

Panama City

Shopping

4-5 6-7 8-9 10-13 14-15 16-17 18-19 20-21 22 23 24 25 26-27 28-31 32-33 34-35 35 36 37 38 39 40-41 42-43 44-45 46-47 48-49 50-51 52-53 54-56 57 58 59 60-61 63-64 64-65 66-67 68-69 70-72

Free Medical Insurance

92-93

Shopping Tips

94-95

General Travel Info

96-97

Domestic Flights/Impressum 98 Taxi, Rent a Cars & Numbers 99

Why Panama? The country of Panama is a paradise of coastal waters, jungles full of abundant wildlife, and vibrant cities illed with friendly residents. Its unique distinction as a section of land called an isthmus led to the construction of the famous Panama Canal, which was completed in 1914; however, Panama has so much more to oﬀer travelers. On the Atlantic coast of Panama, visitors can experience the lair of the Caribbean and the unparalleled beauty of the San Blas Islands, located just oﬀ the country's northern coast. Of the approximately 378 islands that make up the stunning island chain, less than 50 are inhabited. Travellers can book sailing trips and ish with the native Kuna people in the pristine turquoise waters of the Caribbean. The capital of Panama City, located at the Paci ic entrance to the Canal, is home to world-class shopping and exciting clubs, and the city boasts architectural styles from every period of the city’s rich history, from colonial

Spanish-inspired to high-rise skyscrapers. Panama City is also home to an iconic Carnival celebration every spring, attracting revelers from across the globe. A uniquely Panamanian feature of Carnival is the addition of the cuelcos, trucks that simultaneously blast music and water onto those celebrating in the city streets. Many Carnival attendees bring their own water guns to join in the fun. Even nature enthusiasts have much to explore in Panama's lively capital – the tropical forests that surround the canal are part of the vast Parque Natural Metropolitano, and Panama City lies on the edge of the rainforest. Some animals and plants that

tenacious hikers may come across when taking a jungle trek through Panama are found nowhere else on Earth: including Kalko’s Round-Ear Bat, the Panamanian Golden Frog, and several species of orchid. The highest point in Panama is Volcán Barú, a dormant but

Panama

The splendors of Panama can be seen by plane, by boat, and on foot. When you discover this jewel for yourself, you’ll ind that the country is not completely crammed with tourists yet oﬀers once-in-a-lifetime experiences, amazing cuisine from

South end of the Panama Canal (Panama City) active volcano. Located just east of the Costa Rican border, travellers who make the journey to the top of Barú on a clear day will be astonished to see that both the Atlantic and Paci ic can be seen from the mountain’s peak.

the heart of the sea, and some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. more: www.visitpanama.com/en.html www.UPADTE-Panama.com

Sixaola

Changuinola

Bocas del Toro

Costa Rica

Almirante

Cusapin Tobobé

Cerro Punta

Rio Sereno

Boquete

Volcan

San Andrés

Chiriqui Grande

Fortuna Caldera

Bélen

Ngöbe-Buglé (Quebrada Guabo)

Calovébora

Gualaca

Santa Fé 12 Gatú

Hato Chami

David Chiriqui

Chunico

Crchitaho

Puerto Armuelles

San Felix Las Lajas

Boca Cica

Las Lajas Beach

Santiago

El Cano

San Francisco

Las Palmas

Penonom 07

Olá

Canazas

Alanje

El V de A

El Copé Tambo

Dolega

Paso Canoa

Panama

Atlantic / Caribbean

Rio

Divisa 10

El Maria

Montijo

Soná

Ocú

Chitré

Guara Los Pozos 14

1 Comarca Ngobe Buglé 2 Comarca Kuna Yala 3 Comarca Embera Wounaan 4 Madugandí (Akua Yala)

H 1

F C

3 3

Di st

Tonosi

A Bocas del Toro B Chiriqui F Coclé C Veraguas G Panamá D Herrera H Colón E Los Santos J Darien

04 05

lom

06 07

et er

09 10 11 12 13 14 15

Cambutal

Isla Jicarón

Macaracas

Isla Coiba Arenas

5 Wargandí (Nurra)

Liano de Mariato

P.Santa Catalina

Las

Canal de Panamá Parque Soberania Isla Grande Potobelo El Valle de Antón Lago La Fortuna Balneario Las Mendozas Playa Venado Iglesia de Santa Librada Parque Nacional Sarigua Carnavales en Las Tablas Iglesia San Francisco de la Montana Playas de San Blas Playa Santa Catalina Isla de Coiba

Panama

a Canal

San Blas

Isla Grande

Portobelo

Carti 01

Rio Sidrá

Colón Canita

El Porvenir

Palenque

Playón Chico

Gamboa 01

Ailigandi Ustupo

Chepo Tocumen

Arraiján Panama City Charrera 29 Isla Taboga Capira Valle 22 Panama Canal Isla Contadora Antón Chame

Navagandi

Torti Aguafria

Puerto Obaldia Metiti

mé

P.Santa Clara Isla del Rey

Hato

Isla San Jose

Paciﬁc

La Palma

Canglón

Yaviza Garachine

aré

s Tablas

Pocri

lom Co

Playa Venao

bia

Puerto Pina Jaqué

Pedasi

16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

Playas Las Lajas Volcán Baru Feria de las Flores Isla Colón Parque National Isla Bastimentos Cayo Zapatilla Isla Taboga Parque National del Darién Contadora Archipiélago de las Perlas Nata de los Caballeros Jardin Botánico de Summit Playa del Drago Calzada de Amador Aeropuerto de Tocumen

English 14 % Capital: Panama-City Religions Form of government: Presidential Constitutional Catholic: 75 % Protestant:15 % Republic Currency: ($) = (B/.) = 1:1 Other: 10% Electrical System: a) 1 Balboa (B/.) = 100 120V/60Hz Centésimos b) 1 US-Dollar ($) = 100 (American Type A plug) Telephone code: +507 Cents Gross National Product ISO codes: PA, PAN Time zone:UTC -5 55.1 Billion (estimated for 2012 (ppp) Ambulance: 911 National Police: 104 Area: 75.517 km² Population: 3,40 Million Fire:103 Language: Spanish (Official)

Caribbean Side 10-17

28-31

PaziďŹ c Side 18-27

Panama Canal

Highlands 32-43

Flora, Fauna Animal, Darien

44-53

Panama

Panama City 54-69

Indigene Comarcas 70-72

Restaurants

Tours 74-85

Hotels

84-85 86-89 90-99

Others

Bocas del Toro It is dif icult to express in a few words what you can feel when you visit the Bocas del Toro archipelago. Only some places around the world keep this

particular atmosphere, seductive, primitive and unforgettable. Bocas del Toro captivates its visitors because of its amazing vegetation, its biodiversity, its ancients customs: it is a real biological fantasy… This is the ideal moment to visit these islands, to time travel and get lost in one of the hundreds of

wonderful places that you can enjoy. It is a unique place to ind yourself; its lush tropical vegetation, fauna only found in this part of the world, opportunities for diving and snorkeling the unbeatable Caribbean ocean, the possibilities and opportunities for an amazing experience are unbound. With an indescribable and overwhelming natural beauty, added to the great combination of races and ethnicities, living in harmony with indigenous, Western Caribe peoples, Latino's and extraneros, Bocas del Toro is not just a beautiful archipelago lost in time, blessed by nature -- Bocas del Toro is an example of coexistence and multi-cultural respect for everyone. Welcome to Bocas del Toro archipelago …..you will be amused and amazed, tempted beyond belief and for certain you will to take with you priceless memories of a diﬀerent world. Enjoy your life….. Enjoy Bocas del Toro! Welcome to an unforgettable vacation. - See more at: http://www.bocasdeltoro.com/#s thash.BG3qN5tE.dpuf

Bocas del Toro

Caribbean

SeaLife, Surfing, Nightlife, Birtdwatching, Diving, Indian Village, Dining, Rent Sailboats, Snorkeling, Learning Spanisch, Fishing

Bastimentos National Park The enchanting Bastimentos National Park can be found in Almirante Bay in Panama's province of Bocas del Toro and was named in honour of Christopher Columbus. The national park covers an area of 13,226 hectares and was established to protect the diverse range of wildlife and natural

small tribe of indigenous people called Naso or Teribe Indians. Naso Indians ﬁrst lived in the jungles and until recently they were completely isolated from the rest of the world, living a life that we read about in books. Now they have farms, speak Naso and Spanish, and trade their products with others; but they kept their ways and still have a monarchy: a king (rarely a queen) appointed by the majority and a possibility of deposing the king if the community is not happy with him.

Bocas Del Toro, Centre of Commerce in 19th Century

treasures such as coral reefs, mangroves and beaches that can be found here. The best way to visit the national park best is by staying overnight in the area and day tours are organised by local tour operators. You can ﬂy to Bocas del Toro from Panama City or David or drive to Almirante and take a 30 minute water taxi ride to Bocas Town.

Located near the Costa Rican border in the North Western part of Panama lays the Caribbean Island group of Bocas Del Toro. Christopher Columbus dropped anchor here in 1501 on his ﬁnal visit to the Americas when he was heading down south from Costa Rica. A legend tells that the archipelago was named after a waterfall that was shaped like mouths

Naso Indians If you travel to Panama's northwestern province Bocas del Toro, you'll ﬁnd a

of a bull hence Bocas (mouth) Del (of the) Toro (Bull). In the 19th century the banana plantations brought business to the area with the settlement of the United Fruit Company in Bocas Town on Isla Colon. For more than a century Bocas Del Toro was the centre of agricultural commerce and most trading done here on the isthmus. The plantation workers came primarily from the West Indies and integrated with the local population the indigenous tribes like the Ngobe

Bugle, Teribe, Guyami, Bribri and Kuna. From a touristic point of view the area lacked attention for many years. This is turned out to be for the better as the area is quite undeveloped and harbours a stunning natural beauty. The archipelago now is frequented by visitors from all over the world. Lots of outdoor activities can be undertaken such as swimming, surďŹ ng, diving, sailing and hiking. Bocas Town also has an interesting nightlife with many open air bars and dancingÂ´s.

Caribbean

San-Blas-Isands

Like any Caribbean island, San Blas Iland, Panama, offers plenty of sun and sand for European travelers, regardless of the season. What is unique on San Blas are the breathtaking coral formations and the friendly natives.

Visitors to San Blas Iland arrive by boat, plane or car (parking at port). Arrangements can be made at the Panama airport, which is 20 minutes away. Merchant ships owned by island natives also provide transportation for visitors. The gorgeous mountains, exotic foliage and sweet coconut drinks are sure to lure many travelers to stay overnight. A few hotels are available, but be warned that accommodations and meals are relatively simple

Kuna Yala (El Porvenir)

falls

Caribbean

on the islands. The Kuna Indians, who inhabit a few dozen of the 350 islands, offer travelers a glimpse into an ancient culture that continues to thrive in the modern world. The tribe has established its own economic system, government and language. They are happy to entertain guests with their traditional music, dance, art and legends. The natives will also be happy to pose for photographs, but they will expect a tip in return. Many ďŹ&#x201A;ock to San Blas Iland for breathtaking underwater adventures. The turquoise waters and tropical ďŹ sh are too tempting for anyone to resist. There are also 30 islands in the area are made entirely of coral. This provides a unique ecosystem for those who view the islands from below. A few of the hotels can arrange for a guided snorkeling experience, but you will need to bring your own gear. Optimal snorkeling

between April and June. San Blas Iland is one of many stops in Panama that offer

gorgeous sunsets and palmlined beaches. The Kuna culture is what makes this stop truly remarkable. You will be planning

Col贸n Province

Caribbean

Col贸n Province

Chagres River ( Colon)

Kuna Yala (El Porvenir)

Created during volcanic eruptions, Panama's Chagres River has had one long and incredibly adventurous history. This amazing river, with its two powerful dams, lakes, Chagres National Park, many colorful animals and some endangered ones, a tropical forest and a fortress at its mouth, is unique in many ways. It is the main source of water for Panama Canal and its inhabitants; it lows into two oceans, unlike any other river; it had carried gold for centuries, transported by civilizations now lost. There are many trails that lead along the Chagres River, and all of them have a story to tell.

Fort San Lorenzo Fort San Lorenzo is located at the mouth of the enchanting Chagres River and is the perfect place to take a day tour. This is one of the most interesting examples of 16th century military architecture in Panama's Colon region and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site back in 1980. The fort was established to protect the Spanish Monarchy's transatlantic trade and can be reached by crossing the Gatun Locks on the Panama Canal. The fort is set in the heart of San Lorenzo National Park, which features several scenic walking trails to explore.

The Paci ic Side of Panama For many years, most travelers who came to Panama visited its Caribbean coast. Recently, though, more and more vacationers are discovering the unparalleled beauty and allure of Panama's Paci ic coast. This side of Panama truly has something for everyone. From exquisite, unspoiled beaches to some of the tallest mountains in the country, the Paci ic coast of Panama is a wonderful place to visit. Thanks to its increasing popularity, there are more options in terms of accommodations than ever. Whether you rent a vacation home or

condo or stay at one of the area's many all-inclusive resorts, you're sure to be thrilled with your experience. Getting to Know Panama's Paci ic Coast You can take your pick from a huge

range of beautiful locations to enjoy during your visit to Panama's Paci ic coast. From the bustling cities of Las Tablas, David and Panama City to gorgeous beaches like Las Lajas, there's no end to the possibilities. The Paci ic coast is just as suitable for those who simply want to lounge in the sun as it is for those who want to be active and adventurous. Whether you stay in Puerto Armuellos, Panama City, Chitre or a less developed area, your holiday will be one you will never forget. Enjoy Premium Amenities Panama's Paci ic coast has been skyrocketing in popularity with vacationers, but it's still managed to retain its quiet, relaxed, laid-back vibe.

However, the area's new-found popularity has spurred the development of many exciting amenities. In this part of the country, you can spend part of the day exploring the pristine wilderness of Coiba National Marine Park, which is

Pazi ic

Panama

Paziﬁc

renowned for 19 its amazing ishing areas. It's studded with quiet beaches, where breezy ocean air tempers the hot weather perfectly. While relaxing on a local beach, you can soak up the tranquil atmosphere, take in views of the nearby mountains and just rest, relax and rejuvenate.

considered to be the Galapagos of Central America, and another part shopping and dining at locations throughout Panama City, David and other cities. Even in oﬀ-the-beatenpath locations like Azuero, where redtiled roofs and cozy town squares call to mind the area's rich Spanish history, you'll ind charming markets, bistros and cafes where you can while away many happy hours.

Have Amazing Adventures on the Paci ic Side of Panama How would you like to spend your holiday in Panama? On the Paci ic coast, you can go whale-watching in the Gulf of Chiriqui and scuba and snorkel at Coiba. Some of the best places to enjoy birdwatching, sunsets, kayaking and

Discover the Chiriqui Province Panama's Chiriqui province stretches along its Paci ic coast, and it's an amazing place to explore and spend time. If you enjoy ishing, you'll be glad to know that this part of Panama is

horseback riding are just minutes away from the Inter-American Highway, so you never have to go far to enjoy the most exciting activities. This part of Panama is very safe and extremely aﬀordable, so why not make it your next vacation destination?

Few beach communities remain as unspoiled as “Las Lajas Beach” in the Chiriqui province of Panama. This beach is one of the closest Paci ic Ocean beaches to David and his international airport in Panama. This is the favorite beach of local vacationers. Not only does this area have a distinct family-friendly Chiriqui

Paziﬁc

Chiriqui

Las Lajas

PANA H OUSE Living in Panama

Tel.:727-653 or 66606-0802

2x85x85 $100+$30 www.laslajaspanama.net

atmosphere, there are plenty of reasonably priced hotel and B&B rooms as well as vacation rentals availability. The beach is a wide, ten miles, long stretch of sand that’s great for strolling, sunbathing, swimming and relaxing. Aside from the diverse cuisine, culture, history, and landscape of the hills, it is the climate and the beaches that attract international

visitors as well as those from Panama. Magni icent summer sunsets as well as some spectacular panoramas of Isla Secas and Isla Silva await you at this lesser populated side of Chiriqui. Best beach vacation spot for: Outdoor enthusiasts, Beachcombers, beginners

surfers, Pazi ic 21 families, honeymoo ner, sun lovers Why itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s great: Even on dark and stormy days, Las Lajas Beach is dramatically beautiful and wonderfully relaxing, one of those beaches you dream of â&#x20AC;&#x201C; unspoilt, quiet and protected from massive development. http://laslajasbeach.com/

Chiriqui Las Lajas

PANA H OUSE Living in Panama

seit 2007

Wir bauen Ihr Haus, nach europäischen Standards Am Strand, am Meer oder den Bergen, die Region Las Lajas/San Felix bietet Ihnen die Wahl.

PANA H OUSE Living in Panama

seit 2007

Wir bauen Ihr Haus in Chiriqui , Region Las Lajas / San Felix professionell und schlüsselfertig. Nach Ihren Vorstellungen und Wüschen. Dabei stehen wir Ihnen mit Rat, Tat und unserer Panama Erfahrung zur Seite. Damit ihr Traum auch Wirklichkeit wird. Besuchen Sie uns in Panama. Wir sind sicher hier wird ihr neues Zuhause sein. Ein Ort der Ihnen Ihre Träume erfüllt. Tel: : +507 7270-653 or +507 6606-0802

www.PanaHouse.com

only 10 minutes to the beach Hotel - Caba単as - Restaurant The perfect place to start in a panamanian day and a great area to relax

Biggest Hotel in Las Lajas 54 Beds 16 Cabanas

from /desde

$ 20 Welcome to Paradise Inn

per night/ por noche

Las Lajas, Chiriqui, Panama caba単as with air condition, internet, fridge, hot water, big-pool, individual and group - tours, restaurant, bicycle and scooter rental

San Felix/Las Lajas 70 km from City David 100 km to City Santiago 375 km to Panama City 10 min. to the beach

Info@Paradiseinn.de www.Paradiseinn.de

Tel: : 727-0653 6606-0802 / 65808800

Walking along the endless beach As an Amazon bestselling author, I'm often asked where I get the ideas for my stories. The honest answer is that I do not really know where the twists and turns of my medieval romance plots originate. However, I do know that one of my favourite places to write is in my beachfront retreat in Panama. Walking along the endless beach at Las Lajas in Chiriqui province, the sound of the waves on one side and gently rustling palm trees on the other, seems to release creative impulses. Another bene it of this particular beach is that you bump into very few people. The only distraction is the scurrying of tiny red crabs. Playa de Las Lajas is a magical place...unspoilt beach with no riptide, good ishing if you like that sort of thing, panoramic vistas, huge cattle ranches and friendly people. There's a new marina being constructed nearby too. Anna Markland

Hotel Las Lasjas

Finca Buena Vista Bienvenidos - Welcome - Willkommen

Las Lajas, Chiriqui, Panama

Tel. +507 6814-8693 www.finca-buenavista-laslajas.com

PENINSULA DE AZUERO WONDERFUL, BEAUTIFUL & EXOTIC Las Tablas is the capital of Los Santos-Province one of the two that make up the internationally acclaimed “Peninsula de Azuero” together with Herrera province and its capital Chitre. This is one capital you will be going through to get to the famous town of Las Tablas, where there is usually something going on, for example the world famous carnivals in February. Las Tablas is approx. 285 km. from downtown Panama

Azuero

Paziﬁc

City. Chitre is bigger and busier. One place you could visit is the famous “Tio Caiman” Seafood Restaurant located downtown Chitre. You then go 30kms. South straight on the double lane semihighway, which is still under construction, and you are in Las Tablas. Basically a small, rural and friendly town where the main products are cattle and agriculture. From Las Tablas itself you`re only 11 kms from the

Paci ic coast line and 42kms from Pedasi town center and that leaves you about 35kms from the International Sur ing Contest site

Playa Venao with all its elegant hotels & resorts. One place you cannot miss there are signs everywhere. Now very soon to open a new Hotel & Resort called “Playa Venao Hotel Resort”. Right on the beach front of the surf site. By bus can be easier and cheaper but of course it can be a bit more stressful. From Tocumen International airport you can take a bus directly to Albrook National terminal where you can then go straight to the Peninsula de Azuero. Beforehand you will have to decide if you want to get oﬀ in Chitre, maybe stay a night or two, or straight to Las Tablas. Depending on your decision then you choose your transport. From Las Tablas you can go to Pedasi (local transport operating 6am6pm from the PRAGA station), where the locals are mostly foreigners, from there you can take a transport to Playa Venao. Or when you get to Las Tablas, if

you get there before 1pm, you can take one straight to Playa Venao from the Central Park called: “Parque Porras” Just ask for Playa Venao and the locals will guide you to the bus stop.

PEDASI A lovely, laid-back small coastal town 42kms from Las Tablas where sur ing is one of the main attractions and home of the International female surf champ “Pucha”. Being an international sur ing site sur boards are a common scene. Sport ishing is big time here. Year round tournaments where you can catch everything Amberjacks to Wahoos. “Isla Iguana” is an Island wildlife refuge 20 minutes boat trip. This is one of many wildlife refuges in this coast line.

Nowadays Pazi ic 27 at least 25% of the residents are foreigners with their hotels, restaurants and cuisine. Here you'll ind most of the 5 star hotels' main of ices as well as the principal real estate of ices. Simply a proud and happy town where the irst Lady President “ Mireya Moscoso” grew up and now

resides. Places you ought not to miss.

Caribbean

Pazi ic

Celebrating the Panama Canal's 100th birthday Engineers claimed that building it was impossible. More than 20,000 French laborers died in its irst stages of construction before the French abandoned it. The United States helped create a new country just to complete it. Since it opened nearly 100 years ago, this symbol of engineering triumph and international trade is known by one famous name: the Panama Canal. Listed as one of the "Seven Wonders of the Modern World"

Panama Canal

by the American Society of Civil Engineers, the Panama Canal ranks among the busiest ports for international trade in the world. This tropical canal has been active since Aug. 15, 1914, and more than 800,000 total vessels have crossed it. Cruise ships and freight ships alike frequent this vital link between the Atlantic and Paci ic Oceans. It is entirely because of the Panama Canal that the worldwide shipping industry can avoid traveling an extra 8,000 miles around the rough seas at the Southern coastline of South

America. Many countries depend on this canal. For example, it has created thriving business relationships between China and the Eastern coast of the United States as well as between European countries and Ecuador, Chile and Peru on the Western coast of South America. Additionally, more than 10 percent of all United States imports and exports travel through the Panama Canal. Because the Paci ic Ocean is at a

include adding a new traf ic lane, two new locks and expanding the current channels to accommodate larger ships. The Republic of Panama's capital, Panama City, has blossomed greatly due to the Panama Canal. The canal is only a 20-minute drive away from the city, and you can discover more about the canal's rich history at its museum that includes a lovely view of it from a panoramic terrace. You can

Carribbean higher elevation than the Atlantic Ocean, gravity-powered locks raise or lower ships crossing the canal by more than 85 feet through this waterway of 48 miles. Nowhere else in the world can you witness this marvel of shipping traf ic rising up over the Republic of Panama's higher terrain in the country's middle before cruising out into another endless expanse of ocean. Starting in 2006, there is now a great project underway to expand the Panama Canal so that its transit capacity will double. These plans

also go through the canal by sailboat or speedboat to get a closer view of its beauty as you

travel along to Gatun Lake, a reserve where you can see jungle wildlife like monkeys and turtles.

Panama Canal

Panama Canal cruises are an excellent way to fully appreciate this international waterway, and the top cruise lines to go there are the Holland America Line, Celebrity

Pazi ic Cruises, Oceania Cruises and Princess Cruises. The most popular Panama Canal cruise route runs from Florida to the canal's Western coast although many variations of this route are available to include additional stops in the Caribbean Sea and departure points from Seattle, Vancouver or Los Angeles. You can choose between a cruise that goes all the way from one ocean to the other, a partial crossing, or one with only a Panama shore excursion. No matter which choice you make, you're sure to

have an unforgettable vacation at the Panama Canal. http://www.pancanal.com/

The Highlands of Panama

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing locale with fantastic views where you can inally write that novel you have in your head or you’re looking for an amazing place to retire, you should consider all that Panama has to oﬀer. The majesty of the country’s mountain regions is unparalleled, the people are friendly and the climate is pleasant, with temperatures hovering close to 26 degrees Celsius most of the year. It may be a little cooler in the higher elevations of El Valle de Antón, a mountain town in the province of Coclé and one of the only remaining homes of

the Panamanian golden frog. Visitors and residents alike come to this tranquil oasis to enjoy the area’s hot springs, waterfalls and lively public market. As more than 500 bird species are native to the area, El Valle is a wonderful place to hike and bird-watch. Located in what is considered Panama’s “bread basket,” Volcán is another mountain town, an ideal location for retirees who are looking to purchase a bungalow with lush soil ripe for farming. Crops that grow well in the mountains of the Chiriquí province include broccoli, bananas, onions,

tomatoes and some of the best coﬀee in the world.

Highlands

historic inns 33 to quaint hostels that even oﬀer camping areas, often located just blocks from the Caldera River where rafting and ishing opportunities are abundant.

Also located in Chiriquí is Boquete, nestled on the banks of the Caldera River. This community is perfect for travellers who are interested in theatre and music and who appreciate community interaction. Boquete also has the unique distinction of being a city that boasts a high population of foreign-born citizens. Many of these immigrants are natives of Europe and

Volcán Barú, the highest mountain in Panama, separates Boquete from Volcán and the village of Cerro Punta, and the Los Quetzales hiking trail around Barú connects the cities. Cerro Punta is

chose to live in the Chiriquí province because of the climate and the comparatively low cost of living.

touted as the highest town in Panama, at 2,000 meters above sea level. It is estimated that 80 percent of the country’s vegetables are grown in Cerro Punta.

The in lux of visitors to Boquete and the surrounding areas has resulted in an expansion of the hotel industry. Visitors will ind a variety of accommodations ranging from

When considering how to get here, visitors and potential transplants to the mountains of Panama have several options. From Panama City or Costa Rica, hop on a plane to Enrique Malek International Airport in David, Chiriquí’s vibrant economic center and capital city.

Chiriqui tiene todo â&#x20AC;&#x17E;Chiriqui has it allâ&#x20AC;&#x153; is a to promote tourism slogan for this province. And in fact Chiriqui has a varied selection of things to offer. From the Sea to the Mountains and green rolling hills, here you will find it all. The province of Chiriqui is the largest province in Panama. It is the country's main coffeegrowing region and the major producer for vegetables, flowers and meat. Chiriqui is producing some of the best coffees in the world. It is also home to Panama's highest peak, the Baru volcano. The landscape, flora and fauna of the region are very different from the rest of the country.

Chiriqui

36 35 34 33

Cerro Punta

Rio Sereno

Monte lirio

Volcan Baru

Volcan

Boquete

29 28 27

Potrerillos

Caldera

25 24

San Andres

23 22

Dolega

Gualaca

Paso Canoa

20 19 18 17

David

Divala

Chiriqui

Alanje

14 13

Guarumal

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Horconcitos San Lorenz

Puerto Armuelles

Boca Chica

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Isla Paridita

El Atrocho

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Devil's Jaw Cerro Punta Trail Los Quetzales Cerro Punta - Bocas del Toro Cerro Punta - Boquete Potrero Muleto Caldera Hot Spring Galique Horseback Riding Los Cangilones (Canyon) Fortuna Fortuna Wetlands Indian handicrafts Coffee plantations Flower plantations Horse Farms Border Zone - Paso Canoa Volcan - Rio Sereno Cotito Las Lajas Rio Sereno - Paso Canoas Chorcha Cabello de Angel Volcan Lagoon Fortuna Lagoon Boquete-2 Cerro Punta Volcán Barú Trail David Benjamín Trail Alanje Puerto Armuelles La Barqueta Gulf of Chiriqui (Paradise Islan La Amistad Volcan Lagoon Baru Volcano Mi jardín es su jardín

D31 G34 G33 F35 F35 I15 J26 P10 I26 E20 L29 J27 G32 G31 I29 G18 A19 C30 G31 Q6 A29 K18 D31 L25 G30 F34 G30 I15 I32 F15 B10 E11 I3 E34 C31 F29 G32

San Felix Tolé

Las Lajas Las Lajas Beach

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Highlands

Volcán Cangilones de Gualaca Isla Bolañôs Isla Gomez Playa Hermosa Las Lajas Beach Cascada Cerro Banco Cascada Cerro Chorcha Morro Negrito Surf School Fishing Balneario La Cascada Bella Vista del Mundo Camisetas al Volcan Baru Coffee Tours Fortuna Lake Scenic Lookout Rock Climbing Pipeline Trail Caldera Petroglyphs Bird Watching River Rafting Barriles Archaeological Site Cerro Punta Stables Boquete Scenic Lookout Farm Tourism Playa las Mellizas Sport Fishing Cheese Factories Balneario Majagua Magnetic Line Cañón del Río Macho de Mont Balneario Borinquito Chorros del Rio Bregué Balneario La Barranca Rum Factory Cristo Nazareno Tolé Virgin Beaches of Punta Burica Mellizas Bugaba Cerro Punta - Las Nubes Caldera Limones Beach Boca Chica Palo Blanco La Barqueta San Lorenzo ´ Volcán - Cerro Punta Dolega - Boquete Gualaca - Punta Peña

E30 K21 K2 K1 L6 Q3 M12 K15 R0 E5 I20 K26 G30 G31 K29 I32 I32 I24 I33 B28 D35 D32 I29 E29 A8 E7 E23 C21 E29 E26 E20 F21 F18 F15 F15 S7 B1 A6 E21 E34 J26 A4 L6 B10 E10 N6 E31 I23 K21

Highlands

Lucero Golf (Cielo Paraiso) in Boquete, Panama „Having designed over 200 courses around the world and in virtually every climate, I can truly say that the Lucero site is one of the most spectacular that I have had the privilege of working on. Our design and construction team is committed to the creation of one of the finest, most enjoyable and visually stunning courses in all of Central America. The 18-hole championshipquality golf course will, without question, be the centerpiece of the beautiful new Lucero residential community in Boquete, Panama." J. Michael Poellot Golf Course Architect

Where to Play Golf in Panama

Golf Course Changuinola Eagle Golf Park Driving Range and Golf Academ Golf Puerto Armuelles *Closed for Renovation* Lucero Golf & Country Club (Cielo Paraiso) Valle Escondido Golf & Spa Bijao Beach Resort Royal Decameron Beach Resort Hotel Coronado Golf & Beach Resort Bristol Buenaventura Vista Mar Beach Resort & Golf Brazos Brooks Golf Club Chitre Golf Club Club de Golf de Panama Radisson Summit Hotel & Golf Panama Golf Academy Driving Range Tucan Country Club & Resort

Changuinola David Puerto Armuelles Boquete Boquete Santa Clara Farallon Coronado Rio Hato San Carlos Colón Chitré Panama City Gamboa Panama City Panama City

Bocas del Toro Chiriqui Chiriqui Chiriqui Chiriqui Coclé Coclé Coclé Coclé Coclé Colón Herrera Panamá Panamá Panamá Panamá

758-2400 6550-9088 770-7852 730-8101 720-2454 993-2255 240-4444 908-3333 345-4096 996-4338 266-7777 232-4000 214-8855 316-4156

Where world-renowned coffee growsâ&#x20AC;Ś

Home of the world's best coffee

Call 300-6663 and ask for a broker to open your Info@Thalessecurities.com corporate or private account fast and easy www.thalessecurities.com Tel.: +(507) 300-6663 / 263-6850

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Generali Tower,Penthouse ďŹ&#x201A;oor 27th Samuel Lewis Avenue Panama,

Highlands

Restaurant Mango

Panama.

Meet Chef Craig, Maureen and Manuel at Restaurant Mango Chef Craig Miller brings a fresh perspective to Panamanian cuisine by integrating his background of ethnic lavors and the abundance provided by Panama's tropical environment. Fresh ish from two oceans, a year-round growing season and a burgeoning food culture all allow for Chef Craig to focus on distinctive plates that are unique to Boquete and Panama. Maureen and Manuel Pitti are two young farming entrepreneurs grown locally in Boquete, Panama and provide Mango with organic, soil-grown greens and vegetables throughout the year from their family farm. Maureen's background in inance and her brother's education in tropical farm systems have created a duo that is keenly aware of the need for organic agriculture in Panama. We are also very pleased to oﬀer the "Isla Verde Spa managed by the highly regarded massage therapist Mark Perren-

We oﬀer six bright spacious roundhouses, six enchanting suites as well as a little casita. All lodging is situated in a lush tropical garden setting. The ISLA VERDE Suites are private and very comfortable, each suite oﬀers either a walk out balcony with precious views or a step down to your lush tropical garden. Each suite will accommodate 2 persons with ease. Every unit is itted with a

bathroom, kitchen with hot & cold and cable television. Free wireless Internet is also available to our guests. If soft, safe and cozy is your style, you will feel at home here. Our roundhouses feature two sizes: the smaller roundhouse will accommodate a maximum of 4 people, while the bigger roundhouse will accommodate a maximum of 6 people comfortably.

Jones, an Australian who has 20 years experience working in spas in clinics around the world. contact Mark: 69486664 / markperrenjones@gmail.com, or for more information visitboquetemassage.com

ISLA VERDE is situated just 3 minutes walking distance from the Boquete village in the highlands of

The architecture is based on an ancient Indian design, and for your comfort we have equipped each one with today's modern conveniences. Come relax and nourish your soul in our quiet and beautiful setting inside our lush tropical garden paradise. We also have up/down suites that are perfect for a romantic get-away.

District of Bo Boquete Tree Trek

Rio Cristal Finca Kotowa

Montana El Parador Verde

Palo Alto Trail

Los Establos

Jaramillo Rio

Palo Alto Pa

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Boquete Garden Inn

Il Pianista

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Alto Lino

Feria Boquete

Downtown Boquete

Villa Marita Cabanas Cafe Ruiz Sabrin Isla Mi jardin es su jardin

4 l

Casa Pedro

Valle del Río

Rock Climbing

Verde

Bajo Boquete Boquete Visitor Center

Stone Haven Cabins Spa

Volcancito

Cafe Sitton

Quetzal Trail

Finca dos jefes

Volcancito Village

e lin

Palmira Arriba

La Estancia

l ai

Cerro Verde

Finca Lerida 5

Volcan Baru 11Km

Café Alemana

MGG Caddy

Body&Mind Dojo

Hotel Lacha Alto

Dor

Santa Lucia

El Salto Cerro Azul

Hotel Refugio Montana

Mozart

La Amistad Bajo National Park Mono

Cefati

Valle Escondido

Fresas Café

Cascada San Ramon

P W

Hotel Ladera

Riverside Inn

Rio Pianista

ai Tr

Panorama Cabins

Palmira Centro

oquete Overview

Highlands Caldera Horseback Riding Hot Springs Almirante

Lodging Activities Coffee/Restaurant Trails Other

Golf Lucero

Montanas de Caldera

Puente Wilson

Los Nances

Alto Boquete

Plaza San Francisco

o rado

Jardines de Boquete

Boquete Country Club

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La Tranca

Brisas Boquetenas Hacienda Esmeralda

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Los Molinos Casa del Risco

Coclé

El Valle de Anton The charming traditional village of El Valle de Anton covers an area of just seven miles and is nestled in the heart of the world's second largest volcanic caldera. The village can be reached by taking a bus from Panama City, and the bus runs from 04:00 until 20:00 each day. Despite its small size, there is plenty to see and do in El Valle de Anton, and some of the most popular local attractions include the El Macho waterfall, the mud baths and Nispero Zoo, while bargain hunters can shop for souvenirs at the Sunday market.

Cerro Banco Waterfall The Ecotourism in the chirican region has had an important increase due to many factors : is the province with the bigger geographical diversity; on the one hand are the mountain regions and on the other hand extensive plains regions. Among the mountain regions stand out countless waterfalls that are found mostly in the

Ngäbe Bugle Comarca and among them the highiest one in Panama: Cerro banco Waterfall. Getting there is not easy, involves much physical effort, but worth it. it's necessary to contact the local people who are those who know the region very well and how to get there. It requires a core team of exploration, of course, cameras and videofilmers can not miss in your adventure. If the decision to explore the Cerro Banco Waterfall takes place, in the province of Chiriqui there are many travel agencies that organize gladly tour for you. On the other hand IPAT (Panamenian Institute of Tourism), is the office responsible for giving instructions and specifications for trips having to take, you only need to want to.

Chiriqui

The Many sights on the road up the Shangri-La valley. The La Amistad International Park covers 401,000 hectares of jungle, forest and mountain trails and stretches across the Talamanca mountain range of both Costa Rica and Panama. You can ﬁnd the park's main Panama entrance 18 kilometers from the center of Volcan, in Chiriqui province. The park is now a World Heritage site and is part of an international biodiversity study. The park has many trails or senderos, that take the avid hiker or birder across small bridges over crystal clear mountain streams. The Paciﬁc

side Highlands 43 temperatur es range from a low of 10°C to a high of 22°C. The park is open from 8pm to 4pm each day and there is a charge of $5 per person for non Panamanians. There is a small cafe right at the main entrance gate that serves tipico meals and coffee. Prepare yourself for rain and muddy, slippery trails so

good hiking boots are essential. The foliage is lush and varied and the tranquility you feel on these cool mountain trails is a tonic for the soul.

Panama: A True Birdwatcher's Paradise diďŹ&#x20AC;erent macaw species. These are colorful and noisy birds that are king-sized members of the parrot family. Los Quetzales Trail

More than 500 species of birds line Pipeline Road in Soberania National Park. For many years, this location has set records for the daily bird counts. It is a long road, so most watchers choose to bike the path. Usually, exotic birds are found deeper along the trail. Birds including trogans, antbirds, and toucans can be viewed. Panama is home to a great variety of toucans. They are a wonderful sight with their brightly colored markings and large bills. Darien National Park Darien National Park provides a magical atmosphere for birdwatchers. People can literally watch macaws ly overhead. The rainforests in this area house four

The Quetzal Trail cuts through the Baru Volcano National Park. It connects Boquete to Cerro Punta and includes one of the highest peaks in Panama. This provides excellent views of trees and shrubs that house numerous birds like the resplendent quetzal. Punta Patino National Reserve Panama's national bird is the harpy eagle. It is one of the largest eagles in existence. Since this bird is endangered, it can be dif icult to spot. However, Punta Patino is one of the few places where the visits. A watcher will be awed at the size of this creature.

Canopy Tower and Canopy Lodge Two of the best places for a birdwatcher to stay while in Panama is the Canopy Tower and Canopy Lodge. The Canopy Lodge is located in the hills of El Ville de Anton. It has a veranda that boasts enjoyable views of garden feeders. The rooms are scattered along the gardens as well. The Canopy Tower is near Panama City in Soberania National Park. It oďŹ&#x20AC;ers rooms and an observation deck in the middle of the rainforest. This provides a great place to see hawks, toucans, and honeycreepers at eye-level.

Fauna & Flora

Panama is one of the few tourist destinations that oďŹ&#x20AC;ers a view of nature at its inest. This includes numerous places to enjoy birdwatching. The above locations are just some areas that provide ideal conditions to ind rare and breathtaking birds that can be found almost nowhere else in the world.

FINCA DRACULA ORCHID HEAVEN. FINCA DRACULA ORCHID HEAVEN. The merry month of May is the perfect time to explore a true garden of delight. High in the majestic mountains

Finca Dracula. Turn Left. Warning: the last short stretch of road to the entrance is horrible. If you have a family car maybe it's best to leave it on the paved road and walk. As you enter Finca Dracula and take the winding road to the office, to your left you will pass a magnificent pool ringed with tall palm trees, broad-leaved water plants and a myriad of multicolored flowers. A gushing waterfall cascades into the pool. This is a good spot for your first of many Kodak moments. I must admit I know absolutely nothing about orchids – Like many people I believed they gave off an exotic perfume – truth is most orchids have little or no aroma at all. Fortunately my

of Chiriqui, just above the small-town of Gaudalupe, you will ﬁnd Finca Dracula. This beautifully landscaped garden is one of the world's top ten Orchid farms. The name comes not from any ghastly gothic connection but from a species of orchids. These orchids; like their infamous counterpart – only come alive at night. Directions: Drive to Volcan and then take the right fork at the police station. A twenty minute drive up the mountain and through the town of Cerro Punta will bring you to the village of Gaudalupe. Pass the Los Quetzales Lodge & Spa on your left and then take the next fork to the right. After a quarter of a mile you will see a sign for

guide was Mizael Rodriguez, he set me straight on orchid type stuff. Andrew Maduro started Finca Dracula over forty years ago. What started out as a hobby has now blossomed (sorry about the pun) into a thriving international business

with exports to all parts of the World. The 12 hectare garden is constantly improving. Little pathways take you in several directions either down to the lake or along ﬁeldstone ringed walkways bedecked with bright red and orange impatiens. One time a friend from Canada came with me to visit the ﬁnca. He must have shot hundreds of pictures and at the end he was standing there in awe. “This is the best,” he said as he gazed around. “The best you have seen in Panama?” I ventured. “No” he added thoughtfully, “This is one of the best places I have seen in my entire life.” Some writers have called the Cerro Punta and Gaudalupe area the “Shangri-La Valley.” Little wonder because the climate and soil here produce 80 to 90% of all the fresh vegetables consumed in Panama. It should come as no surprise that this area also promotes one of the best orchid growing

Fauna & Flora

climates in 47 the world. I was curious why the ﬁnca had the “Dracula” name attached. Mizael my guide explained that many of these orchids open only at night. He assured me I didn't have to wait until after sundown to see these ﬂowers at their best. He crossed to a bucket of water and dipped an orchid called a Big Mama gently into the water. Sure enough “Big Mamma” did her thing and immediately opened to reveal a purple and yellow striped face. You can buy orchids here for as little as a few dollars, however, the more exotic varieties can cost up to two hundred dollars. Tip: Bring your camera and come early in the day. By David Dell. Finca Dracula is open every day from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Call: (507) 771-2070

Darien National Park The stunning Darien National Park is situated in the eastern region of Panama and boasts a wide range of natural features such as waterfalls, lakes and streams as well as magniďŹ cent mountains. Hiking is the most popular pastime in Darien National Park, and the numerous hiking trails that run through the area offer plenty of opportunities to soak up the scenery. Although it is possible to explore Darien National Park independently, it is a good idea to hire a local guide, who will be able to point out the most scenic spots and teach visitors about local ďŹ&#x201A;ora and fauna.

Early Panama and the Darien Scheme The Darien Scheme-even the title of one of Scotland's greatest tragedies carries a shroud of mystery and intrigue. What began in the late 1600s as an optimistic endeavor to build and secure Scotland's new economic power in order to bring stability and prosperity to the country resulted in total disaster after two failed expeditions to Panama's paradise and a

ďŹ nancial loss of over two hundred thousand pounds. The death rate of Scottish colonists rated over 70% and major investors back in Scotland were brought to ruin. The Darien Scheme lasted from 1698 to just into 1700 when already existing Spanish colonies waged war on the barely surviving Scottish settlers. The dismal failure of the Scottish colonization attempt was the driving push towards the inevitable union of Scotland and England in 1707. A truly harrowing tale of adventure and loss--but what relics remain in

today's Panama of the Scottish settlers from centuries ago?^

Lowland Paca or conejo pintado -Cuniculus pacabreeding in Panama Lowland Paca (Cuniculus paca), also known as the Spotted Paca and as conejo pintado in Panama, is a rodent whose meat is used for its smoothness and great taste. Lowland Paca (conejo pintado) breeding is leading to economic livelihood for the inhabitants of the region of NgĂ¤be-Bugle in Panama. The origin of this project was born following the launch of a

Fauna & Flora

United Nations project that seeks to raise on the one hand the number of specimens of this species, and for other one, ethnicity NgĂ¤be provide a living alternative to the activities normal cultivation of coffee, maize and banana. These green and sustainable farms have also led to the creation of micro enterprises involved in the marketing of Lowland Paca and surplus production of crops, mainly coffee, thus helping to generate economic selfsufďŹ ciency of the indigenous group, with the consequent improvement in their low standard of living.

Chiriqui's Spectacular hidden wonder.

A 15-minute drive south from the Mountain town of Volcan is one of Panama's most spectacular and little known wonders. The road sign at Cuesta de Piedra points to the Macho De Monte Gorge, you don't want to miss this wonder so prepare for a little bit of

climbing and a lot of soaking. Follow the sign from Cuesta de Piedra and head East along what many are now calling the Orange Blossom Highway and after 5 kilometers you reach a narrow bridge spanning a cavernous gorge. You have arrived at the canyon. If you stand

on the bridge and look down 80-foot you will see the pristine clear water of the Rio Bregue river roaring through the narrow canyon walls. The trick is to see the gorge from the river level. This takes some basic climbing gear and a steady nerve. You could rappel straight down from the b r i d g e â&#x20AC;&#x201C; f r i e n d s h ave d o n e t h i s successfully, but my aching, nearly 70-

year old body, finds this too hard. I want the easy route and this you find by walking north to the left of the bridge. A small trail winds around and you can see a rough path leading down to the river. Bring two sets of footwear â&#x20AC;&#x201C; one for walking over the rocks the other for walking through the river. You now head

Fauna & Flora

water when I tried it was 51 unusually warm. Slowly make your way down the river. Your reward comes after the first hundred yards with a view you will remember for the rest of your life. Thousands of years of river activity have polished the rock walls of this canyon to an almost cathedral like smoothness. The walls extend up 80 feet to the jungle floor and the porous rocks to your left and right emit a thousand jets of water in a wonderful natural cascade. As you walk further along the river the canyon walls close in for moment only to reopen on another spectacular sight. Now the sunlight highlights a pale green moss on the magnificent vertical walls. At this point I stopped and paused to take in the scene around me. Thousands of people have crossed over this canyon but few have ever seen its true wonder and beauty. If your adventure takes place in the dry season you can easily traverse the many narrow points of the canyon by walking on the gravel beds that line the edges. On my journey I had a camera and tripod, and walking on smooth rocks was quite dangerous- take your time. Several tourists have met their death's here so please always go with companions and only in the dry season. This is an adventure you want to live to remember.

south along the riverbed toward a small waterfall at the mouth of the canyon. Now change to your wet shoes. This is the tough bit. You have to traverse around the side of a rock wall and then lower yourself 15 feet into a deep pool. Then you have to swim 30 feet to a gravel beach. Do this and the hardest part of your journey is over. The

After half a kilometer there is a waterfall. This is the most dangerous part of the journey. A strongly flowing river could carry you over - this will definitely ruin your day, so maybe now is the time to return to the small waterfall and head home. A tip: If you have a pocket camera, buy a waterproof container. They are only a dollar in most stores.

Bird List

UPM #1 www.losquetzales.com Chiriqui, Panama

Parque Internacional La Amistad

Tel.:(+507) 771-2182

Guadalupe, Cerro Punta

01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

Magniﬁcent Hummingbird White -Throated Mountain-Gem Violet Sabrewing Green Violet-Ear Rufous-Tailed Hummingbird Collare Trogon Orange-Bellied Trogon Resplendent Quetzal Prong-Billed Barbet Emerald Toucanet Arcon Woodpecker Hairy Woodpecker Red-Faced Spintail Spotted Barbtail Ruddy Treerunner Buffy Tuftedcheek Streak-Breasted Treehunter Lineated-Foliage-Gleaner Spot-Crowned Woodcreeper Silvery-Fronted Tapaculo Tree-Wattle Bellbird Mountain Elaenia Torrent Tyrannulet Whited-Fronted Tyrannulet Paltry Tyrannulet Tufted Flycatcher Dark Pewee Ochraceous Pewee Black-Capped Flycatcher Yellowish Flycatcher

31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60

Flame-Colored Tanager Sooty-Capped Bush Tanager Common Bush- Tanager Wrenthrush Black-Cheeked Warbler Collared Redstart Slaty-Throated Redstart Wilson´ Warbler Masked Yellowthroat MacGillivray´s Warbler Black-Throated Green Warbler Flame-Throated Warbler Golden-Winged Warbler Yellow-Bellied Siskin Rufous-Browed Peppershrike Brown-Capped Vireo Yellow-Winged Vireo Mountain Robin Ruddy-Capped Nightingale-Thrush Black-Billed Nightingale-Thrush Black-Faced Solitaire Gray-Breasted Wood Wren Ochraceous Wwen House Wren Long-Tailed Silky-Flycatcher Black-and-Yellow Silky-Flycatcher Blue-and-White Swallows Barred Becard Tropycal Kingbird Black Phoebe

53 01

Fauna & Flora

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Prong-Billed Barbet

Black-Cheeked Warbler

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ChestnutCapped BrushFinch

Resplendent Quetzal

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Violet Hummingbird

CollaredRedStart

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Golden-Browed Chlorophonia

Volcano Hummingbird

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Large-Footed Finch

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Long-tailed Silky Flycatcher

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Panama City – Panama District Panama Province – Panama an exciting city in Central America as there is even a community in Florida named Panama City.

Those planning a fun trip to Panama may need to be speci ic about their destination because a country, province, district and city all share that name. One thing that these places all have in common is the country’s capital city as the other three geographical places spread out from there. In fact, you may also need to mention that you are travelling to

There are plenty of fun activities in this party-loving city and country. Those who plan their trips during the Panamanian Carnival will surely have an experience that will be long remembered. Panama City’s nightspots are mostly concentrated in Amador Causeway, Bella Vista, Casco Viejo and Marbella. Clubs are generally high energy well past midnight at all times of the year. A popular World Heritage site, Casa Antigua, is located on a cobblestoned street near Casco Viejo. A beloved

hotel with modern amenities is located here. This city also has a reputation as a shopperâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s paradise. Milticentro, Central Americaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest shopping

mall, is home to a casino, Internet cafe and movie theatre as well. Avenida Central, another popular shopping destination, is a six-block pedestrian mall that attracts locals and visitors alike. When you get hungry, you will be pleased with the choice of restaurants that you will have here. The variety of tasty food available in Panama City is quite extensive, while places outside the city are focused more on local dishes. These usually feature seafood and/or beef. The southern end of the 77kilometre Panama Canal is located

Panama City

in Panama 55 City. This waterway is pivotal for the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s commerce as it provides a passageway for shipping boats to travel from the Atlantic

Ocean to the Paci ic and vice versa without needing to go through the dif icult-to-navigate and out-of-theway Strait of Magellan at the southern tip of South America. The city of Colon is located at the other end of the Panama Canal, which touches the Caribbean Sea. The Colon Free Trade Zone is especially popular among shoppers as an incredible total of 1,750 companies are located here. We encourage you to visit this safe internationally focused country and join the more than 2 million people who make this journey on an annual basis.

Panama Viejo For many years nothing could wipe out Panama Viejo, the first Spanish settlement on the Pacific Ocean - not pirate attacks, not great fires, not even an earthquake. Founded almost five hundred years ago, this old part of the capital of Panama resisted many hardships and even had to relocate to a new place (today's capital) after an explosion finally managed to destroy its many churches, buildings and lives in 1670. People in Panama now celebrate August 15 as the day Panama Viejo was founded. Join them on this joyful occasion and marvel at the beautiful buildings rich with history.

Panama City's Old Quarter, "El Casco Antiguo" The Old Panama city founded in 1519 was destroyed upon attack by the English Pirate Morgan in 1671 and re-built at its current location in 1673. One can ﬁnd mostly colonial-type buildings, including government, churches (one with a golden altar) and museum buildings, together with a beautiful theater, parks (called plazas), ﬁne dining and housing apartments. UNESCO designated this

Panama Panama City

area as a 56 World Heritage Site in 2003. Currently under renovation, beautifully restored buildings can be appreciated

next to houses hosting arts, music, fashion runways, parties or simple enjoyment. The yearly Panama Jazz Festival is celebrated here. The Panama Canal Museum is a mustsee presence across from the main Cathedral Park. "Las Bovedas" in the French Plaza are a beautiful area to visit, from where you can see contrasting views of modern high rises in the horizon. Panama's Presidential Palace, China Town and the Fish Market are also part of "Casco Viejo". Visit and enjoy!

199

AREA ACTIVITIES

BIOMUSEO IN AMADOR

20 million years ago there was no Panama, North and South America were islands continents cut off by a wide

“Biomuseo is a bridge towards a new architecture in Panama dreamt and conceived in for this people and their personal myths, for their epoch, their climate, their geography, and from its history”. Erick Wolfschoon, arquitect. In the middle of the one of the most touristic zone, Amador Causeway, front of the beauty of the sea, you can find a new proposal in Panamá, the biodiversity museum called Biomuseo. It's going to tell the world the extraordinary story

about the source of the rise of the Isthmus of Panama to the significant changes in aquatic and terrestrial plant and animal life in the region, as well as to the evolution of the flora and fauna that makes Panama such a special place.

marine channel that joined the Pacific and Caribbean into a single tropical ocean. The opening will be in May 2015 and the theme of the exhibition is “Panamá

Puente de Vida”. The main idea is to expose to Panama as a place that has provided the different species of animals and plants, in the Pacific and the Atlantic, the opportunity to merge and make new species, Panamá is ecologically crucial bridge, a great help to conserve

important ecosystems on our continent. For this ambitious project, Panamรก has a controversial archuitect Gehry, made complex and innovative designs, like de Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao and the Walt Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles, and for the Biomuseo, Gehry keeps showing to the world the new form to create a building, and with this amazing way to see the architecture has

Panama City

Amador - Calzado de Amador Over 30 Bar www.over30panama.com

Bar Republik Detras Meubleria Ancon Calle 50

265-6540

Ancla Bar & Lounge www.barancla.com

390-1039

Calle Uruguay Starlight Karaoke & Lounge www.starlight.com.pa

302-7827

Live Karaoke & Lounge reservas@karaokelivepanama.com

391-9018

Pure Lounge & Terrace www.Pureclubpanama.com

269-3454

Sands Pure + Lounge sandspanama@gmail.com

changed the Amador Causeway landscape. To make this original construction he use Digital Project, a computer program based on applications used to model complex curved volumes for the aerospace industry. The Biomuseo is being built in a 3.5 hectare site, but only 10% of it is occupied by the building and administrative offices, the rest will be covered by a botanical park with thematic areas that extend the concepts presented eight galleries. This eight galleries link the rise of the Isthmus of Panama, the roof of the atrium is inspired by Canal architecture and the canopy of the rainforest is made up of 11 large fragments. Each one weighs close to 20 tons. By Mitzi Turner

203-2285

Bella Vista

Manrey Hotel Roo op Pool Bar www.manreypanama.com

203-0000

Alta Bar altabarpanama.com

390-2582

Casco An guo Tantalo Kitchen HOTEL Roo op www.tantalohotel.com

262-4030

Scena y Platea www.scenayplatea.com

228-4011

Villa Agus na www.villa-agus na.com

261-3094

Habana Panama www.habanapanama.com

212-0152

El Cangrejo Bar Rayuela Via Argen na al lado de Arrocha

394-4903

La Tasca de Duran Facebook/La Tasca de Duran

213-0100

El Dorado Capo's Bar Dorado www.caposbar.amawebs.com

260-1170

BBQ Sports Bar www.bbqsports.com

302-0343

Los Angeles Hangar 18 Bar & Lounge --

6243-1139

Mul centro Mall Hardrock Hotel Megapolis www.hardrockhotelpanamamegapoli

380-1111

Mul plaza Mall Isabella Club & Disco www.isabella.com.pa

391-6008

Obarrio Club Nuvo twi er.com/#!/nuvopanama

265-3210

San Franciso The Green Room Karaoke ventas@el-greenroom.com

6090-7226

Zona Viva Paxion www.facebook.com/paxion

203-0184

Amador Causeway Enjoy the natural world of Panama together with your kids In Panama City the humidity can really get to you. Being outside with your children is not always as relaxing as you would like. The Amador Causeway is a good place to get a little breeze while being out in the open. This 4 kilometer long road connects main land Panama City to a few little

on the causeway is Punta Culebra, a little open air zoo of the Smithsonian Institute, at Isla Naos. This little zoo is great place to spend an afternoon with your kids. Under shady covers you can watch turtles and sharks and even touch beautiful starfish. Sloths welcome you already at the parking lot and iguanas accompany you while walking the dry forest trails. The natural world of Panama is right here at a 15 minutes drive from downtown.

Amador

islands in the Pacific Ocean. Panamanians use this causeway to walk, run or cycle while enjoying the view. You can see the big ships passing by and pelicans searching for fish. Standing on the Amador causeway also gives a great view on the skyline of Panama City. But the real hidden gem

Take your kids to the look out point and watch the big ships through the telescopes passing by. And if the sun gets too hot, relax under one of the shady huts and enjoy the view and the breeze. The best thing is that, even when it rains, there are some indoor exhibitions that are worth a visit.

Panama City

Children will love to see the big teeth of a shark or play a game on the computer. Entree fees are low, $5 for nonresidents and $3 for residents. Kids pay $1. So after your visit to Punta Culebra there might be some money left to get ice cream on one of the other islands at the Amador Causeway. More information about Punta Culebra can be found on: www.stri.si.edu

By Véronique Bettonville

Salsipuedes The vibrant and colourful Salsipuedes Market is a great place to do a little

shopping while visiting 63 Panama City. This huge and bustling marketplace is crammed full of stalls selling a weird and wonderful collection of Chinese merchandise and can be found along one of the alleys that run oﬀ Avenida Central in the heart of Panama City. The market was established in the 17th century in the poorest part of the city, when it received the nickname Salsipuedes meaning 'get out if you can' in the local dialect. Since this time the whole area has had a major facelift and this is an interesting place to browse for bargains and indulge in a little people watching. Just about everything imaginable can be found for sale on the many market stalls here, from pins and needles to Chinese herbs, clothing and accessories, a colourful collection of souvenirs and local fruits and vegetables.

Altos De Campana National Park To visit the park pass through the town of Capira, continue southwest along the Panamerican Highway for about 3.5km, then turn right at the top of the hill. Follow a narrow asphalt road up the mountain to the ANAM park station. There you can ask for guidance to hiking trails and camping sites. You may have to pay a small fee for park services. If hiking isn't your thing you can visit the “mirador“ where the view stretches from Panama City, across the mangrove forests of Chame and out to the islands of Bona and Otoque. A rewarding and insightful image of the region.

Luna's Castle

Casa Remon Apartment Rentals

Tantalo Kitchen HOTELRoo op

Hotel Casco An guo

Granclement

Q 18

Las Bovedas

Compañía Inmobiliaria San

Diablicos

La Rana Dorada

Enoteca Divino

Q 23

Pintas Bar & Lunch

Buzios

El Baron Rojo

Q 26

Grapes

Ego & Narcisso

Q 28

La Puerta de Tierra

Restaurante L'Osteria

O 30

Ay! Carmela

Tinto De Verano

32 O

Manolo Caracol

La Forche a

Teatro Nacional

Teatro Anita Villalaz

Panama Travel Group

O 37

Barefoot Panama

O 38

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Calle 11 O

Scena y Platea Hostal Familiar Las Clemen nas

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Calle 12 O

La Casona de las Brujas

16 Calle 13 Oeste

Habana Panama

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Villa Agus na

Calle 14 O

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Los del Pa o

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Calle 5a Este

Calle 8a Oes

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Calle 7a Oes

Calle 2a Este

Casco Antigua

Calle 9a Oes

Calle 4a Este

24 22

Av Eloy Alfaro 17

Calle 3a Oes

Avenida B

Calle 5a Este

14 31

Calle 6a Este

Calle 8a Este

12 36

06 01 Mercado del Marisco

10 La Cinta Costera

El Arco Chato / Iglesia de 02 San Jose

11 Tourism Police

03 Iglesia de la Merced

12 Exterioras

Ministerio de Relaciones

04 Estacionamientos

13 Cementerio Amador

05 Plaza Bolivar

14 Cementerio Chino

06 Plaza de Francia

15 Salsipuedes Market

07 Plaza Herrera

Plaza de la Independencia

09 Plaza de Santa Ana

17 Palacio de las Garzas

Panama City ,

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Parque Nacional Camino de Cruces

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31 30 29 28 Lago Miraflores

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Tucan County Club& Resort

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E-Mail: metalca@gmail.com

Panama Pacifico

Playa Boni Village

8 7

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Un know how específico nos capacita para planificar, instalar, explotar y hacer el servicio de cualquier estructura metálica. Los puntos principales se concentran en la realización de trabajos de soldadura heavy-duty para la industria petrolera y naviera, en la instalación y explotación de generadores para la obtención de energía, así como en la realización de trabajos de montaje en obras grandes. METALCA GROUP S.A. está en condiciones de realizar prácticamente cualquier proyecto de construcciones metálicas y de instalaciones a plena satisfacción de sus clientes gracias a esta cartera de actividades y al know how de sus empleados.

Overview Map Welcome to Panama. You find in this map a quick orientation to find your way in this busy city centre. Use it to make notes to get directions. The traffic is often congested and driving with a car can be a challenge

ma Metropolitan Map

Panama City 04

Airport Tocumen

El Dorado

Dorado Lakes

Sara Sotillo

03 01

TU of Panama

Casa Blanca

Miraflores

03 04

Bethania El Ingenio

Panama Viejo

El Dorado Parque Receativo OMAR

Los Angeles Edison Park

encial ssy Club

04 Coco del Mar

San Francisco

El Crangrejo 05 06

Parque Natural Metropolitano

Obarrio

e5 all

03 06

or ed

Costa del Este

Panama – City Panama Railway Station F21 Ancon Hill H15 Casco Antiguo I14 Parque Ormar K25 Museo Reina Torres de Arauz H18 Cinta Costera J18 World Trade Center K20

01 02

r Su

03 04

rr Co

05 06 07

Calle Uruguay

Perejil

Punta Pacifica

Marco A.Gelabert

Calidonia

04 05 06

Ancon Hill 02 02

Cerro Sosa

04 03

La Boca

El Maranón

Shopping Malls Albrook Mall G18 El Dorado Mall 33K Los Pueblos R33 MetroMall S35 Multicentro Mall J20 Multiplaza Mall K21

05 01

Casco Antiguo

Stadiums Horse Races Hipodromo P32 Estadio Nacional Rod Carew I33 Estadio Rommel Fernandez O31 Arena Roberto Duran O30

01 02 03

las A

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m 06 ér ica ya Farfan s

Convention Centers & Theatres Figali Convention Center H11 Atlapa Convention Center L22 Teatro Nacional I14 Teatro ABA J24 Teatro La Quadra J21

01 02 04 05 06

Amador

Night Life Calle Uruguay J18 Casco Antiguo I14 Las Terrazas de Multiplaza K22 Plaza Pacifica K18 Via Argentina J22 Zona Viva Amador H11

Isla Perico

Isla Naos

02 03 04

Isla Flamenco

05 06

ita

especially for the first time. PanamaCity has many one way streets so you cannot change the direction easily when you have taken a wrong turn. The best option for a foreigner is often a taxi. Negociate the fare before getting in the taxi. Depending on the destination fares

should oscillate between $2 and $7 dollars per person per trip. It pays off to position yourself along the way into the direction you want to travel as most taxis do not like to make a detour. It is very normal that you share the ride with other passengers.

36 35 34

Panama City Downtown 05

La Alameda

Parque Om

32 31 30 29 28

Plaza Edison

La Loceria

El Carmen

Edison Park

27 26

Via B

rasi

Brooklincito

25 24

Via B

Arboleda

rasi

22 21

El Cangrejo Bella Vista

liv ar Bo

Sim

04 17

5 lle Ca

Via

MULTIPLAZA

Vi a

19 18

La Cresta

02 07

Es pa na

12 03

0 03

Plaza Balboa

10 Bella Vista

8 7

MULTICENTRO 18

02 08

Punta Paitilla

Perejil 01

4 3

Cinta Costera

2 1

4xShopping

4xPoints of Interest Parque Omar

N 32

Bal Harbour

Parque Andres Bello

F 23

Plaza Concordia

f 16

Parque Marino Pai lla

L 7

Mul plaza PaciďŹ c Mall

L 19

Parque Urraca

E 7

Mul centro Mall

j 8

Panama City

Hotels

mar

01 02

Coco del Mar

03 04 06 05

San Francisco

07 09 L AT

A AP

11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

Continental F14 Courtyard Marriott L16 Decapolis I9 Double Tree by Hilton F13 El Panama E14 Four Points Sheraton P21 Hardrock Hotel Megapolis I7 Intercontinental Miramar F6 Le Meridien F8 Manrey Hotel F8 Marriott G14 Riu Plaza Panama H13 Sheraton Panama P21 Torres de Alba E17 Trump Tower O5 Veneto Hotel E16 Waldorf Astoria G8

Casinos 01 02

PaziďŹ c

03 04

Hospitals

01 02 03 04

Fiesta Casino E15 Majestic Casino I8 Royal Casino G13 Veneto Casino E17

4xNightlife

Hospital Nacional B4 Hospital Paitilla I10 Hospital Punta Pacifica N12 Hospital Santo Tomas B1 Hospital San Fernando J36

4xRestaurants

El Pavo Real

f 22

Terrae Arts Bistro

L 11

Isabella Club & Disco

L 20

Restaurante El Caribe

F 22

LiBar Panama

P 22

Don Patacon (San Francisco)

m20

El Apartamento / El Sotano

Istmo Brew Pub

E 18

Bounty Island feeling. Enjoyment is guaranteed. On the San Blas Islands you discover the fascinating culture of the Kuna Indians. Witness the daily life and see how they have kept for hundreds of years their own traditions alive. Aside from snorkelling, swimming or fishing you can explore the lively Kuna villages and the colourful handmade molas.

Comarcas Indigenas The original indigenous population of Panama live in autonomous regions in the country. These regions are called comarcas. There are a total of 5 comarcas in Panama of which 2 are semi-autonomous. Autonomous comarcas are Kuna Yala, Emberá and the most recent one Ngäbe-Buglé. The remainder are Kuna de Madugandí and Kuna de Wargandí.

Comarca Kuna Yala More than 300 idyllic isles y islets with waving palm trees give you the pure

Comarca Embera The majority of the attractive Embera Indians live in villages along rivers in

the Eastern part of Panama in the Darien province. They speak their own

Comarcas

language and live of hunting wild fish, game and foods they gather from the rainforest. Several villages have moved into the Chagres National park and are open for tourists to learn about their life and cultural traditions. You can explore and see how they hand craft colourful ornaments, baskets, plates, jewelry and souvenirs. The Embera like to paint their bodies and are happy to paint yours too!

Comarcas Indigenas with provincial status 1) Ngöbe-Buglé (Quebrada Guabo) 2) Kuna Yala (El Porvenir) 3) Emberá (Cirilo Guainora) without provincial status: 4) Madugandí (Akua Yala) 5) Wargandí (Nurra)

Comarcas Indigenous Territories

Kuna Yala (El Porvenir) Madugandí Ngöbe-Buglé (Akua Yala) (Quebrada Guabo) Wargandí (Nurra)

2 4

Emberá (Cirilo Guainora)

Comarcas indigenous territories with provincial status: Comarcas indigenous territories without provincial status:

MGG

Comarca Ngäbe-Buglé The mountainous Comarca in the North Western part of Panama near Bocas Del Toro is home of the (formerly known as) Guayami Indians. They form the largest indigenous group in Panama. Their main source of income is the coffee and vegetable harvest. You easily spot them in populated areas in Chiriqui as the women wear long coloured dresses.

Comarcas

Buy a Mola as a Souvenir of Your Panama Holiday A mola is a hand crafted fabric panel traditionally sewn into the blouses worn by the Kuna women of Panama. Each blouse has two panels, one for the front and one

for the back. The panels are made of many layers of cloth cut away so that the different colours show through, and sewn with fine stitching. The most traditional patterns are geometric, but you can also find more modern designs. When buying, look for the most intricate designs and the smallest stitches: these are the finest quality and will have taken many weeks, or even months, to complete. You can frame your mola, turn it into a cushion cover or use it in quilting.

Comarcas

Vive Boquete Blog Vive-Boquete.Blogspot.ocm

ete.blo oqu g -b

com ot .

http://v ive

Boquete is one of the nicest places in Panama I know: it has great weather and you will never find the need for air-conditioning. It has no winter, no autumn just spring and summer ... and a nice community. The region of Boquete is growing a lot and when you are interested to learn about what is going on in Boquete I welcome you to read the Vive-Boquete Blog where lots of information is featured about the life in Boquete. This blog is very close to the English speaking citizens in

InterNations CONNECTING GLOBAL MINDS

www.InterNations.org

Relocating to Panama? InterNations helps with your transition! Everybody knows that relocation to another country can be a stressful and uncertain time. Leaving friends, family and colleagues behind to start a new life in an unfamiliar setting is not easy on anyone, and dealing with administrative issues never is a barrel of laughs. Moving to Panama is no exception in this regard. Thus, it is important to know your way around - or at least get a feel for - your new home before you get there. InterNations.org, the largest expatriate network with 500.000

Boquete and is connected to the Noticia Information Newsletter that has the most readers in Boquete. The Vive-Boquete.Blogspot.com blog is very popular and since May the numbers of visitors have highly increased. We have had more than 26.000 page views. Without subscription you will be able to view monthly summaries of the Boquete blog. Also you will be able to participate and comment on the topics debated. If you like to send out a communication to the readers of the blog we invite you to send your message to marketing@ViveBoquete.com then it will be published after approval by the moderator. So have fun and press the Blog Button to go directly to the blog

members in 320+ cities in 180 countries around the world, can help you make your transition to Panama a lot smoother! More than 1500 expats from around the world congregate in our Panama City Community and are happy to help with any questions you might have on our forum. Do you prefer a more direct approach and face-to-face conversations? No problem at all! Our InterNations Ambassadors in Panama City, Diana, Marcella, and BC, set up lovely events for our members on a monthly basis. Just drop by their next event and meet up with fellow global minds, you won't regret it!

UPDATE Ăşltimas noticias

Panama: Tours and Attractions to View Nature at It´s Finest

Activities

the lush landscape and unique culture is through one of the many tours. Panama oﬀers over 150 tours in 10 diﬀerent

Panama is one of the few vacation destinations that oﬀers a wide variety of relaxation and adventure. Despite the fact that there is no mass tourism in eﬀect, it is a great place to explore nature. Nothing can compare to the excitement of visiting the exotic rainforests, birdwatching, or rafting down the rivers. A water enthusiast will enjoy a cruise down the canal or a sailboat ride. Diving and other water sports are popular as well. One of the best places to visit is Volcan Baru. It is the highest peak in Panama and boasts a view of both oceans. Panama is known for its remote beauty. The best way to explore

provinces. Panama invites any visitor to participate in the endless adventures of the country. Memories are just waiting to be made.

100

Activities

Your guide to Panama´s ﬁnest rafting adventures.

CHIRIQUI RIVER RAFTING River Rafting,Excursions Packages & Lodging River Rafting Our experience is your advantage from Class I to Class IV

rafting@panama-rafting.com or call: 6879-4382 (cell) www.panama-rafting.com

Restaurant in Panama Bocas del Toro

Big Daddy's Grill

Bocas Town

6683-3354

Cerro Punta

La Mama Loca www.lamamalocabocas.com

6633-8050

Laguna Azul Eco Lodge www.hotelagunazulpanama.com/

Cabañas Los Quetzales www.losquetzales.com

832-2415

Las Lajas

Isla Caranero Buccaneer Resort /Bibi's on the Beac bocasbuccaneerresort.com

Hotel Las Lajas Beach Resort laslajasbeachresort.com 757-9042

Isla Carenero Cosmic Crab Restaurant www.careeningcay.com

Hotel Bambito Resort hotelbambito.com Casa Grande www.casagrandebambito.com

Boquete

Santa Clara El Meson Suizo 240-8657

771-4265

Sheraton Bijao Beach Resort www.starwoodhotels.com

210-1425

771-5127

Los Camisones www.loscamisones.com

993-3622

Colón

Il Pianiasta Valle Del Río www.valledelrioboquete.com Valle Escondido Golf & Spa www.veresort.com Rancho del Caldera ranchodecaldera.com Mike´s Global Grill www.mikesglobalgrill.com The Rock www.riversideinnboquete.com Hotel Panamonte wwww.panamonte.com La Casona Mexicana

720-2728

Colón

720-2525

Hotel Melia Panama Canal www.meliapanamacanal.com

720-2454

The Dock Bar & Restaurant www.shelterbaymarina.com

772-8040

Isla Grande

730-9360 720-1076 720-1327

720-1135 720-1502

Las Ruinas Boquete www.boqueteroadhouse.com

470-1500

Fort Sherman

720-1274 Amigos www.amigosrestaurante.com Machu Picchu

771-5555

Coclé

6561-0693

Bambito

832-5463

Volcan Hotel Dos Ríos www.dosrios.com.pa

Chiriqui

771-2182

6677 4289

Bananas Village Resort www.bananasresort.com El Nido del Postre elnidodelpostre.net

433-3581

263-9510 448-2016

Portobelo Las Anclas Restaurante 448-2102 Restaurant La Torre 448-2039 Restaurante Pizzeria Don Quijote 448-2176 Restaurante Los Cañones 448 2980

Restaurant

Herrera Chitré Hotel Los Guayacanes www.celuisma.com/en/los-guayacan

232-4000

Isla Contadora 250-4134

Islas del Pacifico Hotel Vereda Tropical www.hotelveredatropical.com

Panama City Tantalo Kitchen HOTEL Rooftop www.tantalohotel.com Rino's Ristorante www.rinosristorante.com Churreria Manolo www.churreriamanolo.com Manolo Caracol www.manolocaracol.net Caffe Pomodoro & Wine Bar www.valledelrioboquete.com Budare Arepas Grill www.budarearepasgrill.com Restaurante y Cafeteria Mundo del P www.mundodelpan.com Rincón-Alemán 1985.com/restaurant_rincon_aleman

226-8058

996-9758

Panamá

Hotel Punta Galeón www.puntagaleonhotel.com

228-9495

Las Bovedas

Gamboa Radisson Summit Hotel & Golf Panam www.radissonsummit.com.pa

Diablicos www.diablicospanama.com

Tappo's Wine Bar La Mar Cebicheria Peruana lamarcebicheria.com Wyndham Garden Panamá www.wyndham.com Veneto Wyndham Grand www.venetopanama.com

209-3323 212-5701 340-8888

Portogalo 250-2154

262-4030 223-1090

390-0000 Oishi Sushi www.oishisushipanama.com Hard Rock Cafe Panama www.hardrock.com/locations/cafes3 Hotel Casa del Horno www.casadelhorno.net

398-4025 208-2800 212-3871

Buzios 264-0526 228-4640

228-9045 Enoteca Di Vino www.enotecadivino.com

202-6867

Saquella Espresso Club 720-2525

302-4107 Tony Roma's

399-8601

302-4841

Veraguas

223-5946

Santiago

264-0590

Terrae Arts Bistro www.terraebistro.com

Hotel Eco-Resort Vista Lago hotelvistalagopanama.com

954-9916

395- 4455

Barandas Restaurant thebristol.com

Hotel La Hacienda www.hotel-lahacienda.net

958-8579

264-0000

Restaurante El Trapiche 269-4353 Ceviche - Seviche 395-9494 Siete Mares 264 0144

Hotel & Lodging Bocas del Toro Bocas Town

Gonefishing Resort gonefishingpanama.com

851-0104

775-2822 6500-6089

Hotel Limbo By The Sea www.ellimbo.com

757-9062

Hotel Swan's Cay www.swanscayhotel.com

757-9090

Cabañas Sunny Hills www.sunnyhills-boquete.com

Cocomo on The Sea www.cocomoonthesea.com/

757-9259

Cabañas El Parador cabanaselparador.com

Hotel Bahía www.hotelbahia.biz

757-9626

Tinamou Cottage Deluxe 720 3852 www.coffeeadventures.net/tinamou.htm

757-9771

Pensión Topas www.pension-topas.com

720-1005

Hotel Bocas Del Toro www.hotelbocasdeltoro.com

757-9880

The Riverside Inn www.riversideinnboquete.com

720-1076

Aparthotel Tropical Suites www.tropical-suites.com

832-2415

Hotel Panamonte wwww.panamonte.com

720-1327

Laguna Azul Eco Lodge www.hotelagunazulpanama.com/

El Oasis Hotel y Restaurante www.oasisboquete.com

720-1625

Rio Cristal Montain Lodge www.aventurist.com

720-1635

Stone Cabins stonecabinsboquete.com

720-1750

Luxury Apartments www.boqueteluxuryextendedstay.com

720-2338

Sabrin www.cabanassabrin.net

720-2374

Boquete Garden Inn www.boquetegardeninn.com

720-2376

Refugio del Rio www.refugiodelrio.com

720-2433

Valle Escondido Golf & Spa www.veresort.com

720-2454

Valle Del Río www.valledelrioboquete.com

720-2525

Isla Verde De Panamá www.islaverdepanama.com

720-2533

Lacha Country inn www.lachahotel.com

730- 8329

Refugio de la Montana www.refugiodemontana.com

730-8355

Changuinola Wekso Lodge (ODESEN) www.changuinola.bocas.com

530-3747

Golden Sahara

758-7908

Hotel Changuinola

758-8678

Isla Caranero Buccaneer Resort /Bibi's on the Beac 757-9042 bocasbuccaneerresort.com Careening Caye Resort www.careeningcay.com

757-9242

Popa Paradise Beach Resort www.popaparadisebeachresort.com

832-1498

Isla Popa

Chiriqui Bambito Hotel Bambito Resort hotelbambito.com

771-4265

Casa Grande www.casagrandebambito.com

771-5127

Boca Chica Cala Mia Boutique Hotel www.boutiquehotelcalamia.com

851-0025

Boquete

Hotel

Hotel Los Establos www.losestablos.net/

730-9453

Rancho del Caldera ranchodecaldera.com

772-8040

Gaia hostalgaia.com

775-1575

Cerro Punta Cabañas Los Quetzales www.losquetzales.com

Farallon Hotel The Bristol Buenaventura www.thebristol.com/buenaventura/

908-3333

Royalton Spa and Beach Resort

908-3800

Playa Blanca Hotel & Resort www.panamaplayablanca.com

993-2910

Santa Clara

771-2182 Sheraton Bijao Beach Resort www.starwoodhotels.com

210-1425

6752-9586

Villa Botero Bed and Breakfast www.villaboterobb.com

993-2708

720-1260

Colón

David Tranquilo House Hospedaje www.tranquilohousepanama.com Madrid

Colón Bambú Hostel www.bambuhostel.com/

730-2961

The Purple House Hostel www.purplehousehostel.com/

774-4059

Buena Vista Las Lajas www.finca-buenavista-laslajas.com

Sierra Llorona Eco Lodge

442-8104

Sheraton Four Points Hotel Colón www.starwoodhotels.com

447-1000

Hotel Melia Panama Canal www.meliapanamacanal.com

470-1500

6814-8693 727-0653

Expo Centro Hotel & Suites www.hotelexpocentrozonalibre.com

474-2800

Paradise Inn www.paradiseinn.de Hotel Las Lajas Beach Resort laslajasbeachresort.com

832-5463

Hotel Dos Ríos www.dosrios.com.pa

771-5555

Haven Spa boquetespa.com

730-9345

Las Lajas

Isla Grande

Volcan

Bananas Village Resort www.bananasresort.com

263-9510

El Nido del Postre elnidodelpostre.net

448-2016

Puerto Lindo Bambu Guesthouse / Ocean Trips panamaguesthouse.com

448-2247

San Judas Tadeo

Coclé Chiguiri Arriba Posada Ecológica del Cerro La Vieja

983-8900

La Granja Campo & Aventura www.lagranjapanama.com

Comarca Kuna Yala El Valle de Anton Hotel Los Capitanes Eco Resort www.los-capitanes.com

983-6080

Akwadup Eco Lodge www.akwaduplodge.com

Hotel El Rincón Vallero hotelrinconvallero.com

983-6175

Dolphin Lodge www.sanblaslodge.com

Hotel Villa Los Naranjos y Los Mandar 983-6645

974-5276

Achutupo 396-8405 6142-4675

Hotel & Lodging Playon Chico Sapibenega Kuna Lodge 215-1406 www.facebook.com/sapibenega.kunalodge

Canopy Tower www.canopytower.com

264-5720

Gamboa Rainforest Resort

314-9000

Darien Piñas Bay Tropic Star Lodge www.tropicstar.com

232-8375

Sambu Hause sambuhausedarienpanama.com

268-6905

Sambu

Isla Contadora Hotel Punta Galeón www.puntagaleonhotel.com

250-4134

Hotel Restaurant Gerald's www.island-contadora.com

250-4159

Isla Taborcillo

Herrera Chitré Hotel Rex 996-4310 www.facebook.com/pages/Hotel-Rex-Chi Hotel Los Guayacanes 996-9758 www.celuisma.com/en/los-guayacanes-h

Los Santos

Isla Taborcillo Resort (John Wayne Isl 226 8717 www.isla-taborcillo.com

Islas del Pacifico Hotel Vereda Tropical www.hotelveredatropical.com

250-2154

Hacienda Del Mar www.haciendadelmar.net

269-6613

Cambutal Hotel Kambutaleko www.hotelkambutaleko.blogspot.com

6677-0229

Hotel Villa Camilla www.azueros.com/villacamilla1.html

Panama City Manrey Hotel manreypanama.com

203 -0000

Hotel Crowne Plaza Panamá www.crownplazapanama.com

206-5500

232-6721 995-2894

Marriott Hotel Panama www.marriott.com/ptypa

210-9100

Hotel Pedasí Sport Club pedasisportsclub.biz

995-2898

Aparthotel Los Cuatro Tulipanes www.sevillasuites.com

211-0877

Casita Margarita www.pedasihotel.com

Pedasi

Hotel Country Inn & Suites (Amador) 211-4500

Playa Cambutal Hotel & Playa Cambutal

832-0948

Panamá Cerro Azul Hostal Casa De Campo panamacasadecampo.com

297-0067

Coronado Hotel Coronado Golf & Beach Resort 240-4444 www.coronadoresort.com

Gamboa Radisson Summit Hotel & Golf Panam 232-4000 www.radissonsummit.com.pa

Intercontinental Playa bonita www.playabonitapanama.com

211-8600

Hotel Casa del Horno www.casadelhorno.net

212-3871

Wyndham Garden Panamá www.wyndham.com

212-5701

Aparthotel Sevilla Suites www.sevillasuites.com

213-0016

Hotel Las Huacas Suites lashuacashotel.com

213-2222

Hotel Miramar Intercontinental (c)

214-1000

Hotel Finisterre Suites & Spa

214-9200

Radisson Decapolis Hotel www.decapolishotel.com

215-5000

Hotel Radisson Decapolis www.decapolishotel.com

215-5700

Trump Ocean Club trumppanamahotel.com

215-8800

Tantalo Kitchen HOTEL Rooftop www.tantalohotel.com

262-4030

Hotel Milan www.hotelmilan.com.pa

263-6130

Toscana Inn www.toscanainnhotel.com

265-0018

Four Points Sheraton

265-3636

Hotel The Bristol Hotel(c)

265-7844

Hotel Avalon Grand Panama Resort www.hotelavalongrandpanama.com

268-4499

Plaza Paitilla Inn www.plazapaitillainn.com

269-1122

Hotel

B & B La Estancia bedandbreakfastpanama.com/

314-1417

La Estancia www.bedandbreakfastpanama.com

314-1581

Tucan Country Club & Resort www.tucancountryclub.com

316-4156

Veneto Wyndham Grand www.venetopanama.com

340-8888

Las Huacas lashuacashotel.com

366-5210

Hardrock Hotel Megapolis 380-1111 www.hardrockhotelpanamamegapolis.co Continental Hotel & Casino www.continentalhotel.com

395-8000

Best Western Aparthotel Via Espana 396-2777 www.bestwesternaparthotelpanama.co Dos Palmitos www.bedandbreakfast.com

6581-8132

Veraguas Malena Heliconia Bed & Breakfast hotelheliconiapanama.com

6667-6447

Santa Catalina

Hotel Plaza Paitilla

269-1122

La Buena Vida labuenavida.biz

269-2244

Sol y Mar www.solymarpanama.com

6487-1377

Hotel Tower House Suite

270-0477

Oasis Internacional Surf Camp www.oasissurfcamp.com

6588-7077

Hotel Sheraton

Casa Mariposa www.casamariposasantafe.com

6791-5092

Hotel Eco-Resort Vista Lago hotelvistalagopanama.com

954-9916

Hotel La Hacienda www.hotel-lahacienda.net

958-8579

Casa de las Palmas casadelaspalmas.biz

998-5960

202-1069

Santa Fe Riu Panama Plaza www.riuplaza.com

282-0420

Hotel Le Meridien

297-3200

Hotel Las Vegas lasvegaspanam.com

300-2020

Courtyard by Marriott www.marriott.com

301-0101

Bristol Panama thebristol.com

304-8864

Santiago

When To Visit Panama The Three Seasons of Weather in Panama The weather in Panama is always nice and warm as the temperatures stay pretty steady from month to month. In fact, the climate and the energy of Panama City have been compared to Miamiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s. Those visiting the mountainous areas of this country can expect somewhat cooler temperatures than what those in low-lying areas will experience. Also, the side of the country that touches the Pacific Ocean receives more rain than the beachside communities on the Caribbean side. However, the skies are usually blue for much of the day no matter what time of year it is or where in the country you are travelling. The high-season is when Panama experiences its driest weather. It lasts from November to March. Those arriving right at the beginning of this period can enjoy national patriotism at its best as Panama celebrates Independence Day on Nov. 3 and Flag Day on Nov. 4. The Panamanian Carnival also takes place during this season as it occurs just before Ash Wednesday. These months are great for scuba diving and snorkelling as the relative lack of rain really helps visibility. Surfers enjoy the swells that occur on the Caribbean side of the country at this time.

The mid-season, which runs from April to August, is a bit more humid and wet than the high-season. However, accommodations are cheaper at this time. The latter part of mid-season is a great time for those who enjoy whitewater rafting as the rivers reach high levels at this time due to the increased amount of rainfall that occurs during this season. Those who want to go surfing at this time will enjoy prime conditions at the beaches located on the Pacific Ocean side of the country. The low-season is a little wetter than the midseason. When this season occurs varies a little depending on location; however, it generally takes place in September and October. Lowseason is a great time of year for those who desire a little more relaxing of an experience as the fewest number of

tourists will be in Panama during this time period. This is also when the country is at its greenest and most beautiful. No matter what time of year you decide to visit Panama, you can rest assured that the weather will be nice and the scenery will be beautiful. However, note that accommodations are even more affordable during the mid- and

INFO

low-season. Outdoors enthusiasts will enjoy all of the fun things there are to do in and surrounding the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rainforests and mountains, and others will enjoy trips to fascinating places like the Panama Canal and Panama Viejo.

Free Medical Insurance for Tourists

Welcome To Panamรก

who enter the country for a short period of time through our main airport. This insurance is possibly unique MEDICAL to Panama. The COVERAGE G e n e r a l FOR Administrator of TOURISTS t h e To u r i s m Authority, Salo S h a m a h , considers that this insurance for our tourists raises the country's competitiveness. A bid was raised among insurance companies, and the company ASSICURAZIONI GENERALI won the bid. The program began in January of 2011 and to date the insurance has been utilized by over one thousand claimants, some of them with hospitalizations, for cases such as fractures, colds, various accidents, among others. The coverage is for a maximum of 30 days from the date of entry to the country.

MEDICAL COVERAGE FOR TOURISTS Prior to Panama becoming the No. 1 recommended tourist destination, the national government had researched the option of offering a free of charge insurance to tourists arriving to the Republic of Panama via the International Tocumen Airport. The idea behind this insurance is to offer coverage for accidental lesions or medical emergencies that could happen to tourists or Panamanians residing abroad,

Considering that the largest segments of tourists are senior citizens, it is i m p o r t a n t fo r t h e m to h ave t h i s insurance. Obviously it is very attractive for tourists to be issued this free i n s u ra n c e . S e ve ra l t h o u s a n d s o f insurance cards have been distributed since its implementation. Pre-existing medical conditions are not covered. Likewise, if lesions or illnesses, including death, are found to be related to

drug or alcohol consumption, medical will not be covered. It is important to point out that the coverage includes all the national territory, including the indigenous reserves (called â&#x20AC;&#x153;comarcasâ&#x20AC;?), as long as visits to these areas are part of a tourist plan or tour. Tourists entering the country via land, other airports or docks, are not receiving this coverage at

t h e m o m e n t . To c u m e n A i r p o r t represents 70% of tourist entries into the country, who mostly come from the United States, Colombia and Venezuela, as well as from other countries of Latin America and in lesser numbers from Asia and Europe.

INFO

Among the benefits, include up to $7,000 for hospitalization expenses. In case of death, $20,000 for repatriation expenses of remains to the country of origin and $40,000 if the patient needs to be transferred to a medical centre outside of the country by ground or air ambulance. It also covers hotel expenses for convalescence up to a maximum of 10 days, non-hospital pharmaceutical expenses as a consequence of an accident or illness; legal and administrative assistance for accidents or loss of documents; dental expenses and other services such as translations of documents to English, Portuguese and French.Statistics from the year 2011, first year of the policy, indicate that the Generali insurance company paid over $400,000 in claims. 1,600 people used the insurance and there were 5 deaths of tourists for various reasons. At the following link from the Assicurazioni Generali there is additional information about this insurance plan.

By Maria Ana Antoniadis

to the store or vendor. Standard return policies are 3 days and 14 days. Be extra careful with electronics if you want to have a good experience.

5.Plus Sizes:

2.Dorians in the Alrbook mall always asks for my passport, so that they can approve my 5% discount. I ďŹ nd brands from WalMart and Target at incredible savings. Mencan build an entire business professional wardrobe in under 2 hours for less than $200. 3.Panama Food Box Delivery: Chris Burrillo delivers fruits and vegetables to your door. He's fully bi-lingual and a pleasant smart contact.

4.Check it Before You Buy It: Returning stuff in Panama is tough, particularly if you lose your patience due to a lack of communication skills. It is harder to return things because the store owners buy the goods upfront, unlike in your home country where the item is usually on consignment

0102 03040506

0102 03040506 Shopping MallsAlbrook Mall18 GEl Dorado Mall33K Los Pueblos33 RMetroMall35 SMulticentro Mall20 JMultiplaza Mall21 K

ultimate positive experience while shopping in Panama tourists qualify for a 5% discount. Try presenting your passport and say, 'Hay un descuento por favor? Soy turista.'

Since many clothes come from the orient, in small sizes, and the US has expanded their size charts- you have likely had some unpleasant wake-up calls in the dressing room. My happy place is at Moda Saks in El Dorado or Los Pueblos and also at Dorians. Shopping MallsAlbrook Mall18 GEl Dorado Mall33K Los Pueblos33 RMetroMall35 SMulticentro Mall20 JMultiplaza Mall21 K

Best of Panama Shopping Tips: 1.Tourism Discount: To achieve the

6.Bras: These three locations sometimes carry the brand by Queen Latifah. Since you cannot try on underwear in Panama, I tell you that these $3 bras, found at the above locations, are quality silhouette enhancers. Happy Shopping The Panama Insider

SHOPPING IN PARADISE For many years Panama has been blessed with the availability of a great variety of merchandise on sale, but in the last few years it has actually become a shopping paradise! After Panama became a cruise ship home port and air travel hub, nationals from most American countries and from other continents are arriving and shopping at our great variety of malls. One can ﬁnd a price and quality range from very reasonable to expensive. There are stores of distinguished and well known trademarks at the luxurious Multiplaza Mall, through Multicentro and Albrook Mall, all the way to Metromall and Los Pueblos shopping mall on the way to Tocumen Airport, apart from other area malls in the outskirts of the city to the North and to the West of Panama City. Don't miss out on the opportunity to shop at prices that you may have never seen, at these safe and beautiful malls at your disposal. By Maria Ana Antoniadis

Shopping

SHOPPING IN PANAMA PROVINCES Following its tradition of excellent shopping, Panama provinces also provide shopping offerings to its domestic and international visitors. As expected, our largest and most developed provinces have mini-malls with most of the stores found in Panama City, such as in the cities of David, Chitré, Colón and even in Coronado beach. Just get on the road and enjoy everything Panama has to offer, with the assurance that in case you need anything, it will be available ant at excellent price.

Shopping Mall Panamá Panama City Los Pueblos Shopping -El Dorado Shopping Mall Ave Ricardo E Alfaro Tumba Muerto

236-0531

Mul plaza Paciﬁc Mall www.mul plaza.com

302-3756

Mul centro Mall www.mul centropanama.com.pa

208-2500

Metro Mall www.panamashoppingmall.com Albrook Mall albrookmall.com

303-6255

Travel InfoÂ´s Panama Panama is located in Central America and is the southernmost country. It is bordered to the east to the west by Colombia and Costa Rica. Panama is known in Europe, especially for the Panama Canal. But Panama has more to offer than just the channel. Panama has both the Caribbean as well as on the Pacific coast has great beaches and the country full of national parks and tropical rainforests. People can see from the top of the Baru volcano both sides of Pacific and the Caribbean sea. Panama is particularly a paradise for birds and bird watchers. Nonetheless there are ample options for water sports, outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers in Panama as well.

Getting to Panama US and European Passport holders require a valid passport with at least 6 months validity remaining. For further visa requirements consult the immigration authorities on http://migracion.gob.pa/

Provinces Panama has 9 provinces and 5 comarcas: Bocas del Toro, Chiriqui, Cocle, Colon, Darien, Herrera, Los Santos, Panama and Veraguas.of this magazine.

Language A trip through Panama without Spanish is possible but some basic language skills would be recommended if you leave Panama-City. In Boquete, Colon and Bocas Del Toro you will always find people who know English. We recommend to bring a handy Spanish phrasebook.

Security The dangers for tourists in Panama are relatively low. Crime against tourists is relatively uncommon throughout the country. Of course petty theft happens everywhere so normal safety precautions should be taken. Tourists should avoid only a few quarters in Panama City, Colon and in the border region with Colombia. In Panama City there is usually a high police presence in the streets. Even at night time it is safe to drive as you have police presence and check points on almost every main street or crossing. Generally, the police is very friendly and helpful towards tourists.

Staying healthy The risk of contracting malaria is very low in Panama. Unless you go in remote areas like Darien

a medical screening is not necessary. The best protection against malaria is to avoid mosquito bites so it is advisable to always use a good insect repellent. The tap water is drinkable except in the provinces of Darien and Bocas del Toro. The water has a good quality and the best water quality you will find in the Highlands of Chiriqui. The UV radiation can be very high due to Panamaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s close proximity to the equator. For lighter skin types it is recommended to stay out of the sun between 10:00 and 15:00. Slowly build up your sun exposure when sun bathing to avoid sun burn.

Car / Bus The journey by bus from Costa Rica is very popular and easy. By car you can also arrive from Costa Rica. At best you go through the border crossing at Paso Canoas. The border crossing is open daily 7:00 to 23:00 (subject to change). Numerous wellknown car rental companies can be found at the airports.

Buses in Panama The bus system in Panama is working very well and it is easy to reach nearly every location in Panama. Bus stops are common only in the larger cities like Panama City or David. In smaller towns you have to ask, were you can wait for the bus. A show of hands is enough to make the buses stop. Getting off the bus is easy too, you can stop anywhere. Anyone who travels around without car in Panama has to take the bus. This is a great experience and everyone should do it at least once. The trips are very reasonable, short trips are from $ 0.50. For longer distances, with intercity buses you can buy the bus tickets in the terminal in Panama City, David etc. - depending on the distance they cost between 5 and 25 dollars. Taxis are not expensive and popular. Expect to pay about $1.50 - $2.00 per person per ride. Driving in Panama is relatively easy in principle. The streets are well paved and lit. In case of small accidents you have to fill out a report, take pictures and then move your car. For major accidents you have to call the police and not move your car.

Plane The two international airports are Panama's Tocumen International Airport near Panama City and the International airport in David. Most of the tourists arrive by plane in Panama City.

Regional airline Air Panama is currently the only regional airline in Panama and has a very dense network of routes and flies to almost all regions in Panama. For reservations consult their website:

www.flyairpanama.com

Local Food Most Panamanians love to eat beef, pork, chicken and fish. Every dish consists of rice and a leguminous vegetables and plantains. Fried food is very popular with every meal and in general you will not find much greens and vegetables on a Panamanian plate. The food is not spicy and seasoned with pepper/salt. Tropical fruits and fruit drinks or Batidos (fruit drinks with milk/water) are almost everywhere and delicious.

Going out Panama-City is the right place to go out. There is always something going on and there are numerous clubs, bars and nightclubs. Theatres and cinemas can be found most easily in the capital. See our Events Section to find out what is on this month.

Accommodations Panama offers hotels for every budget. From the international luxury chains to simple hostels, everything can be found in Panama. Especially in the capital there are numerous hotels. The countryside has also no shortage of hotel rooms. A reservation is usually not necessary but recommended. Only in the lower price range it is sometimes difficult to find a room.

Climate Panama has a tropical climate with two seasons: dry season (high) and rainy season (low). The dry season is from January to April with temperatures of 28 - 36 degrees Celsius, a constant breeze and low humidity. The rainy season is from May to mid December where it rains initially only every 2 or 3 days for 1 or 2 hours but then gets intensified until November especially in the rainforests. The humidity is then of course higher and the temperatures vary from 26 to 34 degrees Celsius. Days around the onset of summer solstice you find often a stretch of dry days due to calmer atmospheric patterns in the Northern and Southern hemisphere.

Mobile Communication It is cheaper to buy a SIM card than to take charges of roaming. A simcard cost about $10 and the prepaid minutes cost from about 12 cents. A mobilenet is almost everywhere available to anyone who has a quad band phone.There are many WIFI / WLAN access points in public areas such as hotels, hostels and restaurants.

Activities

INFO

In Panama there are a huge number of activities for tourists. In addition to the numerous attractions in Panama-City, you can transit the Panama Canal by boat or ride along the canal from ocean to ocean on the historic Panama Canal railroad. There are several large rivers, such the Rio Chagres or Mamoni that are suitable for whitewater rafting or kayaking. These rivers are virtually untouched and flow amidst forests with an incredible variety of flora and fauna.

Currency

. The official currency in Panama is the Balboa, at least theoretically. This only exists in metallic form and is 1:1 pegged to the U.S. dollar, which is actually is the main payment. The Balboa coins look like the U.S. dollar coins as change anyway you get the same dollars. To exchange Dollars in Balboa is unnecessary. Credit cards are widely accepted in big shops, hotels and restaurants. The general preference is towards Visa and Master Card. In more remote areas you should always have enough cash (dollars) in small denominations. It is easy to get money from an ATM machine with most EC cards.

Shopping Panama-City is a shoppers paradise. In the city centres and at the international airport you can find large a/c shopping malls selling all labels and brands you can think off. The malls also offer restaurants, eateries, cinemas, bowling alleys and indoor play grounds for children. In the country you will find well stocked supermarkets to buy day to day articles. Popular souvenirs include the Mola and the Panama hat. The Mola is a handmade embroidery, embellished blouses of the Kuna Indians. The Kuna Mola is on offer in all of Panama. Popular places to buy souvenirs are the Handicraft market at Panama Viejo, YMCA in Balboa and souvenir shops in Casco Antiguo. The Panama hat, originally from Ecuador, is sold throughout Panama. This hat however is not the traditional hat the Panamanian men wear.

Free Insurance for Tourists As of the 17th of January 2011, all the tourists who come legally over the Tocumen international airport in the country automatically have a base medical insurance with Assicurazioni Generali, S. A.The insurance company ensures the tourists automatically in the event of sickness or accident for a period of 30 days. You are covered for accidents resulting in death, hospitalization, medical and transportation costs. In addition, the hotel expenses for family members over a period of 10 days and drugs are also covered.

UPM 05 - 3.2014 Content & Ideas: Alexander Stewowitsch Production: MGG-Caddy S.A. Graphic Design: Caveman AMS & Milo Slade Texts: David Dell, Maria Ana Antoniadis, Mitzi Turner, Minerva Rodriguez, Jennifer Rogers, Bedrich Bill Sruta, Milo Slade, Alex Stewowitsch, Hillary Sepulveda, Claudia van Rhenen, Aaron Crump and Monique Haans Photos: Milo Slade, Paula GarcĂa Martos, Monique Haans, ATP Panama, David Dell, Ocean Trips, Bambu Guesthouse, Christian Schriefer, Michael Moore, Sapibenega Kuna Lodge UPDATE Panama Magazine is a publication of MGG Caddy S.A. in cooperation with MGG Caddy GmbH Berlin Boquete Altodorado Email: publisher@MGG-Caddy.com MGG Caddy S.A. Marketing for Panama Info@MGG-Caddy.com RUC No. 1924126-1-726803 DV 59 www.MGG-Caddy.com

UPDATE Panama Magazine includes subjects to give you an informed choice of products and services available in the territory of Panama Republic. However, we shall not be liable for any damages or losses arising out of any errors, misrepresentations or omissions in the listings, ads, products or services that have been printed in this magazine. ÂŠ Copyright 2014 : All copyrights, especially the right of reproduction, distribution and publication in any form, including recovery in electronic media, reprographics reproduction, and digital distribution and inclusion in databases, are expressly prohibited. The text and the content of this magazine only reflect the opinion of the authors. The work may be partially reproduced without the permission of the author. Copyright by MGG Caddy S.A.

Emergency Ambulance Police Fire Departement Civil Protection

Tel. 911 Tel. 104 Tel. 103 Tel. *335

Important Telephone Numbers Tel. 101 Collect call (Panama only) Tel. 102 Telephone Directory Tel. 105 Exact Time Operator assisted International calls Tel. 106 Tel. *55* Wake up call Airports Tocumen Airport Tel. 238-2700 Albrook Airport Tel. 501-9272 Boat Services Taboga Calypso Queen Contadora & Saboga Airlines Air Panama Aires American Airlines AviancaTaca Airlines Condor Copa Airlines Delta Airlines Iberia KLM LAB LAN Nature Air Spirit United Airlines

Tel. 314-1730 Tel. 6780 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 8000 Tel. 316-9000 Tel. 214-2330 Tel. 269-6022 Tel. 206-8222 Tel. 300-1430 Tel. 304-2672 Tel. 214-8118 Tel. 217-9900 Tel. 340-8500 Tel. 238-4252 Tel. 226-7119 Tel. 757-9390 Tel. 238-3840 Tel. 265-0040

Hospitals Clinica Paitilla Clinica San Fernando Hospital Nacional Hospital Punta Pacifica

Tel. 269-5222 Tel. 305-6300 Tel. 207-8100 Tel. 204-8000

Ambulance Service EMI

Tel. 236-6060

Long Distance Access Code Panama Cable&WirelessPanama NetUno Panama System One Digicel ClaroCom Claro Panama Telefonica Telecom Corp Panama Cable Onda

011 019 033 034 055 066 077 080 088

INFO

Taxi Numbers Panama City

Radio Taxi Metro

223-0942

Radio Taxi Concordia

236-7848

Taxi Nacional

224-1132

Panama Taxi City Tour

395-3555

Radio Taxi America Libre

221-1932

Rent a Car Cheap Rent A car 397 - 5115 www.cheaprentacarpanama. . com Alamo 236 - 5777 www.alamopanama.com Arrendadora Economica 229 - 5257 www.arrendadoraeconomica.com Avis 278 - 9444 www.avis.com.pa Barriga Rent A Car 269 - 0056 www.barrigarentacar.net Budget 263 - 8777 www.budgetpanama.com Dollar Rent a Car 270 - 0355 www.dollarpanama.com 269 - 7498 Sixt Holiday Rent A Car www.sixt.com Na onal Car Rental 265 - 3333 www.nationalpanama.com Smile Rent A Car 396 - 2050 www.infosmilerentacar.com.pa Thri y Car Rental 204 - 9595 www.thrifty.com Auto Es lo Rent A Car 264 - 1332 www.autoestilo.net Hertz 301 - 2696 www.hertzpanama.com

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Buy the ebook as PDF for ofďŹ&#x201A;ine use: www.MyShop-Panama.com