Panama forms a bridge connecting Central and South America. She is bordered by the Caribbean in the North, the Pacific Ocean in the South. To the West lies Costa Rica, to the East South America. Bisecting her verdant jungles, rain forests, jagged mountains and rolling plains is the eighth wonder of the world, the Panama Canal. Both of her water lapped shores coddle hundreds of islands, some populated, most not.
Recent History
Panama, with the United States as an ally, managed to secede from Columbia, gaining its independence on November 3, 1903, a national holiday. Thankful for the assistance, she immediately signed a treaty with the U.S. allowing them to build what would become the Panama Canal. As part of the bargain, the U.S. was also ceded control over the narrow strip of land through which the canal would run.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers built this wondrous waterway, including the complex dam system, between 1904 and 1914. In 1977, the United States agreed to return the operation of the canal and its immediate area to Panama in twenty-two years. Aiding Panama to
overthrow the self-serving dictator, Manuel Noriega, in 1989 helped to guarantee a smooth transition of power on December 31, 1999.
Brief History Prior to 1903
Panama was home to over 60 Indian tribes prior to 1501 when the Spanish discovered her during Columbus’ second voyage to the Americas. The original Panama City was founded in 1519 by Governor Pedrarias Davila who was appointed by the King of Spain.
From this ideal jumping off point, it was easy for the Spaniards to spread both East through Central America and West, where they conquered both Peru and Chile. This time of Spanish expansion (1501 – 1538) was followed by a continuing revolt of Spanish colonies seeking their independence (1538 – 1821). Allying itself with Colombia, Panama continued a relationship with them until 1903 which ended with a signed treaty with the United States.
Geography and Climate
Panama, slightly smaller than the state of South Carolina, measures 202,590 square miles. Small lakes, rivers and falls make up 5725 square miles of water area. Her coast line, which includes both the Pacific and Caribbean sides, stretches 4007 miles, and is dotted with scores of white sand beaches. Panama shares a 531 mile border with Costa Rica in the west, a 362 mile border with Colombia in the east. There are 9 provinces and 2 territories (San Blas and Ngobe-Bugle).
This is a country of rugged mountains, valleys, plains with rolling hills, jungles, rain forests, beaches, islands, whatever your pleasure. Volcan de Chiriqui, at 11,400 feet, is the highest point in the country. By the way, the volcano is dormant so no worry there.
Panama’s tropical climate provides an average air and water temperature year round of 80 degrees, though the Pacific side is chillier than the Caribbean. Evenings can be cool in the mountains. Rainy season is from May to December but expect the sun to peak through on a nearly daily basis. During the December to May “summer” you will experience gentle trade winds. When it rains in Panama, it is warm and refreshing. It is the rain that creates a verdant home for 1200 strains of orchids, rain forests for 950 species of birds.
Population and Language
The latest figures, as of July 2000, show an estimated population of 2,808,268 with nearly 50% living in urban areas. Panama City boasts over 830,000 people. The ethnic breakdown is 70% Mestizo, 14% West Indian, 10% Caucasian and 6% 
Amerindian. The three primary Indian groups are the Embera in Darien province, the Guaymies in Chiriqui, Veraguas and Bocas del Toro provinces, and the Kunass on the San Blas Islands off the Caribbean coast. You may recognize this last group as the well known Kuni Indians, those of the exquisitely hand appliqued moles. Smaller groupings of Waunaan Indians are found in Darien, while Bocas del Toro has both Teribes and Bokotas.
Not surprisingly, Spanish is the official language. But many Panamanians are bilingual (especially in the major urban areas), and 14% of the population is English speaking only. Literacy levels are relatively high at 90.8%. You may hear the occasional West Indian patois, and Native Indian tongue. There are seven universities, five private and two state operated.
Government
Panama has had a constitutional democracy since 1972. It has Executive, Legislative and Judicial branches, office holders being elected every five years. The current President, who is both chief of state and head of government, is Martin Torrijos. He is served by both a First and Second Vice President, as well as a cabinet of his choosing. There are nine political parties from whom 72 are chosen by popular vote to serve in the legislature. The Supreme Court has nine judges who are appointed for ten year terms.
Panama amended their Constitution in 1990 abolishing armed troops, replacing them with security forces. The PPF, or Panamanian Public Forces, includes the National Police, National Maritime Service, and National Air Service.
Infrastructure
Panama lists 105 airports, of which 41 have paved runways. There are 18,711 miles of road, 6088 miles of it paved, and a rail system of 571 miles.
You will find sophisticated telephone facilities up to international standards, to include cell phones and three Internet service providers. If not using a satellite dish, you have your choice of 9 television channels, and 124 radio stations (80 AM, 44 FM).
You will discover 15 museums scattered throughout the country ranging from the comprehensive Panama History Museum in Panama City to smaller, but interesting collections in outlying areas.
There are Theaters featuring Spanish language productions, movies (most with subtitles), ballets, concerts and festivals. Gambling is legal in government operated casinos where you will pay no tax on your winnings.
You can expect to find supermarkets and shopping malls in the larger metropolitan areas. You may dine at an international selection of restaurants. You will have your choice of lodging at luxury establishments complete with swimming pools and casinos, or more economical accommodations of small hotels, lodges and cabins throughout the country.
Should the need arise, there are excellent health services available (especially in Panama City and David). Many of the medical specialists have been trained in the United States, England or South America. Each province has its own state health centers and hospitals, along with private clinics.
Exports
Panama enjoys a healthy export business in bananas, rice, corn, coffee, sugar cane, vegetables, livestock, and shrimp. A duty free zone guarantees a profitable center for the manufacture of material goods. As a banking center, Panama is quickly becoming one of the leading international hubs. And let’s not forget the incredible mineral deposits of gold, copper, basalt, manganese, lime and granite, as well as the possibility of large oil reserves. Since Panama is just beginning to tap its mineral sources, the huge potential for future commercial export is poised, ready to be realized.
Flora and Fauna
Be sure to plan a visit during April through
June when everything is in bloom. The richness of jungles and rain forests makes the purple jacaranda, red ponciana, pink and yellow acacias, to name but a few, truly spectacular. The many hued bougainvilleas are especially striking from December to July. The riot of orchid species (1200+) must be seen to be believed.
The jungles and rain forests are also home to ocelots, pumas, anteaters, wild boars, armadillos, sloths, deer and monkeys. Exploring the Pacific and Caribbean shores, you will find an abundance of sea life. Dolphins, sawfish, sailfish, swordfish, tuna fish, dolphin fish, marlin, barracuda, bonito, lobsters, shrimp, clams and manatees. And Panama is a birdwatcher’s paradise offering you over 933 native species. Of special note is the Harpy Eagle, the national bird, the nearly extinct Quetzal, and the multihued Macaws found living throughout Panama.
Sports and Recreation
Depending on where you find yourself in this fascinating country, your things-to-do list is nearly unlimited. Working your way from the gleaming white sand coasts, to the pine-clad mountains, to the dark jungle canopies and rich, verdant rain forests, to the 21st century
sophistication of the urban centers … tempt yourself with game fishing, scuba diving, snorkeling, swimming, surfing, boating, canoeing
… hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, camping … birdwatching, exploring, bicycling, discovering authentic Native cultures … golf, tennis, bowling, basketball, baseball.
Time
Panama is one hour ahead of the Central Time Zone and does not observe Daylight Savings.
Electricity
Panama provides both 110 and 220 volt electricity. Depending on your area of concentration, you may need a converter for U.S. appliances.
Even in those places where 110 is the norm, you might consider a voltage regulator or surge protector for delicate electronics.
Currency
Essentially the U.S. dollar is the money of choice throughout Panama which mints only coinage, known as the Balboa. Businesses, resorts and
hotels in metropolitan areas accept nearly every major credit card. You may use travelers checks but, if cashing them at a bank, be prepared to pay a token fee. It’s always a good idea to carry a small amount of U.S. bills, in low denominations, for tips and spur of the moment purchases.
Getting There
There are nonstop flights available from both Miami and Houston. You will reach Panama City in a little over three hours on either Continental or American Airlines. Direct flights are also provided from much of South and Central America, and Europe by all the leading international airlines. Tocumen International Airport is very modern, employing the most up to date navigational equipment, and providing excellent service.
Customs and Immigration
A valid passport, along with a tourist card (visa), is necessary for U.S. citizens to enter Panama. Your tourist card will be provided at the airport by your air carrier for $5.00. You may visit for 30 days with the option of renewing your tourist card for an additional 60 days at the immigration office. If you wish to spend longer than this, simply cross the border to Costa Rica, spend at least 72 hours there, and start the whole process all over again. Should you wish to make Panama your home, you are eligible for various visas based on your pension and/or income from abroad. Panamanian Customs allows you to bring in one carton of cigarettes and three bottles of liquor. There is a departure tax of $20.00 payable by all international travelers.
What to Bring
Warm weather clothing that is comfortable and casual is always acceptable in the coastal areas. Long and short pants, T-shirts and sandals may be worn in David, Boquete and Bocas. You may prefer long or short sleeve shirts, long pants or a skirt, for evenings in Panama City. For evenings in Boquete, and exploring the rain forests, you might want to include a light, waterproof, windbreaker type jacket.
You should pack sunscreen, and insect repellent. Although many people are not bothered, and almost continuous breezes take care of the
insect population, it’s wise to be prepared just in case.
Most importantly, pack your sense of adventure for exploring this amazing country. Panama is ready to welcome you with a broad smile and open arms, and share with
you her incredible variety of unequaled opportunities.