Panama is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Today people from all over the world go to Panama property to take an ideal vacation. Panama is also heavily developing tourism today. This is because it is estimated that over a billion dollars is spent by the tourists who visit Panama property. Hence tourism is one of the main sources of income for the government. Therefore there are many Panama property developers who are today busy developing Panama property. Many undeveloped properties are being converted into star hotels that are luxurious and cater to every need of the tourist there. Therefore if you are planning to take a vacation in Panama property then you are sure to have a good time there. There are many places in Panama that you can visit. The most important attraction of Panama will be however the fantastic beaches of Panama. Weather it’s on the pacific side or on the Caribbean side the beaches in Panama property are excellent vacation spots. You can enjoy the topical climate and get that perfect tan that you always wanted. Also there are many comfort facilities in the hotels and restaurants that cater to every need of the customers. The tourists can enjoy many local delicacies that are available in the restaurants. The weather is another reason why you should choose to go to Panama for your vacation. The weather remains warm and sunny and is not cold and at the same time not hot either. This makes weather an ideal time for activities like surfing, jet skiing or swimming. These are the few of the activities that you can do while you are on your vacation in Panama property.

If you do not like the beaches then there are mountains that are there to please you. The beautiful mountains play host to a number of adventure activities that you can do to fulfill your thirst for adventure. These would include trekking, river rafting etc. These activities are fully sponsored if you take a package trip. The cottage or the hotel in Panama property in the mountains will be in the lap of nature. You will find yourself among various birds and animals that will make you feel on with nature. You can watch the sunrise between the mountains and the sun set on the beaches. It will make for the ideal vacation spot for you. Tourist safety is taken very seriously in Panama. Apart from the police that hourly patrol the streets there is also the safety police that make sure that all the needs and comforts of the tourists are taken care of. The tourist police especially take care of all the needs of the tourists there and they make sure that there is no harm done on the tourists that are coming to visit Panama. With the expansion of the canal there are more and more ships are coming through to the city of Panama. This would mean that there will be more development in the Panama real estate and vacationing will become more easy and comfortable in Panama property.

www.panamafreedom.com Gorgeous, move-in ready office space for immediate sale in the heart of Panama City’s Financial District. Located on Calle 50, Panama’s new Wall Street, these stunning offices cover a total surface of 358 mts2 (3845 sq.ft) and offer breathtaking views over the lower portion of downtown Panama City and the Bay at a steep discount to all the new office buildings currently under construction on Calle 50. This spectacular office property is not only the perfect location for your business; it also represents a fantastic investment opportunity. Every inch of these gracefully conceived offices has been minutially decorated by an European interior designer for the perfect combination of “yin” and “yang” the open floor plan with extra-high ceilings follows the rules and philosophy of the ancient Chinese practice of /feng shui. /Your visitors, clients, employees, investors and shareholders will simply be in awe with your new offices. The offices are located on the 16^th Floor of the building and include 8 spacious parking spots. You will enjoy direct access to the City’s major arteries: Calle 50, Avenida Balboa, Obarrio and the Corredor Sur (destination airport). The offices are surrounded by banks, luxury hotels, commercial centers as well as some of the City’s finest restaurants. The building offers 24/7 security, 3 elevators, a main lobby, emergency exits, fire extinguishers, surveillance cameras and ongoing maintenance of all areas. All office windows have …

When you think about living full or part time in Central America, Costa Rica seems to be the first country that comes to mind. Having spent a fair amount of time in both Costa Rica and Panama, I may be able to offer a somewhat unique perspective when comparing the two countries. While both countries are similar in many respects, there are some major differences that you should be aware of.

First of all, there are many similarities. Both Panama and Costa Rica have mountains, oceans, beaches, volcanoes, tropical rain forests, zip line and eco tours, hot springs and exotic wildlife. Both countries have more residents who speak English in the bigger cities, while very little English is spoken in the more remote areas. Both countries have similar temperate climates, and both are quite beautiful. I honestly can’t think of a single good thing about Costa Rica that you can’t also find in Panama.

Now let’s talk about the differences, and they are significant:

Roads: Costa Rica is famous for its bad roads, and they are terrible. Some of the main roads are so bad that they are nearly impassable. Panama’s main roads are all paved and relatively pothole-free .President Martinelli has made a major road building commitment throughout the country, which has already resulted in an even better road system.

Cost of goods: Panama is a big winner here. Thanks to the Panama Canal and its huge port, manufactured goods are much less expensive in Panama. Household appliances, electronics, building materials, almost everything is more expensive in Costa Rica. I haven’t had any experience buying cars in Costa Rica, but I’ve heard from reliable sources that Costa Rica has a huge tax on automobiles that I know for a fact Panama doesn’t have. Apparently a $20,000 car in Panama would cost around $35,000 in Costa Rica.

Currency: Again, Panama comes out ahead. The official currency in Panama is the Balboa, which is tied directly to the U.S. dollar. The paper money (one dollar bill and up) is all U.S. currency, and there is no exchange rate. The currency in Costa Rica is the colon, and exchange rates fluctuate on a regular basis. You need to constantly change your U.S. money into colones, bring a calculator everywhere you go, and always be aware of locals trying to take advantage of you. Financials transactions of any kind are much easier in Panama.

Capital Cities: When you fly into San Jose, Costa rica, it feels like you’ve landed in a third world ghetto, but when you fly into Panama City you feel like you’ve arrived to a modern, cosmopolitan metropolis. It’s really about that simple – the difference between the two cities is staggering. San Jose is a dirty, dangerous place with about four street signs in the entire city. Panama City has dozens of gleaming new skyscrapers and is in an obvious phase of progressive expansion. One reason that Panama City is light years ahead of San Jose is the fact that the U.S. was actively involved in the Canal until 1999, so the infrastructure is surprisingly modern. It’s not a coincidence that a Trump Tower is going up in Panama City, but not in San Jose.

On a side note, I have found the people in Panama City to be much friendlier and more helpful than those in San Jose.

Crime: No contest here; Costa Rica has a much higher rate of crime. Armed robberies, carjackings and other violent crimes occur far more frequently in Costa Rica. In 2007 the U.S. State Department designated Costa Rica as a “high crime rate country” for tourists (http://www.osac.gov/Reports/report.cfm?contentID=62156). While these crimes do occur in Panama, the incidence is much lower and they occur primarily in the Canal Zone, between Panama City and Colon. I’ve been living part time in Santiago (three hours west of Panama City) for over two years, and nobody I’ve talked to has ever heard of a murder, armed robbery, or even a mugging. I’ve left tools and work boots outside of my house for weeks at a time, and I’ve never had anything stolen. This would be unheard of in Costa Rica, where theft is a common, everyday occurrence.

Real Estate: Let’s save the best for last; you can purchase land in Panama for a fraction of what it would cost you in Costa Rica. For example, the same five acre mini ranch with ocean views and riverfront that I’m selling in Panama for around $90,000 would cost more than $500,000 in Costa Rica. Land in Costa Rica is roughly five times more expensive than comparable land in Panama.

Another big difference between the countries involves squatters. In Costa Rica if you buy land and squatters move onto it, in three months they actually have legal rights to your property, and protracted legal action is required to get rid of them. Incredible, but true. In Panama, squatters have no legal rights of any kind. If you buy land in Panama, leave it alone for ten years, and upon your return people are living on it, you can have them removed immediately.

Having spent about half of my time in Panama over the last two years, I was initially puzzled by the fact that the interior of the country is so far behind Costa Rica in terms of real estate development. It is a vastly superior country to Costa Rica (for the aforementioned reasons), and when I started inquiring as why this was the case I kept getting back a one word response – “Noriega.” Up until 1990, when he was forcefully removed from power, Noriega had a stranglehold on the country, and he allowed very little development from outside investors. That was only 20 years ago, and Panama has been catching up ever since.

There are some popular, well developed places in Panama. Panama City itself (as well as the entire Canal Zone), Valle de Anton, and Boquete are probably the better known areas. They all have large “gringo” communities, and prime land is often well in excess of $100/meter squared (the way land is measured in Panama).

In my opinion, by far the best area in Panama in terms of future growth potential is the western slope of the Azuero peninsula. Located on the Pacific side of Panama about three hours from Panama City, there is a new (completed four years ago) paved road that runs the entire length of the coastline, ending at the Cerro Hoya National Park. The land is beautiful, the views are outstanding, and it is very early in the development cycle. At present there are no large projects in the area, but there will be. I believe that marinas, hotels, large housing projects, etc will all happen in the next several years.

One can look at Ocean Ridge Estates to get a feel for the low prices that are available in the area. I have 16 mini ranches between 3 and 12 acres, most of which have riverfront and ocean views. The purchase price of $5.00/meter squared includes water, electric, a road to each lot, and full title, as well as any assistance needed in the building of a house. This is one of the best values in Panama, if not the best.

I think the facts speak for themselves. If you visit both countries you’ll find out for yourself that Panama is far superior to Costa Rica for many reasons. Do your research, and you should come to the conclusion that Ocean Ridge Estates on the Azuero peninsula is one of the best values in the entire country of Panama.

To know more about Panama real estate, visit www.thepanamacollection.com.

In the small bridge of land between North and South America lies a place full of butterflies and fish, which the natives called Panama. Between the 1500’s and the 1600’s , Panama was the first economic center in the Americas attracting bandits and pirates like Henry Morgan. Nowadays, Panamá has evolved into the most popular destination in Central America and is attracting billions of dollars of foreign investment.

Panama has the Eighth wonder of the world: The Panama Canal, the world’s main route for International Commerce.

In October 2006, Panamanians voted for the approval of a third set of locks to be constructed, which will allow Post Panamax ships, raising the profile for Panama as an investment destination.

Casco Antiguo, Ciudad de Panamá

We can go back to the 17th century as we take a walk down the quaint old part of the city and enjoy amazing buildings and churches in the Spanish colonial style, set against a dramatic backdrop of ocean and city views.

Investing in Panama…

Panama City is the fastest growing city in Central America. We can compare it to other cities in the world like Hong Kong or Dubai. The Panamanian government is offering many incentives to encourage foreigners to purchase and develop new properties.The billionaire Donald Trump has already started construction on his major project The Trump Ocean Club, and The Ice Tower promises to be the tallest building in Latin America. The International chain of Hotels, Restaurants and clubs based in Miami called Nikki Beach brings us two Condo- Hotels, one in Playa Blanca and the other one in Amador.

These huge and exclusive projects are attracting many Hollywood celebrities like Brad Pitt, Angelina Jolie, MelGibson, Mick Jagger, who have already bought their properties.

The hidden paradise in the Caribbean, where you can find dense forests, a low key friendly town, amazing diving and surfing places, make Bocas del Toro, Panama’s top tourist attraction.

Boquete is a flower filled valley set in the middle of spectacular mountain views, gourmet coffee farms and year around springtime weather.

Things you must do in Panamá…

Visit The Canal of Panamá.

To see the eighth wonder of the world while having breakfast at the Miraflores Restaurant.

Make an ecological trail around The Metropolitan Park, where you can see over 15,000 different varieties of plants, tropical birds

and animals.

Stroll around The Causeway in Amador, which stretches nearly three kilometers into the Pacific Ocean, followed by a romantic dinner on the marina in the famous Italian restaurant “Alberto’s”.

Enjoy Panama City’s Nightlife at it’s best in Calle Uruguay where you can eat at the most exclusive restaurants like “La Posta” and go dancing in the best clubs like “Mystic” or “People”.

Undeniably Panama is a magical place that cheers us with its joy, hospitality and breathtaking natural beauty.

Ten Bocas Del Toro Panama Vacation Tips

If you’re reading this article, odds are good that you’ve decided to visit Bocas Del Toro, Panama. Congratulations! Not only is Bocas beautiful, but it’s quite possibly the perfect vacation destination in Central America. Do you like the beach? Bocas has some of the most magnificent beaches you’ll find in the Caribbean, including world-famous Red Frog beach (named for the tiny Red Frogs that are found there). What about adventure tourism? Mountain biking, scuba and snorkeling, sea kayaking, zip-line jungle canopy tours, and all types of water sports are readily available in Bocas. If you like night life, you’ll find that Bocas Town has dozens of bars with great dining, dancing, and drink specials.

Put another way, Bocas offers everything you would expect to find on an Aruban beach vacation as well as everything you would expect to see at a Costa Rican jungle resort. The best part? Bocas is surprisingly inexpensive. Standard rooms are available for less than $50 a night at quite a few places in Bocas Town, and you’ll have to work hard to spend more than $20 on dinner for two.

Anyways, there’s a good chance you already know all of that. Bocas is great – that’s why you’ve decided to visit. Here’s a list of tips and advice for anyone new to Bocas Del Toro:

1) Bring an underwater camera. Disposable waterproof cameras are sometimes hard to locate in Bocas, and when you do find one the price is higher than you would pay at home. Go ahead and pack a couple in your bag and bring them to the beach. Bocas beaches are so pristine and the water is so clear that you’ll have plenty of opportunities to snap some photos of tropical fish and corals underwater and up-close.

2) Pack shorts and a good pair of sandals. The main island in Bocas is just a little too small for taxi service, so you can expect to walk quite a bit in and around Bocas Town. North Americans should also remember to bring shorts – the temperature in Bocas hovers around 90 degrees Farenheit year round with a fair amount of humidity. The sea breeze keeps things cool at night, but during the day long pants are uncomfortable.

3) U.S. Dollars are just fine. Most tourist destinations in Central America will readily accept U.S. dollars, but many of these places will give you a less-than-favorable exchange rate. What makes Bocas different is that the U.S. dollar is essentially the national currency, so there’s no need to worry about currency exchange. The Panamanian national currency is technically known as the “Balboa,” but since the Balboa is tied to the value of the U.S. dollar (one Balboa equals exactly one U.S. dollar), US currency is used across the country.

4) The water is safe to drink, but bottled water never hurts. Much of the water served in Bocas del Toro is collected rainwater (Bocas is in the tropics after all), so there are few concerns about water safety. However, if your system is sensitive or if you’re interested in preventing any digestive problems, bottled water is incredibly inexpensive and available everywhere.

5) All you need is a passport. Anyone visiting Panama from the USA or Canada is automatically granted a 30 day visa upon entering the country with a valid passport. Panama does require that visitors purchase a tourist stamp, which costs $8 to $12 depending on your port of entry. If you’re interested in staying more than 30 days, extensions are very easy to come by. Your driver’s license is required if you rent a car, but there’s little need to do so in Bocas.

6) Get some supplies when you arrive. Once you’ve had a chance to check in to your hotel or bed and breakfast, visit one of the many grocery stores in Bocas and buy some snacks and water for the beach. Most of the beaches in Bocas can only be reached by the water (this is a good thing, by the way), so there aren’t a lot of beach shops, restaurants, or convenience stores. Be sure to buy lots of bottled water and sunscreen (just in case you forgot to pack some). This is also a good excuse to try Balboa, Panama’s favorite national beer.

7) Don’t worry about knowing how to speak Spanish. Visitors to Bocas Del Toro will find that English is spoken almost everywhere, from tour guides to hotel staff to restaurant waiters. There are rare occasions where a smattering of Spanish is helpful, but it’s certainly not necessary. In fact, many of the hotel and restaurant staff are native English speakers from the USA and Canada.

Staying in contact with home is easy. Bocas has multiple internet cafes where computers can be rented for less than $3 per hour. Many of these internet cafes offer free VOIP calls to the USA or Canada, so staying in touch with friends and family is simple. For anyone considering an extended stay, pre-paid cell phones are easy to find.

9) Pop over to Costa Rica when you visit. Bocas del Toro is less than 1 hours drive from Costa Rica, and many tour operators offer a package that includes a visit to Costa Rica along with a jungle tour. You won’t see much that’s different in Costa Rica (not unless you venture farther anyways), but you can say you visited two countries on your vacation. Not bad.

10) Pack some extra patience. There’s nothing fast-paced about Bocas. No one is in a rush, and everything takes just a little bit longer than it should. Understand that when your waitress ignores you for 5 minutes it’s nothing personal or mean-spirited – it’s just a different way of living. If you’re in a rush you might be disappointed, so be sure to plan for delays. Besides, you’re on vacation! Enjoy the island life.

These 10 tips are based on my personal experiences in Panama – I hope you find them useful.

Panama is a country of cultural and natural beauty; its roots reach back into history as a trade hub and today, its skyline ever-evolving as a real estate and travel hotspot. But with all the widely-publicized beauty the country retains, here are our 5 spots you’ll rarely read about in pamphlets or see on TV.

Isla Canas, Los Santos: This small island just south of Pedasi in Panama’s Azuero Peninsula is a gem waiting to be discovered. It is the home to a thriving native population, some of the most secluded beaches in the country, and the nesting location of giant leatherback turtles. Bring a tent as few, if any, accommodations exist.

Lago Bayano, Darien: This giant lake sits in the province of Darien which, on paper, is a dangerous place due to its proximity to the border with Columbia. However, this region is far north enough to void you of harm; its pristine good looks enough to impress even the most seasoned eco-traveler. Explore the caves surrounding the rim of the lake, or discover hidden waterfalls on perhaps on of Panama’s most far-flung paradises.

Boca Brava, Chiriqui: An island, lying just off the coast of Boca Chica in the Chiriqui province, Boca Brava boasts white sand beaches and that great jungle-to-sea contrast. Hire a local boatman for the day (no commercial tours do this yet) and explore the surrounding coastal areas where, chances are, you’ll be the only one in sight. The sport fishing is world-class, the indigenous Indians are culturally rich, and it’s only an hour from the capital city of David!

Playa Chiquita, Colon: The Caribbean coast in Panama is developing at a slower rate than the Pacific, but there are still wonderfully quaint towns to enjoy. Drive up to Colon and head past Portobello to find this lovely beach area identified by a small fishing village and a tiny hotel. It’s about 25 minutes by boat from the nearest docking area and sports that wonderful Caribbean calm; clear waters, rustling palm trees, and a beer on the beach are in order.

Torio, Veraguas: Veraguas in the only province in the world that coasts two different oceans. Wander down the Azuero Peninsula to the sleepy town of Torio for surfing, hiking, or simple beach relaxation. It’s an easy drive from the hub town of Santiago on a finely-paved road. Stop at one of the roadside shacks for fried fish or enjoy some of the last remaining $0.25 beers in the Republic.

It’s best to explore these unknown paradises by car seeing as though most tour groups don’t offer trips there. Also one can find easily panama real estate for sale. You will find locals to be friendly and the atmosphere to be far off the radar of traditional tourism crowds. They provide the perfect match against a night or two in cosmopolitan Panama City; showing how Panama, the hub of the Americas, is truly destined for tourism stardom.

Have you heard of the Panama Canal? It is in the middle of a $5 billion dollar expansion. The gateway to the World is no longer Panama’s only attraction. Panama has gone from the hidden gem of Latin America to becoming a HOT tourism destination. The Pearl Islands located in Panama have been the beautiful exotic backdrop to CBS Survivor series more than once. Tropical weather, two oceans, abundance of rain forest, nature, birds, trees, all within a few hours drive to a modern city with a skyline that resembles Hong Kong.

Tourism growth in 2007 was in the teens – double digits, the tourism growth in the last 5 years has been in Steroid Hormone growth mode. While the U.S. is riding the downhill turn of the economic roller coaster with the collapse of the real estate market. Panama is experiencing times of BONANZA and BOOM. While some would expect that the Giant to the North will soon have a negative impact for Panama, it’s growth is fueled by investors from the Europe, U.K., Spain, Venezuela, Israel and U.S. investors looking to shift away from the U.S. and into a still emerging economy.

The economic boom in Panama is fueled by huge Investments, such as The Panama Canal $5 billion dollar expansion. Panama has always been a commercial center and global Commerce fuels commerce through Panama and the largest Free Trade Zone in this hemisphere, located in Panama, second only to Hong King.

The Real Estate markets is Booming, I would bet there are more construction cranes here right now than in any other city in the World, maybe second to Dubai. Panama has become the Airlines hub to the Americas; there are hundreds of daily flights to everywhere North, South, East, and West. The hub of global telecommunications, the hub for Call Center Headquarters, the hub for International Banking & Finance, Panama is known as the banking capital of the World. In short Panama is a Business Hub. And business is good, and the projection for the next decade can be defined as “Panama’s decadent decade”.

TOURISM Traffic Keeps Growing

January and February 2008 was +11.6% that’s 30,425 more tourist than last year same period, for a total of 291, 624 tourist in the first two months of the year. And the projection for 2008 is to reach over a million and several hundred thousand tourists.

All of this has created a deficit in hotel rooms. The Minister of Tourism announced that Panama has a deficit of 20,000 hotel rooms. Finding a hotel room in Panama is very difficult. Today the occupancy level of hotels in Panama is over 90%. The global average in hotels of 100 and more rooms is 84.7% , Panama is ranked no. 2 in hotel occupancy out of 165 cities from around the World according to Global Ranking Index GRI , second only to Perth, Australia with 85.1% avg. annual hotel occupancy level. These figures were audited and published recently by Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu accounting firm.

Condo Hotels is my TOP INVESTMENT option in Panama

Donald Trump is already in this game, he is opening Trump Ocean Club a condo hotel in Panama City.

My Top pick for My Readers and Clients: THE PLAZA

This is a very upscale 5 Star oceanview 150 room condo hotel & 44 Exclusive Residences located in a Panama City, in Costa del Este, just 15 minutes from the International airport, 45 minutes to Pacific coast beaches, 20 minutes to Johns Hopkins Punta Pacifica Hospital, and the ultra hip Multi Plaza Mega Mall with the World’s top fashion specialty boutique brand stores like Cartier, Hugo Boss, Fendi, Carolina Herrera, Lacoste, Mont Blanc, supermarket, and restaurants. The Plaza is Residence and Condo Hotel with contemporary design. The development will offer state of the art technology, wireless internet, interactive intelligent lobby with online concierge service, health center, Business center, Infinity pools, waterfalls, International restaurants, sky lounge, and exotic amenities such as a Luxury 100 foot yacht that takes condo owners and guests to the beautiful Pearl Islands Contadora island every day, seven times per week. Famous celebrities like Enrique Iglesias, Justin Pasek Miss Universe 2003 , Salsa super star: Gilberto Santa Rosa, and the lead singer for MANA, one of Latin Americas favorite rock band. One of the features of this condo hotel & residences is the SKY-BEACH at the roof top with view to the Pacific Ocean.

The current Pre-Sale price on the 473 sq. ft. Plaza Condo Hotel units is $193,600.

Keep reading- Our price per unit, for a limited time is the lowest in the market.

Condo Hotels top Investment in Panama

I love the condo hotel investment option. You are buying the unit, you own it 100% Titled Property. You are putting your unit into a pool of hotel rooms to be managed and maintained by a professional experienced hotel company. They rent it out, market the hotel, handle reservations, bookings, cleaning, maintenance, everything is turn-key. And you can book the unit for yourself to use two weeks out of every Year. As the condo owner you get to keep 60% of the rental income, so this is an investment that pays for itself and generates income for you.

I have reviewed the Return on Investment numbers and this is the scoop: At a conservative occupancy level of 75% and a nightly rate of $225 per night, rates at the Marriott = $291, Miramar InterContinental $341, Radisson $286, per night , you can achieve Positive Income on your investment of $23,034.38 per year on your condo unit.

Or you have a second option which guarantees you 10% ROI. GUARANTEED in writing in the purchase contract. This Guarantee is for 5 years including the construction period of the project.

You not only make money from the rental income, you also make money from the resale VALUE of the property. And you can use your unit 2 weeks every year for FREE.

EXCLUSIVE ThinkPamama OFFER

Limited Time Offer, Limited units at this offer.

I can make you $22,360 in weeks, and $23k per year income.

$3,000 discount ONLY available for ThinkPanama.com

Our price per unit : $190, 600.

I was also made aware by THE PLAZA sources insiders Information , there is 10% Price Increase coming in 4 weeks, and there are two more price increases planned. My dear reader: This means that the Plaza units will raise price to $212,960, a hike increase of almost $20,000, with our special $3,000 discount, I can make a Profit of $22,360 in a few weeks, and $23,000 per year income.

This is a limited time offer. And for those of you wanting to make money in the Panama Boom, The time is now!

I can help you to lock into this offer with 30% down payment. For more information on The Plaza visit our Panama real estate properties page.

Panama shines as it is unfettered by crowds of tourists. Backpackers to Central America usually go to Guatemala and Costa Rica but these areas are tourist-soaked. Panama is currently a secret that the traveling world has not discovered yet. Overdevelopment that is seen on the ‘gringo trail’ that swings south to the Caribbean archipelago of Bocas del Toro also plagues Costa Rican beach towns. Refreshingly this overdevelopment is absent in Panama. Panama is off the beaten path for now but you might want to visit soon as it won’t stay that way for long.

Until tourism explodes in Panama it remains a destination for a traveler on a budget. With no shortage of rain forests, mountains and beaches you have endless opportunities to explore. Your entire trip could be occupied at the Archipielago de las Perlas with its pristine waters and endless beaches on islands and islets. Parque Nacional Volcan Baru is the location of Panama’s only volcano and offers many hiking opportunities. The interior of Panama offers a bonanza of colonial towns, handicrafts and friendly people. The Kuna are an independent, indigenous group of Panama and live in the Comarca de Kuna Yala. The Darien Province is one of America’s last true frontiers.

Panama is only around fifty miles wide but it is chocked full of world class entertainment. Things to experience in Panama include tropical rainforests, Caribbean style beaches, the Panama Canal, diving, sports fishing and diving.

It these days travel can be an unsafe activity. You will be relieved to know that Panama has the highest rating for tourist safety from the Pinkerton Intelligence Agency. English is Panama’s second language and this makes it a great place for Americans to vacation. Panama uses American currency and is a short plane ride away. You will feel at home on your trip to Panama without having to worry about currency exchange issues. Panama’s water is safe to drink from the tap which is rare in a Latin American country.

Panama has some of the world’s most bio-diverse rainforests. There are five million acres of rainforests in Panama. There are more than 944 bird species that you may see. Seeing these sites are more convenient as they are easily accessible. Panama is a tropical country, but the temperatures can be dramatically different. There are mountains and low lands. The raining season for Panama is usually between April and December but can vary from between seven to nine months. Rainfall determines the different climatic regions with some regions receiving less than 1.3 meters of rain per year while others receive more than 3 meters. Rainfall in Panama is generally heaver on the Caribbean side of the country than on the Pacific side. Panama is outside the hurricane track but can experience thunderstorms.

If you are a coffee lover don’t miss out on a coffee tasting experience. Panama has some of the best coffee in the world and has always produced coffee. Anything you wish to do you can find in Panama from coffee to wine and from hiking to whitewater rafting. Panama is a great vacation destination for everyone.

El Paseo de las Bóvedas in Panama City 2008 part 2

conn mi bubiss (L)