Exploring the Panama 66: A Hidden Gem in the Heart of San Diego

Overview

Panama, a country in Central America, is a melting pot of cultures, rich history, and breathtaking landscapes. From the bustling cosmopolitan life in Panama City to the serene beaches of Bocas del Toro, there's something for every traveler.

The Panama Canal

An engineering marvel, the Panama Canal connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. A trip to Panama isn't complete without witnessing the operation of the massive locks at the Miraflores Visitor Center.

Indigenous Cultures

Panama is home to seven indigenous groups including the Guna, Emberá, and Ngöbe. Experiencing their rich cultures, traditions, and crafts is a unique part of any visit to Panama.

Biodiversity

Panama boasts a tremendous biodiversity. From spotting sloths in Metropolitan Natural Park to bird-watching in Soberania National Park, nature enthusiasts have plenty to explore.

Beaches and Islands

Panama's coastline offers pristine beaches and stunning archipelagos. San Blas Islands, a group of islands in the Caribbean Sea, are known for their clear turquoise waters and white sandy beaches.

Historic Casco Viejo

This UNESCO World Heritage site in Panama City is a must-visit. The district, also known as Casco Antiguo, features beautifully restored colonial buildings, churches, and squares.

Panamanian Cuisine

Panama's cuisine is a delightful fusion of African, Spanish, and indigenous techniques and ingredients. Try local specialties like Sancocho, a hearty chicken stew, and Ceviche, a seafood dish.

Coffee Plantations

Panama's highland regions, particularly Boquete, are known for producing some of the world's finest coffee. Tours of coffee plantations offer insight into the production process, from bean to cup.

Adventure Sports

From surfing in Santa Catalina to hiking the Baru Volcano, Panama offers a plethora of adventure sports for thrill-seekers.

Nightlife

Panama City's nightlife is vibrant and diverse. Enjoy live music in Casco Viejo, or dance the night away at one of the city's modern clubs.

Shopping

From indigenous craft markets to modern shopping malls, Panama offers a variety of shopping experiences. Don't forget to buy a traditional Panamanian Mola as a souvenir.

Festivals and Events

Panama's calendar is packed with colorful festivals and events. The most famous is the annual Carnival, a four-day celebration filled with parades, music, and dancing.

Rainforests

Panama's rainforests are a haven for wildlife and offer countless opportunities for hiking and bird-watching. The Darien National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is the largest protected rainforest in Central America.

Snorkeling and Diving

The clear waters of Panama's Caribbean coast are perfect for snorkeling and diving. The Coiba National Marine Park is a world-renowned dive site, home to a diverse range of marine life.

Panama Hats

Despite the name, Panama hats are actually made in Ecuador. However, they became associated with Panama because they were shipped to the rest of the world via the Panama Canal.

Public Transportation

Panama's public transportation includes the Metro in Panama City, intercity buses, and domestic flights. For a unique experience, try a ride on a colorful "Diablo Rojo" bus.

Currency

Panama's official currency is the Balboa, but the U.S. dollar is also legal tender and is used in everyday transactions. Credit cards are widely accepted in cities and tourist areas.

Safety

Panama is generally safe for tourists, but like anywhere, petty crime can be a problem. It's advised to take normal precautions such as not displaying valuable items openly and avoiding isolated areas at night.

Climate

Panama has a tropical climate, with a dry season from January to April and a rainy season from May to December. However, temperatures remain fairly consistent year-round.

Visas

Tourists from many countries, including the U.S., Canada, and EU nations, do not require a visa for stays of up to 180 days. However, a valid passport is required for entry.

Vocabulary

Panama – The name of the country you'll be visiting.

Ciudad de Panama – Panama City, the capital of Panama.

Balboa – The currency used in Panama along with the US dollar.

Canal de Panama – Panama Canal, an artificial 82 km waterway in Panama that connects the Atlantic Ocean with the Pacific Ocean.

Casco Viejo – Also known as Casco Antiguo or San Felipe. It is the historic district of Panama City.

Cinta Costera – A waterfront promenade in Panama City.

Biomuseo – Also known as the Museum of Biodiversity, designed by architect Frank Gehry.

Miraflores – One of the locks in the Panama Canal, where there is a visitor's center.

Bocas del Toro – A province of Panama comprising an archipelago off the Caribbean coast.

San Blas – A series of islands in the Caribbean Sea off the northeast coast of Panama.

Embera – A group of indigenous people in Panama.

Kuna – A group of indigenous people living mainly in the San Blas islands.

Mola – A traditional textile art form made by the Kuna people.

El Valle de Anton – A town located in the crater of an extinct volcano, known for its market.

Chiriqui – A province in western Panama known for its coffee plantations and mountains.

Boquete – A small town in Chiriqui known for its cool climate and floral production.

Volcan Baru – The highest point in Panama and one of its active volcanoes.

Darien – A province in Panama known for its national park and forest reserve.

Islas de las Perlas – An archipelago off the Pacific coast of Panama.

Playa Blanca – A popular beach located in the Pacific coast of Panama.

Comarca – Semi-autonomous regions in Panama where indigenous people live.

Carnaval – A popular festival in Panama held before Lent.

Calle Uruguay – A street in Panama City known for its nightlife.

Patacones – Fried plantain slices, a popular snack in Panama.

Ceviche – A dish made from fresh raw fish cured in citrus juices, popular in coastal regions.

Corotu – The national tree of Panama.

Harpy Eagle – The national bird of Panama.

Golden Frog – A rare species of frog endemic to Panama.

Panama Hat – A traditional brimmed straw hat.

Ron Abuelo – A popular brand of rum in Panama.

Seco – A distilled spirit made from sugarcane, popular in Panama.

Tocumen – The international airport in Panama City.

Mariposario – Butterfly garden, a popular tourist attraction.

Isla Coiba – The largest island in Central America, off the Pacific coast of Panama, known for its marine park.

Taboga – An island known as the "Island of Flowers", located in the Gulf of Panama.

Punta Culebra – A nature center located on Amador Causeway in Panama City.

Panama Viejo – The remaining part of the old Panama City.

Tamborito – The national dance of Panama.

Pollera – The traditional dress of Panama.

Canal Zone – A region of Panama that was once controlled by the US and contains the Panama Canal.

Soberania National Park – A national park located in the Canal Zone.

Gamboa Rainforest – A tourist resort located in the Soberania National Park.

Embera Village – A traditional indigenous village in Panama.

Ngabe-Bugle – An indigenous comarca (region) in Panama.

Guna Yala – Another name for San Blas, used by the Kuna people.

Colon – A seaport in Panama, located near the Atlantic entrance to the Panama Canal.

Chagres River – A river in central Panama, crucial to the construction and operation of the Panama Canal.

Albrook – A large bus terminal in Panama City.

Diablo Rojo – A traditional Panamanian bus.

Metro de Panama – The rapid transit system serving Panama City.