GENERAL INFORMATION:
Climate
The climate is tropical and one of the best in the world. During the green season expect a tropical shower in the late afternoon, lasting about an hour.

Visas
Citizens of most countries including the USA, Canada and Western Europe may enter with only a visitor’s visa issued when you arrive.

Languages
Many Panamanians speak English; especially those catering to tourists. Driving in Panama Panama has one of the best highway infrastructures in Latin America.

Getting around
A 90 day visitor visa is issued when you enter the country and costs about $5.00. Taxis are easy to catch in most cities and you can go almost anywhere from $1.00 to $5.00. Bus services are inexpensive with regularly scheduled routes to all parts of the country. A local fare may cost less than a dollar and Panama City to David is only $11.00.

Health & Safety
Pinkerton gives Panama the highest ranking - the same as the USA. Just use common sense like anywhere else and don’t flash valuables.

Tap water
Panama tap water is among the purest in the world. It is the only Latin American country with tap water that is safe to drink.

Medical facilities & Health
Many doctors have been training in the USA and medical standards of top hospitals compare favorably with US standards.
No shots or special pills are necessary if you are visiting cities or other destinations that on the beaten path.

Money matters
The local currency is the US dollar (also known as the Balboa), so there is no exchange to worry about.
Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, stores and restaurants. You may also cash traveler’s checks at many establishments. ATM machines are very common in almost any city or larger community, enabling you to get funds from your account back home. But you must have a four digit PIN number .