PANAMA

Covering a land-bridge which links North and South America, the Republic of Panama is best known for its 40-mile long (65km) shipping canal, which is cut along a gap between mountains, linking the Caribbean Sea to the Pacific Ocean. The country is largely unexplored by tourists; only a few hardy adventurers, researchers and spirited travelers have had the joy of discovering its amazing diversity of flora and fauna, secluded beaches, tropical beauty and historic treasures. The name, Panama, means 'abundance of fish and butterflies', in an indigenous language, which gives a good indication of the wild wonders to be found here, beyond its rather daunting, but fascinating capital, Panama City.

CLIMATE IN PANAMA

Located well within the tropics, Panama is dominated by easterly trade winds. Tropical climates prevail except at higher elevations to the west of the Canal Zone, and temperatures seldom drop below 78° F (26° C) along either coast. The long spine of mountains extending through western Panama creates a dramatic difference in rainfall on the Pacific and Caribbean regions

VISA INFORMATION FOR TOURISTS

Everyone traveling to Panama requires a passport valid for at least period of intended stay, return or onward tickets, all necessary documents for next destination and sufficient funds in a freely convertible currency. Be aware that it can take as long as 30 days to obtain a visa if it is required. Those with a visa have to obtain an exit permit (form available from the Treasury Ministry) if they have been in the country more than 30 days. Panamanian entry requirements change constantly so it is wise to check with your nearest embassy or consulate before traveling to Panama.

Americans: United States citizens may obtain a tourist card on arrival.

UK nationals: United Kingdom nationals do not require a visa or tourist card for stays of up to 30 days.

Canadians: Canadians require a tourist card, which may be obtained on arrival.

Australians: Australians require a tourist card, which may be obtained on arrival.

South Africans: South African citizens require a visa and authorization from immigration authorities to enter Panama.

Irish nationals: Citizens of the Irish Republic do not require a visa for a stay of up to 30 days.

New Zealanders: New Zealand nationals can obtain a tourist card on arrival.

TRAVELATTRACTIONS AND THINGS TO DO

Panama has few rivals in the quantity and quality of its tourist attractions: fifteen hundred islands on both the Caribbean and Pacific coasts, the planets most nature-rich, accessible rainforests, spectacularly beautiful mountains and highlands, historical sites from a rich past as an international crossroads, seven living native cultures and a cosmopolitan capital city with a non-stop nightlife.

Not to mention the mega attraction: The Panama Canal. Sportfishing, diving, adventure, rafting, kayaking, birding, historic tours and nature treks are some of the activities considered world-class.

PLACES TO VISIT IN PANAMA

Panama is a country full of fascinating places to visit and explore. Below are just some of the many places you can go visit while studying Spanish in Panama.

Posada del Cerro la Vieja: This place is a just a quick trip from Panama City. What makes the place interesting is the unique mountain scenery. In the area you can hike trails, go horseback riding, check out a beautiful waterfall or relax in the herbal mud baths. Pretty popular with our Spanish language students.

Bocas del Toro: A great place to go if you want to be off the normal tourist circuit. Maybe that is why we offer a Spanish language school in this location. Bocas is a series of islands on the Caribbean coast of Panama just south of Costa Rica. The natural beauty of the area is absolutely amazing! Low key and friendly people, diving, snorkeling, eco-tours and much more.

The Pearl Islands: Located on the Pacific side of Panama, these islands are easy to get to, but not overly touristic. The islands are a grouping of 100 small islands. The beaches are fantastic, the waters are clear, and the plant and animal life is unmatched.

The San Blas Islands: Panama has seven different Indian groups. On the San Blas Islands you will find one of these groups called the Kuna. It is still possible to get a glimpse of the culture and traditions of these interesting people. Additionally the area has stunning natural beauty. As such this place should be high on your list of places to visit when in Panama.

El Valle: El Valle is a small town located just a few hours outside of Panama City. The town itself is located in an long dormant volcano. The mountains in the area are great for hiking, eco-tours, relaxing in hot springs and much more. Additionally there is a nice Indian market selling locally produced products.

Beaches: Panama has some of the best beaches found anywhere in Central America. Their natural beauty and the clear waters make them an ideal place to spend time. Even better is the fact that it is very easy to find a nice beach empty of the huge numbers of tourists so commonly seen in other countries.

The Chiriqui Highlands: In the Western Highlands of Panama reside two of the best national parks the country has two offer: La Amistad National Park and Volcan Baru National Park. Both parks feature extensive cloud forests which are home to numerous species of animals, plants, and birds, included the Resplendant Quetzal. From the top of Volcan Baru it is even possible to see both the Atlantic and Pacifc on a clear day.

Portobello & San Lorenzo: These are some interesting towns/ruins on the Caribbean coastline of Panama. In Spanish colonial times both towns were important trading centers. To protect these towns the Spaniards constructed two forts. Today you can visit these ruins and check out some nice local museums.

Darien Jungle: Just to the south of Panama City lies the Darien Jungle. It is a relatively untouched rainforest. As such it is a great place to go to see nature at its finest. The jungle is incredible and the amount of animal life is staggering. You will need a tour guide to visit this area of Panama. If you have time this place should be high on your list of things to do in Panama.