Panama
Panama is a fascinating destination for the globetrotter. Still untouched by tourism the country is a sheer delight to visit and explore. It offers its residents and visitors clean and beautiful beaches, mountains and verdant tropical rain forests. Panama also offers beautiful islands that make you feel like you have stumbled upon the world’s best kept secret. Vacations to Panama should be focused around its natural treasures and the rich culture and traditions of its people. This country also boasts of its sole volcano the Parque Nacional Volcán Barú.
Travel Information
Panama is an international destination and numerous flights connect it with the rest of the world. Tocumen Airport is Panama’s only airport and has undergone expansion and development to cater to an increasing number of flights coming into the country.
It is good to consider the fares offered by several flights into and out of the country before you are ready to make your booking. Panama offers a comfortable temperature from December to April and if you are planning travel during the rest of the year, do expect rain. December to April is also the peak tourist season in Panama and flights and resorts may be completely booked around this time. If you will be happier exploring Panama when it isn’t so crowded with visitors then do visit during the so called ‘off season’.
If you are visiting Panama in the peak tourist season do ensure that you book your hotels in time. You can choose from small budget hotels, B&Bs or book into the many luxurious resorts in the country. Your choice of hotels should be directed by what it is that you want to see in the country. If you are in Panama for business or wish to stay where all the action is, then choose from Panama hotels that are in Panama City. There are also plenty of hotels and B&Bs that are on the outskirts of Panama City or located in the mountains or on pristine beaches. Cost of hotels in Panama can vary from $27 to $500, and so irrespective of what your budget is, you are assured comfortable accommodation in Panama.
Tourism
Panama has a lot to offer its visitors and virtually every part of this small country is a treasure trove waiting to be discovered. With the Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea on two sides, Panama offers spectacular water sports. With clean beaches and pristine waters surfing or snorkeling, Panama is a delight for professionals as well as amateurs. Discover the hundreds of Panama islands and take on activities such as kayaking, sport fishing and windsurfing.
If you thought Brazil is the only country known for its carnivals then you will be pleasantly surprised to attend the Carnival weekend at Panama in February and also the Festival de la Mejorana in September. There are plenty of daytime as well as night time activities for you to enjoy and participate in. The Panama Carnival is big on parades, fireworks and a lot of drinking. While Las Tablas is host to the main carnival, the City of Ocu hosts a more child friendly one which is great if you have small children.
If the Panama rain forests is what holds your interest then consider checking into a Panama resort close to the rain forest. The best way to get a feel of the terrain here is with a rafting trip through the forests. You will also get to see native tribes of Panama and also many species of flora and fauna that are unique to Panama. There are several adventure vacations companies that can be contacted and booked for your dream holiday. You could also enjoy a Panama canopy adventure that gives you a unique aerial view of the rain forest. This is a great option for people who are looking forward to bird watching in Panama.
History
Panama has a long and rich history than spans over many centuries. A visit to the several museums in Panama gives you a unique archeological and anthropological insight into the history of this area. The many art galleries in Panama showcase the works of known as well as not so well known artist and are worth a visit.
Cuisine
Panama offers a cuisine similar to several other Latin American countries; however it is not very spicy and great for the palate as well as on the stomach. The staple food is corn and seafood finds, which are a special in Panama cuisine. The use of fresh fruits and vegetables in the cooking gives it a unique and delightful flavor. Popular dishes in Panama include tortillas, tamales, patacones and tajadas. Carimanola, is a popular Panama snack and is a meat and egg roll.
Cruises
Take a cruise through the Panama Canal and discover a special place where a fine example of engineering marvel allows two oceans to meet. The Panama Canal cruise also provides a unique perspective of the country’s land and people. There are many Panama cruises that you can consider on the basis on your budget and also on the length of time you want to spend on the cruise. You could also make this the last part of your holiday to Panama and take a cruise to one of the neighboring countries.
Decameron and Resorts
Decameron is two hours away from Panama City and has several resorts for you to select from. Most Panama resorts here offer all inclusive vacations and this includes comfortable accommodation access to clean beaches, pools, great food and entertainment. This is a great option if you are looking forward to a relaxed holiday. Resorts also offer or can make arrangement for water sports and also for tours to explore the local area around the resorts. Resorts at Decameron, Panama, cater to the interests of the young and the young at heart and they are great for family holidays.
Culture
There are plenty of exquisite handicrafts for you to shop for and these may include finely crafted Panama hats, baskets and wooden carvings by the Cuna Indians. You may also enjoy duty free shopping at the Tocumen Airport and also in the several malls here. Panama caters to shopping for all budgets and you will find here high end stores and also discount stores where you can buy a pair of jeans for less than $2.
