Quick glimpse
Panama has long been the crossroads of the new world and because of the country’s main interest, the Panama Canal, other sectors of the economy have been largely overlooked. With such intense focus on international trade and the canal, many of Panama’s coastal regions and natural wonders have been left virtually untouched, unspoiled and mostly undiscovered.
Among its stunning islands, virgin rainforests, and pristine beaches, perhaps the most amazing feature of Panama is the secrecy that it has maintained. “I’ve seen so many hidden gems in Panama that just don’t exist in real life,” one recent visitor said. “Secluded beaches, private underwater snorkeling kingdoms, breezy island cabanas, these are things from the pages of National Geographic, and I certainly never thought I’d get to see them in my lifetime.” Most visitors to Panama feel the same way: like they are in on a traveling secret, the rest of the world is yet to discover.
General Information About Panama
Location: The Republic of Panama is located in the middle of the American Continent and borders Costa Rica to the North and Colombia to the South, with the Caribbean Sea and Pacific Ocean bordering its coasts.
Population: 3 million
Size: 48,778 sq miles
Language: Spanish
Government: Constitutional Republic, with democratic elections every 5 years.
Currency: US Dollar/Balboa
Departure regulations: Airport tax of US$20.00 (cash-only).
Getting to Bocas del Toro
At a Glance:
This year we are recommending travel through Costa Rica to get to Bocas Del Toro. If anyone is interested in going via Panama City, Panama it’s a great city and we can provide you with suggestions and local contacts who can assist you with flights/accommodations while there.
First, plan your flight to San Jose, Costa Rica (SJO)
Getting from the mainland to the islands requires a bit more planning/expense. Upon arriving in San Jose, please take a complimentary Best Western shuttle to The Best Western Irazu. They pick up every 20 minutes in front of the terminal.We will have already booked your room and have staff on hand in San Jose at Best Western Irazu to help you with anything you may need.
Itinerary:
April 12th/Tuesday- Arrive San Jose, Costa Rica
April 13th/Wedneday AM - Fly to Bocas del Toro
(1 hour direct flight leaves San Jose at 11:00 AM)
April 14-16th - Race
April 16th/Saturday PM - Closing Cermony and Awards. Event ends
April 17th/Sunday PM - Return to San Jose, Costa Rica
(1 hour direct flight leaves Bocas at 1:30 PM) Arrival time in San Jose is 1:30 due to time difference. You should still be able to make some international connecting flights if necessary.
After arranging your flight to San Jose, Costa Rica, - Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) please end us your flight itinerary ASAP at registration@thecoastalchallenge.com.
Please contact us at info@thecoastalchallenge.com with any additional general travel questions.
If you have any questions about additional nights at Best Western Irazue Hotel please Contact: Carolina Arias, Tel: 011- 506- 2290- 9300 ext. 2805, Fax: 011-506 2520- 2487 or Email: carias@grupomarta.com
Facts for travelers
Time Zone
Panama is in the same time zone as the United States Eastern Standard Time (GMT-5). Panama does not observe Daylight Savings Time so while the United States is under Daylight Savings Time, Panama is in the same time zone as United States Central Standard Time (GMT-5).
Electricity & Public Services
Same as in the United States of America: 115ww - 60hz.
Telephone and international cable services in Panama are excellent. Panama has a direct-dial system to locations inland and all over the world. The country code for Panama is 507. You may make calls via our service from the main building upon request. You may also give others our number and if feasible you may then schedule a time for them to contact you.
Currency
Since 1904, the United States dollar has been the legal currency in Panama. The Balboa, the Panamanian monetary unit, is par valued with the dollar. Prices can be expressed in Balboas (B/.) or in Dollars ($). Travelers Checks and credit cards are widely accepted. The International departure duty is $20.00 is currently included as an airfare tax. The hotel tax is 10%. The added tax value to products and services, with the exception of food and medicines is 5%.
Customs
United States and Canadian citizens need only a valid passport and tourist card to visit Panama. Passport must be valid for at least 6 months following your entry into Panama. Tourist cards cost five dollars. Some U.S. airlines sell tourist cards at gate check in otherwise you may purchase one at Tocumen International Airport prior to going through Customs and Immigration. A tourist card gives you an automatic 90-day stay, and is extendable for another 90 days. Travelers from other countries should consult with the Panamanian consulate or embassy in that country to obtain the latest information on entry requirements. When entering the country, you may bring up to one carton of cigarettes and 3 bottles of liquor. Like other countries, you may be fined and charged for leaving Panama with products made from endangered species.
Health and Water
No vaccines or pills are necessary prior to visiting Panama. Remember, the tropical sun can be strong; so it's wise to bring protective sunglasses and sunscreen with you. Although Panama is indeed a tropical country, insect control is effective. Exceptions would include hiking in the jungle, in which case you should use protective insect repellant. Panama is the only country in Latin America where you can drink the water straight from the tap.
Dangers (applies more to Panama’s mainland than to the more laid back islands of Bocas del Toros)
Panama was given the highest ranking (along with the United States) for tourism from the Pinkerton Intelligence Agency. As with any foreign destination, it is not advisable to walk around the streets flashing money or valuable belongings. Reports of people being pick pocketed in Panama are rare, but it's best to assume that pickpockets are around. Just use common sense and your intuition to protect yourself. Remember that the less attention you draw to yourself, the less likely you are to have an unpleasant experience. Leave your jewelry and other expensive items at home if you can - Panamanians do not wear the same kind of jewelry as do many Americans thus what might not seem like flashing your money at home could be considered flashing here in Panama.
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