-What kind of currency does Panama use? Panama uses the US dollar. While the currency is called the balboa, all the bills and coins are the exact same as in the USA.

-What type of electrical outlets does Panama use? Panama uses the same electrical outlets as the USA. For anyone unfamiliar, these outlets usually have two straight-edged little prongs, though if you are lucky sometimes they'll have a third, more circular spike.

-Do I need a visitor's visa or permit to go on vacation? Yes, once you arrive in Panama, you will be required to purchase a small $5 tourist visa which you are recommended to keep with you at all times. You can buy one of these permits before the immigration maze at Tocumen International Airport.

-What's the weather like in Panama? Panama has two seasons. The dry season lasts from January to mid-April and the rainy season from mid-April to December. Rainfall is heavier on the Caribbean side of the highlands, though most people live on or near the Pacific coast. Temperatures are typically hot in the lowlands (between 70 degrees F and 90 degrees F) and cool in the mountains (50 degrees F and 64 degrees F). These vary little throughout the year.

-Is the water alright to drink in Panama? Yes the water in Panama is OK to drink from the tap. I drink it all the time and look at me!

-What side of the road do people drive on in Panama? People drive on the right hand side just like in the USA.

-What kind of transportation should I use? There are several options for transportation in Panama. The public bus system is relatively reliable and extremely inexpensive, however wedging yourself next to strangers can be a bit uncomfortable and intrusive. Taxis are abundant and shouldn't cost more than $3 for any ride throughout the city. Renting a car is my best suggestion, as it is pretty cheap and the roads easily navigable. Airplanes can be another option if you're going a longer distance: even round-trip flights are under $100.

-How safe is Panama? Panama City is like any other city. There are good areas and there are bad areas. As long as you are smart and don't do anything stupid, you'll be fine. In comparison, I feel much more comfortable here than I did in San Jose, Costa Rica. The government is stable and the only real political or security issues tend to be close to the Columbian border and nearby uncharted forest areas. All in all, I feel very comfortable here. Probably even more comfortable than I do in New York or Washington D.C.

-What's the food like in Panama? Traditional Panamanian food isn't all that inspiring, however the variety of ethnic restaurants and first-class dining is rousing. You can always find a great restaurant at a great price.

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Comments (2)

Walter Luttrell: Mr. What's the best car shipping service from Miami, and what will it cost to ship a mid-sized auto (Volvo S60) to Panama City? Answer: Walter, I think it's around $3-5k and would have to go find the names of the companies for you. Thing is, it's almost cheaper to buy your car down here as you can find almost everything. Also keep in mind that cars like Volvos VWs and other specialties are hard to maintain down here because parts are expensive and the heat is brutal. 1 August 01, 2007 tejano: shipping autos Really depends if you ship via a container, in which case you can add all sorts of goodies including your car, furniture, collectables, ect... You can also ship cars via the 'roll-on, roll-off' which means you basically drive the car onto the ship and drive it off when it ports in Panama, typically much cheaper but you can only ship the car and whatever you can cram into it. 2 April 20, 2008

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