Welcome to Panama!
Panama is one of the most vibrant and modern nations of the central american region.
Located in Central America, it borders both the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean, Colombia and Costa Rica between latitudes 7º and 10ºN. Panama has a tropical climate with temperatures and that vary from 75.2 °F and 86.0 °F with a small seasonal variation.
There are several theories about the origin of the name "Panama". Some believe that the country was named after a common species of trees found in the area. Others believe that the name means the place of "many butterflies and fishes" in an indigenous language.
Panama was explored and settled by the Spanish in the 16th century. In 1821 it joined the Republic o La Gran Colombia which was formed by the union of Colombia, Ecuador and Venezuela. After the union dissolved, Panama remained part of Colombia until 1903. With independence came a a treaty with the united States for the construction of the Canal.
Vasco Nuñez de Balboa explored the isthmus of Panama when he first first heard of "the other sea". When he finally arrived, he walked on his knees into the ocean and claimed possession of what he named it the South Sea.
In 1524 Charles V of Spain, gave the first call of a canal across the Isthmus of Panama. Today the Canal is joining the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans. The Panama Canal is known as one of the most difficult engineering projects ever undertaken. Its construction was completed in 1914 and it open the path to easier and trading between the two oceans. In October 2006, the panamenian people voted for the approval to expand the Canal. The proyect is expected to be completed in 2014. The Panama Canal has become a key for successful and faster international maritime trade and for the future of the nation.
Tourism the country has increased during the past 5 years due to the government offering tax and price discounts to foreign guests and retirees. In the last years Panama has been in the top 5 places for retirement in the world. A dense skyline of high rise apartment buildings, condos, office complexes, banks and hotels are prove of a cosmopolitan and modern city.
Panama population is of 3,405,900: mestizo 70%, Black 14%, white 10%, Amerindian 6%".
The culture, customs, and language of the Panamanians are predominantly Caribbean and Spanish. Spanish is the official and dominant language.
Panama is also home to immigrants from all over the world .The country is a rich mix of culture and traditions .There is a considerable population of Afro-Antillean and chinese origin. These groups arrived first during the construction of the railway and the Panama Canal. Other Afro-Panamanians are the descendants of the Africans who arrived during the colonial era. There's also important European, North American, Jewish, Hindu and Arabic communities.
The traditions that were brought over by the Spanish to Panama was blended with afro-caribbean and native forms and today these diverse cultures are present in festival, dances, rythms, cuisine, music, crafts, clothing and folklore in Panama.
The Panamanian currency is officially the Balboa, at parity with the USD$. The coins despict the image of Vasco Nuñez de Balboa, the discoverer of the Pacific Ocean. In practice, however, the country dollarized. No need for money exchange.
Panama is also known for its exotic tropical rainforests, beautiful mountains, two coasts, more than a 1000 islands, rivers, colonial historical cities and a sophisticated and fun capital city.
On the next pages you will find useful information about Panama, which hopefully will help you planning your visit!
Come and visit fun and beautiful Panamá!
