THE COUNTRY
Panama is a country that links Central America and South America. Another diverse country in Central America that is a mixture of everything.
Panama City has the modern skyscrapers filled with a lively nightlife, while in contrast Casco Viejo has the old picturesque colonial buildings. You have the islands such as Bocas del Toro and San Blas Islands for anyone wanting to escape the city, to live a Caribbean life. Lastly, you can be active in the Boquete district which has the volcanoes, rainforests, hot springs etc.
Just like Costa Rica, Panama is a hot tourist destination. It's also expensive in Panama compared to the rest of the countries in Central America but slightly cheaper than Costa Rica.
VISA/ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Prior to entry, ensure that your passport is valid for the next 6 months from the date of entry into Panama. Passport control will check to see if you have several empty pages in your passport so be sure that you have pages available.
A tourist visa is available for up to 90 days at a no cost for any British, EU, Australian, New Zealand, Canadian and USA passport holders. For any other passport holder, you need to check any additional requirements with the embassy as they may be different from one country to another.
CURRENCY
Balboa is the currency used in Panama but the USD is used just as much if not more. 1 Balboa is equivalent to $1 USD. ATM's are available everywhere. Debit and credit cards are also accepted everywhere.
TRANSPORTATION
Public bus/Shuttle - The most common way to get around the country if you're on a budget. These public buses are not overpacked like how it is in Nicaragua. It's spacious and clean.
Shuttle service - These are a bit more expensive, as these shuttles will take you and 6-10 other tourists.
THINGS TO DO
Bocas del Toro - You can rent a bike and cruise around the island for the day. Make stops for beach breaks if you desire.
San Blas Islands - Simply a paradise.
Volcán Barú (Boquete) - I recommend going up here at night so that you can catch the sunrise when it rises early in the morning. The volcano is 3,474 m high and you will be rewarded by spectacular panoramic views at the top.
Panama City - You can take a stroll here and admire the skyscrapers and the coastal views.
Casco Viejo (Panama City) - This is a historic district of Panama.
Starfish Island (Bocas del Toro) - A remote, white sandy beach with clear water to spot lots of starfish (hence the name).
Panama Canal - An iconic site that is an artificial waterway connecting the Atlantic Ocean with the Pacific Ocean.
With so much variety there's no reason why you shouldn't visit this country. Panama is a hot tourist destination and it is for a good reason. I hope you found these tips useful and if you have any questions or feedback, I would love to hear from you so leave your comments down below. Safe travels and happy adventuring!