Panama resorts. Pearl Islands of Panama Panama Pearl Islands Tours
Today we will talk about a stunning place on our planet, a vacation on which has not yet become popular among Russians due to its remoteness and lack of direct flights - these are the Pearl Islands of Panama - “Pearl Islands” or as the locals call them “Las Perlas”.
The Pearl Islands are a whole conglomerate of small areas of land located sixty kilometers from the capital of Panama, Panama City, in the Gulf of Panama. In general, there are up to two hundred islands, but local residents claim that there are much more of them - about four hundred, and only ninety-seven of them have a name. Many of these islands are completely uninhabited, which is why they are so popular among tourists who are eager to find themselves on their own uninhabited island, take a break from the bustle of civilization and dream about something pleasant. Although what could be more pleasant than lying on the white sand and admiring the warm, bright turquoise sea with beautiful fish and corals? The Las Perlas Islands are stunningly beautiful, the water around them is incredibly clean and transparent, it’s not for nothing that they were called that, because they are a real “pearl” necklace in Panama’s jewelry box. But there is a completely different reason for this name. Thus, at the beginning of the sixteenth century, the Spanish navigator Vasco de Balboa, in a conversation with the leader of an Indian tribe, learned that south of the Isthmus of Panama there were islands where there were a lot of pearls; since then, pearl mining was discovered, and the islands were named accordingly.
Of the famous Panamanian Pearl Islands, only ten are large, while others are small patches of land or even coral reefs. Tourists love to go on vacation to the large islands of this Panamanian archipelago, Las Perlas. They are developing especially rapidly in last years the islands of San Jose, Pedro Gonzalez, Isla del Rey, Isla Pacheco, Saboga, Contadora, Chapera, Mogo Mogo, Casaia, Viveros. Tourists are on vacation here and can admire the beautiful nature, lush tropical vegetation, relax on huge beaches with the purest white sand that does not stick to the body, swim in clear and warm sea water, watch the rich underwater world. Beauty and excellent natural conditions The Pearl Islands cannot help but enchant; having been here once, you strive to return again and again.
- one of the Pearl Islands of Panama. If you do not like to leave civilization for a long time and cannot live without the benefits of our society, then we recommend going to the island of Taboga, where even the most picky and sophisticated tourists have the opportunity to be surprised by the breadth of choice of excellent high-quality sandy beaches, of which there are more than eighty. Around them there are hotels and boarding houses of various star ratings, from which there is also something to choose from to suit every taste and budget. By the way, it was on this island that the very first sanatorium of the Pearl Islands of Panama was built. This was in 1882, and since then many world celebrities have loved vacationing on Taboga, including the famous Paul Gauguin. Of course, over the past years, a huge number of sanatoriums and boarding houses have appeared on the island of Taboga, but this one is listed historical monument resort. Here is another interesting attraction of Latin America - the oldest church, built in the sixteenth century.
- part of the Pearl Islands. Fans of sport fishing can recommend a holiday on the island of Isla del Rey, in the settlement of Punta Cocos. Another advantage of vacationing there is its proximity to Panama City, it lies only twenty kilometers from it. It was this island that became the first on which the Spanish colonialists settled; a large sea port, in which the ships of the conquerors of Peru were laid up.
This is the largest island of the archipelago, having an area larger than all the other islands combined. Its popularity among tourists, along with three other islands: Contadora, San Jose, Viveros, grew during the Second World War, when military bases were erected here to guard the entrance to the Panama Canal, since then ordinary Americans have chosen the wonderful Panamanian beaches, and Every year the number of vacationers there only increases. And also the island of Rey, is major center pearl mining.
From a historical and architectural point of view, tourists will be interested in visiting the neighboring islet of El Morre, where large defensive structures are located, built to protect the settlement from the pirates that often attacked it. These structures served faithfully for more than three centuries.
- This famous resort Panama. But a holiday here is suitable only for those tourists who are not looking for a noisy nightlife, bars and discos, of course, it is here, but in modest quantities, because this is a kingdom of solitude and detachment from the bustle of the world, guaranteeing a quiet and measured holiday in the lap of magnificent nature. The beaches on Contadora Island are famous for their soft, fine, white sand and exotic nature. There is an incredibly beautiful, calm and crystal clear ocean here. Walking along the edge of the surf, you will come across interesting ocean shells - the best souvenir of your visit to one of the Pearl Islands of Panama. And if suddenly smooth and relaxing holiday If you get bored, you can go fishing, snorkeling, sailing on yachts or boats, water skiing and scootering, or diving. You don’t have to buy diving equipment here; you can rent it in a specialized store opposite the airport building. In Contadora, walking along the streets, you can see various world celebrities: businessmen, politicians, people from the world of art. If you still want more vibrant nightlife, then it is easy to get to Panama City from here, it is fifteen minutes away by a small taxi plane. In addition, the same pleasures and entertainment can be found on the island of Taboga, which is also nearby.
is the most picturesque of the Las Perlas islands, and despite the fact that it is owned by a private individual who owns a local aviation company, it is free for tourists to visit. There is a magnificent hotel, where guests have the opportunity to choose their accommodation: an authentic secluded bungalow on the shores of the azure ocean or a modern hotel room that operates on an all-inclusive basis. While relaxing on the Panama island of San Jose, you have the opportunity to comfortably spend time next to the pool or sunbathe on a beautiful ocean beach, with snow-white sand washed by turquoise warm waves. It is also possible to do here sea fishing, take a walk on a boat or scooter, go to the neighboring Pearl Islands of Panama, for example, Contadora and Viveros, famous for their amazing natural attractions.
A holiday on one of the Panamanian Pearl Islands will definitely delight you with its exoticism, abundance of vegetation, and the richness of the underwater world. Despite the fact that the air temperature here is about twenty-six degrees all year round, it is worth remembering that no one has canceled the division of weather into dry and wet seasons. If on the Caribbean coast, as well as in the northern mountain slopes A rainy tropical climate reigns, with heavy downpours from May to December, and on the coast there are also frequent tropical hurricanes; in the highlands there is less rain, southern parts The mountains, that is, on the Pacific coast, are dominated by a tropical climate, divided into wet and dry seasons. In the capital of the country, Panama City, heavy rains begin in May and end in November; during the dry season, the heat is not very felt here, thanks to the refreshing sea breezes.
The extreme islands of the archipelago are: northern - Pacheca Island, southern - Galera Island, eastern - Puercos Island, western - San Jose Island. Largest islands: Rey (with an area of about 232 km²), San Jose, Pedro Gonzalez, Viveros, Cañas, Bayoneta, Kasaya, Saboga, Chapego, Contadora, Santelmo and others. The relief of the islands is low, the highest point - 206 m - is located in the northwestern part of the island of Rey. Coastline heavily cut. Some of the islands are surrounded by reefs. The air temperature on the islands throughout the year fluctuates in the range of +20..+30 °C; there are dry and wet seasons.
Story
The islands were discovered in 1513 by the Spanish conquistador Vasco Nunez Balboa. After the discovery of a new ocean, he met an Indian boat encrusted with pearls. The Indians told him about islands rich in pearls. The conquistador named these islands the Pearl Islands and declared them the property of the Spanish king.
La Peregrina, considered the largest pearl in the world, was mined on one of the islands. In the middle of the 17th century, the islands were called Royal (las islas del Rey). Due to the richness of the islands, as well as the presence large quantity Hidden bays and coves on the archipelago were often visited by pirates from England, Portugal and France. In 1938, the shellfish from which pearls were extracted were destroyed by red tide. As of 2003, pearl mining on the islands has not been resumed.
Holidays in the Pearl Archipelago, on the island of Contadora!!!
Hotel Via Romantica, located in the Pearl Archipelago in Panama - the best place to spend the May holidays and escape from the daily routine.
Pearl Islands
After a 15-minute flight, you will see Contadora Island in the Pearl Islands archipelago, which were previously known for their romantic stories of pirates and pearl divers. Contadora is the fifth largest island of the archipelago and a tourist center. The small village of Contadora has only two small cozy villages and two hotels right on the beach, as well as a couple good restaurants. Around the island you will find 7 more beaches, one for each day of the week. Unlike Panama City, Contadora seems like a different world, which may be why it was chosen as a refuge for the Shah of Iran. The small village located at the foot of the hill is a bright contrast to the elite villas of Julio Iglesias and Oscar de la Renta. The famous program The Last Hero was filmed here and if you are an adventure seeker, you can imagine yourself as such by staying for a couple of nights in one of uninhabited islands around.
We offer you the following route for these dates: 3*. Free time.
Day 2. Half-day City Tour with visit to Miraflores. You'll visit the ruins of Old Panama, ravaged by the pirate Henry Morgan, then walk through the colonial city of Casco Viejo, which is dominated by French and Spanish colonial styles. You will also visit the first lock of the Miraflores Canal, from where you will be able to watch ships passing through the Canal. Lunch is not included in the program; we recommend staying for lunch at the Miraflores restaurant, located at the gateway itself. From the balcony you can watch the work of the Panama Canal. After the tour, transfer to the hotel, free time.
Day 3. Early morning departure from the hotel, transfer by ferry to Contadora Island (travel time 1.5 hours). Arrival at the Villa Romantica hotel, accommodation.
Day 4-8. Holidays on Contadora.
Day 8. Check out from the hotel, departure to Panama City, transfer to the Amador Ocean View hotel, accommodation for one night.
Day 9. Breakfast at the hotel, shopping if desired. Check out from the hotel, transfer to the airport. End of the program.
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Program cost: (for 1-2 people) Hotels |
Single occupancy SGL |
Double occupancy (cost per person per room) DBL |
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I came to Panama having already traveled through Argentina, Brazil, and Mexico, but she found something to surprise me with. And if you are used to traveling through comfortable and cozy European countries, and then you want something exotic, then feel free to start exploring America del sur from Panama! Here the Latin American character with its eternal "I'll do it all later" and sunny smiles meets polished civilization. From this union an Americanized version of America del Sur is born - no longer , but not yet . Imagine a state in which, as in neighboring countries, mainly agriculture developed: Indian villages, Spanish cities and numerous farms scattered among the hills and rivers. Life here flowed smoothly and quietly, and the life of the local residents was no different from how they lived in Colombia and other regions of Central America... Everything changed overnight with the construction of the Panama Canal, which connected the waters of the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. Skyscrapers began to grow in the capital, and roads snaked between cities. Today Panama is thriving: offshore companies flow here and ships sail from all over the world. High incomes made it possible to create a remarkable tourism infrastructure– and we, travelers, were not forced to wait! Visa and border crossingFebruary 2015 was a happy month, because the authorities of the Republic of Panama decided to allow Russians to visit this fertile land without visas. You can stay in the country unhindered for up to 90 days. If you want to extend your stay, go to neighboring Costa Rica, Belize and Guatemala (besides, there is something to see there!) and return after another 3 months. The second option is to try to change your migration category and get a visa for work or study, for which you need to submit an appropriate application (as well as a passport, air tickets, housing reservations, photos and invitations to work/study) to the Panamanian authorities. Consular fee – $75. You can arrange for a half-day job at a hostel or bar and stay in Panama for as long as you wish.
At the border, in addition to your international passport (which must be valid for another 3 months from the date of entry), you may be asked for return tickets (it is better to have them printed or a screenshot on your phone, since Wi-Fi does not always work at the checkpoint). Allegedly, the list of required documents for entry also includes proof of financial solvency (a bank statement or, at worst, a certificate from work). I crossed the border with Panama several times - they did not ask for such documents (apparently, I look quite presentable). But just in case, it’s better to have it with you. When preparing your statement, follow the standard rules - your account balance must be at least $50 for each day of your stay. Are you planning to import excisable goods into Panama? 2 blocks of cigarettes and 5 liters of strong alcohol will not raise questions from customs services. As well as $10,000 in cash. Animals and plants will enter the country only with a special permit or a certificate from a veterinarian, but it will not be possible to export delicious fruits or rubber tree seedlings - they will be taken away. How to get thereThe narrow isthmus of land between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans is bordered on the south by the jungles of Colombia, and on the north by the hills and forests of Costa Rica. Most often, tourists come here by regular flights, ocean liners or land transport from other Mesoamerican countries. By planePanama City is located 10 thousand kilometers from Moscow, so direct flight one can only dream. In practice, we get one (or more) transfer and the opportunity to look at other countries along the way. Via USA
Flights from cities in the United States of America to Panama:
However, you need to remember that you need an American visa to connect to Russia. I didn’t have one, so when I compared prices for tickets through America and through Europe, I mentally added at least $130 for the consular fee to obtain a visa. Through Europe
There are many more options available European airlines:
All flights arrive at international Airport Tocument (PTY) in Panama. Local airlines fly from the capital's Marcos A. Gelabert Airport. Tourists usually use the airports in Bocas del Toro (BOC), San Blas (NBL), Contadora (OTD) and David (Enrique Malec Airport, DAV). You can compare flight options to Panama and choose the best one for yourself using this link. By trainIn Panama, like in any self-respecting country, there is a railway connection. Unfortunately for travelers, it is only cargo and connects the ports of two coasts. Therefore, it is impossible to use it to get into the country, and moving around it is utopian. By busBut the bus service is doing great! Bus depot in quite good condition, night buses are equipped with air conditioning (stock up on warm clothes), toilet and TV.
In addition to several museums, travelers are invited to entertain themselves by exploring the old city and the Panama Canal (those who have seen how hydroelectric power plants work will not be particularly interested), where ships usually pass through the locks at 9 am and in the afternoon. The restored quarters of Panama Vieja impressed me more like a museum under open air than parts of the city. In each house there is a hotel or restaurant, and rare local residents quickly walk through the block, hurrying about their business. But, apart from the promenade along the fragrant lagoon, this is the only place in the capital that is pleasant to walk along. The center, lined with high-rise buildings, looks inviting from a distance, but upon inspection it turns out to be a labyrinth of narrow, littered streets, which I would strongly recommend getting around by metro, bus or taxi. Colon
This is a fairly young city, dating back to the 1800s, so don't expect much architectural flourishes (except perhaps the charming Episcopal Church). But travelers come here not for the ancient houses and monuments, but for the free trade zone and a huge number of wonderful restaurants, bars, yacht clubs and other entertainment. This is a large seaport where huge dry cargo ships and no less impressive ocean liners. The city is always full of life and people; representatives of all nationalities and professions come ashore here. In the bar you will see all shades of skin, eyes and hair, and hear hundreds of languages and dialects spoken. As you look around, don't forget to check your wallet and valuables. PortobeloA cozy and ancient colonial city, founded by the Spaniards in 1502 to transport gold from the colony to the dominion. For many centuries, the peace of its inhabitants was protected by four forts, designed to repel the encroachments of the French, British and pirates. Today, all that remains of them are dilapidated picturesque walls, from which a stunning view of the lagoon, full of slender white silhouettes of ships, opens.
The second reason to go to Portobelo is diving and snorkeling. Imagine the best coral reef in Panama and a graveyard of lost ships, and you will understand what attracts explorers of the deep here. Add to this the low prices for food and accommodation and you will want to anchor here for a long time. David
One of the most major cities Panama City is located on the Pan-American Highway near the border with Costa Rica. This is the most important transport hub through which all bus and car routes pass. The city itself is unremarkable - a typical hectic and slightly scruffy Latin American city where you can find excellent street food (and an equal chance of dining on something completely disgusting) and observe the real life of Panamanians. From here, forced marches are usually made to Costa Rica, Panama City or Bocas del Toro. Bocas del Toro
A small town on the largest island of the archipelago seems to be obsessed with pirates. When you go ashore at the boat station, you will see barkers walking around in characteristic costumes, and numerous signs for restaurants and shops will mercilessly exploit the pirate theme. Otherwise, this is a completely ordinary cute tourist town, one part of which never sleeps, and the other part is trying to live a normal life. Be sure to visit the second part, farthest from the water. For example, I attended a training session for the local school’s drum orchestra and bought a wonderful painting by a Panamanian artist. There are offices of all the world's car rental companies in the country; their offers can be viewed on their official websites. On average, a small car with manual transmission gears can be rented from $20, a city SUV – from $60, and an SUV – from $100 per day. When planning your budget, you need to take into account the cost of gasoline ($1.5 per liter), toll roads(about $1 for a 30 km section) and parking (they are only available in cities and cost from $0.5 to $1 per hour). IslandsTop attractionsWhat amazes and delights you most about Panama? Everyone will have their own answer to this question. I was awestruck by the untouched beauty national reserves, and the noise of the capital, and the comfort of colonial ports, and the scattering magnificent islands. Among these natural beauties it is very difficult to name one thing that is most outstanding. After all, the Pearl Islands are no less beautiful than Bocas del Toro or San Blas, and the virgin forests in the east of the country are in no way inferior to those in the west. But still there is something unique and unique in Panama. Volcano BaruThe most high point Panama is a dormant volcano almost 3,500 meters above sea level. It is picturesque in itself, rising proudly among evergreen rainforests. But what makes it special and definitely worth a visit is the stunning view. In clear weather from the top of the volcano located at southern border with Costa Rica, you can see both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea.
Climbing to the top of Baru is very popular among travelers. There are a few tourist routes from nearby cities and towns of varying length and complexity. The shortest (but also the most difficult, with frequent army ascents and descents) lasts about 13 km. A less scenic, but easier 22-kilometer trek leads from the city of Boquete. You can go as part of an organized group; such tours are sold both in the capital and in David; their prices start from $50. Panama Canal
Perhaps even more than its appearance, what is striking about this building is its significance for the global economy. A sort of huge monument to unimaginable human efforts for profit. Connecting (or, in this case, it would be more correct to say “separating”) the two Americas, the canal passes through dozens of ships and many tons of cargo every day. It is best to watch the huge colossus move from lock to lock in the morning or afternoon. But even if you don’t manage to see how the ship gets from the Atlantic to the Pacific Ocean, you can always visit the museum at the canal and learn the history of its construction. Star Beach
On one of the islands of Bocas del Toro, starfish bask on the golden sand under the gentle and transparent waves. Thanks to them, the beach got its name Playa de estrella. Admire the red stars on yellow sand in the turquoise frame of the sea and soak up the gentle sun, you can rent a boat in Colon or take a tour there. Bridge of the Americas and Centennial Bridge
Two colossal buildings connecting the Northern and South America, spilled over the Panama Canal. The first one was built back in the 1960s and for a long time remained the only road bridge continuing the famous Pan-American Highway, until a second bridge was built in 2004, even more elegant and wide. Both of them are especially beautiful at night with the many lights reflected in the dark water.
WeatherHappy Panamanians know only two seasons: dry and wet. All year round the temperature hovers around +30 degrees and both coasts are open for swimming. From November to April the weather is dry and sunny, all the resorts are full of tourists (mostly Americans) and prices for accommodation and food rise.
In the second half of the year - from May to October - rain reigns. They often bring heavy downpours over the coast and leave behind heavy humidity. Despite the cloudy sky, the tan turns out wonderful. This weather also discourages many tourists, so you can enjoy a cheaper and more secluded holiday. The exception, perhaps, is Valle de Anton, where, thanks to the elevation, the weather is generally excellent even during the rainy season. The ideal time to visit Panama, in my opinion, is the off-season months - May and October. The main flow of vacationers has already subsided, and rare rains do not interfere with enjoying the trip at all. Moving around the countryPanama is a fairly compact country: 800 kilometers from Costa Rica to Colombia and 100-300 kilometers between the two coasts. Airplane
The fastest way to get around Panama is definitely by plane. Airpanama flies to David, Bocas Del Toro and other islands several times a day. One-way tickets start at $100. Getting from the airport to the point you need in the city will not be difficult: a taxi to the center in Panama City will cost from $20, in other cities from $5, and a bus in the capital will cost $2.5 per person (however, it only runs during the day time and you can pay for travel only with a special card with a deposit), in the provinces - from $0.5. Bus
Most cheap way transportation - bus. Bus service in Panama is excellently developed: there are several competing companies (the largest TicaBus and ExpresoPanama), which, in the fight for consumers, monitor the quality of the bus fleet and try not to raise prices. Many flights depart daily from the Albrook Bus Terminal in Panama City to the west and east. Daytime flights make quite a few stops, which is why they move slowly. More expensive night buses (a ticket for the Panama - David flight costs about $25) stop only on request and are considered express trains. Night buses have a toilet and a TV, as is customary in Latin America, the air conditioner works mercilessly (put on all your warm clothes). The waiting rooms are also equipped with powerful air conditioners; sometimes, while waiting for the bus, I had to go outside to warm up. Toilets at train stations charge $1. Car
Panama has excellent roads and polite drivers, and the serpentine roads central regions The country is just right to make the route scenic without straining the driver. Therefore, a rented car is great option, allowing you to comfortably explore the picturesque landscapes and admire the sights. All branches of large rental companies operate in the country: Hertz, Alamo, Dollar and others. You can find out about car rental prices in Panama. When renting, you will need a driver's license and credit card to block a deposit, the size of which depends on the class of the car. They will most likely not ask for international licenses, but it is better to have them with you. Drivers under 21 years of age and over 72 years of age will receive an increased insurance rate when renting a car. You can also rent a small car, since there are not many really bad roads in Panama. Rent will cost from $30 per day. The cost of gasoline is $0.9 per liter. Parking in cities is free, but special places are reserved for them. It is prohibited to stop in other places and you may be fined $50. ConnectionThere are two main operators in Panama: Cable & Wireless Panama and BellSouth. Their prices are practically the same. The cheapest tariff includes 1 GB of Internet, 200 minutes of calls to numbers within the country and 300 SMS. It will cost about $8 per month. Calls to Russia cost approximately $1.2-$1.8 per minute. In tourist regions, the connection is excellent; when moving around the country it may fail, but overall it is also not bad. Wi-Fi is available in all hostels and hotels (at least in the reception area), as well as in most shopping centers and train stations in the capital. It's quite slow, but it's enough to check email or read a message. Language and communicationAs in most Latin American countries, official language in Panama is Spanish, which big influence influenced by the linguistic characteristics and traditions of the indigenous people. Modern Panamanians speak quickly, swallowing endings, which makes understanding very difficult. Native American tribes still speak their native languages. But unlike many other countries in the region, English is widely spoken in Panama (it is still the recognized language of the financial market), so there is no fear of being misunderstood, especially in tourist areas.
10 phrases that will come in handy while traveling
Features of mentalityPanamanians, like many of their counterparts living in Latin America, are distinguished by their openness and friendliness, laziness and optionality. Their habit of being at least an hour late and not fulfilling promises seriously affects the way business is done in this country. And the love to embellish or even lie (especially if they asked something that a Panamanian does not know, which he will never admit to anyone), as well as to deceive white dupes can deliver several not the most pleasant minutes of your vacation. But in general, these people are good-natured and smiling, ready to help.
Food and drinkPanamanians share their neighbors' love of rice, corn and beans. Here, as in Costa Rica, bananas are popular in all forms from chips to mashed potatoes. And, of course, not a single lunch is complete without meat with fresh vegetables and spices: onions, garlic, lemon juice, pepper, coconut milk. Local residents mainly eat chicken and beef, much less often pork and fish, and almost never seafood, which only tourists can afford. 5 dishes worth trying
 ShoppingPanama great country for shopping! Souvenir lovers and fashionistas have plenty of places to roam. What you need to know about shopping in this countryFirstly, in large cities and tourist regions English is easily understood, which makes the shopping process easier. Secondly, the popularity of Panama among American tourists stimulates the opening of new stores, so Panama has a full variety of fashion industry: from Prada and Versace boutiques to fashion brands of surfer and beachwear. And most importantly, the country has duty-free trade zones.
Prices for food and souvenirs in Panama are quite high, even compared to Costa Rica and Colombia. At the same time, if the quality of food is about the same level, then many souvenirs can only be found here. Best cities for shoppingIt is precisely because of tax-free that Colon is especially loved by shoppers. This international port, where ships from all over the world dock, is like a consumer paradise. Here you can find Indian fabrics, Moroccan oils, Taiwanese electronics and much, much more at reasonable prices. Sophisticated shoppers will love the capital with its numerous centers with boutiques of famous world brands in different price categories (Multiplaza Pacific Mall, Albrook Mall, Multicentro, AltaPlaza Mall and others).
In the centers beach holiday Mostly beachwear and numerous souvenir shops are presented. Moreover, each archipelago of islands has its own “specialization”:
What to bring from this country
As in all other countries, Panama has restrictions on the export of rare animals and plants. The list can be found at the airport or asked at the hotel reception. But it’s better to play it safe and not export any seeds, cuttings, fruits, insects or other animals. As for tax-free and its registration, Panama is a country in which you don’t have to worry about it. It imposes taxes only on certain types of services, and not on goods. Therefore, tourists can make purchases without paying tax to the local budget and without having to register anything. Vacation with childrenThe mild climate, magnificent beaches, fresh seafood and a variety of fruits create the conditions for a wonderful holiday with children. On the coasts of the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea there are special family hotels, whose infrastructure is focused on the stay of the younger generation. And the Panama Canal, ancient buildings and natural beauty will not leave them indifferent. SafetyPanama is a fairly safe country. With the exception of eastern province Darien, where the standard of living is quite low, and armed groups can be found in the forests on the border with Colombia, the rest of the country is designed to enjoy tranquility. Street thefts and more serious crimes are rare here; a tourist can only suffer from being cheated out of change. However, this does not mean that you should neglect reasonable safety rules. Popular types of scamsDue to their optionality and laziness, as well as their tendency to embellish reality, Panamanians may promise you something that they will not fulfill. Be prepared for the fact that with the promised private tour they will want to put a couple more passengers on your boat, that instead of 5 islands they will try to show you only 3, and the departure time may be shifted back and forth indefinitely. 5 things you definitely shouldn't do
5 things you must do in this country. Such a close relationship could not but affect the most important thing - money. Officially, the currency of Panama is considered to be a completely independent balboa. But they make it at the mint. Balboa to dollar exchange rate is 1:1.For many years now, paper Balboa has been occasionally found in circulation - banknotes with American presidents are in circulation. Therefore, you don’t have to think about exchanging money at all, because dollars will be accepted with pleasure anywhere, from shops, restaurants to street stalls. As change, you can receive coins with the proud profile of the conquistodor, in honor of whom the Panamanian currency got its name - Vasco Nunez de Balboa.
In many places you can pay by card (when making a large purchase it is better to have your passport with you): shops, restaurants, transport companies, hotels, museums and national parks. It is advisable to have cash with you (for example, to be able to quench your thirst with coconut water, which is sold here on every corner). ATMs are located in all major shopping centers and branches of local banks, of which there are a great many in the offshore country. !Panama is famous not only for its nature reserves, culture and the Panama Canal. U Panama there are exits to both the Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea, this wonderful country has collected best resorts Central America, where you have it all: snow-white beaches, warm water, amazingly beautiful islands, beautiful landscapes that are known far beyond the borders of Panama. Bocas del TorroBocas del Torro (Bokas del Torro) - unique the most beautiful archipelago in the northwest of Panama, consisting of 9 large islands and many small ones. You can get here local airlines or by air from neighboring Costa Rica. The route is very touristy, so there are a lot of buses and tourist shuttles from Panama and Costa Rica. First you need to get to the city of Almirante, then by ferry. Bocas del Torro Archipelago - the most popular tourist destination with developed infrastructure and services. Most Big City — Colon, is located on the island of the same name - the largest of the entire archipelago. Colon - small town, which can be walked in half an hour. It is best to book hotels in Colon, because... this is very comfortable spot, there is all the infrastructure here, you can sail anywhere from here and the airport is close. The best beaches in Bocas del Torro: Bocas del Drago, Bluff Beach And Punch Beach on the island of Colon, Cayos Zapatillos, Playas Larga And Red Frog Beach. Best diving spots: around the island Hospital Point, Coral Key, Dark Wood Reef And Punta Juan, area Garden near Cayo Nancy, islands Butt, Cristobal, Cayo de Agua And Cayo Carener. These are some of the best reefs, underwater gardens, lots of marine life (rays, lobsters, crabs and tropical fish). Near the island Bird Island you can see colonies of sea gulls, it is also very interesting to visit national park Bastimientos and see endangered turtle species there.
Other entertainment options besides eco-tourism include almost anything: walks in the jungle, horseback riding, ATV rides, sea activities, boat rides, diving, snorkeling, surfing, fishing, etc. Taboga IslandIt's hard to believe that just a few kilometers from the dusty and noisy city, there are such heavenly beaches with excellent sea and relaxing holiday. These beaches are located on Taboga Island- “Island of Flowers”. You can get here by ferry in just 15 minutes. Ferries run all day. On the island, in addition to the beaches, there is a small town with a church ( San Pedro), where there is observation decks, and there are all kinds of recreation on the beach. You can stay here in one of the most wonderful hotels. Spend a few days on this wonderful flower island and you definitely won’t regret it.
Las Perlas IslandsArchipelago Las Perlas is located southeast of Panama City in the waters of the Gulf of Panama. Las Perlas is several large islands San Jose, Pedro Gonzalez, Isla del Rey, Isla Pacheco, Saboga, Contadora, Chapera, Mogo Mogo, Casaia and Viveros and several dozen smaller islets and reefs. You can get to the islands of the archipelago from Panama City by plane or ferry. Ferries also operate within the entire archipelago and this way you can get to any of the islands. The most developed islands in terms of infrastructure are Contadora, Saboga And San Jose.
Contadora is the closest island to Panama City, which can offer you both a calm, secluded holiday and an active one. White sand beaches, picturesque corners of the island, nature surrounded by greenery - all this can be found here. You can swim in the ocean or in a cozy hotel pool; in any case, it is best to make Contadora your starting point. The city has a lot of entertainment and active rest: diving, fishing, snorkeling, yacht and boat trips, water skiing and scooters, tennis and golf. Evenings can be spent in numerous discos and bars, or you can relax in the casino. To admire nature and feel like a part of it, it’s better to go to the islands San Jose And Viveros. By the way, there is also an old one in San Jose military base, which fans of military attractions love to visit.
The best place to swim in the sea and sunbathe is on the islandSaboga, which will offer more than a dozen different beaches and recreational areas. By the way, most of the income of the Las Perlas Islands comes not from tourism, but from pearling. Pearls and pearl jewelry can be purchased on the islands at very attractive prices. |
