Panama is the 'Bridge of the America's' connecting North and South America.  It covers 29,208 square miles (about the size of South Carolina or Ireland) and is between 50 and 120 miles wide with 805 miles of Caribbean and 1,062 miles of Pacific coastlines.

The climate is tropical with temperatures in the upper 80's/lower 90's (between 25 and 30 degrees C) at sea level and much cooler in the mountains.  There are only two seasons the 'dry' season from December until June and the 'green' (aka rainy) season.

The official language is Spanish but English is widely spoken. Freedom of religion is constitutionally guaranteed in this Democratic Independent Republic.  The currency is the 'Balboa' which has the same value as the dollar (because it is the U.S. Dollar).

Panama  is one of the safest, most friendly and beautiful countries I have ever visited!!!  

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http://www.worldatlas.com/webimage/countrys/namerica/camerica/lgcolor/pacolor.gif 

Facts:

• Highest point: Volcan Baru over 11,000 ft! (3478m)
• Population   : Around 3.2 million
• Electricity    : 120 volt
• Islands        :Panama has 1518
• Birds           :940 species
• National Bird: Harpy Eagle
  
• Animals       : 125 animals species not found anywhere else in the world!
• 30% of Panama is set aside for Conservation
• Cultural Diversity, there are 7 Different Indigenous Groups
• Declared Independence in 1903

What to bring:

• Sunglasses and hat!
• Sunscreen  and insect repellent
• Beach towel
  
• Poncho or rain jacket
  
• Warm clothes for the Mts.
• Comfortable shoes for hikes
• Bank card (know your pin #)
• Flashlight (a.k.a. torch)
• Binoculars for bird watching
• Beach clothes for the beach and casual dress cloths for the city!
• A relaxed attitude, sense of adventure and your friends!!!