Buzz
If you've only associated Panama with the grand Panama Canal or the infamous dossier scandal, you've missed out on a world-class travel gem.
Uncover 10 compelling reasons not to miss Panama's travel haven.
Vietnamese citizens enjoy visa-free entry to Panama, offering dozens of reasons for you to prepare your budget, time, pack your bags, and go.
Ranked #1 Destination by New York Times
In 2012, Panama secured the top spot as the world's #1 destination according to the New York Times. Despite its small size, equivalent to North Carolina in the U.S., Panama boasts numerous world-class attractions: unique tropical rainforests, stunning mountains, two coastlines along the Caribbean and the Pacific, over 1,000 islands, 6 preserved East Indian cultures, a Miami-style capital, vibrant nightlife, fully-equipped resorts, breathtaking roads, Spanish colonial sites, world-class golf courses, scuba diving, water sports, surfing, not to mention the 8th wonder of the world - the Panama Canal. It's hard to imagine any other place on Earth that combines so many perfect travel elements.
Affordable Prices
Nowadays, people tend to seek budget-friendly travel destinations. Typically, tours to places with pristine beauty, like Panama, come with sky-high prices that few can afford. However, Panama is actively promoting tourism, portraying itself as a traveler-friendly destination, so everything related to travel is incredibly affordable. In Panama City, taxis, food, and hotel prices are all reasonable. According to The Economist, Panama is one of the 10 least expensive cities in the world.
World-Class Adventures
Panama offers a myriad of choices for travelers in terms of exploration at various difficulty levels. International experts are enchanted with the Panama River journey, involving activities like boating or kayaking. You can embark on a journey from the ocean to the dense rainforest, live with ancient Indian tribes and experience their age-old culture, or surf on the world-renowned Santa Catalina beach. Hiking, kayaking, jungle exploration, horseback riding, surfing, and countless activities await you here.
Safe Haven
Panama is one of the safest destinations in Latin America. Tourist crime is exceptionally low. You won't have to be constantly vigilant against pickpocketing or theft as in other countries in the region. Foreign residents will tell you how safe Panama is compared to their home country, and the security situation is getting better every day.
Traveler-Friendly Destination
Upon arrival, you'll notice that Panamanians are among the friendliest people globally, and most can communicate in English, albeit not fluently. Since Panama opened up to international trade, its people understand, appreciate, and delight in interacting with international friends. Panama uses the US dollar as its official currency, a convenient feature for travelers.
Best Place for Nature or Ecotourism
Panama is home to some of the world's most unique and easily accessible natural tourist spots, positioned as a narrow bridge between two continents, featuring pristine jungles and diverse tropical rainforests in national parks covering over 2 million hectares. 'In other countries, you may have 20 tourists looking for one bird, but in Panama, a tourist can spot 20 birds,' a local resident metaphorically describes. The key lies in biodiversity: Panama boasts 944 bird species, more than the combined total of birds in the US and Canada. Importantly, most of these natural wonders are easily accessible, with some of the most beautiful spots just under an hour's drive from Panama City.
Hub of World-Class Infrastructure
Panama boasts US-style infrastructure in its capital, featuring high-speed internet, well-maintained highways, 90 banks, top-notch hotels, restaurants, and shopping districts, leading the way in Latin America.
Unique and Accessible Destinations
Panama City nestles alongside tropical rainforests in the Metropolitan Park, as well as the Panama Canal tropical forest where you can explore the jungle without paddling through streams to go far. Pipeline Road is home to 350 bird species that visitors can see in a day, just a half-hour drive from the city. In Panama, you can be close to tropical nature without sacrificing comfort or facing danger.
World-Class Fishing, Diving, and Yachting
Here, you'll find world-class fishing spots on both the Pacific and Atlantic coasts. Pinas Bay holds 170 world fishing records. Outstanding diving spots include Coiba Marine Park, Pearl Islands, Bocas del Toro Archipelago, Portobello Coast, and Chiriqui.
Great Place to Experience Indigenous Indian Culture
Not just one, but there are up to 6 indigenous Indian tribes living here. Each tribe in its own territory can preserve its unique culture. Many tribes live in easily accessible areas, and they are happy to share their cultural life with tourists.
Source: Vnexpress
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Reference: Travel guide Mytour
MytourApril 15, 2016
