Panama Known as “Crossroads of the Americas," Panama bridges North and South America, and the Panama Canal acts as a gateway between the east and west coasts. With the Pacific on the west and the Caribbean on the east, Panama is a great spot for all things aquatic. Sport fishing charters are a major tourist draw and its easy to find a local to take you offshore for tuna, sailfish, marlin and Fly fishing trips. Both coasts offer beautiful beaches (either on the mainland or one of the many surrounding islands) with glassy water, white sand, and coral reefs for scuba and snorkeling trips. Of course, you’ve got your standard selection of wave runners, kayaks, and jetskiis available for rent up and down both coasts. Additionally, Panama has a modern international banking sector, with more than 150 banks from 35 countries, and a large expat community as well. It is estimated that there are 25,000 expats from the US alone. In Panama City, be sure to check out Casco Viejo and Panama Viejo, the historic city and the ruins of the old city. And don’t forget to check out the Panama Canal! Highlights: Hit either coast for sand, sun, and maybe some fishing. Catch a cab to the Miraflores locks so see boats navigate the Panama Canal. Take a stroll down the Amador Causeway to one of the islands for a drink, and stop along the way to snap a picture of the best view of Panama City. Best time to visit: December to April Student Airfare: $499 New York to Panama City RT 7 Nights in a hostel: $70 Exchange Rate: 1.00 USD = 1.00 PAB (They also accept USD) Student Traveler travel Panama home page: Student Traveler articles on Panama: Study Abroad: The Scholarship, School for International Training, Spanish Abroad, Seamester, University of Minnesota, Morris, Florida State University, Conservation through Research Education and Action, ProArtInternational, Rainforest and Reef, Townson University, Amerispan Study Abroad, El Paraiso Spanish School Work Abroad: TEFL International, Costa Rica and Panama Vacations, International Doorways Volunteer Abroad: Global Vision International, Community Collaborations International, Volunteers for Peace, Amigos de las Americas, Eco Circuitos Panama, El Paraiso Spanish School,

Travel to Panama

Feature Articles Play: Letting the Locals Lead

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