Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
There are occasional reports of robbery near the ruins of Panamá Viejo - don't go after
sunset, and always keep an eye out.
Panama has become stringent on drug control, which sometimes means roadblock
checks of drivers and their passengers. Always have your passport with you.
When walking the streets of Panama City, be aware that drivers do not yield to pedes-
trians. Sometimes it's best to approach intersections as Panamanians do - look both ways
then run like hell.
EMERGENCY
Police
(
104)
INTERNET ACCESS
Most lodgings have wi-fi, and internet cafes are plentiful in Panama City, especially in
the El Cangrejo banking district.
MAPS
Instituto Geográfico Nacional
(Tommy Guardia; 236-2444; near Av Arturo del Valle at Tran-
sistmica; 8am-4pm Mon-Fri)
Just off Av Simón Bolívar opposite the Universidad de
Panamá. Has an excellent collection of maps for sale.
MEDICAL SERVICES
Medicine in Panama, especially in Panama City, is of a high standard.
Centro Médico Paitilla
( 265-8883, 265-8800; cnr Calle 53 & Av Balboa)
This medical cen-
ter has well-trained physicians who speak both Spanish and English.
Centro Metropolitano de Salud
( 512-6600; Corosel Los Ríos; 7:30am-noon & 1-3pm
Mon-Fri)
Offers yellow-fever vaccinations with international certificate (required for travel
to Colombia if returning) for a minimal charge.
MONEY
ATMs are abundant throughout the city. The Banco Nacional de Panamá counter at Tocu-
men International Airport is one of the few places in Panama City that exchanges foreign
currency.
HSBC
(Vía España)
Changes Amex traveler's checks with no fee; US$5 per transaction for
other types of checks.
Panacambios
(
223-1800; Vía España, Ground fl, Plaza Regency Bldg;
8am-5pm Mon-Fri)
Buys and sells international currencies.
