Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Go J
o JapaneseToyotas, Hondas and Nissans are extremely popular in Central Amer-
ica, which makes them substantially easier to service or sell, though you should
not expect to recoup your initial expenditure.
Get in
t insuurance in th
e in the U
e USA o
SA or C
r CanaddaFor full coverage, though Panama requires its
own insurance.
Learrn t
ur carrMechanics charge much more in Panama than in other
Central American countries.
Be p
n to s
o serrviice y
e your c
e prreparredBring along a good tool kit, an emergency gas canister, plenty of
emergency food and water, and industrial-strength duct tape. A spare tire or two is
also a good idea, especially if traveling over rough terrain.
Know th
e lawPanamanian law requires that all vehicles be fitted with a catalytic
converter.
NNattiionaliz
w the la
ur carrIt costs approximately 20% to 25% of the vehicle's value in
taxation, but it's required if you want to sell. Since any damage reduces value, don't
make repairs until afterwards.
Addverrttiise y
alize y
e your c
ur warresTry online expat forums or take out a classified inLa Prensa
newspaper on Sunday when the majority of car buyers are looking.
e your w
GETTING AROUND
Air
Panama currently only has one domestic carrier: Air Panama ( 316-9000;
www.flyairpanama.com ) . Domestic flights depart Panama City from Aeropuerto Albrook
and arrive in destinations throughout the country.
At the time of writing it was difficult to book tickets online or even get the airline on the
phone. It sounds like a hassle, but it will give you a lot of peace of mind to book tickets at
the regional airport in person as soon as you know your travel dates. Demand to destina-
tions like Bocas overflows in high season. For most flights it's wise to book as far in ad-
vance as possible. Always confirm bookings.
Bicycle
Long-distance cyclists should know that Panama is extremely warm for biking. If that
doesn't turn you off, you can cycle through the country easily enough, with lodgings within
a day's ride.
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