History

• Panama's history revolves around its strategic location for which it gained much of its acclaim. Spain recognized this soon after it conquered it and made Panama part of the empire for more than 300 years. During this period, the country flourished as the main shipping hub between Central and South Americas. Another major player in Panama's history is the American government, which initiated the construction of the Panama Canal in 1903 to have a stronger Atlantic-Pacific link. After having been under American control, the canal was handed over to Panama before the 20th century ended.
  
  

Geography

• Located in the middle of the South and North American continents, Panama also straddles the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. Costa Rica and Colombia are its nearest neighbors.
  
  

Features

• Tourism is still considered a growing trade in Panama. The canal is only one of the highlights of this Central American country. Panama is slowly rising to the ranks of top adventure destinations with its beaches, rain forests and mountains. Travelers also appreciate sampling the indigenous cultures found in such regions as Comarca de Kuna Yala.
  Some of the beautiful places to visit in Panama include Parque Nacional Vulcan Baru for its volcano, the highest peak in the country; the mountains of Boquete, with its hiking trails and coffee plantations; the beaches of Santa Catalina for surfing; Peninsula De Azuero for its festivals; and Panama City, the cosmopolitan capital. Ecotourism is also fast becoming a buzzword in Panama due to its diverse wildlife; much of the country still evokes that raw, untouched impression. One noted spot for eco-adventures is Parque Nacional Soberania, a sprawling rainforest protecting a variety of bird species.
  
  

Size

• Measuring about 29,000 square miles, Panama is as big as South Carolina.
  
  

Considerations

• Traveling to this destination is not difficult mainly because Panama uses US currency in transactions. English is widely spoken, and taxis are not hard to come by. Panama also makes a good jump-off point to further exploits in nearby Costa Rica through bus travel. Hiking is best done during the dry season from December to mid-April. Same advice goes for surfing, although swells in the Pacific are year-round. Panama's religious festivals are also fun to experience during the Lent season.