Panama—Caribbean coast; Bocas del Toro
News, entertainment, anthem and a short visitor guide.
Anthem
Recording: United States Navy Band · Public domain (U.S. government work) · Source: Wikimedia Commons
Visitor guide
History
Panama's Caribbean ports of Portobelo and San Lorenzo were key Spanish treasure routes, and are now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. West Indian workers helped build the Panama Canal, which opened in 1914.
Culture
Congo culture in Colón and Portobelo preserves Afro-Panamanian traditions. The Guna people govern the San Blas islands and are famous for their mola textiles.
Languages & Creoles
Spanish is the official language. Guna and Ngäbere are spoken, and Panamanian Creole English is heard in Bocas del Toro and Colón.
Currency
The Panamanian balboa (PAB), which is at par with and used alongside US dollar banknotes.
Popular Attractions
Bocas del Toro and the San Blas (Guna Yala) islands are Caribbean highlights. The Panama Canal and the old town of Panama City are must-sees.
Food
Sancocho is the national dish, and coconut rice with fried fish is a coastal favourite. Patacones (fried plantains) are everywhere.
Places to Visit
Bocas del Toro, Guna Yala (San Blas), Portobelo, Colón and Panama City.
More of the Caribbean
English-speaking Caribbean
Spanish-speaking Caribbean
French-speaking Caribbean
Dutch-speaking Caribbean
Additional Caribbean Coastal Areas
Colombia—Caribbean coast; San Andrés and Providencia
Venezuela—Caribbean coast and islands- Panama—Caribbean coast; Bocas del Toro
Costa Rica—Caribbean coast; Limón
Nicaragua—Caribbean coast; Corn Islands
Honduras—Caribbean coast; Bay Islands
Guatemala—Caribbean coast; Livingston
Mexico—Caribbean coast; Cozumel and Isla Mujeres