Panama celebrates a number of Panama holiday which you can also enjoy if you coincide it with your vacation in Panama. The Panamanian people celebrate Panama holiday just like the people all over the world also celebrate. Examples of these holidays are New Year’s Day and Labor Day (it is celebrated May 1 in Panama). They also have their Flag Day on November 4, and also take part in celebrating Mothers’ Day on December 8 and Christmas Day on December 25.

Panama Holiday: Christmas

For all Panamanians, the Christmas celebration is something which has to do more with family, friends and religion. During this Panama holiday they also put up Christmas decorations such as figures of Santa Claus and Christmas trees, although these are not considered as important or particular as in other countries. This is a kind of Panama holiday where the birth of Jesus Christ, the family and friendships are celebrated in a solemn and serious manner. But they also buy gifts and hold contests as to who among neighbors can display the best nativity.
The Panamanians prepare dinner and serve tamales, beef, chicken, turkey, pork, salads and wines, and then they eat together and give gifts. Many recipients wait for this Panama holiday to be over before they open their gifts. Some families travel to their beach houses while many just go house hopping after midnight.

Panama Holiday: Martyrs’ Day

This particular Panama holiday, the Martyrs’ Day, is celebrated by Panamanians on January 9 of each year. This date remembers the marches made in 1964 by students from a prestigious high school. They marched to the Canal Zone protesting the raising of the American flag and wanting to raise the Panamanian flag in their school also. During the commotion, the Panamanian flag was torn, which resulted in violence. This Panama holiday remembers the 22 people who died and the more than 100 who were injured.

Panama Holiday – Carnival

This Panama holiday is celebrated during the 4 days preceding Ash Wednesday. The holiday consists of the weekend before the Ash Wednesday and the 2 other days known to Panamanians as the Carnival Monday and Carnival Tuesday. During this Panama holiday, the main streets are filled with party goers and parades. People stay out late all night and do all the merrymaking. The entire celebration is highlighted by the selection of the Carnival Queen.

There are other Panama holidays observed in Panama which you could also enjoy when you are able to join the celebrations. There is the Separation Day, which is celebrated on November 3. This Panama holiday is observed in commemoration of the date when Panama was officially separated from Columbia in 1903. This day is also celebrated with festivities and parades, just like many Panama holidays.
Another holiday in Panama that you can’t miss is the Uprising of Los Santos. November 10 is the day of every year that marks the uprising of Los Santos. This 2nd independence holiday is a reminder to every Panamanian of this day in 1821 when they had an uprising against the Spanish rule. This happened in the Village of Los Santos, where Panamanians were able to free themselves from Spanish colonization.Go for Panama holiday.

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Panama offers cultural diversity, white sandy beaches, hundreds of islands, seafood and seven Indian populations that are native. You will find that Panama is a mix of American efficiency blended with Latin mentality. Panamanians have a command of the English language that makes travel there fun and easy.

Panama is between Costa Rica and Columbia and has a population of about 3.5 million. Panama is one of the most ‘globalized” countries in Latin America and has one of the highest GDP growth rates. Tourism is growing fast in Panama and more than two hundred cruise liners land there.

Panama City is not only the central hub for tours anywhere in the country it is a wonderful destination in itself. There is a blend of modern America, old Spain and Eastern bazaar atmosphere. The Panama Canal is the best-known feature but Panama borders one of Central America’s richest rain forests.

You will find cosmopolitan, historic and ultra-modern living in Panama. Panama City is one of the safest cities in the Americas. In Panama you can explore 16th century historic ruins of Panama Viejo as well as visit modern skyscrapers in the prosperous business district. The center of the city is full of cultural and live events.

Don’t forget about the Panama Canal that is an experience that can’t be seen anywhere else in the world. Spend hours watching freighters and ships move through the Canal at the Pedro Miguel and Miraflores locks. The Panama Canal is called the “Eighth Wonder of the World” and is a monument to human engineering and the power of perseverance.

Travel the Amador Causeway that extends from the mainland and connects four small islands offshore. The length of the causeway is lined with palms. You can stop along the way and rest at benches or bike and jog along the paths. Enjoy fine restaurants, sea breezes or visit the Smithsonian Institute of Tropical Research Aquarium. Also available are yacht clubs, a new cruise port, souvenir shops and residential projects to see.

If you are interested in eco tourism it begins on the outskirts of Panama City. Parque Metropolitano is a large tropical rainforest reserve. In this enormous park there are five trails to explore. You will see the diverse natural riches offered in Panama that includes toucans, orioles, sloths, parakeets, trogons, agoutis and Titi monkeys.

Panama offers something for everyone. If you want to relax on a beach there are many to choose from. The climate in Panama is excellent as there has never been a hurricane touch down there. Panama is a great location for a couple that wants to get away together. Families enjoy all that Panama has to offer in educational and cultural experiences. The next time you are planning a vacation and want to do something different take a look at Panama. There is a wonderful variety of things to do there that you will have the adventure of your lifetime. Explore Panama for your next holiday!

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Panama lives up to its national motto “For the benefit of the world,” delivering a world of benefits to its visitors and then some. Central America’s southernmost country boasts a unique geographical locale affording visitors miles of pristine coastline bordering two oceans, and an amalgamation of people and cultures that is unparalleled.

While in Panama City, one must-see is Casco Viejo, the city’s charming 16th century Spanish colonial “old town” resplendent in winding narrow streets, sidewalk cafes and wrought-iron balconies overflowing with exquisite flowers.

Other recommendations within the Panama City-limits include Panama La Vieja, the original city’s ruins; Parque Natural Metropolitano, a large tropical forest abundant with native flora and fauna; and the Calle Uruguay neighborhood, epicenter of the city’s exciting nightlife. Don’t forget to visit the Continental Hotel Riande’s Wurlitzer’s Lobby Bar, home to a sprawling, glow-in-the-dark Wurlitzer organ.

A short drive from Panama City leads to the famed Panama Canal, another of the country’s can’t-miss destinations. The Miraflores Lockes offer a visitor center–Centro de Visitantes de Miraflores–complete with an observation deck, museum, an English-Spanish theater and a restaurant overlooking the locks.

Visit to Panama City is a must for any traveler to Panama. Located on the country’s Pacific Coast, Panama City is a sophisticated metropolis offering a diverse array of attractions ranging from cultural destinations to fine dining to nightlife to even gambling. The city’s colorful party buses offer a memorable way to enjoy some sightseeing while making merry.

Panama’s lush countryside offers an abundance of natural beauty, wildlife, and hospitable people. Within an hour or so drive of Panama City is a succession of un-crowded, white-sand beaches and aqua-blue waters along the Pacific Coast, including the popular destinations of Punta Chame, Gorgona, Coronado, Rio Mar, Santa Clara and Playa Blanca.

Nearby the Pacific Coast beaches are the picturesque mountain communities of El Valle de Anton and Los Altos de Maria where visitors can sample the local cuisine, browse shops and enjoy the indigenous culture of Panama. Another more remote option is the The Darien province, home to the Parque Nacional Darien, a massive tropical forest that makes a wonderful visit for the adventurous traveler.

If time allows, Panama’s coastal islands provide unique travel destinations just a short boat or plane ride away from the mainland. In the Caribbean seas off the Atlantic coast, visit the San Blas Islands, where the native Kuna Indians craft their renowned molas. Isla Grande, also in the Atlantic, is a beautiful destination, as is Contadora in the Pearl Island Archipelago.

Panama was first explored and discovered by the Spanish during the 16^th century, dwelled and settled by Spaniards. Panama broke with Spain in 1821 and joined a union of Colombia, Ecuador, and Venezuela – named the Republic of Gran Colombia. The former fade out in 1830 in result Panama remained part of Colombia. The Panama Canal was constructed by the US Army Corps of Engineers between 1904 and 1914. In 1977 Panamanians approved a challenging program to expand the Canal. The project, which began in 2007 and could double the Canal’s capacity, is expected to be completed in 2014-15.

The prime medium of Panamanians is Spanish; it is greatly used and spoke by majority of the people in the country. This specific language is admired and respected by every people within the country, this language gives them such distinction and unparallel personality. English language is also used in the country of Panama, it is eloquently spoken by 14% of the people of Panama. The English language is also widely used in delivering instruction and education in several universities in Panama. Other Panama people are bilingual, they both spoke English and Spanish fluently.

The literacy rate of Panama is quite good, it is roughly 88% of the population. Some fascinating languages are also spoken by Panama people like, Yiddish, Korean, Arabic, Japanese and Hebrew but only a little.

Different ethnic and native groups dwell in Panama for a time, the fusion of different Panama dialect results to a number of Panama languages nowadays. There are many native Panama languages, which are living and popular among certain races. Here are some examples of native dialects Buglere, Yue, Hakka, Emberá, Northern Emberá, Emberá -Catío, San Miguel Creole French, Panamanian Creole English, Ngäbere, San Blas Kuna, Epena, San Blas Kuna, Woun Meu and Teribe. Each of these languages have its own stories, a concealed culture and rich forms of the history of Panama.

Culturally the majority of the population of the country Panama are the mestizos or mixed Spanish, Indian, Chinese, and West Indian.

Explored by Columbus in 1502 and by Balboa in 1513, Panama was the principal shipping point to and from South and Central America in colonial days. In 1821, when Central America revolted against Spain, Panama joined Colombia, which had already declared its independence. For the next 82 years, Panama attempted unsuccessfully to break away from Colombia. Between 1850 and 1900 Panama had 40 administrations, 50 riots, 5 attempted secessions, and 13 U.S. interventions. After a U.S. proposal for canal rights over the narrow isthmus was rejected by Colombia, Panama proclaimed its independence with U.S. backing in 1903.

For canal rights in perpetuity, the U.S. paid Panama $10 million and agreed to pay $250,000 each year, which was increased to $430,000 in 1933 and to $1,930,000 in 1955. In exchange, the U.S. got the Canal Zone—a 10-mile-wide strip across the isthmus—and considerable influence in Panama’s affairs. On Sept. 7, 1977, Gen. Omar Torrijos Herrera and President Jimmy Carter signed treaties giving Panama gradual control of the canal, phasing out U.S. military bases, and guaranteeing the canal’s neutrality.

Nicolas Ardito Barletta, Panama’s first directly elected president in 16 years, was inaugurated on Oct. 11, 1984, for a five-year term. He was a puppet of strongman Gen. Manuel Noriega, a former CIA operative and head of the secret police. Noriega replaced Barletta with vice president Eric Arturo Delvalle a year later. In 1988, Noriega was indicted in the U.S. for drug trafficking, but when Delvalle attempted to fire him, Noriega forced the national assembly to replace Delvalle with Manuel Solis Palma. In Dec. 1989, the assembly named Noriega “maximum leader” and declared the U.S. andPanama to be in a state of war. In Dec. 1989, 24,000 U.S. troops seized control of Panama City in an attempt to capture Noriega after a U.S. soldier was killed in Panama. On Jan. 3, 1990, Noriega surrendered himself to U.S. custody and was transported to Miami, where he was later convicted of drug trafficking. Guillermo Endara, who probably would have won an election suppressed earlier by Noriega, was installed as president.

Defying the current Latin American trend for left-leaning governments, Panama elected millionaire businessman Ricardo Martinelli as its president on May 3, 2009. After a period of rapid economic growth, Panama had succumbed to the global recession. Trading on his personal record of success—and utilizing his fortune to get his message out—Martinelli promised to encourage foreign investment and help the poor.

Panama was the native name of a village on the Pacific Coast of the Gulf and Isthmus of Panama. Before its discovery by the Spanish, Panama was inhabited by a large number of Amerindians. The groups lived in organized chiefdoms, depending on the area’s fish, birds, and sea turtles, and on starchy root crops for food. Numbering nearly one million when the Spanish arrived in 1501, the largest group was the Cuna. The country’s name, which means “land of plenty fish,” may also come from the Cuna words panna mai , or “far away,” a reply to Spaniards who wondered where to find gold. The name Panama is also believed to be a Guarani Indian word meaning “a butterfly,” and also signifying a mud fish, perhaps because the flaps of the mudfish resembled the wings of a butterfly.

Panama has been subjected to numerous occupations by foreign powers since the Renaissance period. Since 1513, when the Spanish explorer Vasco Nuñez de Balboa crossed a narrow strip of land and discovered the Pacific Ocean, the Isthmus of Panama has been a major crossroad of the world, linking two great continents and separating two great oceans. His discovery opened up a shorter route to Peru and the gold of the Incas. Fortune seekers from Europe could land at Colón, cross the narrow isthmus, and set sail on the Pacific for Peru.

By 1519 Spanish settlements had been established, and the king’s appointed governor, Pedro Arias de Avila, had settled in the village of Panama. Under his rule, Balboa’s Indian allies were killed and other Indians were enslaved. Many fled to the jungle or to the swampland and isolated islands on the northeast coast. A priest, Bartolomé de la Casas, was outraged by the Indian enslavement and persuaded Spain’s government to send African slaves in their stead. The separation of Indian groups from Panamanians remains today. African slaves became so important that the British were given a contract to deliver 4,800 slaves a year for 30 years. Slave revolts moved the Spanish king to interrupt the delivery for a time.

The California gold rush in the 1840s renewed interest in travel between the oceans. In 1845, the United States helped build the first transcontinental railroad that crossed Panama. Meanwhile, France, Britain, and the United States explored the possibility of a canal to join the two oceans by way of either Panama or Nicaragua. In 1879 Ferdinand de Lesseps of France, and builder of the Suez Canal, began construction of a canal in Panama under a license from Colombia. However, disease (yellow fever, malaria), rain, and mud made him abandon the project. From 16,000 to 22,000 workers had died.

North American culture has been a substantial influence especially in the Panama Canal region. Consequently, what we see today in Panama is a cultural fusion, a cultural mixed bag! Panamanian culture is as rich as the history of Panama. Starting from native Indian people to the colonial era settlements to the present times of multi-race communities, Panama has been a witness to varied cultures. And though Panamanian culture is believed to have derived chiefly from European artistic, literary and musical traditions brought to the land by the Spanish during their 300 or so years of rule, the influence of the indigenous cultures have been too strong to deny.

In counterpoint, the Panama countryside with its cattle ranches and horses and Spanish folk songs, continues to be the stronghold of Hispanic culture. The native people of Panama restricted in the small land pockets here and there also continue to contribute immensely to Panamanian culture. Thus, the netted bags and beaded necklaces made by the Guaymí people and the brightly embroidered textiles called Molas (made by Kuna women) have brought Panama’s artwork and handicrafts worldwide recognition. The epic poems (extending to some hundreds or thousands of lines) of the Kuna people focus another aspect of the Panamanian culture.

Panama lead their lives. People inhabiting the urban areas, particularly the Panama Canal area (where the US army was based in the days when the construction work of the Canal was under progress), lead refined, sophisticated lives. Be it in the field of art, architecture, music or sports, the cities represent a contemporary society where the US influence is much-too apparent.

The many festivities held year-round in Panama like the Carnaval or carnival, Festival of the Black Christ, Fair of Azuero, Semana Santa (or Easter Week), too uphold the land’s cultural diversity. Most of the festivals are excellent blending of Pagan and Catholic beliefs and rituals.

The diversity in Panamanian culture is evident in far too many ways than you would expect. Tours of the museums will surely help you but then you will need to read about Panama’s history, visit places of historic importance, talk to the people of Panama, taste varied cuisines served here, know about the religion of Panama and even be part of festivities to best appreciate Panama’s blended culture.

Panamanian culture is rest to the myriad influences with the passage of time. Panamanian culture covers the colonial era settlements, the native Indian people and not to mention the multi-race communities of the present times. North American culture came to the front in the Panama Canal region as well. The Spanish influence was fate as they ruled Panama for over 300 years. As a result, European artistic, literary and musical traditions found place in the Panamanian culture.

The means of living of the people of Panama is nothing but an extension of the co-existence of the scores of influences in Panamanian culture. You will find people living in the urban areas, predominantly the Panama Canal area (where the US army was based in the days when the construction work of the Canal was under progress), lead polished, sophisticated lives. Be it in the field of art, architecture, music or sports, the cities represent a contemporary society where the US influence is much-too apparent.

What’s more, the Panama countryside with its cattle ranches and horses and Spanish folk songs, carries on to be the stronghold of Hispanic culture. The native people of Panama restricted in the small land pockets here and there also continue to contribute immensely to Panamanian culture. Thus, the netted bags and beaded necklaces made by the Guaymí people and the brightly embroidered textiles called Molas (made by Kuna women) have brought Panama’s artwork and handicrafts worldwide recognition. The epic poems (extending to some hundreds or thousands of lines) of the Kuna people focus another feature of the Panamanian culture.

Dance and music also feature in the diverse Panama customs to say it all. Hence, the traditional dance Tamborito introduced by the Spanish invaders borrows steps and rhythms from native dance forms. The influence of Afro-Caribbean music and that of other popular local music like salsas cannot be missed. Though Spanish is the preferred language for compositions, the themes, plots and even characters have their roots steeped in the colorful Panamanian culture. The religion of Panama also has it’s own share of influence.

Panamanian culture is revealed in the ways of life of the Panamanians, their music, their dance, their festivities, their literature and even in their cuisine. The many festivities held year-round in Panama like the Carnaval or carnival, Festival of the Black Christ, Fair of Azuero, Semana Santa (or Easter Week), too uphold the land’s cultural diversity. Most of the festivals are excellent blending of Pagan and Catholic beliefs and rituals.

The origin of the name Panama comes from the fancy words “. Panama is surrounded by infinite seas like the beautiful  Caribbean Sea , Pacific Ocean, Columbia and Costa Rica. It serves as a colligate of South and Central America, situated in a significant place of the world. Panama is confidently one of the best destinations, no one can compete with its tourist attractions. With 1,500 islands surrounding both the Caribbean and Pacific coasts, some of the most accessible and bio-diverse rainforests on the planet; You can also view highlands that are both culturally interesting and scenically beautiful, Panama has more than enough nature-based activities for every visitor. Panama also offers rich historical stories, giving way to sites from its heritage as an international crossroads. Cosmopolitan capital chock full of shopping and joyous nightlife. And another  plethora of sporting activities on offer and you will find that Panama is one of best undiscovered destinations in the world.

Panama is rich in sea creatures, its myriad sea is full of interesting sea creatures. Rare sea dragons, dolphins and more aquatic species to be found in the Gulf World Marine Park.

Amusement parks is also all over the city of Panama like the Miracle Strip Amusement Park is another place, where fun and entertainment are plethoric. With their breath taking and thrilling rides it can shake all your senses. In its Beaches Shipwreck Island Waterpark is another tourist destination.  Animal zoos can also entertain you, check out some astonishing animals and observe the unique flora and fauna in the Zoo World Zoological and Botanical Park.

The dazing Old City or Casco Viejo, hold some historic churches, plazas and palaces. A good number of foreigners can be seen here too. The area all over the Amador Causeway is full of life and activities making you dynamic when you visit this place. This place is quite often visited by the tourist all over the world. Do not forget to view the world famous scenic Panama Canal.

Do not let this very stunning place to be left out, take a few hours or a full day to discover the wonders of Panama. Our tours run the range from meek to the most exciting. Scuba diving enthusiasts will revel in our variety of dives. Fishermen can try their luck at catching the big one. Or, just go lie on a secluded beach. The choice is yours and there is something for everyone. See the canal, city shopping delights, culture and much more.

Panama is a city with a complete combination of the historic and modern lifestyle. It was founded in the year 1517. It has a wide range of theaters, nightclubs, shopping malls, and fine restaurants and from the historical point of view it has been an international crossroad so people over there always have an amicable attitude for everybody even with strangers. If you are looking for a relaxation and at the same time a place to have lots of activities and fun, then Panama City is the best option to enjoy out with friends and family.

Basically there are the three diverse areas that Panama boasts, that visitors should be aware of i.e. the modern skyscraper, the Colonial-era Casco Viejo and the Panama Viejo, which is also known as the old Panama City. This old Panama City has the ruins of the 16^th century, whereas Casco Viejo is known for its belongings from the 17^th to 19^th century. They have amazing monuments, churches, convents, and historical museums etc. that are a must to see for everybody. Now, fine restaurants have been built in and around these antiques so it attracts the tourists all the more. And the modern Panama City has everything that one needs today, right from banks to nightclubs. Panama is also considered to be the safest city anywhere found.

When you are planning to go for a vacation for the first time it is always advisable to make arrangements through a travel agent or a tourist guide. We will arrange your trip in such a manner that you will not miss any of Panama’s sight seeing beauty. The two most popular tourist-visiting places are the Miraflores Locks where we can see the ships passing through the locks of the Panama Canal and also Amador Causeway, which again is a must see. It has a causeway connecting 4 small islands with rocks excavated from the Panama Canal.

Besides there are ample of shopping malls and edible joints to keep you busy and entertained all the time. Being a small country it’s handicraft is famous all over. The most famous being ‘molas’, and even hand woven baskets are worth to buy and cherish. The Panamanians are known for their creativity and beauty. The shopping malls offer great discounts and bargains, which attract a lot of tourist to do loads of shopping. It has a chain of restaurants that are affordable by all classes of people, and those fond of casinos will also find there way in the city of Panama. With so many places to visit and do shopping, a visit to the city of Panama is worth and a wise decision, an ideal vacation with the family.