World-class music on the slopes of Volcan Baru

Some quick facts about Panama:

➢ Panama is a very small country with just 3.5 million people, 1.3 million of whom
     are living in the greater Panama City area.
➢ National language is Spanish but a lot of people in Panama City and the more
     touristic areas speak at least some English (after all, there were thousands of
    US-citizens living here in the canal zone and elsewhere for more than 100 years!)
➢ Panamanians generally are very friendly, helpful, welcoming people. They don't
     avoid eye contact with strangers and reward  any friendly "Buenos dias" or
     "Buenas tardes" with a wave and a big smile.
➢ The national currency is the Balboa but all banknotes are US$. Balboas exist
     only as coins, side by side with US $ coins. No currency risk for US citizens,
     and great bargains for European visitors from the Euro-zone!
➢ General cost of living (except for luxury goods or technical equipment) is about
     30% lower than in the US or Europe.
➢  Credit or debit cards are widely accepted in touristic areas. In smaller places
      and rural areas you need cash (which is called 'effectivo' here). ATM's can be
      found at all banks, airports and some shopping centers. Don't bring traveler
      cheques.
➢  Although violent crime is generally quite rare in Panama it is advisable to use caution
      and not wander off alone into unknown areas, especially at night.
      Petty crime like theft of valuables is more common (after all, this is a poor country).
      So, please use common sense and be cautious not to flash your cash or expensive
      jewelry, cameras etc. in front of people you don't know.

The Boquete Jazz&Blues Festival is an official national cultural event in Panama supported by the Panamanian Tourist Authority and the mayor of Boquete        
                                                                     Artwork by Karin Carney