Where to stay in Panama

Homestay Accommodation: One way of immersing yourself in part of the culture of Panama is to organise a homestay with the local families. If you are thinking of doing a Spanish course in Panama, this can tie in nicely because Spanish schools will arrange homestays for you along with your course. Spanish Panama (www.spanishpanama.com) is one of the most highly recommended organisations for language learning, and will organise homestays in a package.

If you would like to learn more about the indigenous peoples of Panama, some of the tribes offer their homes as accommodation as well. The most popular option is staying in Kuna-run homes or guesthouses on the San Blas islands. It is better to stay on the islands to directly benefit the Kuna people with your tourism than to sail around on foreign-owned yachts, especially as such companies have no right to be there without the express permission of the Kuna.

Youth Hostels: For those travelling on a budget, there are many youth hostels in Panama, including several in Panama City and other main tourist areas. They often come equipped with a kitchen and a living room with cable television. Some even have a swimming pool. The youth hostels vary greatly in both quality and style: some are exceptionally well run and provide high standards as well as excellent communal areas for travellers to congregate and swamp stories in; others are very run-down and do not provide socialising space. Ask to see the rooms and facilities before agreeing to stay.