Panama tourism questions – Panama Flights

by with No Comment Panama Flights

“How do we get to Boquete without an overnight stay in Panama City?”

Many guests have asked us about flying from San Jose, Costa Rica to the regional airport in David Panama (closest airport to Boquete) versus flying from Panama City.

The reasoning behind this: Boquete is very close to the Costa Rica border. Guests want to get to Boquete as quickly as possible, without spending a night in Panama City. This is technically an option, but the timing is very tight.

Panama flights leave San Jose for David Panama on: Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 11:00 am local time. So, unless your flight lands in San Jose very early, you’ll still have to spend a night in a big city. Given the choice, I’d rather stay overnight in Panama City than San Jose.

Another option available soon: David Airport Expansion
The David airport is set to undergo a major expansion, which will open up this side of the country to more Panama flights. Copa Airlines recently announced that it will provide service from Tocumen International Airport in Panama City to David, starting the first quarter of 2011. (Right now, travellers have to do a 30-minute land transfer from Tocumen International to the regional airport in Albrook and then take a flight to David.)

Panama Flights – Regional airlines
Aeroperlas www.aeroperlas.com
Air Panama www.flyairpanama.com

November Holidays in Panama

by with No Comment News

November is holiday-heavy in Panama. Great if you live and work here, but potentially disruptive if you are not prepared. Keep these dates handy if you plan to visit.

Monday, November 2: All Souls Day (Day of the Dead). No loud music, no alcohol sales. Banks open.
Tuesday, November 3: Celebration of the Separation of Panama from Colombia.
Wednesday, November 4: Flag Day (Dia de la Bandera).
Thursday, November 5: Colon Day (the city, not the organ).
Tuesday, November 10: Celebration of the Uprising in Los Santos. Los Santos declared independence from Spain first, prompting Panama City to act and declare formal separation on….
November 28, Saturday: Celebration of Panama’s Independence from Spain.

On November 3, 4, 5, 10 and 28: Banks and public and private offices closed. Grocery stores open. Roads may be blocked for parades–keep this in mind when making your travel plans.