PANAMA 2025

WORLD SCHOOLS DEBATING CHAMPIONSHIPS

SPIHSNOIPMAHC GNITABED SLOOHCS DLROW
PANAMA, PANAMA
WSDC 2025
WELCOME AND
INTRODUCTIONS
Welcome to Panama City, the vibrant host of the World
Schools Debating Championships (WSDC) 2025! This guide
is designed to help you navigate your journey through what
promises to be an unforgettable experience.

WSDC is the premier English-language debate competition

for high school-level teams from across the globe, bringing
together bright young minds to engage in rigorous
intellectual exchange. Since its inception in 1988 in Australia,
WSDC has grown into a truly international event, with teams
representing over 70 nations annually. During this intensive
ten-day tournament, you'll delve into a wide array of global
issues, honing your critical thinking and communication
skills through both prepared and impromptu debates, all
while fostering international understanding and free speech.
 WELCOME AND
INTRODUCTIONS
We are thrilled to welcome teams from across the world to
experience the warmth, culture, and dedication of the Latin
American debate community. This event is more than a
competition; it’s a celebration of a growing movement, one
that invites you to join us in shaping the future of debate,
fostering connections, and creating memories that will last a
lifetime.

To help you prepare for your trip, we’ve put together this
comprehensive guide to enhance your stay and ensure you
feel right at home from the moment you arrive.
PANAMA WSDC 2025

EVENT
SCHEDULE
PANAMA WSDC 2025

ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE

INFORMATION

We kindly recommend that all travelers, especially those who are

underage, verify the exit and entry requirements established by
their country of residence. Please note that some countries may
require a notarized parental authorization letter for underage
travelers, so it is advisable to carry a printed copy if applicable.
Panama is currently not requiring this document for underage
travelers departing the country.

While we will be reaching out to the main airlines for further

clarification, we also encourage you to visit your airline’s counter at
the airport in advance to verify any specific documentation they
may require, this includes, but is not limited to, parental letters of
support and visa (both panamanian and under the Visa Waiver
Program).
To qualify for the Visa Waiver Program, it is sufficient to hold a
valid visa from one of the listed countries, with no additional
requirements. (We attach the Executive Decree)

We also strongly recommend carrying printed copies of your

invitation letter, hotel reservation, visa or electronic visa (if
applicable), and return flight ticket, as well as clearly identifying
the adult responsible for accompanying any underage travelers.
PANAMA WSDC 2025

PANAMA ARRIVAL
INFORMATION
HOME DEPARTURE INFORMATION
Upon arriving at Tocumen International Airport (PTY),
Panama City's main gateway, participants will be warmly
welcomed by our organizing committee, who will assist
with any immediate needs and guide you to your
accommodation at the official hotel. Look for the WSDC
Panama 2025 signs as you exit customs.

While our team will be there to support and provide you

with information on available transportation options to your
hotel, please note that participants will be responsible for
arranging their own transportation.
PANAMA WSDC 2025

TRANSPORTATION
OPTIONS
Below are some transportation options available from the airport to
your accommodation:

UBER
Ride-sharing service. You can book a ride via the app for a
safe and reliable journey. Rates may vary depending on
time and demand.
Approximate Cost: $15 - $25 USD

TAXI
Official airport taxis are available at the exit. Prices are fixed,
but you can confirm the rate with the driver before departure.
.Approximate Cost: $25 - $30 USD
METRO
Panama's public transportation system, including the
Panama Metro, is a budget-friendly option for getting around
the city. The metro is fast, efficient, and reliable. Purchase a
reusable Metro card for $2.00 and recharge it as needed.
Alternatively, use your Visa or Mastercard with NFC
technology directly at the entrance machines. This trip will
take you 45 min to and hour.

Approximate Cost: $3 USD or less

PANAMA WSDC 2025

You can board an available train every 10 minutes. This

trip will take you 45 minutes to an hour.

METRO OPENING HOURS

Monday to Friday:
5:00 AM to 11:00 PM
Saturdays:
5:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Sundays and Holidays:
7:00 AM to 10:00 PM
PANAMA WSDC 2025

GETTING FROM THE

AIRPORT TO YOUR HOTEL
STEP 1 IMMIGRATION AND EXIT

1. Follow the signs: In Terminal 1 and 2, look for the signs

indicating immigration.
2. Immigration: Proceed to the immigration area located on the
lower level of Terminal 1 or Terminal 2. If you're flying with
Copa Airlines and your flight lands at Terminal 1, please be
aware that checked baggage will arrive at Terminal 2.

To retrieve your bags, you must go through immigration at

Terminal 2. The baggage claim area is located after you
complete immigration.

Here's how to get from Terminal 1 to Terminal 2:

a. Take the internal bus located in front of gate 103 to 106 in
terminal 1. The shuttle operates daily from 5:00 a.m. to 11:00
p.m. It runs approximately every 15-20 minutes.

b. If you prefer, you can walk between the terminals. It's

approximately a 15-minute walk. Some sources say it can take
up to 30 minutes, especially with luggage or if you're unfamiliar
with the layout. The terminals are connected by a pedestrian
corridor. You will be walking along the arrival floor.
Please note that the immigration levels of Terminal 1 and
Terminal 2 are not connected.
PANAMA WSDC 2025

3. Baggage claim: The baggage claim area is located after

you complete immigration. Once there, you can check the
overhead screens to find the baggage carousel assigned to your
flight, based on your flight number.

4. Exit the airport: Once you have passed through customs,

you will reach the airport exit.

STEP 2: MEET OUR STAFF

Look for assistance: Our staff will be available
on the 21st and 22st of july from 7:00 AM to
11:00 PM to assist you. Our staff will be clearly
identified with an ASPADE t-shirt and a sign with
the conference’s logo. We will have staff in the
arrivals section of the Airport and after
immigration control.

STEP 3: TRANSPORT OPTIONS

As previously mentioned, available transportation methods include

Uber, taxi, and the metro system:
Taxi: Official taxis are available directly outside the airport
terminals.

Uber: Uber pickups are permitted only in the second lane outside
the airport. Passengers must cross the first lane to reach the
designated pickup area.

Metro: If you need a metrocard you can buy it on the vending

machines. You can also pay with NFC Visa or Mastercard.

For the instructions for using the metro see next page

STEP 4: ARRIVE AT YOUR DESTINATION

PANAMA WSDC 2025

METRO GUIDES AND

INFORMATION.
AIRPORT TERMINAL TO THE METRO

Terminal 1: To access the metro from Terminal 1, passengers must

take the free shuttle bus provided by the airport, which transports
travelers to the airport metro station. The external shuttle for the
metro picks up passengers at Door 02 on Level 100 (Arrivals level)
of Terminal 1. Look for signage indicating "Estación de metro" or
"Shuttle Externo."This shuttle will take you directly to the Aeropuerto
Metro Station, which is located next to Terminal 2. The shuttle runs
approximately every 10 minutes. The shuttle operates daily from
5:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.

Terminal 2: The metro station is accessible on foot. After exiting the

terminal, turn right and walk straight until you see the metro logo
indicating the entrance.

Look for this sign to grab shuttle to metro

station:
PANAMA WSDC 2025

METRO GUIDES AND

INFORMATION.
BOARD THE METRO

Enter the metro station: if you need a metrocard you can buy it
on the vending machines. You can also pay with NFC Visa or
Mastercard.

Take Line 2 towards San Miguelito: Both doors of the train will
open once you arrive at Line 2. You will exit on the right side
based on the direction the train was traveling. Then board Line 2
heading in the direction of San Miguelito, but please look for our
staff that will be guiding you (only 21st and 22nd of July from
7:00 AM to 11:00 PM).

TRANSFER TO LINE 1

1. Get off at San Miguelito: Disembark at the San Miguelito station

and walk towards line 1
2. Transfer to Line 1: take the train that goes towards Albrook,
disembark at Iglesia del Carmen station.

Please see the following YouTube video for a detailed, step-by-step

guide on how to use the Panama Metro. Please remember that the
stop for the official hotel is Iglesia Del Carmen.

Only 21st and 22nd of July from 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM

To guide you, our staff members will be present at all stations. Look for our
logos, or ask any Metro de Panamá staff member for assistance; they are
informed about the event.
PANAMA WSDC 2025

METRO GUIDES AND

INFORMATION.
PANAMA WSDC 2025

HOST HOTEL
INFORMATION
Hotel El Panama is a landmark in Panama City, renowned for its
classic architecture and exceptional service. This five-star hotel
offers a blend of tradition and modernity, featuring large,
comfortable rooms, a grand outdoor pool, and a fully-equipped
gym. Guests can choose from a variety of dining options,
ranging from traditional Panamanian cuisine to international
flavors. Conveniently located in the heart of the city, Hotel El
Panama provides easy access to the financial district, historic
landmarks, and many restaurants, making it a perfect base for
exploring the city.

Hotel’s Google Map Location

PANAMA WSDC 2025

CHECK IN
REGISTRATION
Upon arrival at the hotel, follow the signs to our private check-in
area. Please note that check-in will be on a first-come-first-
served basis. There are four mandatory checkpoints:

1. Registration Fee: Verify that your full registration fee has

been paid. Any small missing fees, such as transfer fee
must be paid at this moment in USD.
2. Tab Team: Confirm your tournament tab information and
receive your name tag.
3. Hotel Team: Confirm your room allocation. To expedite the
process, please bring a photocopy of your passport and a
signed copy of the responsibility form sent to you
beforehand.
4. Hospitality Desk: to receive your welcome bag, which
contains essential items including your event badge. Kindly
remember that your badge serves as your admission to all
scheduled events.
PANAMA WSDC 2025

ACCOMMODATION
INFORMATION
All of our rooms are triple occupancy, and you'll find them furnished
with either two double beds or one double bed and one twin bed.We
want to emphasize WSDC's strict policy: students will not share
rooms with adults or with students of a different gender. This is for
your safety and care .

Enjoy added security and convenience with our hospitality desk,

located right in the lobby. Whether it's late-night or during the day
when debaters are at the hotel, our team will be there to assist.
While team managers oversee their contingents, we're committed to
providing this extra support to ensure everyone feels secure and
well.

These are the hospitality team contact numbers in case you need
assistance or have an emergency:
PANAMA WSDC 2025

DIETARY
RESTRICTIONS
To ensure that all participants have a comfortable and enjoyable
experience during the event, we recognize the importance of
accommodating various dietary needs and preferences. We
strive to address different dietary requirements, whether due to
health reasons, religious practices, personal choices or allergies.
We have already contemplated most food restrictions in our
vendor sourcing, there might still be scenarios where we might
not be able to accommodate the requirements.

The most common Dietary restrictions that we have

contemplated are:

1.Vegetarian
2.Vegan
3.Halal
4.Kosher
5.Pescatarian
6.Lactose free
7.Shellfish free
8.Nut free
9.Gluten free
 PANAMA WSDC 2025

FOOD AT A CLICK
DISTANCE
Your registration fee for WSDC Panama 2025 covers:

July July July July July July July

July 23 July 31
Meal 24 25 26 27 28 29 30
(Wed) (Thu)
(Thu) (Fri) (Sat) (Sun) (Mon) (Tue) (Wed)

Breakfast ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅
✅ ✅
Lunch
✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ (Break (Break ✅ (All
(Judges) teams teams participants)
only) only)

✅ ✅ ✅
Dinner (Welcome ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ (Break
teams
(Break
teams
Dinner)
only) only)
PANAMA WSDC 2025

VENUE
INFORMATION
WSDC Panama 2025 will take place in two main venues, both located in
the heart of Panama City and with ideal rooms for an international top-
class competition. Both venues have been carefully selected to provide
a unique mix of functionality, convenience, and cultural relevance.

OXFORD INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

(SAN FRANCISCO CAMPUS)
The in-rounds competition will take place at the Oxford International
School (OIS) — one of the most respected and historic debate institutions
in the country, recently relocated to a state-of-the-art campus. Just 7 to 10
minutes from Hotel El Panamá (approximately 3 to 4 km), OIS provides a
modern, secure, and fully equipped environment, well-suited to host a
world-class debate tournament.

The infrastructure consists of air-conditioned lecture rooms with smart

technology, science and robotics laboratories, multimedia library, and
multipurpose halls that are preferably utilized for workshops, lectures, and
debates.
PANAMA WSDC 2025

Note: Please remember that smoking and vaping are strictly prohibited in all event
areas and transportation, in accordance with Panamanian Law No. 13 of January 24,
2008, which regulates tobacco control. This includes electronic cigarettes (vapes),
which are also banned. Smoking or vaping is not allowed near schools, health centers,
public institutions, or any area where minors may be present at least 10 meters in
designated areas. It's important to note that most venues in Panama operate as entirely
smoke-free environments. This means that even in open-air sections, smoking and
vaping may be prohibited depending on the venue’s specific policies, which often align
with the broader spirit of the law.

We appreciate your cooperation in helping us maintain a safe and healthy environment for
everyone.

ASCANIO AROSEMENA TRAINING

CENTER

Out-rounds and main ceremonies will take place at the Ascanio Arosemena Training
Center, a prestigious venue of high historical and civic value. Approximately 10 to 12
minutes’ drive from Hotel El Panamá (4 to 5 km away).

Certified by the Panama Canal Authority in 1984, the center is part of the institutional
complex of the Panama Canal Authority and is regularly used for academic events,
conferences, and official gatherings. It is conveniently located near the main library,
providing easy access to additional resources. Beyond its operational role, it stands as a
meaningful space that bridges national memory with Panama’s ongoing educational and
professional development.
PANAMA WSDC 2025

DRESS
CODE
As we are currently in Panama’s rainy season, we recommend that you
come prepared for frequent moments of rain. Despite the rain,
temperatures remain warm — typically ranging between 25°C and 30°C
and the climate stays humid, with humidity levels reaching up to 90%.
Expect sudden downpours, often followed by sunshine, so it's important
to pack accordingly. For greater climate awareness and safety, you can
check real-time weather updates using tools like Google Climate.

Here are some pinterest inspired clothing pins that might help you to
select your clothes for the competition:
PANAMA WSDC 2025

TRANSPORTATION
PANAMA WSDC 2025

SOCIAL EVENTS
OPENING CEREMONY

Date: July 23rd

Venue: Ascanio Arosemena Theater

Our conference will officially commence at the Ascanio Arosemena Theater.

Celebrated for its elegant architecture and its integral role in hosting pivotal
cultural and educational events, this location provides an inspiring and
dignified setting for our opening proceedings. Join us as we inaugurate the
conference in a space that truly reflects Panama's enduring legacy and vibrant
spirit.

Transportation will be provided

WELCOME DINNER

Date: July 23rd

Venue: Hotel El Panamá

Delegates are invited to commence their conference experience with an

exclusive Welcome Dinner. This special evening will take place right within
our official Hotel. Guests will enjoy dinner, providing an excellent opportunity
to network in a refined setting and receive a warm, official welcome to the
city from our esteemed hosts.

Transportation and dinner will be provided.

PANAMA WSDC 2025

CULTURAL NIGHT: A CELEBRATION OF GLOBAL

DIVERSITY AT THE TRIBUNAL ELECTORAL

Date: July 25th

Venue: Tribunal Electoral

Delegates are cordially invited to our vibrant Cultural Night, held on July 25th
at the Tribunal Electoral. This unique evening is designed for participating
delegations to share their distinctive cultures through music, culinary
presentations, and interactive activities. It presents an exceptional opportunity
to celebrate global diversity, foster unity, and experience the rich heritage of
each nation in a truly unforgettable setting. Participants are encouraged to
wear traditional attire to represent their country's unique cultural legacy.

Transportation and dinner will be provided

THE ANTICIPATED BREAK NIGHT: AN EXCLUSIVE

CULINARY EXPERIENCE WITH THE PANAMA CANAL
AUTHORITY

Date: July 28th

Venue: Ascanio Arosemena Training Center

Prepare for a distinguished evening of anticipation and culinary experience at

Break Night, a highlight of our social program preceding the tournament
results. Hosted by the esteemed Panama Canal Authority on July 28th, this
event promises an exceptional experience. Guests will enjoy a traditional
cuisine prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, many cultivated from
the fertile areas surrounding the Panama Canal.

Transportation will be provided.

PANAMA WSDC 2025

CLOSING CEREMONY: A LANDMARK

CONCLUSION AT THE PANAMA CANAL

Date: July 30th

Venue: Ascanio Arosemena Theater

Our event will culminate with a memorable Closing Ceremony at the Ascanio
Arosemena Theater. This distinguished venue, also hosting our Opening
Ceremony, provides a fitting and inspiring location to conclude our
proceedings. We will gather to celebrate the accomplishments of all
participants in a space that reflects Panama's enduring legacy and vibrant
spirit.
PANAMA WSDC 2025

PANAMA 101:
EVERYTHING YOU
NEED TO KNOW
This is a vibrant country, located at the
crossroads of the Americas. Panama is rich in
history and shaped by people from all corners of
the world. A true cultural melting pot, Panama
offers a captivating blend of sleek modern
skyscrapers and historic gems, from the iconic
Panama Canal to the cobbled streets of Casco
Viejo. Here’s your quick guide to Panama’s best!
Immerse yourself into the lively culture, savor our
diverse cuisine, and explore must-see spots
around Panama City.
PANAMA WSDC 2025

A LITTLE BIT OF
PANAMA'S
HISTORY
Panama's history is defined by its unique geographic position, which has
shaped it into the country we know today. For thousands of years, Indigenous
peoples like the Guna, Embera, and Ngäbe-Buglé called this land home,
creating rich cultural traditions and contributing to the country's identity with
their art forms like the Mola. When the Spanish arrived in the 1500s, Panama
became a key stop on their trade routes. This period introduced European
customs, language, and architecture alongside the arrival of African slaves to
work on plantations. This added further depth to our cultural tapestry, infusing
our music, dance, and cuisine with unique rhythms and African spices.

The most significant chapter in Panama's history came with the construction
of the Panama Canal in the early 20th century. This monumental engineering
project not only transformed world commerce but also brought thousands of
workers from China, the Caribbean, and other countries, leaving a lasting
impact on Panama’s culture and traditions.
PANAMA WSDC 2025

After the construction of the Panama Canal, the presence of the United States
brought their currency, culture, and traditions to the region. Individuals born in
the Panama Canal Zone, while U.S. citizens, were referred to as "Zonians."
They lived in a unique, segregated community that reflected a blend of both
US and Panamanian influences, creating a distinct culture within the Canal
Zone during that era.

Today, this phenomenon has led to many aspects of Panamanian culture

being intertwined with U.S. culture. One of the most noticeable influences can
be seen in our way of speaking, where English phrases and American slang
have found their way into everyday conversations, enriching our local dialect
PANAMA WSDC 2025

A DIVE INTO OUR

CURRENCY
Panama's official currency is called the Balboa, named in honor of Vasco
Núñez de Balboa, the Spanish explorer. Since 1904, the Balboa has maintained
a fixed exchange rate with the U.S. dollar, establishing the USD as the official
legal tender in Panama. This practice has led Panama to become a dollarized
economy, where the U.S. dollar is predominantly used for daily transactions.

While Panama's coins are similar to their U.S. counterparts in terms of weight,
size, and composition, they feature distinctive local images and require
approval from the Federal Reserve and the Treasury Department. However,
when it comes to paper money, only the U.S. dollar bill is used, making
currency use and exchange even more convenient in Panama.

1 Balboa
AKA “Martinelli”
10 cents
named after President
In the U.S. the 10-cent coin is
Ricardo Martinelli (2009–
commonly called a “dime,” which
2014)
is how we’ve incorporated it into
our language. While some people
still use this term, it is less
popular over the days.
1 cent

50 cents
Also known as “Peso”
The term originates from the
25 cents original currency of Spain
AKA “Cuara” and is widely recognized
It’s colloquial name derives throughout Latin America.
from the word “Quarter” in
English
PANAMA WSDC 2025

DISCOVER
PANAMA
Panama City offers a fantastic array of student-friendly activities near El
Hotel Panama! Here are some top picks that offer a mix of culture, nature, and
fun, keeping in mind the interests of high school students:

Must-See & Educational:

Panama Canal (Miraflores Locks Visitor Center): This is a non-negotiable!

Witness this incredible engineering marvel up close. At the Miraflores
Locks Visitor Center, you can watch massive ships pass through the locks,
see an IMAX movie about the canal's history, and explore interactive
exhibits. It's truly fascinating.

Casco Viejo (Old Town): A UNESCO World Heritage site, Casco Viejo is full
of charming colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and lively plazas.
It's great for walking around, exploring shops (look for traditional crafts
like "molas"), and soaking in the history. There are often street performers
and a vibrant atmosphere. You can even do a bike tour of the area!

Biomuseo: Designed by world-renowned architect Frank Gehry, this vibrant

and colorful museum explores Panama's biodiversity and natural history.
It's very interactive and engaging, explaining how the Isthmus of Panama
rose from the sea and shaped the world's biodiversity.
PANAMA WSDC 2025

Panama Canal Museum: Located in Casco Viejo, this museum delves

deeper into the history of the Panama Canal's construction.

Nature & Outdoors:

Metropolitan Natural Park: This incredible urban rainforest is right within

Panama City! It's a fantastic place for a relatively easy hike, where you can
spot diverse wildlife like monkeys, sloths, toucans, and even agoutis. It's a
refreshing escape from the city bustle.

Amador Causeway: This scenic causeway connects Panama City to

several islands. It's perfect for walking, jogging, or renting bikes (they even
have multi-person bikes for fun group rides!). You get great views of the
city skyline, the Bridge of the Americas, and ships entering and exiting the
canal.

Punta Culebra Nature Center (Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute):

Located on the Amador Causeway, this outdoor museum offers a chance
to see and learn about local marine life, sloths, and other creatures. It's
educational and a nice place to relax by the water.

Monkey Island Tour: While a bit of a trip outside the immediate city center,
many tours offer a chance to visit Monkey Island on Gatun Lake where you
can see various monkey species up close, sometimes even feeding them.
This is often combined with a rainforest tour.
PANAMA WSDC 2025

Fun & Unique:

Cinta Costera: This beautiful waterfront promenade stretches along the

city's coastline. It's excellent for a leisurely stroll, people-watching, and
enjoying street food or ice cream. You might even spot raccoons!

Escape Rooms: Panama City has several escape room venues that offer a
fun and challenging team-building experience. These are great for groups
looking for an indoor activity.

Albrook Mall: If your students are looking for some retail therapy or a
place with lots of dining options, Albrook Mall is one of the largest malls in
Latin America and offers a wide variety of stores and entertainment.

Whether you're an adventure lover, a foodie, or just here to soak up the tropical
vibes, this vibrant city has something for everyone.
PANAMA WSDC 2025

EMERGENCY AND SAFETY

INFORMATION
Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:

GENERAL SAFETY TIPS:

Panama is generally considered a very safe country for travelers. Like any
destination, please exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, the
overall crime rate is relatively low, do not hesitate to ask local Host Team
members for any considerations. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind.

Familiarize yourself with the areas you plan to visit and be aware of any
specific safety concerns.

Keep your valuables secure and avoid displaying excessive amounts of

wealth.

While Panama City is generally safe, it's advisable to avoid walking alone
in isolated areas, especially at night.

Use Taxis and Authorized Transportation: Stick to reputable transportation

companies or use ride- sharing apps to ensure your safety. Uber is
particularly cheap and safe, averaging around three to five dollars per trip.
Note that taxis in Panama do not take credit cards.

Remember: While Panama is a safe destination, it's always wise to take

precautions and be aware of your surroundings. By following these tips, you
can enjoy your trip to Panama with peace of mind.
PANAMA WSDC 2025

CONTACT
INFORMATION
If you need assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out, we’re
here to help in any way we can. For any questions about Panama
or general inquiries, feel free to contact our Hospitality Team at
[email protected] or via WhatsApp at +507 6365-
7530.

For more immediate support, you can reach our:

Convenor Daniela Noriega Garcia
WhatsApp at +507 6980-9153.
Hospitality Deputy Director Sherly Sánchez
WhatsApp at +507 6220-8736
 PANAMA WSDC 2025

EMERGENCY CONTACTS
IN PANAMA
Below is a list of the most important numbers to keep close at hand:

National Police of Panama: 104

The National Police is responsible for maintaining public order, preventing crime,
and ensuring the safety of both citizens and visitors. For immediate police
assistance in cases such as theft or suspicious activity.

Fire Department of Panama: 103

For emergencies involving fire, rescue situations, or other related incidents,
contact the fire department.

Juvenile Police Unit: 511-9228

This number is designated for cases involving minors, such as abuse, neglect, or
any situation that puts a child at risk.

Civil Protection Agency (SINAPROC) *335

For assistance during natural events like floods, earthquakes, landslides, or any
other type of environmental hazard.

Medical Emergencies: 911

For urgent medical situations such as accidents, injuries, or health crises.

For your convenience, we recommend using WhatsApp as our primary

communication method. Please download the app during your stay for easy
access. For any emergency or urgent assistance, please contact our hospitality
support team via WhatsApp at +507 6365-7530.
FREQUENTLY
ASKED QUESTIONS
When is the best time to visit Panama?
Panama offers pleasant weather year-round, but the dry season (December to
April) is generally considered the best time to visit, with fewer rains and ideal
conditions for outdoor activities.

Is Panama a safe country to travel to?

Panama is generally a safe destination for travelers.
Just like any other country, it's advisable to exercise caution and remain
mindful of your surroundings. Panama is inclusive and welcoming, regardless
of an individual's race, color, gender, sexual identity, sexual preference, religion
or any other protected attributes.

What is the local currency, and where can I exchange it? Are there any
ATMs or currency exchange services available at the airport?
Panama's official currency is the Balboa, but U.S. dollars circulate extensively.
Exchange currency at the airport or use your Cirrus Plus-enabled Visa card for
ATM withdrawals. Most businesses accept Visa or Mastercard.

What languages are spoken in the country?

Spanish is the official language of Panama, but English is widely spoken,
especially in tourist areas.
 Are there any specific customs or cultural norms that I should be aware
of?
Panamanians are known for their friendliness and politeness. We take pride in
our country, even acknowledging its imperfections. As proud Panamanians, we
are committed to defending our homeland. Please refrain from offensive
behavior in public and respect our religion, customs, and traditions.
Panamanians are tactile people. It's common to greet others with a handshake,
hugs and even a kiss on the cheek among friends.

Are Panamanians punctual?

Naturally, we do try, but be patient as punctuality may vary.

Must-see places in the city?

Must-see attractions in Panama include the Panama Canal, the Casco Viejo
historic district in Panama City, but if you like the tropical forest, you can visit
Gamboa Area. If you are coming for a couple of days

Panama can offer other activities such as hiking, surfing, diving, snorkeling, and
white-water rafting.

What kind of sockets and plugs do you use in Panama?

The standard voltage in Panama is 110 volts, and we use the same type of
electrical plugs and sockets as the United States and Canada.

Can I drink tap water in Panama?

Yes, you can drink tap water in most parts of Panama, especially in major cities
like Panama City. The water is generally safe and meets international health
standards
 FINAL
WORDS
Thank you for being part of WSDC Panama 2025! After two
years of planning, we are thrilled to host you in our country.
This event is the result of collective effort and passion. We
are here to support you every step of the way and ensure this
experience is enriching, exciting, and unforgettable.

Bienvenidos a Panamá – nos vemos pronto!