North and South America meet on the narrow isthmus of Panama and is where east met west in the early 16th century with the arrival of the Spanish Conquistadors. Panama City is the capital of Panama and is located at the entrance of the Panama Canal. In the natural world, Panama is a melting pot of biodiversity where the species of the two Americas meet and mingle. TABLE OF CONTENTS: Introduction to Panama - Overview - Culture - Location & Orientation - Climate & When to Visit - Sightseeing Highlights - Panama City - Panama Canal - Miraflores Locks Visitor Center - Amador Causeway - Palacio de las Garzas - Panama Viejo - Taboga - Lake Gatun - Santa Catalina - Coiba Island National Park - Bocas del Toro - David - Volcan Baru - Pearl Islands - San Blas Islands - Recommendations for the Budget Traveler - Places to Stay - Central Park Hotel - Metro Hotel Panama - Hotel Residencial Cervantes - Hotel Refugio de Montana - Hotel Hibiscusgarden - Places to Eat & Drink - Lenos & Carbon - Tinajas - PaParrillada Jimmy - Big Daddy's Grill, Boquete - Super Gourmet Bocas - Places to Shop - Mola & other Kuna Handicrafts - Reprosa - Crafts in Panama - Flamenco Shopping Plaza - Karavan Gallery