This year’s Panamanian Carnival will see Carnival celebrations in Panama City change venue from the Transístmica back to Via España. Carnival will also be conducted under a newly elected government that was voted into office to improve security and cut government spending. In line with its fiscal conservative platform, the new government decided to cut back on the amount of money spent on Carnival. At the same time the government plans to boost security in the country. Therefore, the key to enjoying Panamanian Carnival this year will be to go to the interior and find a nice spot and stay put. I wouldn’t recommend touring the country during Carnival.
Tips
• The Panamanian police have been very aggressive recently in cracking down on drunk driving and other minor offenses, so expect to see a lot of police on the roads especially on the highway to the interior. Normally, I recommend that people should move around during Carnival to celebrate in different towns but because of the heavy police presence on the roads recently, I would suggest staying put or taking public transportation during Carnival this year. Be sure to have all your documents with you no matter where you go. And don’t be surprised if you’re searched. There’s been a crime wave across Panama so be aware.
• There’s been a lot of speculation this year about what Carnival is going to be like in Panama City. The government has been slow to make plans for Carnival and very little money was put aside by the government for Carnival celebrations. The private sector has also been disinterested in promoting Carnival. Don’t look for any international artists arriving in Panama this year to play during Panama City Carnival. Carnival in the interior is a much better bet this year.
• Panama has some very good new beach resorts that would be right for Carnival. Two of the newer resorts are:
Bristol Buenaventura
Breezes Panama
My overall recommendation to anyone celebrating Carnival in Panama this year is to find a beach, kick back and enjoy; stay away from the crowds.
