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Jamaica vs Panama
Which is Better For Your Vacation?
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by Sheree-Anita Shearer | Associate Writer
Like Jamaica, Panama has hoards of tourists flock to its shores yearly for vacation. Both countries are equally charming but in very contrasting ways. Here are a few tips to help you plan your next tropical vacation.
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Jamaica vs Panama: Beaches
Jamaica is completely surrounded by the Caribbean while Panamanian shores are washed by the Caribbean Sea on one side and the Pacific Ocean on the other. This makes for unique beach experiences in Panama.
Just as with Jamaica, the Caribbean Sea is just as warm and calm as Panama. However, if you would love to surf or enjoy a sport that calls for more rugged waters, then head to the pacific side instead.
Jamaica vs Panama: Excursions and Tours
Jamaica seems to have more excursions of the two countries outside of beach-related activities.
Jamaica vs Panama: Budget
Panama has long since been known for having cheaper prices for clothes and cost of living/visiting. All-inclusive resorts also seem to be cheaper in Panama compared to Jamaica.
However, it is more expensive to get to Panama than it is to get to Jamaica in most cases. While airfare fluctuates based on demand, Panama is farther south than Jamaica from North America, Canada and Europe which means the flights will generally be more expensive.
Jamaica vs Panama: Accommodations
While we have established that Panama has cheaper accommodations when it comes to all-inclusive resorts, Jamaica seems to have a wider selection of accommodation types and varying levels of luxury and price.
Jamaica vs Panama: Weather
Both countries are located in the tropics; as such, the temperatures are generally the same, give or take a few degrees on some days. The major differences that I think you might need to consider are the hours of sunshine and rainy days for each country.
Jamaica has on average more sunny hours and fewer rainy days than Panama by a considerable amount. So, if you are planning many outdoor activities Jamaica might be the better option. But if you don’t mind the rain just be sure to pack for this weather.
You can always check the weather forecast beforehand. Although it is not 100% accurate, it will help.
Jamaica vs Panama: Language
Panama is a Spanish-speaking country, meaning there might be a barrier if you cannot. Jamaica speaks English predominantly, which is a more well-known language. If you are planning to venture outside of your resort, it might be easier to communicate in Jamaica than in Panama.
Jamaica vs Panama: Cuisine
Panamanian cuisine has mainly been influenced by Spanish, African, Chinese, Indian and American cultures.
Since Panama is located in the tropics they rely on tropical foods, such as plantains, pineapples, yuca, corn, and seafood. It is closely akin to Creole with lots of spices, flavours, colours, and herbs.
Jamaican cuisine is based on African, European, Asian, Indian, and even the far east among others.
We are a culinary melting pot that reflects the myriad of cultural influences that touched the island over the centuries. Our local Jamaican cuisine is heavy on fruits, vegetables, meats, and seafood, typically grown and sourced locally.
You'll also find fresh fish and plenty of spices such as pimento, Scotch bonnet pepper and curry. Foods prepared with a Rastafarian flair are also likely to thrill your taste buds.
According to the Cambridge World Atlas of Food, Jamaica is listed as having 11 distinct foods, including ginger, hot pepper, sorrel, pimento and Jamaican Blue Mountain Coffee. That’s compared to 9 in France and 13 in Italy, countries that are considered foodie institutions.
Jamaica vs Panama: Nightlife
While Jamaica has a buzzing nightlife, mainly concentrated in Kingston and Montego Bay, it is more well-known for laidback nightly entertainment.
Some hotels have bridged this gap by having day and night parties for those who look forward to this on vacation, Riu and Breathless hotels are popular for this reason.
I am sure if you go looking, you will find a raving dancehall party to attend, you will find one. However, that is usually on or closer to the weekends.
Jamaica vs Panama: Family Vacations
Jamaica wins family vacations as there are more hotels, other types of accommodations, excursions and restaurants that focus on a family experience here than in Panama.
Some all-inclusive resorts have kids' clubs, pools and other activities specifically for children, while family resorts will go a step further to include nannies, cribs and other services that will make vacationing with a family of any size less hectic and very fulfilling.
Jamaica vs Panama: Couple’s Trips
Whether you are an adventurous or laid-back couple, Jamaica has the offering that is perfect for you. Couples/Adults-only resorts provide romantic getaways for visitors and it won’t be hard to find one ready to assist with planning a wedding, anniversary or any other milestone you are celebrating. Some adult-only resorts in Jamaica also have clothing-optional sections for a little more freedom.
Jamaica vs Panama: Solo-Trips
Both countries have concerns when it comes to safety and I think it would be rather disingenuous to say one is safer than the other. Being in unfamiliar territory means you should err on the side of caution. This does not mean you should be afraid, but rather be careful.
As with most countries in the world, there are a few places in both of these countries that should be avoided but this will not be difficult as the attractions, hotels and other exciting offerings are not located there.
I hope your vacation is exciting and fun-filled. Just in case you haven’t finished packing yet, here is a little list of essentials for Jamaica.
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References & Sources For Jamaica vs Panama
- 20 traditional Panamanian Foods (2022) Insanely Good Recipes. Available at: https://insanelygoodrecipes.com/panamanian-foods/ (Accessed: January 2, 2023).
- Climate Comparison: Jamaica / Panama (no date) Worlddata.info. Available at: https://www.worlddata.info/climate-comparison.php?r1=jamaica&r2=panama (Accessed: January 2, 2023).
- Helling, A.A. (2022) Is Panama safe?: Travel Tips & Safety Concerns, Travellers Available at: https://travellersworldwide.com/is-panama-safe/#:~:text=What%20is%20this%3F,-Report%20Ad&text=Panama%20is%20considered%20a%20safe,trouble%20on%20your%20Panama%20vacation (Accessed: January 2, 2023).
- Jamaica vs Panama comparison: Cost of living, prices, salary (2022) Livingcost.org. Available at: https://livingcost.org/cost/jamaica/panama (Accessed: January 2, 2023).
Jamaica vs Panama | Written: January 2, 2022
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