Panama is an excellent destination for families, especially those with young children who are easily bored by stuffy museums. Jungle cruises, wildlife sightings, interactive marine museums, and outdoor activities such as snorkeling and kayaking are kid-pleasers. Hotel resorts are generally family-friendly, with children's swimming pools, playgrounds, and even kids' organized activities. A handful of resorts in Panama accept adults only, which is indicated in hotel reviews.
Unfortunately, though many hotels in Panama do not charge for kids under 3, they do charge extra for older kids, usually about $10 to $15 extra per child for a larger "triple" or "quadruple" with additional beds. Other hotels ask that you book a junior suite because a regular double does not have the space for an additional bed. Junior suites and suites have a sofa bed for one to two small children. Major hotels have rooms with connecting doors for two doubles; this can be a costlier option if a hotel doesn't offer a break in price. Ask anyway; you never know what they're willing to offer.
Take special care with the health of your kids. Sunburn, bug bites, and unfamiliar food can take its toll. Major hotels offer babysitting service, though it's less common at country-style inns -- but ask anyway as they might have a reliable babysitter on hand.
To locate accommodations, restaurants, and attractions that are particularly kid-friendly, refer to the "Kids" icon throughout this guide.
Some tour operators can put together dynamic, activity-rich trips for families, either privately or as part of a larger travel group. Familyhostel (tel. 800/733-9753; www.learn.unh.edu/familyhostel) specializes in family travel with moderately priced U.S. and international learning vacations. Lectures, field trips, and sightseeing are guided by a team of academics.
Recommended family travel websites include Family Travel Forum (www.familytravelforum.com); Family Travel Network (www.familytravelnetwork.com); Traveling Internationally with Your Kids (www.travelwithyourkids.com); and Family Travel Files (www.thefamilytravelfiles.com).
