FAQs

What are the COVID-19 requirements to visit Panama?

Masks are rarely required in Panama and currently only required on public transportation and in health facilities and government buildings. At the time of travel, we recommend you check your airline’s policies prior to flying and pack masks in your carry-on in the event you may need one.

Do I need a passport?

To enjoy your trip to Panama, you must have a passport that is valid at least six months after your return home (valid through October 27, 2024 or later for an April 27, 2024 return date).

Always keep your passport handy and secure and do NOT pack it in your checked bag.

Take photos to create a backup of all your important travel documents. These include a copy of your passport, driver’s license, health insurance card(s), and credit cards. To keep your original documents secure, utilize the hotel safe and/or invest in a money belt.

Do I need a travel Visa?

If you do not have a U.S. passport, additional visas and/or documentation may be required. It is your responsibility to review the Panamanian requirements for your specific passport and ensure you are set to travel. Please visit the link below for more information. www.embassyofpanama.org/visas-1

Some nationalities must present a tourist visa before their trip to Panama. If this is your case, we recommend going directly to the Panamanian consulate in your country. For any other query, visit the National Migration Service of Panama page or check with your airline.

Are any vaccines required to visit Panama?

Check with your doctor and review all CDC recommended vaccines and medicines you might need to get before your trip. wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/traveler/none/panama 

The yellow fever vaccine is mandatory for all guests traveling from Brazil, who must present the international vaccination certificate issued by ANVISA at least 10 days before arrival. 

Exceptions:

Children under one year and adults over 60 years of age.

Travelers in transit in Brazil without leaving the transit zones.

Holders of a certificate of contraindication for medical reasons.

Do I need to contact my cell phone carrier?

Most cell phone carriers have daily or monthly international plans for your phone, texting and data needs. Check in with your provider before your trip to set this up if needed.

The resort will have Wi-Fi, but cellular data is needed to text, call, and use maps while on excursions and exploring the city.

Are U.S. Dollars accepted in Panama?

U.S. Dollars are accepted in Panama, and the most widely accepted credit cards are Visa and MasterCard.

Do I need to check on my flight schedule prior to departure?

Once you receive your final flight schedule, we recommend using your confirmation code to view your reservation on the airline’s website or app to view possible itinerary changes and confirm your seats. We also recommend checking your reservation online at least 24 hours prior to flight departure. You will receive your flight info via email and  in your pre-trip box with your other travel documents.

When should I arrive at the airport?

Most airports recommend arriving three hours prior to your scheduled departure time for international flights. Please note that checked baggage is only accepted within four hours of your scheduled departure. 

What if I have a question regarding flights? 

For flight related questions during registration, please contact Destinations. They can be reached via email at precoa@destinationsinc.com or phone at 801-446-5000.

Do I need to pay for my luggage?

If your airline requires a fee for checked bags, Precoa will provide you with a prepaid Visa card in your pre-trip box (mailed shortly before the trip). This will have enough funds to cover the first checked bag for you and your first guest to and from Panama.

How will I get from the airport to the resort?

When you arrive at the Tocumen International Airport, look for staff members with Precoa signs. They will direct you to a prearranged shuttle that will take you to the resort. 

Will transportation to the Westin be provided if I booked a pre or post night?

Yes. If you booked a pre or post night through the Precoa registration site, we will take care of your transportation to and from the resort on those days.

Will transportation to and from the Westin be provided if I plan to book my own hotel for pre and/or post nights?

No. If you book your own hotel for extension nights, transportation to and from the resort will not be provided. You will be responsible for your own transportation.

What if I miss my connecting flight or have questions while traveling?

If you need help while traveling to and from Panama, please contact a Destinations team member at the number below.

Coming Soon

Once at the resort, what do I do if I have a question or need help?

If you have a question or need assistance with your trip while at the resort, you may visit the Precoa Hospitality Desk. Staff members there will assist you with all of your trip questions and planning needs. At the resort, you will receive a card with the location and daily hours as well as an after hour number you may call or text with questions.

Can I bring my children on the trip?

Yes, the Westin Playa Bonita Panama is a family friendly resort.

Is the Westin Playa Bonita Panama all-inclusive?

The Westin Playa Bonita is all-inclusive for our group, and on-site you will receive a wristband indicating you are part of the Precoa Escapes group. All six restaurants are included, as well as unlimited non-alcoholic and alcoholic premium drinks and wine by the glass during regular operating hours. Afternoon snacks by the pool are also served from 11:00AM to 4:00PM daily. 

The Westin has 24 hour room service but this is NOT included and additional charges apply. 

Reservations are required for Asiana and Tierra & Fuego Restaurants and can be made on-site with the Concierge. Group reservations are allowed up to a maximum of 10 guests.

What time is check-in and check-out?

Check-in is at 3:00PM and check out is at 12:00PM. If you are arriving prior to check in and would like a guaranteed room upon arrival, we recommend purchasing another pre-night. Otherwise, rooms will be available to guests as they are ready.

Is there a gym at the resort?

Yes

Is there a salon and/or spa?

Yes, more details will be available during registration.

Do I need to make any dining reservations ahead of time?

Reservations are required for Asiana and Tierra & Fuego Restaurants and can be made on-site with the Concierge. Group reservations are allowed up to a maximum of 10 guests.

Is there room service?

The Westin has 24 hour room service but this is NOT included and additional charges apply. 

Are all alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks included at the resort?

Unlimited non-alcoholic and alcoholic premium drinks and wine by the glass are included during regular restaurant operating hours. 

Which restaurants are complimentary and which restaurants require an additional fee?

All six on-site restaurants are included.

Will I have access to Wi-Fi at the resort?

The resort has Wi-Fi, but cellular data is needed to text, call, and use maps while on excursions and exploring the city.