Internet access in Panama

http://www.examiner.com/x-12916-Norfolk-Panama-Travel-Examiner~y2009m8d19-Internet-access-in-Panama

August 19, 10:02 AM

Norfolk Panama Travel Examiner

Julie Ray

Major cities and even many small towns in Panama have one to many “Internet Cafes” (although often there is no “café”). Most places will charge by the ½ hour while others will have timers and charge you by the minute. In general, Internet places in the cities will be about $0.50 - $1.00 an hour, while those in smaller towns may be slightly more expensive. If you bring your own laptop, you may be able to use it at the Internet Café by having an attendant log you into the Wireless network. Many Internet places also will offer other services, such as printing and photocopying.

Panama uses the same electrical plugs as the United States (110 AC voltage). However, often outlets have only two prongs. If your computer (or other necessary appliances) have three prongs, pick up an adapter (3-prong to 2-prong) at any home improvement store for under $1.00. European visitors are encouraged to bring the necessary adaptors with them.

Most hotels in Panama now have a computer with Internet access, some times for free and other times payable with a credit card. Several places are now offering Wireless service (look for a MovilNet sign or other similar banner advertising Internet).

If you have a web-based email (Gmail, Yahoo!, or Hotmail) you should be able to access it from any Internet place. Some other web access mail programs require special software, which you may or may not be able to download onto the computer at the Internet Café. Utilize your own computer, which is set to receive your messages or consider forwarding your email to a web-based account during your trip. Computers loaded with Scype are now also available at most larger establishments.

Note that computers with public access may have viruses. Check all USB devices and your computer for viruses after use in an Internet café or hotel. Also, be sure to log-out of all accounts (email, bank accounts, Facebook, etc.) to ensure that someone does not access your information. Simply closing the webpage may not log you out of the account!

Hopefully these tips will help you stay connected while you travel through Panama!