Thread: Carnaval in Panama City

This is my first Carnaval in Panama.
How affected will Panama City be next week - banks, stores, roads, etc?
Just want to be prepared.
Thanks.

I participated in last years carnival in Panama City. It was held along Via Espana. The city pretty much shuts down for social services. Many businesses close or have reduced hours car rental companies, hair salons etc.. Restuarants, hotels, casinos, super markets and the malls seemed unaffected. There is no trash pickup and the city smells pretty bad after a few hot days. The police man the streets that feed into via espana and search every person for weapons prior to entry ( my stungun made it in). Lots of venders selling Atlas and Balboa as well as tons of food. Kid throwing water and confetti from buckets everywhere. Lots of reggaeton being blasted and most people seemed drunk and having a good time. Pick pockets work the crowd so bring only what you need and leave the rest at home. People are pushed tight shoulder to shoulder in some instances trying to see activities. Wear loose fitting clothes and shoes that you don't mind getting wet as the water trucks with hoses will be spraying the crowd. Trust me you will welcome the water in the Panama heat.

I heard this year something about Cinta Costera?

http://www.visitpanama.com/index.php...id=509&lang=es

if you can read spanish ( on the upper right corner there is also english and portuguese)