Hi, I will be going to Panama for the first time, for two weeks, to celebrate the New Years. I have done some research, but I would appreciate if you could answer some specific questions.

1. I have already read that it is the best to have small bills, as change is hard to come by; also avoid using bills over $20 in denomination. Is condition of cash bills important? In many countries frail US dollars would be refused. Is it necessary to take only crisp cash to Panama? Uncirculated bills are often hard to come by in the US; it is not unusual for local bank branches to not have any. Should I make an effort, before going to Panama, to stock up on crisp notes?

2. Are US Quarter coins accepted in Panama? Would it be a good idea to bring good supply of US Quarters? Do I need smaller coins? How much do public restrooms normally charge?

3. I have read advice not to buy SIM cards at the airport, but purchase in the city instead. Is there really spread in SIM card pricing? How exactly to identify a good place to purchase a Panamanian SIM card? For example, if I want to get a Digicel SIM card, should I just head to their official Albrook Mall location?

4. When negotiating taxi fare, does the negotiated fare include tolls?

5. How likely random taxi drivers in Panama are to speak English?

6. I have already booked trips to Pearl Islands and to San Blas. Is it necessary to book any Panama City and Panama Canal activities in advance?

7. I read conflicting information about beaches in Panama City, are there any in the vicinity worth going to or should I keep all my beach activities to the islands?

8. Arriving at PTY from the US (American Airlines), would I be able to wait and meet my friend, who is arriving half an hour later from Europe (Lufthansa), by the plane arrival gate?

9. Staying at the Hotel El Panama for the New Year’s celebration. Is the party the hotel throwing the place to be, or is there some other venue we should try to get to?

Thank you.