Pedasi: Panama's Hidden Gem

• HelloHola
  [oh-lah]
• GoodbyeAdiós
  [ah-dee-ohs]
• YesSí
  [see]
• NoNo
  [noh]
• Please/You're welcomePor favor/De nada
  [por fah-vor/deh nah-dah]
• Thank youGracias
  [grah-see-ahs]
• Excuse me/SorryPerdón/Lo siento
  [pair-dohn/loh see-en-toh]
• How are you?¿Cómo estás?
  [koh-moh ehs-tahs]
• Fine. And you?Bien. ¿Y tú?
  [bee-ehn. ee too]
• Do you speak English?¿Hablas inglés?
  [ah-blahs een-glays]
• I don't understandNo entiendo
  [noh ehn-tee-ehn-doh]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMe gustaría ver el menú, por favor
  [may goo-stah-ree-ah vehr ehl meh-noo, poor fah-vor]
• I don't eat meatNo como carne
  [noh koh-moh kahr-neh]
• Cheers!¡Salud!
  [sah-lood]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMe gustaría pagar, por favor
  [may goo-stah-ree-ah pah-gahr, poor fah-vor]

• Help!¡Ayuda!
  [ah-yoo-dah]
• Go away!¡Vete!
  [veh-teh]
• Call the Police!¡Llama a la policía!
  [yah-mah ah lah poh-lee-see-ah]
• Call a doctor!¡Llama a un doctor!
  [yah-mah ah oon dohk-tohr]
• I'm lostEstoy perdido
  [ehs-toy pair-dee-doh]
• I'm illEstoy enfermo
  [ehs-toy ehn-fehr-moh]

• I'd like to buy...Me gustaría comprar...
  [may goo-stah-ree-ah kohm-prahr]
• I'm just lookingSolo estoy mirando
  [soh-loh ehs-toy mee-rahn-doh]
• How much is it?¿Cuánto cuesta?
  [kwan-toh kwehs-tah]
• That's too expensiveEso es demasiado caro
  [eh-soh ehs deh-mah-see-ah-doh kah-roh]
• Can you lower the price?¿Puede bajar el precio?
  [pweh-deh bah-har ehl pree-syoh]

• What time is it?¿Qué hora es?
  [keh oh-rah ehs]
• It's one o'clockEs la una
  [ehs lah oo-nah]
• Half past (10)Las diez y media
  [lahs dyehs ee meh-dee-ah]
• MorningMañana
  [mah-nyah-nah]
• AfternoonTarde
  [tahr-deh]
• EveningNoche
  [noh-cheh]
• YesterdayAyer
  [ah-yehr]
• TodayHoy
  [oy]
• TomorrowMañana
  [mah-nyah-nah]
• 1Uno
  [oo-noh]
• 2Dos
  [dohs]
• 3Tres
  [trehs]
• 4Cuatro
  [kwah-troh]
• 5Cinco
  [seen-koh]
• 6Seis
  [says]
• 7Siete
  [syeh-teh]
• 8Ocho
  [oh-choh]
• 9Nueve
  [nweh-veh]
• 10Diez
  [dyehs]

• Where's a/the...?¿Dónde está...?
  [dohn-deh ehs-tah]
• What's the address?¿Cuál es la dirección?
  [kwal ehs lah dee-rehk-syohn]
• Can you show me (on the map)?¿Puedes mostrarme (en el mapa)?
  [pweh-dehs mohs-trahr-meh (ehn ehl mah-pah)]
• When's the next (bus)?¿Cuándo es el próximo (autobús)?
  [kwan-doh ehs ehl proh-ksee-moh (ow-toh-boos)]
• A ticket (to ....)Un boleto (a ....)
  [oon boh-leh-toh (ah)]

Long before the arrival of European settlers, the region now known as Pedasi was inhabited by indigenous tribes. The Azuero Peninsula, where Pedasi is located, was home to the Guaymí and other indigenous groups. Archaeological findings suggest a rich cultural and social life, characterized by intricate pottery and advanced agricultural practices.

In the early 16th century, Spanish conquistadors arrived in the region, dramatically altering the lives of its indigenous inhabitants. Pedasi, like much of Panama, became a part of the Spanish Empire. The town's strategic location on the Azuero Peninsula made it a focal point for the transportation of goods and people, contributing to the area's economic development.

The wave of independence movements that swept across Latin America in the early 19th century reached Pedasi as well. Panama declared its independence from Spain on November 28, 1821. Pedasi's residents participated in the broader struggle for freedom, contributing to the formation of the new nation.

After separating from Colombia in 1903, Panama became an independent republic. Pedasi experienced significant growth and transformation during this period. The town's economy, traditionally based on agriculture and fishing, began to diversify. Infrastructure improvements, such as roads and public buildings, were initiated to modernize the area.

In recent decades, Pedasi has transformed into a popular tourist destination. Its pristine beaches, vibrant marine life, and charming colonial architecture have attracted visitors from around the world. Investments in tourism infrastructure have bolstered the local economy and provided new opportunities for residents.

Pedasi is a hub of cultural activity, boasting a rich tradition of music, dance, and festivals. The annual Carnival and other local celebrations showcase the town's vibrant folklore and community spirit. Local crafts, such as pottery and textiles, reflect the area's indigenous and colonial heritage.

Pedasi is located on the Azuero Peninsula in Panama. The nearest major airport is Tocumen International Airport in Panama City, approximately 350 kilometers away. From Panama City, you can either drive or take a domestic flight to Pedasi. The drive typically takes around 4.5 to 5 hours via the Pan-American Highway and Route 2. Alternatively, you can take a domestic flight to Chitré, followed by a 1.5-hour drive to Pedasi.

Pedasi is a small town, and many attractions are within walking distance. For longer distances, local taxis are readily available and relatively inexpensive. Buses and minibuses (colectivos) operate to nearby towns and beaches. Renting a car is a convenient option if you plan to explore the Azuero Peninsula more extensively. Bicycles and scooters are also available for rent and are popular for short trips around town.

The official currency in Panama is the Panamanian Balboa (PAB), which is equivalent to the US Dollar (USD). US Dollars are widely accepted and are the primary currency used in transactions. Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it is advisable to carry some cash, especially in smaller establishments and more rural areas. ATMs are available in Pedasi, but it is wise to withdraw sufficient cash in Panama City or Chitré before traveling.

Pedasi is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, like any travel destination, it is advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While Pedasi itself does not have high-crime areas targeting tourists, it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings. Stick to well-lit and populated areas, especially after dark.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. The local police station and medical facilities are available in Pedasi. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in town where you can purchase over-the-counter medications. The nearest hospital is located in Las Tablas, approximately 45 minutes away by car.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably and casually, but bring a light jacket for cooler evenings. Beachwear is acceptable at the beach but not in town. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. While Pedasi is not very religiously conservative, it is always good to be respectful. Public Transport: Do be respectful to drivers and fellow passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Hola' or 'Buenas'. A handshake is common when meeting someone for the first time. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Pedasi like a local, visit the Mercado Municipal where you can buy fresh produce and local goods. Engage with locals, as they are friendly and often willing to share stories about the town and its history. Don't miss the opportunity to visit Playa Venao for surfing or relaxing. For a unique cultural experience, attend the local festivals, especially the Carnival, which is celebrated with great enthusiasm. Exploring nearby Isla Iguana offers a chance to see wildlife and enjoy pristine beaches.