Panama, marked by international trade and guided by the Canal for over a century, is seeking to become an emerging power in tourism. In recent years, Tocumen International Airport has consolidated as a key hub connecting the north and south of the continent. However, the Panamanian government's strategy is not just for travelers to pass through the country, but for them to stay. "Mexicans like to travel, they seek to explore, have other experiences. They want to go out, and that, accompanied by Copa's connectivity, definitely places Mexico as one of our main markets where we need to start speaking to them. We have the cultural experience, nature, the infrastructure; Mexico is beginning to be one of our main markets," detailed Gloria de León, Panama's Minister of Tourism. According to data from the ministry of tourism, the flow of Mexican tourists is the third most important for the Central American nation, with a 20% increase in the last year and nearly 90,000 Mexicans. De León announced that as part of the strategy to attract more tourists, the Panamanian government will begin to offer free travel insurance, with coverage of up to eight days for all travelers entering Panama. The insurance will need to be activated, but it will be included for air passengers acquired by visitors. What is the Stopover program for traveling to Panama? Aligned with the tourism strategy, Copa Airlines, Panama's flag carrier, will extend the period of its 'Stopover' program, an option that allows travelers to stay in the Central American country on their way to or from their final destination, at no additional cost to their fare and with discounts on hotels and restaurants. While Copa's 'Stopover' program has been valid for staying in Panama for up to 7 days, this will be extended to 15 days, senior vacation product manager of Copa Airlines Karla Guillén announced in an interview.
