WHEN TO GO: Panama only has two seasons - wet (May to December) and dry (January to April). The dry season is the best time to go, especially if you're planning to do land-based activities. During the rainy season, some areas become completely inaccessible. If you're only planning a dive trip the timing is less important, but vis is generally better during the dry season. The temperature along the coast in Panama City remains consistently between 850 F - 950 F. In the mountains, it will be cooler by 100 F - 150 F during the day and more at night.GETTING THERE David airport in Chiriqum is serviced only by Panama's two regional airlines, so you must first fly into Panama City. Tocumen airport in Panama City is serviced from most major gateways by American Airlines, Delta, Continental and COPA Airlines (Panama's national airline). There is a $5 entry visa fee due on arrival and a $20 departure tax due when you check-in for your departure flight.If you're going to spend time in Panama City, it's about a half-hour cab ride from the airport. Expect to pay $20-$25, depending on where your hotel is located.You can get to Chiriqum by car (about seven-hour's drive from Panama City) or by plane from Albrook airport to David on either of two regularly scheduled airlines.Aeroperlas: 507-315-7500www.aeroperlas.comAero Mapiex: 507-315-0288DIVING:MV/Coral Star live-aboard: [email protected] Explorer live-aboard: [email protected] Panama: [email protected] RAFTING:Chiriqum River Rafting:507-720-1505www.panama-rafting.comrafting@panama-rafting.comOUTFITTERS:Executive Expeditions: [email protected] Tours: [email protected]: [email protected] Panama Tours: 800-815-5019www.experiencepanama.cominfo@experiencepanama.comNeptuno: 507-226-2020IPAT - Panama's Tourism Board: 800-557-0017For more information on Panama, visit the Sport Diver Web site at www.sportdiver.com.