1- Is YWAM-Panama affliated with any local churches?

The quick answer is no, however, there are two bilingual (English/Spanish) churches, which many of our staff and students attend locally.

2- So, what can I not get in Panama?

Well, if you have a strong liking for Reese's Peanut Butter Cups, you can't get them here. Snickers, Butterfinger, Hersheys, Crunch, all these chocolate bars can be found in Panama.Reese's are the only thing we can't find. Doritos, Lays, Ruffles, and Pringles chips can be found here, as well as a large assortment ofpretzels and popcorn. No problem there. Oreos? Yep, got them.

3- So, I'm looking forward to that spicy Mexican-like latin food?

Not quite. Panama's typical dining experience does not include many of the foods one would normally associate with Mexico. Panamanian food, in general, emphasizes a variety of flavors, "spicy" usually isn't one of them. However, there are a number of culture dishes that are very tasty you may look forward to.

4- So, what kind of authentic souvenirs are there for me to bring back to the US?

Many of our frequent visitors take coffee back to the US, some of the local coffee is a favorite of theirs and their families. Many of the indigenous villages provide us beaded jewelry, various woodcarvings, and hand-woven baskets. Some of the indigenous women sell cultural dresses, which are available for sale as well. Of course, these are just a few examples of some of the craftwork and souvenirs that may be bought. Panamanian artisans are very talented and provide a wide range of different items for purchase.

5- How much does a load of laundry cost?

At the laundromat that we frequent, each load costs 50 cents to wash in warm water. If you want to use hot water, it'll cost you 25 cents more. Powder soap is available at the laundromat for purchase for 25 cents per load. As far as drying is concerned, we recommend with the high humidity in Panama, that each load be dried twice (otherwise you'll get back damp clothes). Each time through will cost you 75 cents per load, per time. Bottom line? Figure $2.25 per laundry load.

6- What are the staff rooms like?

This varies, based on the room in which you are assigned. For married couples and families, there are some multiple room apartments located on base. For singles, they are typically given a room with one or more roommates, with a bunk bed in the room. Depending on availability, there may be a shelf or small storage unit in the room, however these can also be purchased locally.

7- Are there hot showers for the staff or DTS students?

Nope. Remember, we are learning to suffer for the Gospel. Besides, a cold shower in the morning will certainly wake you up! On the bright side, cold tap water in the tropics isn't like cold tap water in the north.

8- What about transportation?

As previously mentioned, taxi services are available locally. Taxis looking for a fare will honk as they see you on the road. Waving your hand will get them to stop. Buses are also available for travel to shopping or for errands; the price depends upon the route and bus taken. The base does have vans at our disposal for ministry uses.

9- Can you drink the water?

Yes, the water is potable here in Panama City and the Canal Zone! However, traveling to the interior of the country, you'll be safer either bringing bottled water along or bringing water purification for longer trips.

10- Is the YWAM Base really built into the side of a mountain?

Yes.

11- Is there internet available on base?

Yes, there is wireless broadband internet access. There are also two desktop computers available for use outside of office hours.