CANSO Latin America and Caribbean Conference 2025

To view the conference programme please click on the link below.

The CANSO Latin America and Caribbean Conference will be held at:

JW Marriott Panama

Calle Punta Colon

Punta Pacífica

Panama City

Panama

0833-00321

See the hotel on a map here

Click here to book your accommodation at the conference hotel for the rate of 159 USD plus taxes.

To receive the discounted rate, rooms must be booked by Tuesday 7 October.

The hotel is situated 20 miles from Panama City’s Tocumen International Airport. Please note that delegates will need to arrange their own transfers from and to the airport.

Transport options

Those staying at the JW Marriott and who wish to book the hotel’s transfer service should email  jwpanama.ays@marriott.com and reference “CANSO LAC Conference 2025”. Rates start from 50 USD plus tax. When booking this service, please provide the following information:

• Airline and Flight Number
• Date and time of arrival or departure
• Departure airport
• Amount of people arriving
• Type of car you choose
• Reservation confirmation at the hotel
• Contact number

Taxi/Private Transfer

The fastest and most comfortable option is to take a taxi or pre‑booked private transfer. A standard airport taxi ride from Tocumen International Airport to the JW Marriott (in Punta Pacifica) typically takes around 16–25 minutes, depending on traffic, and costs up to USD 40. Travellers are advised to confirm the fare before starting the ride.

Public Transport

Take the Metro Line 2 from the Aeropuerto station to either the El Carmen or Via Argentina stations, from where you will need to take a 10 minute taxi ride to the hotel. This journey can take around 60 to 90 minutes.

Direct Shuttle Service

Many private companies offer direct shared shuttle services. These typically take 17–30 minutes, depending on service schedule and traffic, with fares up to USD 50 each way. These will require advanced booking.

Panama maintains relatively open and visitor-friendly visa policies. Those from many States in Latin America, North America, the Caribbean, and Europe do not require a visa for short visits (typically up to 90 or 180 days), provided they hold a valid passport and meet standard entry conditions.

For nationals of countries that do require a visa, Panama offers an electronic visa (e-visa) application process through its consular system.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, travellers should consult the Panama National Immigration Service or their local Panamanian consulate, and check the official site: https://www.migracion.gob.pa

Should you need a visa support letter from our host please email Events@CANSO.org with the following details:

• First name
• Last name
• Passport number
• Job title
• Organisation

About Panama City

Panama City, the capital of Panama, is a dynamic metropolis that blends modern skyscrapers with colonial-era landmarks. It’s the political and economic centre of the country and home to the Panama Canal—one of the most significant engineering feats in the world.

With vibrant neighbourhoods like Casco Viejo and modern developments along the Cinta Costera, Panama City offers a mix of rich culture, cuisine, shopping, and history.

Conference Venue

CANSO Latin America Conference 2025 will be held at:

JW Marriott Panama

Calle Punta Colon

Punta Pacífica

Panama City

Panama

0833-00321

Airport Transfers

Taxi/Private Transfer

The fastest and most comfortable option is to take a taxi or pre‑booked private transfer. A standard airport taxi ride from Tocumen International Airport to the JW Marriott (in Punta Pacifica) typically takes around 16–25 minutes, depending on traffic, and costs up to USD40. Travellers are advised to confirm the fare before starting the ride.

Public Transport

Take the Metro Line 2 from the Aeropuerto station to either the El Carmen or Via Argentina stations, from where you will need to take a 10 minute taxi ride to the hotel. This journey can take around 60 to 90 minutes.

Direct Shuttle Service

Many private companies offer direct shared shuttle services. These typically take 17–30 minutes, depending on service schedule and traffic, with fares up to USD 50 each way. These will require advanced booking.

Taxis and Public Transport

Panama City has a reliable and affordable public transportation system that includes a metro, bus network, taxis, and ride-hailing apps. Apps like Moovit are excellent ways of planning your use of public transport.

Metro (Subway)
The Panama Metro is modern, safe, and air-conditioned.

Line 1 runs from Albrook (near the conference venue) to San Isidro.

Line 2 connects San Miguelito to Nuevo Tocumen.

The metro operates a frequent service with trains every 5–10 minutes during peak hours. The service runs from early morning to 23:00 Monday to Friday, and to 22:00 on Saturday and Sunday.

Buses
Panama City has an extensive bus network throughout the city connecting neighbourhoods alongside metro stations.

Paying for bus and metro

The Panama City Metro Card (Tarjeta Metrobus) is needed for Metro and Metro Bus access.

Cards can be purchased at Metro stations and major bus terminals like Albrook.

The initial card cost is around USD 2.00, plus reloadable balance.

Taxis
Taxis are widely available, but are not metered. Fares usually range between USD $3–$10 within the city, but always agree your fare before starting your trip.

Shared taxi rides with strangers (collectivos) are common.

Ride-Share Services
Uber, DiDi, and InDriver operate reliably and are often cheaper and safer than traditional taxis. They are ideal for English-speaking visitors.

Registration

Tuesday 28 October 08:00-17:00

Registration will be open on Wednesday 29 and Thursday 30 from 08:00-09:00 if you have not yet collected your badge.

It is highly recommended to collect your badge on Tuesday.

Social Events

Welcome Reception:

Tuesday 28 October

Conference Dinner

Wednesday 29 October

Host Tour

Thursday 30 October

VISA Information

Panama maintains relatively open and visitor-friendly visa policies. Those from many States in Latin America, North America, the Caribbean, and Europe do not require a visa for short visits (typically up to 90 or 180 days), provided they hold a valid passport and meet standard entry conditions.

For nationals of countries that do require a visa, Panama offers an electronic visa (e-visa) application process through its consular system.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, travellers should consult the Panama National Immigration Service or their local Panamanian consulate, and check the official site: https://www.migracion.gob.pa

If you require a Visa Invitation Letter, please email: Events@CANSO.org

Be sure to check the relevant box in your registration form if you need a letter.

Time Zone

The time zone in Panama is UTC -5.

Language

The official language of Panama is Spanish, though English is widely spoken in tourist and business areas.

The CANSO Latin America and Caribbean Conference will be conducted in English. Translation will be available during the conference plenary sessions Wednesday 29 October.

Weather

Late October in Panama falls within the rainy season, also known as the ‘green season’. Expect warm, humid tropical weather with daily temperatures ranging from 24°C (75°F) at night to 31°C (88°F) during the day.

Rain typically comes in short, intense afternoon or evening downpours, often followed by sunshine. While showers are frequent, they are usually brief, making it possible to enjoy outdoor activities between rain spells. Lightweight clothing and an umbrella or rain jacket are recommended.

Currency

The official currency is the Balboa (PAB), though the US Dollar (USD) is used interchangeably. Prices are typically quoted in USD.

ATMs are widely available, and major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express) are accepted in most locations.

Tipping

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory.
Restaurants: 10 per cent is customary if not already included.
Taxis/Ride-Share: Round up or offer USD $1–$2.
Hotel Staff:
  – Porters: USD $1–$2 per bag
  – Housekeeping: USD $2 per day
  – Concierge: Tip based on service provided

Please note that mandatory housekeeping and bellman gratuities will be included in your hotel bill as per union policies.

Electricity

Panama uses plug types A and B (same as the USA).

Voltage is 110V at 60Hz. No adapter is required for North American devices.

Wi-Fi

Complimentary Wi-Fi is available at the conference venue and in most hotels and cafes.

Health Information

Before you travel, you should also check with your doctor or local travel health clinic to see if you need any vaccinations or other treatment.

It is recommended to bring insect repellent.

It is strongly recommended for participants to have travel insurance (including health) for the duration of their stay in Panama. Participants should particularly ensure that their insurance is applicable in Panama. Furthermore, they should carry evidence of current health/hospitalisation insurance such as cards that may be provided to health care providers should the need arise.

Visit https://www.minsa.gob.pa for more details.

Emergency Contacts

General Emergency: 911
Ambulance: 911
Police: 104
Fire Brigade: 103

International Dialling Code

Panama’s international dialling code is 507

Excursions in and Around Panama City

For cultural and sightseeing tours, see https://www.tourismpanama.com/

We have partnered with Gotuuri to offer CANSO Latin America and Caribbean Conference 2025 delegates special rates on a whole host of tours and other activities in Panama and beyond. Click on this link to find out more or scan the QR code below, and use discount code CANSO at check out for 10 per cent off your tour cost.