Books in Your Land and My Land: Africa series

Come to Panama and see a small nation that acts like it is big. The Panama Canal transports ships from the Atlantic to the Pacific Ocean in less than a day. That feat alone makes Panama important to the rest of the world. But there is more to Panama than the canal. The Kuna Indians live on islands off the Caribbean coast, where they welcome vistors to observe their way of life. In the western highlands is the inactive Volcan Baru where quetzals fly. In Panama City is Casco Viejo, the old part of the city where Panama declared its independence from Colombia in 1903. The mysterious and sometimes dangerous Darien calls visitors to experience rain forests, beaches, and a spectacular collection of wildlife. And the Panama Canal always beckons to travelers who want to see how the famous locks work. You may find yourself wanting to stay in Panama rather than head home at the end of your visit.

Lush beaches, tropical waterfalls, and picture-postcard mountain ranges greet visitors looking for a Caribbean getaway to the country of the Dominican Republic. Although it is impoverished, it has plenty to offer. The colorful people of this developing country, which shares the island of Hispaniola with Haiti, are eager to share its beautiful resorts, unique wildlife, and thriving businesses. A closer look reveals a country steeped in history, dotted with reminders of explorer Christopher Columbus, who is hailed as a hero there, and Spanish conquerors. Take a tour of the country, meet the people, sample the foods, try your hand at making a Taino bowl, and maybe even hit the dance floor to see if you have what it takes to merengue!