Panama FAQs

What will our accommodations be?

We will be staying at the Hilton Panama, a 5-star, modern high-rise hotel located on the Pacific Ocean waterfront in Panama City, Panama.

What flights should I book? Where should I fly into and out of, and at what times?

The program begins at the Panama City airport on Tuesday, February 2nd at 2:00pm and ends on Sunday, February 7th at 12:30pm. Arriving flights should land by 2:00pm on 2/2 and departing flights should leave at 3:20pm or later on 2/7. If you arrive before the scheduled start of the trip, please meet the group at Aroma.

Will airport transfers be provided?

Airport transfers will be provided on Tuesday, February 2nd at 2:30pm and on Sunday, February 7th at 12:30pm.

Should I purchase trip insurance?

Yes. The tour company recommends that all participants purchase trip insurance for your protection and peace of mind.

Passport requirements?

Please make sure your passport is valid for 6 months post the end of the trip. No special visas or vaccinations are required to travel to Panama.

How many women will be on this trip?

We can accommodate 45 participants and our 2 inspirational leaders, Julie Silverman and Chava Neiditch.

Are meals included?

Yes. The trip provides upscale, delicious kosher meals and snacks. We will do our best to accommodate food allergies; however, we cannot guarantee a completely allergy-free environment in Panama.

What is a Shabbat JWCA experience?

Shabbat with JWC Atlanta is always meaningful. We will experience Shabbat in Panama with the local community for an uplifting encounter.

Are there gatherings before or after the trip?

Yes. We’ll gather for pre- and post-trip meetings to get to know one another, build connections within the group, and begin forming the relationships that will make this journey so meaningful. Our meetings will take place on December 14, January 19, and March 16 (post-trip), giving us time to connect before we travel and reflect together when we return.

How many women share a room?

Rooms are double occupancy. An additional $900 fee applies for single occupancy, subject to availability. After registration, you will receive a roommate questionnaire. If you don’t have a roommate, don’t worry—we will pair you with one of our incredible JWC Atlanta women.

What if I don't know anyone going?

You don’t need to know anyone to join us! Many women come on their own, and building meaningful friendships is a big part of the JWC Atlanta experience. From our pre-trip gatherings to the journey itself, you’ll have opportunities to get to know the other women, form new connections, and become part of a welcoming community.

How active is the trip? How much walking should I expect?

This trip includes walking, outdoor excursions, a traditional canoe ride, and a short walk to a rainforest waterfall. Participants should be comfortable with these activities and uneven outdoor terrain. More detailed information about physical requirements will be provided before the trip. Please reach out to discuss specific accessibility needs.

Who is eligible to participate?

Jewish women living in the Greater Atlanta area are welcome. First-timers are warmly encouraged to join!

What am I responsible for?

International airfare to and from Panama
Trip insurance (recommended)
Personal expenses, souvenirs, or optional activities

What is the payment schedule?

A $500 non-refundable deposit is due upon registration to secure your spot.
Payment in full is due by December 1st. Unpaid balances after December 1 may result in the release of your spot, with no refund of the deposit.
Cancellation Policy:
- Cancellations received on or before December 1st will receive a refund of all amounts paid minus the $500 non-refundable deposit.
- Cancellations received between December 2nd and December 29th are eligible for a refund of 50% of the total program fee.
- No refunds will be issued for cancellations made on or after December 30th.
If for some reason the trip is canceled, you will receive a full refund via check or Zelle.