Tourism Policy: Panama published Law 541 in the Official Gazette (July 7), creating “Paraísos del Istmo,” a certification program for communities with standout history, culture, nature, or food—unlocking coordinated public investment for signage, info centers, heritage restoration, training, marketing, and visitor-ready basics like roads and water. Travel Safety & Customs: A foreigner was detained at Tocumen after being caught with $15,000 in undeclared cash; Panama can confiscate all funds and pursue money-laundering or illegal currency trafficking charges. Canal & Trade Diplomacy: Mexico’s Claudia Sheinbaum and Panama’s José Raúl Mulino focused on protecting the Panama Canal’s neutrality under the Torrijos-Carter Treaties, plus cooperation on the screwworm. Heritage Food: A feature spotlights sancocho as a deep-rooted Panamanian comfort dish—indigenous, African, and Spanish influences in one shared pot. Regional Tourism Buzz: Barbados brought “island energy” to Panama’s Tropic Madness with Nike LATAM, including Run Barbados and Ninja Throwdown prizes. Global Travel Watch: Russia released its full visa-free entry list for 2026, with conditions that vary by passport type and visit purpose.