bugs? this is Panama, man... there are bugs everywhere, except in highlands like El Valle...
Try the mosquito coils that burn some toxic stuff very slowly. and mosquito net. (works well over hammocks)
Once you get to Bocas you might want to consider some inland visits. David is really nice and the area is abound with coffee (upland) so stock up, and flowers everywhere. and amazing birds. its beautiful.
when you
head south (really east) from there hit the San Blas Islands. Super
diving and really fabulous experiences.
have fun, you are headed to a wonderful place!
And Panama James, have you bumped into a redheaded naval retiree named rusty? Used to live on a killer tri in the
canal area...