Flying in Panama is relatively simple. It has now been relocated at the once U.S. airforce base in the canal zone. A nice flight to get aquainted with the terrain is a flight to Colon on the atlantic coast. The Tocumen International is also easy to get out to. I simply call to the tower and you are on your way.
All communication is done in English.
The validation of an U.S.A. or Swiss PPL is done without any complication. English is spoken widespread in Panama, however Spanish is a plus if you land at a small airport.