Welcome to Panama 😊

Quick Facts About Panama

Money and Finances

The currency in Panama is the Panamanian Balboa (PAB), which is tied to the United States Dollar (USD) at a fixed exchange rate of 1:1. Coins are available in 1, 5, 10, 25, and 50 cent denominations, while notes come in 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, and 100 USD denominations, which are widely accepted throughout the country.

ATM Network

ATMs are widely available in Panama, especially in major cities and tourist destinations. However, it is advisable to carry some cash in case of emergencies or when visiting more remote areas.

Credit Cards

Credit cards are generally accepted in Panama, especially in larger stores, hotels, and restaurants. Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted, with AMEX being less common. However, it is always best to check with the merchant before making a purchase.

Internet and Phones

Panama has a relatively fast internet speed with an average download speed of 36 Mbps and upload speed of 14 Mbps. There is no government interference in internet use.

Phone Plans and SIM Cards

There are several telco companies in Panama including Claro, Movistar, and Digicel. The average cost of a mobile phone plan with data is around $20-$30 per month. There are no sim compatibility issues in Panama.

Dialling to Panama

To call Panama from another country, dial the country code +507 followed by the phone number. Within Panama, dial the area code (2-3 digits) followed by the phone number.

Transport Around Panama

Air Travel

Panama has one major airport, Tocumen International Airport, located just outside Panama City. There are also several smaller regional airports throughout the country.

Train Travel

There is no inter-city train network in Panama. Instead, buses are commonly used to travel between cities. A bus trip from Panama City to David, for example, takes around 7 hours and costs approximately $15.

Metro / Local Trains

Panama City has a modern metro system, with two lines covering much of the city and affordable fares ranging from $0.35 to $0.45 per journey.

Buses

Buses are the primary form of public transportation in Panama. They are frequent and affordable, costing around $0.50 - $2 for short distances and up to $20 for longer journeys. A bus ride from Panama City to Bocas del Toro takes around 10 hours and costs around $30.

Rideshare

Uber is available in Panama City, with average prices for a ride ranging from $2-5 within the city center.

Driving by Car

Driving in Panama can be challenging due to narrow roads, heavy traffic, and frequent potholes. The speed limit is typically 100 km/h on highways and 40-60 km/h in towns and cities. Panama drives on the right side of the road.

Local Customs

In Panama, tipping is common in restaurants, bars, and for taxi drivers. The standard amount is around 10%. Locals greet each other with a handshake and it is common to use first names. Speaking with strangers is generally considered polite and friendly. Men and women address each other using their first names as well.

Health and Diseases

Medical System

In Panama, healthcare services are provided by both public and private institutions. The public healthcare system is subsidized by the government and provides free healthcare to all citizens. Private healthcare services are also available, but they can be expensive. The average cost of a visit to a doctor in Panama is around $20-$50. Health insurance is not mandatory, but recommended for visitors.

COVID Situation

Panama has been significantly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, with a high number of confirmed cases and deaths. The government has implemented strict measures such as lockdowns and curfews to control the spread of the virus. Currently, there are still restrictions in place for entering the country and moving around certain regions. Travelers are required to present a negative COVID-19 test taken within 48 hours of arrival and must quarantine for 3-5 days upon arrival.

Common Health Risks

Some common health risks in Panama include mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue fever and malaria, as well as foodborne illnesses such as typhoid and hepatitis A. Visitors are advised to take precautions such as using insect repellent, drinking bottled water, and avoiding undercooked foods to reduce the risk of these illnesses.

Laws and Regulations

Alcohol Consumption

In Panama, the legal drinking age is 18. Alcohol can be purchased and consumed in public places. However, drinking in unlicensed public places is prohibited by law.

Recreational Drugs

The use of recreational drugs is illegal in Panama, and offenders may face imprisonment. It is also illegal to possess, sell, or traffic drugs, including soft drugs like cannabis and party drugs.

Pre-Marital Relationships

Panama does not have any laws that specifically target pre-marital relationships. However, sex with a minor under the age of 18 is considered statutory rape and is punishable by law.

LGBTQ and Same-Sex

Same-sex sexual activity was decriminalized in Panama in 2008. While there is no official recognition of same-sex relationships, discrimination based on sexual orientation is prohibited by law. However, the LGBTQ community still faces social stigma and discrimination.

Firearms / Guns

Ownership and possession of firearms in Panama is strictly regulated. In order to obtain a firearm, one must go through a lengthy application process and meet several requirements, including a clean criminal record. It is illegal to carry a firearm in public without a permit.