Here are some helpful tips to enhance your travel experience in Panama. We understand that finding such information online can be challenging, so let My Guide make it easier for you. In this section, we cover the following aspects:

Language:

• Spanish is the official language in Panama. While English proficiency is improving (14% of the population speaks it), navigating without Spanish can be challenging.
• Hotels and tours usually have English-speaking staff, but in everyday situations like restaurants or public transport, English may not be widely spoken.
• Consider learning basic Spanish or check our language tips section for assistance.

Local Time:

• Panama observes U.S. East Coast time and is 6 hours behind Greenwich Mean Time.

Business Hours:

• Private business offices are open from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, and Saturdays from 8:00 a.m. to 12 noon.
• Banks operate from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, with some opening on Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon.

Tipping:

• Tipping is customary, with suggested percentages of 10% to 20% in restaurants and for services.

Post Offices:

• Post offices (Correos y Telégrafos Cotel) are found in every town, typically open from 7:30 am to 5 pm.

Water:

• Tap water in Panama is generally safe to drink. Bottled water is widely available and inexpensive if preferred.
• Hot water in showers is common in hotels but may not be the norm in Panamanian households or smaller accommodations.

Electricity Sockets:

• Panama uses a standard voltage of 110 V and a frequency of 60 Hz, compatible with U.S. appliances.

Money (Currency):

• Panama’s official currency is the Balboa (PAB), but the U.S. Dollar (USD) is widely accepted.
• The official exchange rate is 1 PAB = 1 USD. Balboa coins are common but only valid in Panama.

Bargaining:

• Bargaining is acceptable in most shops in Panama, excluding shopping malls where prices are fixed. Look for deals during events like Black weekends and Black Friday.

Public Parking:

• In non-paid parking areas, individuals may offer to watch your car for a fee (usually USD 1) to prevent damage.

Dress Code:

• Dress code varies by location. Business casual or streetwear is suitable in Panama City, while casual attire is common in Boquete. In Bocas del Toro, casual beachwear is typical.

Personal Space:

• Panamanians are affectionate. Expect hugs and cheek kisses (male/female and female/female) when introduced. If uncomfortable, a smile and a handshake are acceptable.

Hygiene in Public Facilities:

• Panama maintains cleanliness in public facilities, especially in urban areas. Rural facilities may vary in cleanliness.

Important Phone Numbers:

• Medical Emergencies: 911 (Ambulance coverage in Panama Province, Colon, and Cocle until Rio Hato)
• Police: 104 (National coverage)
• Firemen: 103 (National coverage)