Panama: 10 essential things to know before you leave
Panama: 10 essential things to know before you leave
Are you planning a trip to Panama?
Or are you simply curious about this little-known country?
Here are 10 essential things you need to know before coming… based on our experience on the ground:
💵 1. currency
The currency used in Panama is the US dollar (USD).👉 Very practical:
* no complicated conversions
* stable currency
*ideal for international travelers
👉 Special feature: there are also local coins called balboas, but they have exactly the same value as 1 USD.
🗣️ 2. Language
The official language is Spanish.👉 English is fairly common in:
* tourist areas
* hotels
* some shops
But in everyday life…
👉 knowing a few words of Spanish makes all the difference (and opens a lot of doors).
💸 3. Tips
* Restaurants: 10% minimum, or even 15% or 20% if you’re very happy.
* Taxis: not compulsory, but rounding up is appreciated
* Guides / drivers: a few dollars if you liked the service
👉 Nothing excessive, but it’s common practice.
💰 4. Cost of living
Panama is a country where the cost of living varies greatly.
* 🍽️ Local meal: between 4 and 8 USD
* 🍴 International restaurant: more expensive
* 🚖 Transport: generally affordable
👉 You can live simply… or very comfortably, depending on your style.
🔐 5. Security
Overall, Panama is a safe country for travelers.
👉 But as everywhere:
* avoid certain neighborhoods (El Chorrillo, Curundú, Colón)
* remain vigilant in tourist areas
* favor Uber at night
👉 On the Pacific coast, especially towards San Carlos, the atmosphere is calm and safe.
🚗 6. Transport
* 🚖 Uber: available in major cities and very convenient
* 🚌 Local buses: very cheap, but sometimes difficult to understand
* 🚆 Panama Canal Railway train: unique experience
👉 To explore freely (beaches, mountains…), renting a car is often the best option.
💡 Tip: use Waze rather than Google Maps.
📶 7. Telecommunications
* 📱 Easy-to-buy prepaid SIM cards (Claro, Tigo, MasMovil)
* 💰 Around 5 to 10 USD per week
* 📡 Wi-Fi available almost everywhere
👉 Staying connected in Panama is simple and affordable.
🌦️ 8. Climate
Panama enjoys a tropical climate all year round.
* ☀️ Dry season: December to April
* 🌧️ Rainy season: May to November
👉 Contrary to popular belief, in Arco Seco it doesn’t rain all day – often it’s showers at the end of the day and that’s rather pleasant.
🏥 9. Health
* 💧 Tap water is safe to drink in most of the country
* 💉 Check vaccinations depending on the area visited (e.g. Darién)
* ☀️ Sunscreen and mosquito repellent essential
👉 Private clinics generally offer a very high standard of care.
🔌 10. Electricity
* American plugs (type A and B)
* Voltage : 110V
👉 If you’re coming from Europe, remember to bring an adapter.
🌴 A little bonus: living or staying in Panama
What many discover once they’re there…
👉 It’s not just a destination
👉 It’s a way of life
Between nature, climate, a gentler pace and accessibility,
Panama is attracting more and more:
* travelers
* digital nomads
* expatriates
💛 What if it was your turn?
Maybe you’re planning a trip…
Or maybe you’re dreaming about something else.
In any case, this information will help you understand Panama better.
👉 And if you’re looking for somewhere quiet, close to nature, on the Pacific coast…
San Carlos is a region to discover. And why not stay at Casa Fofo!
✨ (And between us… that’s exactly why we chose to live there.)
So… how far along are you in your travel preparations?
