Local Customs & Etiquette in Panama City, Panamá, Panama

All Topics about Panama City All Cities in Panama

1. Panama Hat Etiquette

Locals wear Panama hats as a symbol of national pride. It's considered disrespectful to touch someone else's hat.

Respectful Touching: Avoid touching anyone's Panama hat unless explicitly invited.
Appropriate Setting: Panama hats are more appropriate for casual, outdoor settings.
Gift Giving: Giving a Panama hat as a gift is a thoughtful gesture, but it should be high-quality and not a cheap imitation.

In formal dining situations, Panamanians use knife and fork together, and never leave them crossed on the plate. Tip is usually included in the bill.

Knife and Fork Usage: Use knife and fork simultaneously during meals.
Tipping Customs: Tip is typically included in the bill, but it's appreciated if you round up to the nearest dollar.
Table Manners: Do not leave your cutlery lying on the plate when not in use.

A firm handshake and direct eye contact are common during introductions. Personal space is smaller than in many Western countries.

Handshake Style: Firm handshake with direct eye contact.
Personal Space: Expect closer proximity during conversations than in some Western countries.
Formal Titles: Use formal titles when addressing someone for the first time, even if they are younger or less experienced.

While it's common to bargain in markets, always be respectful and mindful of the vendor's final price.

Respectful Bargaining: Always be courteous and considerate during negotiations.
Final Price Limit: There is usually a limit to how low the vendor will go on their price.
Buying Multiple Items: Negotiating for multiple items can lead to a better overall deal.

Visitors should wear modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees when entering churches. Hats are usually removed before entering.

Standing is expected on buses, and it's customary to offer your seat to elderly people or pregnant women.

Taxi drivers expect tips, and it's customary to round up the fare or give a few extra dollars. Uber is popular but traffic can be heavy.

Tipping Customs: Round up the fare or give a few extra dollars as tip.
Uber Availability: Uber is widely available but can be affected by heavy traffic.
Traffic Conditions: Expect traffic congestion, especially during rush hours.

Ordering coffee in a shop usually involves telling the barista your name and what you want. It's common to stay for hours sipping coffee.

Personalized Ordering: Tell the barista your name and what you want.
Staying Time: Coffee shops are social spaces where it's common to stay for hours.
Cash Only: Most coffee shops only accept cash.

Panama's independence day (November 3) is a national holiday, and the city celebrates with parades and fireworks.

National Pride: Celebrate Panamanian independence with pride.
Parades and Fireworks: Enjoy the city's parades and fireworks during Independence Day.
Respectful Observation: Observe local traditions and customs during holidays and celebrations.

When visiting indigenous territories, always ask permission, respect their customs, and leave no trace.

Asking Permission: Always ask permission before entering indigenous territories.
Respecting Customs: Respect local customs and traditions when visiting indigenous territories.
Leaving No Trace: Leave no trace of your visit to preserve the environment.

Smoking is allowed in designated areas and it's customary to offer a cigarette if you have one.

Designated Smoking Areas: Only smoke in designated smoking areas.
Offering a Cigarette: Offer a cigarette if you have one when socializing.
Smoke-Free Zones: Public buildings, restaurants, and some hotels are smoke-free zones.

Public beaches in Panama City have no lifeguards, so always swim cautiously and respect the local community.

Swimming Safety: Always swim cautiously as there are no lifeguards on public beaches.
Respect for the Local Community: Respect the local community and their customs when visiting the beach.
Proper Waste Disposal: Dispose of your waste properly to keep the beaches clean.

Street food vendors are a big part of Panamanian culture. It's common to eat with your hands, but always wash them first.

Eating with Hands: Eat street food with your hands after washing them.
Respect for Vendors: Treat street food vendors with respect and appreciation.
Cash Only: Street food vendors usually only accept cash.

Punctuality is important in business meetings. Dress professionally and be prepared to engage in small talk before getting down to business.

Buses are the primary mode of public transportation. They can get crowded, so be prepared to stand and hold on to something.

Crowded Conditions: Expect buses to be crowded and be prepared to stand.
Holding Onto Something: Hold onto something when the bus is moving to maintain your balance.
Exact Change: Always carry exact change for bus fares.