10 Cultural Faux Pas to Avoid While Living in Panama

Living in a new country can be exciting yet challenging, and Panama is no exception. To help expats navigate the cultural landscape, here are ten tips to avoid cultural faux pas and ensure a smooth transition to living in Panama.

1. Understand the Concept of "Panama Time"

Panamanians have a relaxed approach to time, known as "Panama Time." This means social events often start later than scheduled. Punctuality is appreciated in business settings, but for social gatherings, arriving 15-30 minutes late is common and acceptable.

2. Greetings: Kisses and Handshakes

Greetings in Panama are warm and friendly. Women greet each other with a kiss on the cheek, while men greet each other with a handshake. Men and women greeting each other typically use a single kiss on the cheek. Using the formal "usted" form of address is polite until invited to use the informal "tú."

3. Respect for Elders

Panamanian culture highly respects the elderly. Always show deference to older individuals, offer them your seat on public transportation, and address them respectfully. This courtesy is deeply valued in Panama.

4. Dress Conservatively

Panama is generally conservative in dress, especially in professional settings. Shorts, flip-flops, and revealing clothing are typically reserved for the beach or very casual settings. Dress modestly to avoid unwanted attention and to show respect for local norms.

5. Learn Basic Spanish

While many Panamanians speak English, learning basic Spanish will greatly enhance your experience. Even simple phrases demonstrate respect and effort to integrate into the local culture. This can open doors to deeper connections and better communication.

6. Respect Personal Space

Panamanians value personal space and physical boundaries. Be mindful of how close you stand to others and avoid invading someone's personal space without invitation. This is particularly important in social and professional settings.

7. Tipping Culture

Tipping is not mandatory in Panama but is appreciated, especially in tourism areas. A 10% tip is customary in restaurants, while other services like taxis and delivery do not require tips. Knowing the tipping norms can help you navigate interactions smoothly.

8. Avoid Discussing Politics

Politics can be a sensitive topic in Panama. Avoid discussing political issues unless you are with close friends who understand your perspective. This helps maintain harmony and respect in social interactions.

9. Be Punctual for Business Meetings

While social events may start late, punctuality is valued in business settings. Arriving on time for meetings shows respect and professionalism. Plan your travel time accordingly to avoid delays.

10. Embrace Local Customs

Participating in local festivals, trying traditional foods, and engaging in local customs shows appreciation for Panamanian culture. This can foster a deeper connection with the community and enrich your experience as an expat.

We hope these tips help you navigate life in Panama with ease. Share your experiences and any additional tips you have on Expat Exchange's Panama forum. Your insights can be invaluable to fellow expats.

Expats Confess Their Cultural Faux Pas in Panama

"Giving our housekeeper and gardener a raise caused quite a stir amongst the neighbors. Inviting the "help" into the house and sharing the mid day meal was also considered a no-no. Having never had any sort of hired help, I didn't know the general practice of either not feeding or giving a sandwich to them to be eaten outdoors or in the garage. For the record, I still have lunch with them, cook some of their favorite American dishes and really enjoy their company. They help me with my "Spanglish" and I help them with their English," commented an expat living in Altos del Maria.

"In Panama, it is important to be respectful in all interactions. Pronouncing Spanish words incorrectly or using slang can be considered offensive or inappropriate. It is also important to be aware of local dress codes, as wearing revealing clothing in religious or traditionally conservative settings can be seen as inappropriate. Additionally, it is important to respect Panama’s indigenous cultures and be sensitive to any cultural differences that may exist. Showing deference and respect to authority figures is also key. Finally, do not be disrespectful to Panamanian flags, emblem, and customs, as this can be considered a serious offense," said an expat in Panama.

"Panamanians are very tranquilo people and willing to help. If you are politely sincere, they will overlook any faux pas. However, don't mistake kindness for weakness. Panamanians are also tough. If you approach them as a superior jerk, you will get the jerk treatment. One of the things I love most about Panamanians is their insightful sense of humor. It is quite sophisticated. My Spanish is not good, but our joint sense of humor supersedes all language barriers. Just be good and relaxed," remarked one expat who made the move to Panama.