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Communication Styles
Upon first meeting, it is most appropriate to address a person with ‘señor‘ (for
males), ‘señora’ (for married females) or ‘señorita’ (for single females), plus the last
name. Most Hispanics have two surnames: one from their father, which is listed
first, followed by one from their mother. Only the father’s surname is used when
addressing someone.
Some women maintain the tradition of taking their husbands’ last name preceded
by ‘de’ when they get married (e.g., Sara de Martinelli or Señora de Martinelli). For
official purposes, women keep their maiden names, which are a combination of
their fathers’ and mothers’ last names. Thus a woman named Sara Arosemena
Blanco married to Juan Martinelli could use the name Sara Arosemena Blanco de
Martinelli.
Common courtesies used when meeting someone include mucho gusto and un
placer (both meaning ‘a pleasure’).
Panamanians are warm, animated and cordial. They tend to touch each other
when conversing and maintain close proximity. When greeting in an informal
setting, a single kiss is given on the cheek, while handshakes are used in business
situations. For phone calls and written correspondence between family and friends,
common closing greetings include un beso (‘a kiss’) or un abrazo (‘a hug’).
Panamanian nationals are usually very hospitable, but they will not invite others
into their homes until a personal relationship has developed. If you are invited to a
Panamanian home, you should bring a small gift, such as candy or chocolate, a
bottle of wine or flowers. If your hosts have children, bringing them a small gift also
will be well received.
Panamanians are conscious of public image and reputation; they avoid conflict and
often will agree with someone to avoid embarrassing the other person.
Transportation in panama
Panama is a small country with good transportation infrastructure. It’s easy to get most
places by bus or small plane, and the rides are generally short and painless. Panama’s
roads are in good shape. The country’s main highway, the Interamericana (or
Interamerican Highway) runs west to east and is easy to navigate. In Panama this
highway runs from the border with Costa Rica all the way to the town of Yaviza in
the Darién. No roads go past this point.
By Plane
Panama is reasonably well connected by domestic flights. Because Panama is so
small, flights are generally quite short — the longest takes around an hour, not
including interim stops. Popular routes can have several flights a day, while less
traveled destinations will only be served once or twice a week. Domestic flights often
make several stops along the way, so be sure to get off at the right place.
By Rental Car
Panama’s transportation system — which includes domestic flights, buses, boats,
private transports, and taxis — makes it easy to get around without ever stepping
behind the wheel. In most cases, this is the best way to travel. You certainly won’t
want to drive within Panama City or other urban areas.
However, some travelers may want the autonomy of having a rental car, especially if
they’re on a longer trip. Be warned, however, that driving in Panama can involve busy
streets and in rural areas, very rough roads.
Panamanian law requires drivers and passengers to wear seatbelts. It’s illegal to drive
while talking on a cell phone, and also illegal to not wear a shirt while driving
(seriously).
Panama City has many rental car agencies, and others can be found in David or other
major cities. The major companies include Avid, Hertz, Thrifty, Alamo, Budget, and
National.
By Bus
Buses are the primary way that most Panamanians — and many travelers — get
around. They run frequently and are cheap and fast. Rural buses tend to only run from
dawn till dusk, but there are night buses for longer treks. Very few routes are express,
meaning that your bus will likely make several stops along the way. For longer
journeys, your bus may stop at a roadside restaurant/cafeteria, allowing passengers to
refuel with food and go to the bathroom.
Reservations are not always necessary, but are a good idea on popular routes. At the
very least, arrive at the station early to purchase tickets.
By Boat
Boats are the main form of transportation in several parts of Panama, including the
archipelagos of Bocas del Toro and Guna Yala(San Blas Islands), as well as parts of
the Darién and in mainland Bocas. Ferries and water-taxis run between Panama City
and Isla Taboga and Isla Contadora, and between Isla Colón and the mainland in
Bocas del Toro.
The Bocas archipelago is one of Panama’s hottest destinations, and as such has
developed a relatively straightforward and cheap boat service.
By Taxi
Taxis are ubiquitous in Panama. Even in small towns, you’ll see these brightly painted
yellow cars and trucks plying the streets. The taxis don’t have meters, but local zoning
laws set some fares. Popular routes also tend to have set prices. Most fares are
cheap, but it’s wise to establish a price before you leave. It’s also smart to clarify
whether the price is per person or for the total amount. Most taxis within Panama
City should cost around US$3, and less in small towns. Drivers do not expect a tip.
By Train
Panama’s only passenger rail line is the Panama Canal Railway. Rebuilt in 2001, this
historic line runs between Corozal (just outside downtown Panama City) and Colón.
The hour-long trip runs parallel to the Panama Canal and gives good views of
Panama’s interior. Although some Panamanians use it as a commuter service, the
railroad is mostly used by travelers day tripping from Panama City.