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Discover the Best of Panama City 2024 | Expat Exchange
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Panama City, Panama


Discover the Best of Panama City

By Betsy Burlingame

Business Panama Group
Business Panama Group

Summary: Our Guide to Panama City: Top Attractions, Culinary Hotspots, Nightlife, and More. Plus, Tips on Making Connections with the Locals and Finding Fun Recreational Activities

Welcome to Panama City! If you're planning to move to Panama City, congratulations on taking the first step towards a new adventure. While there are many things to think about before you leave, such as visas, housing, and transportation, it's important to remember that once you arrive, the fun really begins. In this article, we'll introduce you to some of the best sites, restaurants, and nightlife that Panama City has to offer, as well as provide tips on recreational activities and making friends in Panama City.

Panama City is a vibrant and exciting destination for tourists and locals alike. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture, there is something for everyone to enjoy. From the iconic Panama Canal to the bustling city streets, there is plenty to explore and experience in Panama City. Here are some of the top sites of interest for tourists and locals in Panama City.

The Panama Canal is one of the most iconic sites in Panama City. This engineering marvel connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, and is a must-see for any visitor. The Miraflores Visitor Center offers a great view of the canal, as well as interactive exhibits and a museum. The Casco Viejo is the old city of Panama, and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This area is full of colonial-era buildings, churches, and plazas, and is a great place to explore the city’s history. The Metropolitan Natural Park is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy some nature. This park is home to a variety of wildlife, and is a great place to go for a hike or a picnic.

Panama City is also known for its vibrant restaurant and nightlife scene. There are a variety of restaurants and bars to choose from, ranging from traditional Panamanian cuisine to international flavors. Some of the most popular restaurants in the city include La Posta, which serves traditional Panamanian dishes, and El Trapiche, which specializes in seafood. For a more upscale dining experience, try Manolo Caracol, which serves a variety of international dishes. For a night out, head to the Casco Viejo, where you can find a variety of bars and clubs. Some of the most popular spots include La Rana Dorada, which is a popular craft beer bar, and La Casona, which is a lively salsa club.

Panama City also offers a variety of recreational activities for visitors and locals alike. The city is home to a number of parks and beaches, such as the Amador Causeway, which is a great spot for biking and walking. The Panama Viejo is a great place to explore the city’s history, and the Metropolitan Natural Park is a great place to go for a hike or a picnic. For a more active experience, head to the Panama Canal, where you can go kayaking, fishing, or take a boat tour. For a more relaxing experience, head to the beaches of the Pacific Coast, where you can enjoy the sun and sand.

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Insider Tips from Expats in Panama City: Making the Most of Life and Connections

"Expats in Panama City often join clubs and activities such as golf, tennis, sailing, and hiking. Expats can also join local language classes, book clubs, and cooking classes. Additionally, many expats join local churches, volunteer organizations, and business networking groups. Expats can also meet people by attending local events such as festivals, concerts, and art shows. Additionally, many expats make friends by exploring the city's restaurants, bars, and cafes," said one expat living in Panama City.

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"Priorities start with family, extended family, family friends, other friends, socializing, sports, all other non-work related activities, and finally: work," commented an expat living in Panama City.

"Life for expats and digital nomads in Panama City is generally quite pleasant. The city is a vibrant and modern metropolis with plenty of amenities and activities to keep expats and digital nomads entertained. The cost of living is relatively low, making it an attractive destination for those looking to stretch their budget. The city is also home to a diverse population, with many expats and digital nomads from all over the world. The city is also well-connected, with a reliable public transportation system and easy access to the rest of the country. Overall, Panama City is an excellent destination for expats and digital nomads looking for a vibrant and affordable place to live," said an expat in Panama City.

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About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.


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