7 Tips for Living in Panama City

This is a must read if you're moving to Panama City or thinking about moving there.

As an expat or digital nomad, living in a foreign country can be an exciting adventure. Panama City, with its vibrant culture, bustling city life, and beautiful natural surroundings, is a popular destination for many. Here are seven key tips to help you navigate and enjoy your time in this dynamic city.

1. Learn the Language

While English is widely spoken in Panama City, learning Spanish can greatly enhance your experience. Not only will it make daily tasks like shopping and dining easier, but it will also open doors to deeper cultural immersion. You'll be able to engage more fully with locals, understand the nuances of the culture, and feel more at home in your new city.

2. Explore the Neighborhoods

Panama City is a diverse city with a variety of neighborhoods, each with its own unique charm. Casco Viejo, the historic district, is a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with colonial-era landmarks, trendy restaurants, and vibrant nightlife. San Francisco is a modern, upscale neighborhood known for its shopping and dining options. Meanwhile, El Cangrejo is a popular area for expats, with a mix of residential and commercial properties, and a lively dining and entertainment scene. Spend time exploring these and other neighborhoods to find the one that suits your lifestyle and preferences.

3. Enjoy the Local Cuisine

One of the best ways to immerse yourself in Panamanian culture is through its food. Panama City is home to a variety of restaurants serving both local and international cuisine. Try traditional dishes like sancocho (a hearty chicken soup) or ceviche at local favorites like El Trapiche or Mercado de Mariscos. For a more upscale dining experience, visit Maito, known for its innovative Panamanian fusion cuisine.

4. Take Advantage of the Outdoor Activities

Panama City is surrounded by natural beauty, from the Pacific Ocean to lush rainforests. Take advantage of this by exploring the city's many parks and outdoor spaces. Metropolitan Natural Park, located within the city limits, offers hiking trails with stunning views of the city skyline. For a day trip, visit the nearby Soberania National Park or take a boat ride on the Panama Canal.

5. Understand the Cost of Living

While Panama City is generally more affordable than many U.S. or European cities, it's important to understand the cost of living. Housing, groceries, dining out, and other expenses can vary greatly depending on the neighborhood and your lifestyle. Do your research and plan your budget accordingly to avoid any financial surprises.

6. Get Involved in the Community

Getting involved in the local community can make your experience in Panama City more fulfilling. There are numerous opportunities to volunteer, join clubs or organizations, or participate in local events. This not only helps you meet new people and make friends, but also allows you to contribute positively to your new home. Research groups and activities that align with your interests and get involved.

7. Be Open to the Culture

Finally, be open to the Panamanian culture. This means respecting local customs and traditions, being patient with differences in lifestyle or pace, and embracing the local way of life. Remember, you're not just in Panama City to work or live – you're there to experience a new culture. So take the time to learn, explore, and enjoy all that this vibrant city has to offer.

Business Panama Group
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The Business Panama Group is a well-established group of companies, professionals and alliance partners with 20 years of experience promoting and facilitating business, investments, real estate, immigration and tourism in Panama by providing information, business development and support services to individual and corporate investors.

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Business Panama Group

The Business Panama Group is a well-established group of companies, professionals and alliance partners with 20 years of experience promoting and facilitating business, investments, real estate, immigration and tourism in Panama by providing information, business development and support services to individual and corporate investors.
Connect

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.