Locals People & Culture in Panama

Locals People & Culture in Panama, Panama travel vlog 2020, Panama travel guide, Panama tourism & vacations
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Customs and Traditions
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Panamanians are quick to tell you what they love about their country. Whether it’s the climate, the culture, or the outdoors, national pride runs deep in Panama. Many Panamanians feel strongly that their country is different from others in the region – perhaps because of its intense history or unique geographical location. This feeling is best summed up in the popular Panamanian phrase, puente del mundo, corazón del universo, which means “bridge of the world, heart of the universe.” Whatever the reason, Panamanians’ love of country is infectious; a trip here will tie your heartstrings to the country.

Still, for all its diversity, Panama’s dominant culture has Spanish origins. The family is all-important, and machismo is a way of life for most men. Catholicism is prominent, as such, several of the country's holidays and festivals relate to religion. The U.S. has also had a large influence in Panama, due to its long presence in the country. It’s not uncommon to see people wearing American clothes or listening to music from the U.S., especially within Panama City.

Family and Society
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The extended family is the most important social unit in Panama. People work hard to take care of their relatives and are quick to tell you about the achievements of those they are related to.

Children are raised by their extended family and genuinely respect their elders. Often times, multiple generations will live under the same roof, with the younger ones taking care of their grandparents. Because of this, there are very few retirement homes in Panama. Panamanians are often surprised to hear that Americans would rather send an ailing family member to a facility rather than take care of them at home.

Panamanians often live at home well into their twenties and thirties, or at least until they get married. Family-oriented occasions, including birthdays, Mother’s day, and baptisms, are important, and families often travel together – you may come across hotel rooms that are better suited for several people rather than singles or couples.

Bloodlines are also important in Panama; whom one is related to can determine your status within society. Prominent families tend to marry other prominent families, and even within non-elite society, your family’s name can either help or hinder you.
Manners and Social Norms
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Panama is a fairly laid back country, both in terms of its manners and lifestyle. Different nationalities, religions, and lifestyles are tolerated, although open homosexuality is still uncommon. Treating others with respect is important, and taking the time to be polite is necessary. Having a basic understanding of the cultural norms will benefit visitors to this country.

Importance is placed on personal appearance and hygiene. Panamanians try to maintain a neat, conservative appearance when in public. Generally, men pair long pants with a collared shirt; shorts and sandals are usually considered too casual. For women, a dress or jeans paired with a nice top is appropriate. It should also be noted that it is illegal for men or women to walk around a city or town without a t-shirt. Being shirtless on a beach is fine, but try to wear something while walking through town, as this law is actually enforced.

Panamanians generally greet each other with a handshake or hug. Men shake hands with one another, unless they are related or close friends, in which case they may hug. Depending on the person they are meeting, women will either shake hands, hug, or kiss each other along the side of the cheek. Panamanians value personal space, and thus touch during a conversation is somewhat unusual. Maintaining eye contact is also important and is seen as a sign of integrity.

Titles are important in Panama. When addressing someone directly, use Don for men and Doña for women, followed by a surname. This practice is similar to saying “Sir,” “Mister,” or “Mrs.” This is especially important if the person you are greeting is a professional – a doctor, lawyer, or professor, for example. This practice may seem formal, but it is a sign of utmost respect for Panamanians.

When dining out, a 10-15% tip is customarily given to the server. Taxis add a tip into the price, as do hotels, which are required by law to include a 10% tourism tax. Bargaining is not widely practiced in Panama, although you may be able to get a discount when buying handicrafts at local markets.

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