Panama : Safety by City
Panama is located in Central America, boasting two coastlines: one on the Caribbean Sea and one on the North Pacific Ocean, with Colombia (and, of course, entire South America) to the southeast and Costa Rica (and the North American continent) to the northwest.
The most interesting part about it, both geographically and from a touristic point of view, is that it’s located on the isthmus that forms the land bridge connecting North and South America and controls the Panama Canal – the world-famous canal that connects the North Atlantic Ocean via the Caribbean Sea with the North Pacific Ocean, probably the most important and best known shipping routes in the world.
Panama slowly grew into one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world: tourists can visit two different oceans and coastlines, go climbing mountains, hiking through rainforests and enjoy the impressive city life which offers to its visitors’ contemporary art, fashion and fine dining.
However, the central marvel and the biggest attraction is still the Panama Canal and it can be seen via an aerial view through the local operator, and you can even enjoy stunt and trick flights with veteran air force pilots and skydives over this engineering miracle.
Warnings & Dangers in Panama
OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM
Panama is generally safe, but you should take precaution on the streets of major cities, and after dark. Be wary of pickpockets and bear in mind that mugging and violent crime are also part of this country's street life.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM
Public transport is generally safe in Panama, but do be careful on buses and bus stops since that's where pickpockets and petty thieves operate. Bear in mind that bus stations tend to be high crime areas, and whenever possible opt for calling a taxi instead of hailing one on the street.
PICKPOCKETS RISK: HIGH
Pickpockets are a common occurrence on the streets of Panama and tourists are recommended to remain vigilant at all times when on the street. Make sure you don't flash your valuables on the street, be careful when withdrawing money from ATMs and of course, keep all your valuables in a safe place in your accommodation or safely by your side.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM
Ocean currents, hurricanes, earthquakes, and floods are only some of the natural disasters that sometimes hit Panama.
MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM
Violent crime exists in Panama and mugging and kidnapping isn't uncommon on the streets of Panama. In such a situation, hand over all your possessions immediately and do not resist. Avoid poorly lit and deserted areas.
TERRORISM RISK: LOW
Although there haven't been any terrorist attacks in Panama's recent history, they shouldn't be ruled out so remain vigilant at all times.
SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM
Scams are very common in Panama, so double check your change, never pay anything upfront and negotiate everything in advance. Watch out for people sending you free drinks and never leave your drink unattended.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW
Traveling to Panama is generally safe for solo women, but bear in mind that you should generally hike and explore in a company, never alone. Stay away from poorly lit and deserted streets and areas and from people that are visibly intoxicated or under the influence
So... How Safe Is Panama Really?
Generally, Panama is a safe country to visit.
When you visit Panama, you can count on friendly people offering you help with anything you need, especially in rural areas.
However, crime rates are high, and it’s not just the petty crime that’s the issue: violent crime is a common issue in Panama, though it’s on its way to getting eradicated.
There are parts of this country that you should definitely avoid such as the border region between Panama and Colombia, (considered to be extraordinarily dangerous due to the presence of Colombian rebel groups and drug traffickers), most of the city of Colon, El Chorrillo neighborhood of Panama City, and Curundu and El Marañón neighborhoods which are poor and crime-ridden areas.
Although at night the main streets and plazas and districts with bars and restaurants are safe, visitors should be more cautious after dark, especially if they’re moving north along Avenida Central towards El Chorillo.
Pick-pocketing and mugging is a common issue in Panama City, so tourists are advised to exercise caution, particularly in crowded areas such as train and bus stations, airports and on busy streets, as well as in public transport.
How Does Panama Compare?
| Country | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| Panama | 65 |
| Morocco | 54 |
| Slovenia | 87 |
| Bulgaria | 80 |
| Vietnam | 73 |
| Portugal | 57 |
| Japan | 83 |
| Ghana | 73 |
| Australia | 86 |
Useful Information
Visas
Many countries need a visa in order to enter Panama, while some, like the U.S and Australian nationals, do not need a visa for stays of up to 180 days. Make sure your passport is valid for at least 3 months beyond the date of arrival. If you are not sure about your visa status, visit www.doyouneedvisa.com which will let you know whether or not you need a visa based on your nationality and the country you want to visit.
Currency
There are two official currencies in Panama: United States Dollar and Panamanian balboa. ATMs are mostly available throughout the country, except in some isolated areas, while credit cards are accepted in some establishments such as restaurants and upscale hotels, but may not be accepted everywhere.
Weather
The climate in Panama is tropical maritime climate, which is characterized by a hot and humid season with plenty of precipitation (which lasts from May to December) and a short dry season (lasting from January to May).
Airports
Tocumen International Airport is the busiest international airport of Panama City, the capital of the country of Panama. It is, also, at the same time the busiest airport in Central America at the moment.
Travel Insurance
Just like anywhere else, we recommend getting travel insurance when traveling to Panama, since it covers not only the costs of medical problems but also theft and loss of valuables.
Panama Weather Averages (Temperatures)
Average High/Low Temperature
| Temperature / Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High °C | 32 | 32 | 32 | 32 | 31 | 30 | 30 | 30 | 30 | 29 | 30 | 31 |
| Low °C | 24 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 24 | 24 | 24 |
| High °F | 90 | 90 | 90 | 90 | 88 | 86 | 86 | 86 | 86 | 84 | 86 | 88 |
| Low °F | 75 | 77 | 77 | 77 | 77 | 77 | 77 | 77 | 77 | 75 | 75 | 75 |
Panama - Safety by City
| City | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| Panama City | 54 |
great website
great website i am doing a school project on panama and this helped my mom a lot
Your mom is doing your report?
Don’t be a rat, Jim.
lmao
WOW!
XD
I have been living in Panamá for 15 years. Your comments on crime are almost total BS. Whereas there is some violent crime, it is overwhelmingly gang and drug involved, and generally confined to the poor neighborhoods in the cites. I have never even heard of anyone being mugged or forcibly robbed in Panamá. Public transportación and taxis are very safe, reliable and cheap here. Residential burglaries are an issue, like anywhere else, although less statistically than in the US. And I was law enforcement in NY. If you have a modicum of common sense, you will be fine in Panamá.
Thank you, dear Police Officer Steve,
I’ m looking to have Retirement Seior unexpensive remaining of my life there : I’ ve been robbed hundreds of times in all over the rest of the world , I’ ll be careful more than the others.Thank you for your sincere advice.
Wishing you Healthy long happy life.God Blessings.
Cautious
Hundreds of times! Man that’s a lot of not being aware of your surroundings or being cautious.
Best place to relocate.
Steve, thanks buddy for your review. It helps me a lot to understand Panama thru local eyes.
Taxis safe in PANAMÁ? NOT. Use Uber. Taxis are not safe. And you live here? Me too. And you are clearly out of touch with reality here. The country is full of corruption. The police are corrupt and will do nothing to help you.
I know of many instances of taxi drivers setting you up and robbing you and also of police robbing people. Panamá ain’t Kansas
Boo-Boo
So how about you go back to Kansas,Robby?
The Officer knows what he’s doing,unlike yourself.
Sounds like you’re anti-LAW ENFORCEMENT.
I smell it.
Robby, Unfortunately;
the planet is full of As—s
Steve and I dealt with the Good-Bad and the Ugly;For 25-30 years.
Show me your cards,,robby?
Only one Hurricane recorded in Panama, Hurricane Martha, category one in 1969. Kidnapping is a rare crime.
Express kidnappings
Kidnapping is not rare, it’s common. Express kidnappings wherein they take you to am atm, demand 300.00 and then let you go. They know most people can only get 300 at a time from the atm.
No Hurricanes in Panama
Martha made landfall in Veraguas Province, Panama, as a strong tropical storm–not as a full fledged “hurricane.” There are opposing currents on the two sides of the equator, in effect, canceling each other out. Panama is about 600 miles from the equator, but close enough to benefit from this. It’s impossible for a hurricane to actually cross the equator.
my experience
I have traveled to Panama 12 times and I have never had a problem. I travel alone and meet a friend or friends that live there. I have traveled many areas of the country and no problems. As a female, I am always cautious.
Rena, what brings you back to Panama so many times? Do you have a list of places that are a must for first-time visitors?
I am going for the first time doing my research on the country.
Good morning, I am planning an up coming trip to Panama for my first time. I plan on staying in Panama City. I would love some travel advice if I may ask you. Would you mind if I asked you a few questions? I guess that really is already one. Ha ha
Safe for couples travel
Have traveled there a few times now and it felt very safe. Of course have your wits about you in any big city (Panama City and L.A. alike)
The people are very helpful if you need directions or something and it’s much safer than the surrounding countries, likely because of how stable the government is in comparison.
Panama is a safety country, there are not natural disaster , the crime is low and people vey kind. I liked it a lot.
High crime rate
Too many people from other countries come up missing. That change my mind
Where you got that information from
Because in my life time station in Panamá
Never heard of too many people from different countries coming missing..
Panamá is safe to visit and to retire. Just like any other big country you have to be careful off your suranding eras
Enquiry
I’m planning to go there, pls am scared with some comments I read. Is it possible to quickly get married in panama? I would have loved to stay n settled with a Panamanian woman. Pls advice m.
Do research
Have no idea where you get your info from. This simply is not true, maybe you are thinking of the DR?
I’ve lived in Panama for 4 years without problems or hearing excessive crime. Kind of the usual actually.
Been to Panama about ten times and liked it so much I decided to purchase some land and build a house, never felt unsafe in Panama, I actually feel safer there than in the states
Panama, great place, we too are building a home in Volcancito. For average the American, retiring here is not worth it. We have gun violence, and politicians who do not respond to the will of the majority of voters. You can live very well at half the price. We found the Panamanians to be some of the nicest people, we have encountered.
Looking to retire . . . .
Can you please explain by what you mean by saying, “For average the American, retiring here is not worth it.”
Thanks!
Army wife stationed twice in Panama
My husband & I were ‘stationed’ in Panama twice. We loved it! You have to be ‘smart’ about where you go in Panama City. The shopping is great with wonderful bargains. There is a dry season (winter) and rainy season (summer). Both have their advantages. Our 2nd tour was when
Noriega was in power. But we had a large presence of our military there, so it was OK then. We didn’t see our spouses much! So go & enjoy the Crossroads between the Americas!
PS: read the book beforehand
How rainy is the beginning of June? Like coastal afternoon showers, monsoon or just a mix of sunny and rainy on and off? Thx
I think he means retiring in the USA is not worth it. Had to reread it myself to understand his point
Love Panama!
My wife and I lived on our sailboat in Panama, mostly in the San Blas for 2 years. Traveling through the canal 3 times. Overall a wonderful country. With great people. Yes there are some areas to avoid like Colon, the Columbian border area and some neighborhoods in Panama City. My wife and I walked a lot, including at night, took taxies and Ubers a real bargain. We stayed in a number of hotel of 4-5 star quality with 1-2 star pricing. Great food. Never ever had a problem. I come from a more dangerous country. Was visiting Panama this past March, just when Covid 19 hit. They were right on it ! Much better than a lot of major countries especially the US. We left Panama back to the US where there was much MORE covid that Panama.
No, take it from a professional mariner, there are no hurricanes in Panama. It is south of the hurricane belt. A hurricane here would be considered extremely freak!
I come from a country that has so much crime that many Europeans won’t vacation there. Much racial prejudice, hi crime and a very corrupt Oligarchic government. And guns EVERYWHERE. It’s called the United States of America. Was ready to move back to Panama when Biden got elected. May now try sticking it out and hope for improvement. But Panama a serious consideration as an alternative. As is Portugal.
I get it… We bought a place in Costa Rica for the same reasons.
You sound like a biased, racist idiot. The United States is not and never was run by an oligarch. Biden, you mean the vessel for leftism and the totalitarian State with 47 Executive Orders in one week, yes that is why a new crop of North Americans are seeking to leave and move to Panama. Wake up!
Amen! Another U.S. liberal freak who thinks Republicans are the ones destroying the country?? Moron. Ya so good to have our current liberal socialist dictators destroy capitalism, send billions of our taxes to support foreign countries and open the borders to unvetted illegals to render us reliant on government support. Ya who wants that President Trump who created a thriving economy with the lowest unemployment in history and safe borders!!!
Stop being blind
Trump did a lot of damage to your country, it’s going to take a long time to heal. The very rich run the USA and the rest who have been conditioned to believe that is a good thing, signed up with trump thinking he cared about them…. he does not. You are but minions sent out to disrupt peace and used as puppets to help with the destruction of democracy. Do you think taking away people’s right to vote is democratic? Do you think killing people and trying to overthrow your democracy because you simply didn’t like losing the vote is democratic? You are far from a US patriot if following an insane narcissistic oligarch and carrying out his bidding to disrupt the good, spread hate and racism. This is your idea of democracy? Put aside your hate for a change and show some compassion for fellow Americans and new immigrants who are the back bone of your country.
Trump and friends are scum of the earth, using easily manipulated people like yourself to further their hold on monetary wealth.
oh that smell...
UFFF!! …I feel a “trumpet” smell in your words….or to Q..I don’t know but it smell bad, sound bad…any one feel the same? I bet that the US PATRIoT was at the assault to the Capitol , is it? Oh I’m sorry, is my bad…the “turistic visit to the Capitol”…you got what you want? or the fbi is still searching the videos? as far I know, the new crop of Americans seeking to live in panama or any alse place in the world is fliying out the “usa paradise.”.300 million guns on the street, tons of people with mental healt problems that can acces to assault tifles without any limitation and can show it on the strees as is happenning right now in Texas an that can do watheverer he whabt to do, american covind is sinking the world, the americans will be considered infected parias ( looks what happen in Europe right nown) politicians in both sides trying to use the virus to get benefits , monetaries or politics ah@!!! and the good proiud boys and antifa and many other groups of similar extremist ideology pushing the country to a civil war…., the climate change wih more flooding more fired more hurricane…all this is not a good reazon good reazon to leave this “country’?..
And on top of that,.. you can imagine Mr TRUMP retuning to power in 2024? …the amount of entreitment that we are going to have in those years? a lot!! of course I’m goig to see it from PAnama, in my couch in front of tv , in CNN or FOX acconding on how I feel that day with my hands ,more right or more left, depends . I invite you US PATRIOT to drinks some americam beer, the one thet the patriots drinks, if you u dare to come and see the disaster on television,,, but far from the disaster. if you not wnt to come, I wish you luck if you are an American patriot, like the ones I met in Vietnem and Korea and who did not live to enjoy their real Patriotismi
You have a point
I understand your point of view I agree that things in the USA are just getting worse. In my lifetime I have never seen America so divided. I don’t think I am overstating this. relations with Russia could not be worse. I want to retire to a location where I am out of, the line of fire.
Eighty-six the politics
I was under the impression that this article was about Panama, not US politics. This discussion stream right here is my number 1 reason for wanting to leave the US. When I was growing up in the 80s and 90s, in spite of political differences, the US was still one of the 2 most powerful nations in the world. Now, our political circus and our uncanny ability to make *any* discussion about Trump (whether for or against) has made us an international joke. Grow up, people. I’m sure you can find some political arguments to join on Reddit, but please leave this platform to those of us who want to get information about different countries other than the United States.
Veteran Patrotism
I’m very patriotic; I am a disabled veteran of the Gulf war and the USA and it’s allies is the country, I faught for; that does not mean that I am any less blind or forgiving for how racist, corrupt and dangerous it is.
U.S. Patriot must be a Republican. Name Calling is a Republican favorite pass time, along with deflecting, whataboutisms and blaming everyone else from Hilary to the Easter Bunny. Name calling is also childish. Just like you have an opinion so can everyone else. For sure the United States is ALL the things Fred says it is. What you seem not to realize is that NOT everyone ANYWHERE will have the same experiences simply because of the way they look, where they come from or who they want to be.
YOU WAKE UP and stop trying to force your opinion and experience on others who obviously don’t experience it the way you do. The Oligarch government is the product of people getting into government just to take advantage of inside information to grow their wealth. For example: insider trading that is illegal for the average person but not U.S. politicians. Just think of how many U.S. politicians became wealthier buying and selling stock associated with Covid-19 Before the virus information was public; very corrupt indeed.
Consider the land and real estate grabs that they are privy to before they are listed and become public. The Governor of my state makes 172K a year. In one four year term his wealth increased by 5 million dollars. Not to mention how the wealthiest 1% can make political donations in excess of millions of dollars to get these politicians to create and vote on legislation that benefits them in achieving even more wealth. Also let’s mention what the politicians themselves get paid by large company lobbyist for voting for or against certain legislation. That’s “Oligarchic” The racism is very real, oppressive, and after Trump people now say the quiet ugly racist things out loud. The lack of gun control is because some Americans feel empowered by them and with all of the mass shooting, especially children this mind-set is insane. Quoting and agreeing with Fred: “Much racial prejudice, hi crime and a very corrupt Oligarchic government. And guns EVERYWHERE. It’s called the United States of America.”
Panama is probably safer.
Great review!
I miss Ronald Reagen. Statesman, leader, zero tolerance for terrorists. A 500+ ship Navy, the bad guys in Palestine still remember when Ronnie sent the New Jesey for a visit. He could stand up to Putin unlike any other man, Brought down the Soviet Union. A great man and a great patriot. I wish we had politicians like him now. Old Vlad would be shaking in his boots. the only other President of the 20th century who could compare with him was Theodore Roosevelt. Reagen created the Bracero program that dealt with illegal immigration. He stood up to protesters who were rioting on college campuses, Very, very tough guy. Back on his feet after being shot. No better friend. No tougher enemy. Honest and kind. Sense of humor. respected all over the world. No matter how much you might admire trump. He is no Ronald Reagan. Nobody else is for that matter. He brought the country back after Carter He stands with the greatest of our presidents, Unlike Nixon, he took responsibility when his people made bad decisions. He was neve hateful. He could go at it all day with tip Oneal but at the end of the day, tip would go over to the white house, knock back a few and told jokes. As Reagen was fighting for his life after being shot, Oneal knelt at his bedside and prayed for him, I know I am older. But for those of us lucky enough to witness his greatness, the hacks of today don’ t dare stand in his shadow.
America land of the Not Free
I have news for you, as you havent been paying attention to American politics since Biden was installed (yes, installed), which is driving people like me AWAY. For the first time in US history, the American government is being weaponized against its own people. Enough to make Panama politicians blush. Families with little kids facing armed FBI agents at 7 in the morning? If thats your idea of a great country, you can move back and I will move South!
Thanks Panama Expats
Thank you; living on a boat, now that’s an idea. Sounds like a plan. Your comments about the U.S is exactly why I am leaving . No need to wait, I do not believe the U.S will get better…It’s broken. Time for something new. I was betting on Indonesia, but they are having tourist issues with an onslot of Russians and apparent bad behavior and disrespect. So as long as there is a Russian war that may be Indonesia’s issue for while. Then Thailand however, foreigners are not allowed to own land; which I understand, they don’t want to lose their country like Hawaii before it became part of the U.S, South Africa and other countries that were pretty much stolen by the wealthy. Cambodia and Panama are now in my research pervue and some of these post have helped with narrowing it down since my conerns are to avoid relocating to a place just as gun dangerous, xenophobic and as racist as the U.S.
Thanks again.
Fred R
You speak my language!
The Truth and Nothing but the Truth
So help me God!
1967-1968 Vietnam Veteran USAF
Retired Law Enforcement 2003
Where in Panama do you suggest buying land at? Researching my options…
I have traveled to Panama.
I have found it to be a safe friendly Country.
But I like to have a local when I travel around, just to be safe.
I am planning on visiting again.
Very Safe
I have visited Panama twice in the past two years. Never, I repeat never have I had any problems in Panama. I have been to Colon, Panama City and places in between. The people are friendly and willing to help you when you have questions. I have more fears walking the streets in the U.S. than in Panama. I have never felt threatened or have I ever been threatened while in Panama. Go to Panama and have a great time, you will not be sorry. Panama is a wonderful country.
Dc
I want to travel to Panama but I have no lot. if anyone helps me I can
Hitch hike, bike there, it’ll be a nice long vacation.
Personal opinión (Panamá)
I’m from Panama travel Copa Airline they lost a suitcase never had an explanation for us. Coming back to the airport a man wanted money to let us get in the road to the airport. I love my country but it has really declined since the Americans left. The crime and trash everywhere is high. If we are nice or not depends if you travel to the interior. country people are the best. They welcome you to their home and share meals with you. They go out of their way to please you. But city people are not generous or friendly. I enjoyed the interior and it’s people.
Most economically progressive country in Latin America
Panama is generally safe, and you do not see the violent crimes you see in the U.S. and never the gun violence. Definitely no psychos grabbing their assault rifles to shoot innocent kids in school.
Although not as safe as Cuba, where crime (violent or non-violent) is all but non-existent and rated the safest county in the Western Hemisphere, Panama is a lot safer than Mexico and Guatemala. Honduras and El Salvador are extremely violent countries and the unsafest in Latin America.
Panama is economically stable because of its political stability…six democratically elected administrations since the U.S. invaded and overthrew General Noriega.
I recommend visiting and considering for retirement…
Well I live in PANAMÁ and 2 weeks ago the gangs went nuts and there are videos with hundreds of shots fired you folks don’t have a clue. I LIVE HERE. That’s the reality.
Panama is a really safe place to visit. Natural disasters, man thanks goodness, I don’t remember the last time we faced a natural disaster in the country. Economically stable country and pick pocketing as you mention is really low. Kidnapping? No way, that almost never happens in the country. Gun violence in the street? Almost never happens unless you visit some ghetto places which are very uncommon even in the capital Panama City.
Panama is a very diverse country!
We have been to Panama several times and love it. The canal is an interesting visit as well as Panama City. But you need to go to El Valle and Boquette as well. Bocas del Toro is a unique visit also. Panama is a very diverse country and you can’t see it all in one visit. Therefore we will be returning as soon as possible.
I was stationed there in the Navy 68-71. I enjoyed that tour more than any of my other tours, Spain, Germany. I always felt safe there, even in Colon, the
nearest town to where i was stationed. Spent a lot of time in the “Club Florida”. met a wonderful lady there, Tai Li is what me and my friends called her. hated to leave and always wanted to go back but they closed the site
where I worked.
be safe
Response re politicians. Looking for somewhere to move out of the states if need be.
Just like the states! Response re politicians. Looking for somewhere to move out of the staes if need be.
bought a house near Pacific Ocean
I purchased a new home outside of Pedasi- last Fourth of July (2019) and a month later
flew down to see it in person for first time !
So happy I’m made this investment for part time residence, the people including expatriates are vey nice and helpful-
my compliment is it reminds me of old Mexico- clean, safe, friendly, and smart- they build their roads to last-
Where in pedasi?
Hi nice! Where in pedasi?
“No Stress”
I love Panama. Since 2013 I have come here a few times and decided to retire and move here in 2020. The biggest perks for me are the friendly people and it’s not a crime to be a black man!
Dream Country - PANAMA !!!
Panama is my dream country to live in (I’m American). I finally got a chance to go 2019 for my bday… All I can say is OMG…it was, was…wonderful, terrific, stupendous, amazing. The food was delicious and if you are American, plenty of Domino’s, Pizza H, Taco Bell we even went to a McD’s when the other local place we went to we found out was closed…and had a RUDE teenager serve us just like in the US ! Nice.
Back to Panama…the people were amazing, the food, views…the accommodations … Ancon Hill was beautiful, the canal was cool, the 3 hotels were beautiful…the neighborhood call San Francisco was just wonderful to walk thru. There were some spots that looked like some areas here in the US, but guess what – I kept it moving just like I do here. I’m seriously thinking about retiring here and not because of the current administration…because of the climate in the US now. Like an earlier poster said, nice to be black and not looked @ sideways. Black female.
I’ve done my research on Panama. Hurricanes are nill, last one in 1969ish, English is spoken even tho I’ll work on my Spanish, monetary system is something I’m used to, Uber’s are ridiculously cheap, I can teach English if I get bored, which I’ve done here and fortunately for me I can blend a bit, until I open my broken Spanish speaking mouth. Huge malls just like the US if that is your thing. Lots of historical things to do if that’s your thing, lots of different types of things to do, beach, hiking, food tasting. The skyline is absolutely amazing…my fav building is the F&F bldg or the screw tower. We found a nice expensive mall with Fendi, MK, Gucci and the like …I don’t really like hot, humid weather but I’ll deal w/it for the beautiful water and views. I’m old enough where I can just sit and watch the water w/some relaxing music and be happy.
Go if you can.
I’m working on going one to two times a year until I retire. I was told if I add my age (52) and number of years working (30) = 82 and it adds up to 80 I can retire. I want to get closer to 62 but not just 67…soooo maybe 7/8 more yrs and I’M OUT !!!
The truth about crime in Panama
Just like anyplace else, Panama has crime. New York has crime, San Francisco has crime etc. If you try to buy drugs, pick up a prostitute on the street, get obviously intoxicated in a bar, flash money, expensive watches etc you increase you risk. Much of the reported crime involves people that did a stupid thing and put themselves in harms way. Don’t carry a huge purse, hire a car a reputable car service, it’s easy and cheap. Don’t carry unessary credit cards or cash, why would you in the first place. Don’t overly share your info or brag about your income, wealth etc. Same advice I would give to visitors to most major US cities. As far as kidnappings go, the numbers are ridiculously low. If you leave valuables on a beach to go into the water it might get some attention just like it does in Hawaii and Florida. Act like a grown up in Pansms, be aware of your surroundings etc and you will have no issue at all Panama is a wonderful, safe place to visit it live.
Socio-political Climate?
I currently live in the USA and am considering moving to Panama upon retirement. The social and political climate/atmosphere has become toxic and intolerable here in the states. I never thought I would want to leave my country. Half of the nation’s population hates the other half. Each side seems dug in and things have gotten completely out of control when co-workers and neighbors and even family and friends cannot seem to tolerate each other. My question is: How do the people treat each other in Panama? Does allegiance to ideology drown out the voices of reason? I want to live in a place where politics is NOT discussed 24-hours a day and everywhere you go. Any responses would be greatly appreciated.
I am going to visit soon. I have friends in Boca del Toro. I will visit until I have figured it out. I am a single guy and a pro musician. I am used to living cheap. I plan on eventually owning property and home. I have no expectations of anything but a slower, relaxing life, in a country that seem to get along.
Panama isn't a great place
Costa Rica is a way better option.
question. neutral rating
for retirement. how are the hospitals and end of care treatment? they taie u.s. medicare ? lower middle class. can i afford Panama?
Hola Panama
Panama is the best country in Central America. Please come here.
It is safe and it’s also safer than Costa Rica. I dare you to come here.
Well, Americans make the biggest mistakes buying properties and have it stolen from them frkm the very Attorneys that set up their property Corporations (no one seems to be addressing it on here, bug time theft against home buyers too. I am in the midst of that stealing especially when one’s spuse dies or both dies…the family have hard time to clain or sell the corporatikn which their parents were force to buy from)…yes guys be up front and address these types of serious crimes and also include how top banks keep assets from the rest of the family when death occurrs. Yeap! Do confess
A wonderful country, with many impressive destinations
Panama has become an important destination for both tourists and people looking to retire in a nice country, where prices are lower. I’ve managed to go there a few times and I like it a lot. While there are still issues that need to be fixed like pickpockets and some scammers, I still think Panama has much more good things to offer than bad. Pickpockets are usually easy to spot if you carefully look and for scams, just use your judgment and refuse anything that feels off and you’ll be fine.
My wife really loved the Panama Canal. I think she could stare at ships transiting through for hours and hours. She loves this kind of stuff. There’s also a boat tour that really opens your eyes to how massive this place is. There’s also a museum, restaurant and an IMAX theater here so you can probably make a day out of it.
If hiking is more of your thing, then go for the town of Boquete. This place is safe, warm (both people wise and in climate) and is a well known spot for wildlife, nature and birdwatching. It’s also a good idea to have a car to tour the surrounding mountains but tours can also be taken in case you don’t own a vehicle.
We’re into surfing so Santa Catalina was a must visit. It’s a gorgeous place: small and friendly. I really relaxed while here. My mind slowed down and I could take in everything around me, the fresh air, the sea, nature and all sounds. There’s also Coiba National Park, a beautiful, untouched biodiversity hotspot. You’ll see many birds, turtles, crocodiles or whale sharks (which you can interact with if you scuba dive).
Overall, Panama has so much to offer especially to someone like me, who comes from an industrialized city where nature is not abundant. A great place to visit and even consider living in!
Panama Banks and Brokerage Firms
Great to know If I’m reading Isabel’s comment correctly. I’m 83 years old and have been to Panama several times, and I was thinking of purchasing an abode there for when I get old. Interesting comment about the banks also. Maybe I will rent a place instead. Does anyone else know anything about banks and brokerage trading firms in Panama? Cheers!
Love your “when I get old” comment! And “Cheers” is part of staying young, and a good Cigar now and then. Great website.
Perfect Vacay
I went in 2022 for a few weeks and had nothing but positive experiences. I was in Panama City, the Boquete region and Isla Palenque, all of which were safe and very welcoming. I traveled with 8 family members and everything went smoothly, many citizens tried to speak English to us and say “hey y’all” which was so nice. My favorite out of 15 countries I have visited.
Panama immigration at the airport *will* detain you for minor past criminal offenses, no matter how long ago and even if it was expunged.
My boyfriend and I were traveling to Coata Rica via a layover in Panama and their immigration officers grabbed him as soon as we got off the plane without telling me anything. It turns out that Panama immigration will detain people with any criminal record at all, even minor ones that have been resolved.
One of the Americans he was detained with had a single criminal offense from over 30-years ago that had been expunged. Panama returned him to his point-of-origin (they do not necessarily send you home! They send you to the country you came from). Another guy was a Jamaican who had been arrested one time in 1988 and had been a law-abiding citizen ever since. He and his wife used a travel agent to book a vacation to Panama, and no one warned him that Panama has a zero-tolerance policy for people who had ever been convicted of a crime. His wife didn’t speak Spanish, couldn’t afford a ticket home, didn’t have international roaming on her cell phone, and didn’t have their full itinerary. Panama immigration officials turned a vulnerable, terrified woman out into their crime-ridden streets without a second thought. I was (and am) horrified and heartbroken for her.
My boyfriend is a good man with one charge from over a decade ago. He did everything the courts told him to. He successfully completed probation and is not a threat or risk to anyone and Panama detained him and refused to tell me anything about where he was or what was happening. We weren’t even going to Panama! We had a 2-hour layover at Tocumen International (a filthy cesspool) on our way to Costa Rica. I had to spend all of my vacation money to get a ticket home.
You literally could not pay me enough to set foot in Panama again. My experience there showed me it’s a 3rd-world country with 3rd-class people. I’ve looked at the crime and politics since we got home and their politicians and police *are* the criminals (the irony is astonishing. Someone suggested he would have been released if he’d bribed them, but we’re Americans and bribery isn’t something we’re accustomed to).
If you have any kind of criminal history, no matter how minor, no matter whether you’ve completed your sentence or had it expunged, Panama will detain and humiliate you, even if you’re only using it as a layover. I would caution anyone who has ever been arrested for anything at all to avoid Panama at all costs. They *will* detain and deport you, even if you paid your debt to society and are off-the-books.