(^86) Natural Disasters in Panama
There is a possibility of earthquakes in Panama, and during the rainy season (April
to December), occasional flooding and landslides occur in rural areas. Some city
streets become impassable due to flooding. October and November usually have
the heaviest months of rainfall. Monitor regional weather forecasts and take local
advice.
Do's and Dont's
Wear Jeans they are unofficially the uniform in Panama, even on hot days.
Learn Spanish.
Give praise if you get great service at a restaurant and be very grateful; the people
in Panama appreciate recognition.
Be respectful. It sounds weird to point at things with your lips, but in Panama,
people point at things by making a kissing/pouting gesture in that direction.
When doing business in Panama, do lots of small talk.
Hobbies, family, basketball, and baseball are easy to discuss in Panama.
Bring smaller denominations of money $20 and below.
Looking the other person in the eye for a sustained amount of time is typical when
conversing.
It is common to show up to a party or other function late.
Do not take a Cab without agreeing on the price first.
Do not flash signs of Wealth.
Don't be pushy in business or other dealings.
Do not exchange gifts when entertaining.
Do not Bring up the Former Canal Zone, Politics, or different races in Panama. They
can be a little touchy about those.
Do not bring large bills such as the '50s and 100's even though they accept US
currency; they may believe them fake.
Men do not touch other men when talking, and Women do not touch other women
when talking.
Women should not go out to bars alone.
Raising the middle finger in Panama is seen as an obscene gesture.
Do not go out hiking without a guide as there are drug smugglers in the woods and
gorillas you can run across.
leana
(Leana)
#1