Panama🇵🇦
Panama, located on the isthmus linking Central and South America, is bordered by Costa Rica and Colombia. The country is known for the Panama Canal, an engineering marvel that allows ships to journey between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Panama is filled with diverse habitats, including tropical rainforests, mountain ranges, and beautiful coastlines that attract tourists worldwide. From the pre-Columbian history represented in Panama Viejo's ancient ruins to the vibrant, modern metropolis of Panama City, the country offers an alluring harmony of tradition and modernity. Major attractions include Biomuseo showcasing biodiversity, Casco Viejo with colonial-era landmarks, and Bocas Del Toro, a province known for its stunning beaches and rich marine life.
⚠️Things you should avoid⚠️
- Avoid walking alone at night, especially in unfamiliar or poorly lit areas.
- Avoid public displays of wealth that might attract thieves.
- Avoid using drugs or participating in illegal activities.
- Avoid drinking tap water in rural areas.
- Avoid poorly cooked meat or seafood.
- Avoid remote areas and shady neighborhoods known for crime in Panama City, Colon, and Chilibre.
- Avoid traveling outside the city limits after dark.
- Avoid risky outdoor activities during the rainy seasons due to flooding and landslides.
- Avoid unpasteurized dairy products to prevent foodborne illnesses.
- Avoid provocative behavior, especially in rural or conservative areas.
Overall
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Crime 🔫
5
Panama has a medium crime rate, especially in urban areas such as Panama City, Colon, and Chilibre. Common crimes include petty theft, car burglary, drug trafficking, and muggings. Luxury neighborhoods and tourist destinations are frequently targeted. Despite the high level of crime, Panama continues to attract tourists worldwide due to its natural splendor and cultural heritage.
Terrorism 💣
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Panama has a low terrorism risk. Historically, the country has seen no significant acts of terrorism. However, like any other location, the possibility of terror threats should not be overlooked. Leading by example with its peaceful transitioning of power and diplomatic relationships, Panama holds a reputation of political stability.
War ⚔️
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Panama has maintained a peaceful status, with no recent wars or conflicts. The last significant military action was the U.S. invasion in 1989 to oust dictator Manuel Noriega. Since then, Panama has abolished its military and replaced it with a national police force.
Natural Disasters 🌊
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Natural disasters in Panama typically include floods and landslides during the rainy season. Over the years, it has also witnessed severe drought due to El Niño. In 2019, a significant drought affected the country's water and power supply and impacted the operation of the Panama Canal.
Medical Care 🏥
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The quality of medical services varies across urban and rural areas. While Panama City has world-class healthcare facilities, healthcare may not be as accessible and advanced in rural regions. Panama has successfully managed the COVID-19 situation with effective measures, demonstrating the responsiveness of their healthcare services.
Tap Water Quality 💧
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In Panama City and most major towns, tap water is generally safe to drink. However, it's advised to rely on bottled water in remote areas or after severe weather events, such as floods that could compromise water quality.
Disease Burden 🤒
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Zika, Dengue, and Chikungunya transmitted by mosquitoes are a concern in Panama. Additionally, it's advised to vaccinate against Yellow Fever and Typhoid. Furthermore, there were cases of leptospirosis in Panama City due to rat infections.
Corruption 💸
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Panama has had issues with public sector corruption in the past, a key example being the 'Panama Papers' scandal in 2015 which linked international figures to offshore companies. This event decreased public trust in the government's transparency.
Safety for Women ♀️
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Panama is generally safe for women, but like any other country, precautions should be taken. Women are advised to avoid poorly lit areas at night and not to travel alone in unknown neighborhoods. Sexual harassment instances are infrequent, but it's always better to be cautious.
Safety for Queer People 👬
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The climate towards the LGBTQ+ community in Panama is improving. Panama City hosts annual pride events and has several gay-friendly accommodations and bars. However, in more rural and traditionally conservative areas, discretion may be advised.
Censorship 📺
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Panama enjoys a high level of press freedom, and the government generally respects this right. However, journalists occasionally face harassment, and defamation remains a criminal offence, which has led to some instances of self-censorship.
Public Transportation 🚌
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Panama City has a metro system, public and private bus systems, and taxi services. Outside the city, transport options might not be as dependable. Safety on public transport is generally good, but travelers are advised to be aware of pickpocketing in crowded places.
Other useful information
🔒 How safe is it?
Panama is overall quite safe with a peaceful political climate, low terrorism risk, and a good level of healthcare and public services. However, precautions should be taken to avoid crime, especially in urban areas and famous tourist spots. Be careful during rainy seasons due to natural disasters, drink bottled water in remote areas, and get vaccinated against prevalent diseases.
🏰 Embassies in this Country
Various countries have set up their embassies in Panama City, including the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Germany, France, Australia, and many more. Always have the contact details of your country's embassy when traveling.
💉 Recommended Vaccinations
Travelers to Panama should consider vaccinations for Hepatitis A and B, Typhoid, Yellow Fever, Rabies, and routine immunizations such as Tetanus, Chickenpox, and Measles. Protect yourself against mosquito bites to prevent diseases like Zika, Dengue, and Chikungunya.
🐍 Dangerous Animals
Panama is home to several potentially dangerous animals, including various species of snakes like the Fer-de-Lance and Coral Snake, and marine creatures like Stingrays and Jellyfish. Always be cautious while trekking in forests and snorkeling in the sea.
🛂 Visa Requirements
Citizens from many countries, including the USA, Canada, EU countries, Australia, and more, can visit Panama visa-free for up to 180 days. Visitors must have a valid passport that is good for at least three months duration of stay.
💲 Currency
Panama uses the US Dollar as its currency. Currency can be exchanged at airports, banks, or currency exchange bureaus. ATMs are available throughout the country.
💳 Credit Card Acceptance
Credit cards are widely accepted in Panama, especially in urban areas and major tourist destinations. However, it's good to carry some cash while travelling to rural regions.
🧑🏭 Is it possible to work and travel in this country?
Panama offers ample opportunities for work and travel, especially in sectors like tourism, hospitality, education (ESL teaching), and in the Panama Canal. However, proper visa permissions are required.
💵 Cost of Travel and Living
Panama is considered to have a moderate cost of living. Accommodation, dining, and activity costs are often lower than in North America or Europe. However, areas with a lot of tourist activity may have higher prices.