Antonio M. Says: Do I need to worry about bribing traffic cops in Panama? IL Panama Editor Jessica Ramesch Writes: We all know corruption exists in every country. In Latin America it can seem more visible. You’ll hear Panamanians discuss bribing traffic police— most often to avoid a well-deserved ticket—as if it were the Read more...: Do I Need to Bribe Traffic Cops in Panama?
Barbara B. Says: Hello, I’m going to Panama in September and want to spend some time in Boquete as well as Panama City. Am I better off renting a car or taking a bus? Is it better to fly to David, then rent a car? Any advice would be most welcome. Thanks IL Panama Read more...: How Do I Get from Panama City to Boquete?
Melanie R. Says: Is David, Panama getting an international airport? IL Panama Editor Jessica Ramesch Writes: We’ve contacted airport officials more than once, and they continue to say the same thing: no comment. But the airport has undergone a very public expansion that, among other things, lengthened the runways to allow for the larger Read more...: Is David, Panama Getting an International Airport?
Mark G. Says: Are there ATMs in Panama? How can I get money while visiting? IL Panama Editor Jessica Ramesch Says: Hi Mark, In Panama City and other hubs like David, Santiago, Chitré, Penonomé, and Coronado, you will find plenty of ATMs. After all, Panama has one of the largest banking districts in the Read more...: How Can I Access My Money in Panama?
Jordan M. Says: Do I need malaria or yellow fever vaccinations to travel to Panama? IL Panama Editor Jessica Ramesch Says: Hi Jordan, Many expats travel to Panama without getting any specific vaccinations, as the city and other developed areas of the country have a history of being classified as low-risk for tropical ailments Read more...: Do I Need Malaria or Yellow Fever Vaccination for Panama?
Charles W. H. Says: I recently read it’s difficult to rent a car in Panama if you have turned 70. Is this true? I’m planning on visiting Boquete, Panama in November and I turn 70 on November 17. Should I make a plan to get an Uber or public transportation from the airport in David Read more...: Is There an Age Limit to Rent a Car in Panama?
Roger H. Says: Is there much crime in Panama? IL Panama Editor Jessica Ramesch Says: Hi Roger, Whether you’re comparing crime statistics, tourist guides, or travel advisories for the region’s different countries, you’ll find that Panama is one of the safest countries in Latin America. In fact, Panama ranks at number 68 in World Read more...: Is There Much Crime in Panama?
Paula M. Says: I’ve read a lot of your articles about Panama’s Chiriquí province, and I like the idea of retiring to Boquete. I read recently that the airport in nearby David might start serving international routes to the U.S. Is that true? IL Panama Editor Jessica Ramesch Says: Hi Paula, Boquete is a Read more...: Will the Airport in David, Panama Become International?
Kerry B. Says: I plan to go to Panama from January to March, 2024. Is it cost effective to buy a cheap car and resell it when leaving? IL Panama Editor Jessica Ramesch Says: Hi Kerry, This is not unheard of in Panama, expats often source and sell their cars through the expat grapevine. Read more...: Should I Buy a Car While Visiting Panama and Resell It?
Donna H. Says: I’m thinking about moving to Panama. I am 70 and draw SS benefits, so I’m sure I would qualify for a Pensionado visa. However, my daughter is 46 years old and disabled. She draws $1,200 a month in disability. She would be living with me. Could she get a visa? Thanks for Read more...: Can My Adult Disabled Daughter Get a Visa to Panama?