As someone who has visited more than half of the US and quite a few countries, friendly and not-so friendly, I'd say that the best way to avoid getting into trouble anywhere is to not act like you're special because you were initially a US citizen. Just be open-minded and always willing to learn the local customs and laws, without acting as if they should all be bent because (once again) you were born in the USA. While in the military, I always used to get compliments such as, "You don't act like an American." which I always took as one of the highest compliments I could receive from a foreign host.
miguelgonzalez
I lived in Panama Five years I have 100 of stories just like their ten. One of my favorites was the day that most of the one way roads changed to the opposite direction, but none of the signs changed. Yes that really happened.
RoadTr
I am a Panamanian living in Florida. Father was in the military and I was born and raised in Panama. More than half my family lives there so I go back quite a bit. With that said, you are right. Those things do exist. The “gringo- price” has been in effect ever since the Torrijos - Jimmy Carter treaty. Southern Command (southcom) was established in Panama which was a strategic military hold to “monitor” central and South America. With that, the “gringo - price” came into full effect. Even though the treaty came to an end on 12/31/1999 the price gouging for Americans continues as there are still many Americans there and they continue to go there as there retirement destination from the states. All in all, I love my country and made sure I new every nook and cranny of Panama before I left to travel the world. I am sure you will absolutely fall in love with Panama. Enjoy!
rmart
Where I shop, sometimes on the street, I always tip good. The people are poor, and I appreciate being able to help them.
davidwelch
"Innocent until proven guilty" hasn't existed in the real in America for sometime.
flowbrandz
Love your videos, it is amazing so many people will leave a nasty comment or act so ricious... Keep up the positive work and videos, My husband and I moved to Panama last November we did all the research and educated ourselves however, like you know once your in it things come up and yes you live and learn that is part of life anywhere in world. We just rolled all the I've and learns off our shoulder and know we are just happy to be alive and healthy. We happened to be back home in US when everything hit and have yet been able to make it back, but we can't wait to be back as we bought our new home there. Keep it up you guys rock
michelletracy
My wife and I lived in Mexico for 4 years. It was exactly there what you are explaining for Panama. I'm looking forward to receiving the coffee I ordered from you nearly a month ago. But, I'm sure it will be delicious when I do.
GaryEllis
First rules of foriegn sun glasses, , keep your mouth shut, and dont expect them to cater to you, speak the language, Then you can enjoy !
deropol
Best part of the video: "We are trying to follow all the rules" (0.5 seconds later) "I'm driving up on the curb"
phillipst-laurent
I love it when you guys say "only $60 for this airbnb" while I sit in my Manila Airbnb right on Manila Bay for $25 :)
wmmseo
I live in panama and you have to be very careful! Although panama is amazing their are a lot of people
Including “lawyers” who take advantage of Americans!! Especially “gringos”
glamluxeonline
I am Panamanian. I enjoyed your video. I lived in the states for many years. My wife and I decided to move a little further south. We are now living in Medellin Colombia. We had to relearn many things and be patient; especially at banks and the slow moving cashier checkout. Enjoy and keep us informed. Blessings!
bambinobala
I had an idylic childhood in Panama 55 years ago in the Canal Zone as a military dependent. I guess it was pretty colonial in some ways, but for a kid it was just paradise.
bellebb
I was in Panama on business back in the 70s and was offered a full time job by the Panamanian company that I was contracted with. They had Americans working there and they said it was an excellent company to work for and one of the reasons, besides good pay, is you did not need health insurance as the company took care of their employees no matter what had happened. Those days, Americans were not really liked, but once I told them who I worked for, their attitudes became very friendly. Also, the Americans told me it really was not a place they would raise their children. At that time, I had no children in the 7 years of marriage, but was now looking to start a family, so that was a big reason I did not take the job which was in aviation. It may all be different now. Hope it all works out for you two!
sgdk
I was in Panama for two years in the military. I was a bus driver for Fort Gulic and I really loved the place. I only got to see mostly military places because I was not and adventurer and stayed close to Fort Gulic. I did go into Colon several time to see a floor show and have a few dirnks but that was all. I got to drive troupes to differenty Air Ports and drive to Panama City etc. But all i can say is i loved the place and the weather. The food i had was better than my mother home cooking. Most of the meals I ate was prepaired by millitary cooks on the base. I also got to see Fort Sand Loranzo, I'm sure I have missed spelled it because I could never spell. The birds are beautiful, they are all colors. Have a good time but I'm staying in the United States, I love it to.
jamesmcqueen
Totally get it! It is very helpful to any one thinking of traveling or moving to Panama to have realistic expectations. Most are not expecting perfection but it's very helpful to hear about exactly what you two have experienced. Sure I know you are generally very positive and upbeat and I love that you share that and point out the wonderful culture and beautiful, kind, helpful people. It's a good really check to cover these 7 things in the one video, keeping it real, yet showing us things to be mindful and careful about. Great job!!!
janmoline
Many of these things are similar in Mexico. During my 25 years here they have been changing quite much though and my advantage is that I have been a Mexican for over 12 years now. Living in a climate like yours at the Caribbean for 18 now and planning on a homestead <3
ullakoponen
Nice channel! Bienvenidos a Panama. I'm an American Expat living and working in Panama City. You are right that you need to double check all legal paperwork and it is tedious. When you start building the tiny homes, you will need to double check that the the quantity & quality the materials you order and the finishes on the contractor's work. In general, standards are different to what you are used to so you will need to be forceful and direct to make sure the jobs are done right. Don't feel bad for demanding what you are paying for. ALSO, there is recycling in Panama, its just not done publicly like trash collection or water. Grocery stores like Riba Smith and even private business have recycling, like at my office building, MMG Tower. If you drink beer, you can buy a case (literally a plastic case) of Panama or Balboa at local store (bodega/chinito) and when your done with 'em, you bring the case and the empty bottles back and you buy new beers minus the price of the case. Ask around about recycling but the best thing you can do is not use non-necessary plastic. Looking forward to the next videos! Abrazo.
daveyboy
In Peru I eventually came to the conclusion usually gringo prices aren't that bad. As an American who appreciates skill, I dont overpay unskilled taxis but usually happily give hardworking people like small family restaurants or craftsmen more than locals pay. Doctors or nurses I ALWAYS tip heavy. Over 10$ for a doctor who charged me $4 for a visit and knew his field.
wildandwonderful
Great video! I lived in the South Pacific coast of Costa Rica for 4 years and you are spot on. I loved living there but definitely got tired of some things. Mainly the petty crime and being charged more at every turn.
