Panama City, Panama

• Panama City uses the US dollar as official currency, so no money exchange needed. The city is more modern and business-oriented than most Central American capitals - you'll see high-rise condos, a Metro system that actually works, and more English speakers than elsewhere in the region.
• The historic center, Casco Viejo, has colonial buildings and rooftop bars, but don't walk around there after dark - the surrounding area is rough. Most visitors stay in neighborhoods like El Cangrejo or San Francisco where expats live and eating alone at cafes is normal.
• The Metro costs $0.35 per ride, Uber works well and is cheap, but walking at night isn't recommended outside a few well-lit main streets.
• It's hot and humid year-round (80s-90°F), and locals don't wear shorts in the city - stick to jeans or pants if you want to blend in.

Spanish is the main language, but English is more common here than other Central American capitals. Tourist areas, upscale restaurants, and business districts usually have English-speaking staff. Tourist Police (511-9260) have English speakers. Regular emergency services (911) might only have Spanish operators, so keep basic Spanish phrases handy or ask your hotel for help.

• Locals don't wear shorts in the city - they see them as beach wear. Jeans, capris, or light dresses are more common. Tank tops are fine but shorts mark you as a tourist. Government offices and churches require knee-length bottoms and covered shoulders.
• Even though the US dollar is official currency, many places won't take $50 or $100 bills because of counterfeiting worries. Bring smaller bills. Restaurant tipping is 10%, but check your bill first since many places add it automatically.
• More English speakers here than other Central American cities, especially in tourist areas and business districts. Still useful to know basic Spanish for markets and local places. If you need help in English, call Tourist Police (511-9260) instead of regular emergency services.
• Catcalling is illegal but still happens regularly. Usually doesn't go beyond verbal comments. Many businesses close 12-2pm for lunch. Locals care about appearance - looking neat gets you better treatment than looking sloppy.

• The Metro costs $0.35 per ride with a reloadable card ($2 for the card itself). Line 1 and Line 2 cover major areas including the airport. Runs 5am-11pm weekdays, 7am-10pm weekends. Generally safe but watch your belongings during rush hour.
• Uber works well here - most rides are $5-7. More reliable than street taxis, especially at night. Cabify is another option with similar pricing. A lot of people just use Uber for everything.
• You can walk around El Cangrejo, San Francisco, and Bella Vista during the day without issues. At night, stick to well-lit main streets or just take an Uber. Don't walk to Casco Viejo after dark even though it's only 20 minutes from the Metro - the area between is sketchy.
• If you're planning day trips outside the city, consider renting a car.
• For peace of mind on arrival, book your airport pickup in advance.

Explore Panama City with local guides and curated experiences.