🇵🇦 Understanding Panamanian Culture: A Guide to Life and Traditions
- Brownie
- Oct 3
- 3 min read
Panama is a vibrant tapestry of cultures, histories, and traditions. From its diverse population to its rich customs, understanding the Panamanian way of life offers a deeper appreciation for this Central American gem.
👥 Demographics & Lifestyle
Population & Income
Panama is home to about 5 million people. The average monthly income is around $1,288 USD, reflective of a growing but still unequal economy. You’ll find a mix of modern city life and traditional rural communities, often just a short drive apart.
Education
Education is compulsory through the ninth grade, and Panama boasts a literacy rate of over 91%. There are several major public and private universities, with the University of Panama and the Technological University of Panama being among the largest.
Religion
The majority of Panamanians identify as Roman Catholic (about 85%), though Evangelical and Protestant churches have grown significantly in recent decades. Religious festivals—especially those honoring saints—are part of local tradition in many towns.
🏙️ Where Panamanians and Expats Live
Panamanians
Many Panamanians live in the capital, Panama City, as well as secondary cities like David (in Chiriquí) and Santiago (in Veraguas). These cities offer greater access to jobs, services, and schools.
Expats
Popular expat communities include:
Boquete – for its cool climate, mountain views, and thriving international community.
Coronado – a Pacific beach town with golf, shopping, and gated communities.
El Valle de Antón – a lush, peaceful town in a volcanic crater with weekend markets and hot springs.
These areas offer easier integration for foreigners, with many bilingual services and international grocery items available.
🎉 Customs, Traditions & Cultural Norms
Everyday Manners
Panamanians tend to be warm and friendly—but also formal in initial encounters. It’s very common (and appreciated) to greet store employees, receptionists, or restaurant staff with a simple “buenas” (short for buenos días, buenas tardes, or buenas noches depending on the time of day). You’ll often hear this exchanged quickly, even between strangers passing on the street.
Food and Holidays
Panamanians love to gather around food. During Christmas, for example, families prepare arroz con guandú—a delicious rice dish made with pigeon peas and coconut milk. Tamales, pernil (roast pork), and fruitcake also make an appearance at the holiday table.
Other important national holidays (like November’s “Fiestas Patrias” celebrating independence) are marked by parades, patriotic music, and road closures—so expect heavier traffic heading to or from the beaches.
Dress and Appearance
People generally dress neatly in public, even in casual settings. Panamanians take pride in personal presentation. You’ll see everything from business attire in the city to traditional polleras (ornate dresses) and montunos (embroidered shirts) during festivals.
Afro-Caribbean and Chinese Influence
Panama’s cuisine and culture are richly influenced by its Afro-Caribbean and Chinese communities.
The Afro-Caribbean legacy—especially strong along the Atlantic coast—brings coconut-based stews, spicy seafood, and music like reggae and calypso.
The Chinese community, many of whom arrived during canal construction, has made Chinese food deeply embedded in daily life. It’s not uncommon to find locals eating fried rice or chow mein for lunch.
🌿 Living Like a Local
Whether you’re visiting for a few weeks or planning a longer stay, getting to know Panamanian culture enhances everything—your travels, your conversations, and even your meals.
Say “buenas,” eat with curiosity, dress with care, and always make time for a good story or a strong cup of local coffee. Panama isn’t just a place to visit—it’s a place to feel.
