Panamá City Travel Forum

My husband and I are planning a trip to Panama from November 25th to February 22nd. I've read where a US license is acceptable for driving or renting a car. Is this correct? I have also read where shorts and sandals are not acceptable in Panama City. Are Birkenstocks ok? Thank you.

Yes, a U.S license is acceptable to drive in Panama. However please beware of traffic as it is insane, there are more cars than streets. Shorts are let's just say that if you wear shorts you are considered a hooker in Panama, especially women. Sandls are ok. I am from Panama but live in the U.S and I know all this info.

Hopefully, I was of some help!!

Jenn

Jenn,
Thanks so much for answering my questions. My husband and I are actually pleased shorts and beachwear are not considered acceptable in Panama City. We're truly looking forward to learning about the Panamanian culture and customs and meeting the people.
Diane

US drivers license is fine here. You should also carry a copy of your passport because it is the law although rarely enforced. I used to carry a photo copy rather than the actual passport just so it would not get lost. Only was asked once for it and the copy was fine.

As for shorts and sandals, I have found no problems wearing these unless you are visiting government offices and some private businesses. I am originally from the US but have lived here in Panama for over a year. I have never heard anyone being considered a "hooker" because they wear shorts. Do be prepared though, the men here like to make verbal comments about women and it is commonly accepted. Does not matter what you wear, you will receive intense stares and comments. I would suggest still bringing shorts along as it can be very hot here although the time period you reference is closing in on Summer and it is hot, but dry and breezy. We only have 2 seasons, Winter from June to Dec (wet, hot, rainy almost daily for periods of time and humid) and Summer from Jan to May (hot, less humidity, nice breezes and occasional rain. Evenings in the Summer can be quite cool and beautiful.

One thing I want to mention is to not bring $50 or $100 bills as they are not widely accepted. Supermarkets take them usually but many others will not and if they do will require you to show ID and sign for the bill. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted at most private medium businesses and up.

Hope this helps! if you have any other questions, please feel free to ask.

Dan

Hi Dan, We will be there in Nov-Dec. So I should be able to wear shorts or are pants a better option? skirts? not sure what to pack but I plan on only bringing a backpack so I don't want to bring the wrong thing! Should we rent a car at the airport or wait until we are ready to leave PC and explore the rest of the country? I hear driving is a nightmare there unless you know your way, which we do not! Any suggestions are greatly appreciated! P. LaChapelle