Panama is a great country with a growing community of expats and immigrants, especially those coming from the US. Easy access, favourable tax regimes and a currency that’s tied to the US dollar all make Panama really attractive to people looking for a new, more adventurous life in Central America whilst keeping some semblance of modern business appeal.
Settling into a new city or country can feel daunting at first, but Panama’s many expats and friendly locals make it a really easy place to integrate and develop a new social circle.
Panamanians are known for their warm and approachable nature, and very much value relationships and community. Panama‘s diverse expat population, ranging from retirees and empty nesters to digital nomads and entrepreneurs, make it easy to meet people from all walks of life.
Here’s how to make friends and integrate into Panama’s two key social communities – the local community and the expat community – with some tips specific to the most popular expat cities.
Choose Your Base in Panama Wisely
Panama’s expat hubs each have their own unique social scene, offering something for everyone. Where you choose to live can significantly influence the types of connections you make.
Panama City
Panama City is the bustling heart of the country, with a cosmopolitan vibe and a large expat community. It’s perfect for digital nomads in Panama who enjoy urban living and a fast-paced lifestyle.
Join Expat Meetups: Panama City hosts regular expat events, such as networking evenings, trivia nights, and language exchanges. Check out Facebook groups like “Expats in Panama City” or “InterNations Panama” for event updates.
Frequent Social Hubs: Popular spots like Casco Viejo’s bars and cafés, including Café Unido and The Strangers Club, attract both locals and expats. These places have a relaxed atmosphere perfect for sparking conversations.
Attend Coworking Spaces: If you’re a remote worker, coworking spaces like Workings and Selina are excellent for meeting fellow digital nomads and professionals. Many spaces also host community events and workshops.
Get Involved in the Arts: Panama City boasts a thriving arts scene. Attend gallery openings, live music events, or film screenings to meet culturally minded locals and expats.
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Boquete
Known for its cool climate and stunning mountain views, Boquete is a favourite among retirees and outdoor enthusiasts.
Join Outdoor Activities: Boquete’s hiking trails, hot springs, and coffee tours provide ample opportunities to meet other nature lovers. Joining a group hike or birdwatching tour is a great way to connect.
Visit Expats’ Hangouts: Restaurants like Big Daddy’s Grill and The Rock are popular spots for expats to gather. Regular live music nights and events make them lively social hubs.
Participate in Clubs and Workshops: Boquete is home to numerous expat-run clubs, including gardening groups, book clubs, and art workshops. These are excellent ways to meet others with shared interests.
Coronado
Coronado is a beach town that attracts expats looking for a relaxed, coastal lifestyle. It’s known for its welcoming community and social activities.
Join Local Groups: Coronado’s expat community organises regular events, such as potlucks, fitness classes, and social evenings. Check local noticeboards and Facebook groups for details.
Engage in Beach Activities: Surfing, paddleboarding, and yoga on the beach are popular in Coronado and great ways to meet others who share a love for the ocean.
Frequent Community Centres: Places like Picasso’s Bar and Restaurant are well-known gathering spots for expats and locals alike. They often host trivia nights, karaoke, and other social events.
Make the Most of Panama’s Social Customs
Understanding and embracing Panama’s social customs will help you connect with locals and feel more at home.
Learn Basic Spanish: While many Panamanians in expat-friendly areas speak some English, knowing basic Spanish demonstrates respect and opens up more opportunities to bond. Language classes are widely available and a great way to meet other expats and locals.
Share Meals: Panamanians love to socialise over food. Invite someone to join you for a plate of ropa vieja or ceviche, or attend food festivals like the International Fair in Boquete.
Be Warm and Respectful: Panamanians value politeness and friendliness. A simple greeting like buenos días or buenas tardes, combined with genuine curiosity about someone’s life or culture, goes a long way in forming relationships.
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Join Local Activities and Clubs
Participating in activities and groups is one of the best ways to meet people while pursuing your interests.
Hiking and Adventure Groups: Panama’s natural beauty makes it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Join hiking clubs or eco-tours to explore places like Volcán Barú or the San Blas Islands while meeting like-minded adventurers.
Cooking Classes: Learning how to prepare Panamanian dishes like sancocho or empanadas is a fun and interactive way to connect with locals and other expats.
Fitness and Sports: Whether it’s joining a gym, yoga class, or a local football league, sports are a fantastic way to stay active and social.
Attend Festivals and Cultural Events
Panama’s lively festivals and cultural events are some of the best ways to meet people and immerse yourself in the country’s traditions.
Carnival: Panama’s Carnival celebrations are legendary, with parades, music, and dancing in cities like Las Tablas and Panama City. Joining in the festivities is a fantastic way to connect with locals.
Jazz Festival in Panama City: This annual event attracts music lovers from all over the world, creating a unique opportunity to meet people while enjoying world-class performances.
Local Fiestas: Smaller towns often host their own patron saint festivals, which include traditional music, food, and parades. Participating in these events is a great way to experience Panamanian culture and make new friends.
Specific Tips for Building a Social Circle in Panama
Take Language Exchanges Seriously: Many cities, especially Panama City, offer language exchange meetups where locals and expats practise English and Spanish together. These events are a great way to make connections.
Become a Regular: Frequenting the same café, restaurant, or bar helps you get to know the staff and other patrons. For example, places like Bajareque Coffee House in Panama City often attract a regular crowd.
Volunteer: Getting involved with local charities or community projects not only gives back but also helps you meet like-minded individuals. Organisations focusing on education, environmental conservation, or animal welfare are particularly popular among expats.
Join Social Media Groups: Facebook groups like “Expats in Panama” and “Panama Digital Nomads” are excellent resources for finding events and connecting with others in the area.
Frequently Asked Questions About Making Friends in Panama
How long does it typically take to make friends in Panama?
The timeframe varies for each person, but many expats report building meaningful friendships within 3-6 months of arriving. Being proactive about joining social groups and attending community events can significantly speed up this process. Panama’s welcoming culture means that both locals and fellow expats are generally very open to new connections.
Do I need to speak Spanish to make friends in Panama?
While you can certainly make friends without speaking Spanish, learning basic Spanish will greatly enhance your social opportunities. Many Panamanians in expat areas speak some English, but showing effort to learn the local language demonstrates respect and opens doors to deeper connections with the local community.
Which area of Panama is best for socialising?
Panama City offers the most diverse social scene with numerous events and meetups. However, smaller communities like Boquete and Coronado often have tight-knit expat communities that can be easier to integrate into. The best location depends on your preferred lifestyle and the type of social connections you’re seeking.
Are there many young expats in Panama, or is it mostly retirees?
Panama attracts a diverse range of expats. While there are significant retiree communities, particularly in areas like Boquete, you’ll find younger digital nomads and professionals, especially in Panama City. The expat community includes people of all ages and backgrounds.
How can I meet local Panamanians rather than just other expats?
Joining local sports teams, taking Spanish classes, participating in community events, and frequenting local establishments rather than just expat hangouts are excellent ways to meet Panamanians. Being genuinely interested in the local culture and making an effort to speak Spanish will help you build authentic connections with locals.
Conclusion
Making friends as an expat in Panama is an enriching experience that helps you feel at home while immersing yourself in the local culture. Whether you’re attending an expat meetup in Panama City, hiking with a group in Boquete, or sharing a meal with neighbours in Coronado, the opportunities to connect are endless. By embracing Panama’s social customs and actively seeking out new experiences, you’ll build a strong social network and create unforgettable memories in this vibrant country.
