When our family decided to relocate to Panama, we did our research (hey, I'm also a grant writer! Doing research is my jam). We knew about the stable economy, the use of the US dollar, and the quality healthcare system. But living somewhere is different from reading about it and Panama has served up plenty of surprises - both expected and unexpected - that have shaped our expat experience here.

What We Expected

The US Dollar: No Currency Conversion Headaches

One of the most convenient aspects of living in Panama is using the US dollar as the official currency. This unique attribute eliminates the need for currency conversion and the associated headaches. Our American bank accounts and credit cards work seamlessly (80% of the time we use contactless payments!) making financial transactions straightforward and significantly easing the financial management of the transition for our family.

A Positive Relationship with Americans

Despite Panama's complex history with the United States, the resulting positive relationship has created an environment where Americans are generally welcomed by the Panamanian people. This has made our integration into society smoother than we might have experienced elsewhere.

Rich Cultural Diversity

Panama's position as a crossroads of the world has created a rich tapestry of cultures. This multicultural environment is evident in Panama's food, music, and festivals, providing our child with exposure to various cultural traditions and exciting experiences. 

Families can savor authentic Afro-Panamanian cuisine with its unique blend of African, Caribbean, and indigenous influences, featuring dishes like saus, platanos en tentación, and ron ponche. On Sundays, many families enjoy dim sum brunches in Panama City's vibrant Chinese neighborhoods, where steamed dumplings, buns, and other delicacies offer a taste of Asian heritage that has become an integral part of Panama's cultural landscape.

World-Class Healthcare at Affordable Prices

The affordability of world-class healthcare in Panama was a significant factor in our decision to move. Many doctors are US-trained, hospitals are modern and well-equipped, and most importantly, medical care costs a fraction of what it does in the United States. This has allowed us to maintain excellent family healthcare while significantly reducing our annual medical expenses, a major advantage for families considering a move.

What Surprised Us

Family-Centered Celebrations

While we knew about major holidays like Carnival, we didn't expect the sheer number of family-oriented festivals and celebrations throughout the year. It seems there's always a parade, a street fair, or a community gathering happening somewhere. These events aren't just tourist attractions - they're genuine community celebrations where families come together, and we've been warmly welcomed into these traditions. 

Sunday Bicycle Culture

One of our favorite discoveries has been the regular Sunday closures of major roads for cyclists. The government closes lanes on some main thoroughfares to create safe cycling spaces, and low-cost or free bicycle rentals are available. Our Sunday family bike rides have become a cherished weekly tradition that keeps us active and connected to the community.

Ice Cream Obsession

Who knew Panama was so serious about ice cream? From traditional heladerías to innovative artisanal shops, Panamanians love their frozen treats. On hot days (which is most days), ice cream shops are social hubs where families gather. Our child quickly adapted to this custom, and finding the best ice cream spots has become a family adventure.

Infrastructure Boom

We were aware of Panama's growing economy, but the scale of infrastructure development has been impressive. New subway lines, train systems, highway expansions, and bridge projects are transforming the country. While construction sometimes creates temporary inconveniences, witnessing a nation actively building for its future is exciting.

The Truly Unexpected

No Regular Postal Service

Perhaps the biggest practical shock was discovering that Panama doesn't have a conventional postal mail service like we were accustomed to in the US. There's no regular mail delivery to homes or businesses. Instead, people use private courier services or maintain post office boxes. This required a significant adjustment to how we receive important documents and packages from abroad.

Sunday Dim Sum Tradition

We never expected to find excellent dim sum in Panama, let alone discover that it's a Sunday tradition for many families. The Chinese community in Panama has established some outstanding restaurants, and joining the Sunday dim sum crowds has become one of our unexpected family traditions.

Real Estate Market Peculiarities

Until the recent launch of the Panacomps property tracking service, buying property in Panama involved navigating a system without a centralized property sales database or comparable prices. This made researching fair market values challenging and increased the importance of working with reputable real estate professionals who know the market well. 

Unlike some markets with exclusive agency agreements, buyers in Panama can work simultaneously with multiple real estate agents to expand their search options. Additionally, property viewings often feature a unique dynamic where owners themselves may be present during showings, offering potential buyers direct insights about the property,neighborhood, and answering questions that agents might not be able to address. Opinions on whether this creates a more personalized property touring experience or an extremely awkward tour can vary widely.

Final Thoughts

Moving to Panama has been an adventure of confirmations and surprises. The aspects we researched and expected have largely held true, providing stability in our transition. But the unexpected elements - the Sunday bike rides, the community celebrations, even the lack of mail service—have truly shaped our experience and given us stories to tell.

For families considering a similar move, I'd encourage thorough research and an openness to embrace the unexpected. It's in these surprises that you often find the most authentic experiences and memories that will define your time in a new country.

The Panama we've discovered goes far beyond the Panama we researched, and that's what makes this journey so rewarding.