No Shirt, No Service: Surprising Panama Rules

Part 2 of the 100 Things series: Did you know men can't go shirtless in Panama?

Culture & Lifestyle

6. Shirts Required

Men cannot go shirtless in public places outside of beaches and pools. This rule is enforced in cities, towns, and even rural areas. Police officers might ask shirtless tourists to cover up when spotted in public spaces.

7. Line-Jumping Privileges

Pregnant women, elderly individuals, and people with disabilities are legally allowed to skip to the front of most lines. This cultural practice is widely respected, and special lanes or counters are often designated for these priority groups. The practice extends to banks, government offices, supermarkets, and even movie theaters.

8. Sunday Dim Sum Tradition

Panama has a surprising tradition of families gathering for dim sum on Sundays. This practice emerged from the significant Chinese influence on Panamanian culture. Restaurants in areas like El Dorado and San Francisco fill with multi-generational families enjoying dumplings, buns, and tea as part of their weekend ritual.

9. Ice Cream Obsession

Panamanians have a genuine love affair with ice cream. Some plazas feature multiple ice cream shops side by side, all doing brisk business. Evening family outings centered around getting ice cream are a common sight, with grandparents, parents, and children all enjoying this sweet treat together. Our family favorite is Keene’s Ice Creams, proudly owned and operated by an Afro-Panamanian woman.

10. The Honking Language

Car horns in Panama communicate much more than warnings. A quick beep might mean "thank you," "hello to a friend," "you can go ahead," or even flirtatious interest. Learning the subtle differences in honking patterns helps understand this vehicular conversation system.

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