Arriving in Panama and getting situated can be an overwhelming experience for some people.
Getting your bearings straight, figuring out your housing arrangements, setting up your utilities, connecting phone and Internet, arranging any necessary documentation, finding a quality grocery store—all work, no play.
When you do finally get situated and your to-do list becomes a little shorter, getting out and meeting new people is probably your next undertaking.
After decades of U.S. control of the Panama Canal and the military bases that came along with that, Panama is full of expats—many of them from the United States. However, Canadians, Germans, Colombians, South African, Argentines, and many other nationalities are found here, too.Don’t be shy. Approach a group at a bar, say hi, order a round of drinks, and you’ll be fine. Most expats in Panama are open to meeting new people and will quickly welcome you into their social circle.
Your new friends can be more than that, too. Don’t underestimate the amount of knowledge they have about relocating to Panama. They’ve done it all and could probably give you some tips on setting up in your new country.
If you’re less outgoing and the thought of approaching strangers seems daunting, you have other options. Many Facebook groups, communities, and forums exist online for the purpose of helping expats integrate and assimilate into their new surroundings.
Most of these groups focus on Panama City, hosting social gatherings, charity fundraisers, and even outdoor excursions to beaches, jungle, or offshore islands.
Most focus on socializing, though some focus on certain activities. Many of these events sometimes have drink specials too, making it even easier to loosen up and meet new people.
Here is a list of resources for finding expats and events in Panama. Some of the resources are for the entire country, while others a little more localized.
Expats In Panama
This group is a good starting point. With more than 20,000 members, posts range from where to go for a good cellphone, finding a plumber, or chatter about what’s going on around Panama.The American Society Of Panama
Founded in 1931, this group’s presence in Panama is entrenched in the expat community. Membership is open to anyone, regardless of citizenship or national origin.
The society sponsors and performs charitable works, assists groups or individuals that engage in like-minded endeavors, provides a forum for discussing current events, and keeps members abreast of important issues that affect the community.
Meet and mix events are held regularly and are a great starting point for new expats.
Moms In Panama/Mamás En Panama
A group of local and expat mothers in Panama, helping each other out with all the challenges of childrearing. They organize play dates, excursions, as well as monthly ladies’ nights—a great opportunity to leave the kids with the husband and unwind.
Young Expats In Panama
This group organizes social gatherings and beach parties on a regular basis. The “young” and “expats” parts of the name aren’t strictly defined— attendees range anywhere from ages 18 to 45, with a couple Panamanians usually in the mix as well.
This is a great group to join if you’re looking to relocate to Panama or if you already live here. You’ll see posts about events, gatherings, rentals, pet sitting services, volunteer opportunities, house/apartment sales, and more.
Tropical Cowboys & Cowgirls
Mostly made up of expats, perpetual travelers, retirees, and business owners in Panama (Costa Rica and Colombia), this group is for networking, asking questions, and talking about your life, family, business, or just what’s on your mind. With people who can relate to you and help you, this is an extremely useful group.
Expats Give Back—Panama
This is a group of expats in Panama who want to make a difference and improve the quality of life for those who are less fortunate and living in poverty in Panama. They work with established nonprofit groups in fundraising and organization.
Playa Community Coronado
This website provides English language info in Panama’s most popular expat destination, Coronado, just outside of Panama City. The website features informative articles, a business directory, restaurant guide, classifieds, and packed-full events calendar.Boquete Community Group
This is your chance to get insider information about Panama’s top expat haven directly from other expats who’ve already made Boquete their home. Here you’ll get information on everything from rentals and sales to everyday news and weekly events.
Boquete Panama Canadian Expats
Like the Boquete Community Group, here you’ll be able to connect to your fellow expats. But, if you’re from Canada and are looking to connect with other fellow Canadians who’ve set up house here, this is the group for you.
Take A Hike Boquete
This group offers a fantastic way of getting to know your new hometown as well as fellow expats. Walks/hikes are posted almost daily giving you the extra bonus of staying active and healthy.
Chiriqui Expats Community
Get more of an overall insight into what life in the Province of Chiriquí could be like for you. Whether you’re looking at Boquete, David, Volcán, or Puerto Armuelles, this is a great place to start and get all of your questions answered by those already living here.
Expats In Coronado, Panama
Coronado is among Panama’s most popular expat destinations. If you’re looking to move here, join this group and get most (if not all) of your questions answered by fellow expats who already live here.
El Valle Expats Community
El Valle de Antón doesn’t have a huge expat community, so pointing out your fellow expats should be fairly easy. However, this group gives you the opportunity to stay up to date on everything expat related here. Plus, if you haven’t made the move yet your fellow expats could give you some pointers.
Expats In Las Tablas
Created by expats for expats. If you plan on relocating to Las Tablas (or if you already live here) and want to get to know your fellow expats, join this group.
Volcan Community Group
Join this group and you’ll be up to date on things that happen in Volcán, Chiriquí. If you need help with anything, just post your inquiries on this page and your fellow expats will be more than happy to help.
Sincerely,
Matt Chilliak
Contributor, Panama Letter
