Panama City Travel Guide

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• Visa & Entry for Netherlands citizens: Panama offers visa-free entry for up to 180 days for Dutch passport holders. Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your arrival date. You'll need proof of onward travel (return ticket or ticket to another country) and may be asked to show proof of sufficient funds ($500+ recommended). No pre-arrival forms or ETAs are required. Immigration is straightforward at Tocumen International Airport. Check the official Panama Immigration website (migracion.gob.pa) for any updates before travel.
• Stay in Casco Viejo for the best backpacker scene. All major hostels are here, it's walkable, safe during the day, and has the best nightlife. Avoid walking alone late at night in quiet streets.
• Use the Metrobus and Metro system with a rechargeable card ($2 card fee, $0.25-0.50 per ride). It's cheap, safe, and efficient. Taxis should use meters or agree on price beforehand. Uber works well in Panama City.
• Panama uses the US Dollar (called Balboa locally), so no currency exchange needed for Americans. ATMs are everywhere and don't charge excessive fees. Bring small bills as street vendors rarely have change.
• Tap water in Panama City is safe to drink, saving you money on bottled water. Refill your bottle at hostels and restaurants freely.
• Join hostel pub crawls and walking tours to meet other travelers quickly. Luna's Castle and Selina both organize regular social events and day trips to San Blas and other destinations.
• Learn basic Spanish phrases. English is spoken in tourist areas and hostels, but Spanish will help immensely with locals, buses, and markets. Panamanians appreciate the effort and are generally friendly to solo travelers.

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