To allow all guests, including parents, an evening of relaxation, we have chosen for our wedding day to be an kid-free occasion. We hope that this advance notice means you are still able to participate in our big day and will enjoy having the evening off!
The U.S. Dollar ($)! That’s right, there is no need for currency exchange. However, in addition to using U.S. coins, there are some Panamanian coins in circulation that resemble U.S. coins. So, if you bring them back to the U.S., they will not work! Visa/Mastercard is widely accepted in Panama. Check with your credit card carrier to make sure you are not charged foreign transactions fees.
Everyone in Panama uses What'sApp for texting, including Liz and Derek. For communication while in Panama and right before you travel, please download What'sApp on your phone. We'll be creating a wedding group to send notifications while we are all abroad through that platform.
It’s customary to tip 10%-15% at most restaurants. This can, however, vary depending on where you are. You don’t need to tip street vendors or in cafeterias. Let's try to keep inflation down by not overtipping.
Yes, it is. Panama has one of the cleanest waters in the continent. We even sell our own bottled water similar to Fiji water! Beware of the rural areas tho! According to The Lonely Planet, “Tap water is generally drinkable in Panama, except in Bocas del Toro and the Comarca de Guna Yala.” Other sources suggest sticking to bottled water in all outlying rural areas, indigenous communities, and islands (San Blas, Las Perlas, etc.).
Most U.S. phone carriers allow you to pay per day for data. If you do not wish to pay for that, let the bride or groom know. If your phone carrier allows it, we can arrange for the purchase of a Panamanian phone carrier pre-paid card that would allow you to have data for the entirety of your stay at a very low price compared to a pay per day service.
Yes! Most Panamanians throughout the city and in tourist places speak English. Many welcome the opportunity to speak with native English speakers to practice it themselves. Though, if you’d like to brush up on some of the Spanish basics, that can’t hurt! ¡Otra cerveza por favor!
We recommend that you use Uber to get to places not walkable. While taxis can be found throughout the city, many drivers might not speak English, most only accept cash, and directions/addresses in Panama are much more difficult compared to the United States.
Yes, in most places you will be able to find available WiFi.
Hot. With a November average high of ~90°F (32°C) and average low of ~76°F (24°C), you won't need those winter jackets. November is at the tail end of Panama's Wet Season, so while it is unlikely to rain for extended periods of time, you can expect a quick shower in the afternoon on most days. Pack that sunscreen!