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tipping in Panama

Located in Central America, Panama has coastlines on both the Caribbean Sea and the North Pacific Ocean.  Panama is strategically located on the isthmus that forms the land bridge connecting North and South America. It is home to the Panama Canal, one of the most important shipping routes in the world.  Panama has a magnificent landscape, stunning attractions and offers a variety of activities to satisfy every traveler.  Panama's national currency is actually the US dollar, but people use the term dólar and balboa.

should you tip your taxi driver?

In Panama Don't Tip your taxi driver

In Panama, it is not customary to tip taxi drivers.  However, rounding up taxi fares is a great way of showing your appreciation for the driver. If the taxi driver was extra helpful, you may wish to tip them extra.

tipping in hotels in Panama

in Panama Tip $1-$2 at a Hotel

At most hotels in Panama, a 10% service charge is usually already figured into the overall tab.  However, tipping individual staff directly is sometimes appropriate. An appropriate tip for hotel porters/bellboys is about $1 - $2 per bag.  However, they should only expect tips in more expensive hotels.  An appropriate tip for housekeeping would also be about $1 - $2 per day.

should you tip your tour guide?

In Panama Tip $10 per day to your tour guide

In Panama, a tip of $10 per day is appropriate.  The best option is to factor in the total cost of the tour, the duration of the tour and the quality of service you receive.

tips at restaurants in Panama

At a restaurant in Panama Tip 10% for good service

At restaurants in Panama, gratuity is not usually included in the final bill.  However, it is customary to tip 10%.  In Panama, tipping is based on the rewarding of good service rather than an obligation.

Beers in Panama

Be sure to treat yourself and try some delicious local beers, including Panama Cerveza, Balboa, Atlas and Soberana.  However, if you prefer something a little stronger, be sure to try seco, which is fermented sugar cane liquor.

tipping practices for spas in Panama

In Panama Tip 10% at a Spa

In Panama, it is customary to tip at least 10% of the total cost of the treatment.  However, if you received exceptional service, you may wish to tip a little extra.  Of course, this is always greatly appreciated.

should you tip your hairdresser

In Panama Tip 10% after a haircut

In Panama, it is customary to tip at least 10% of the total cost for salon services.  However, if you are satisfied with the service, you can always decide to tip a little extra.