Panama City Airport: A Budget Traveler's Nightmare

Panama airport is not designed with the budget-conscious tourist in mind. Unlike many other airports around the world, there are no buses available from the gate to the city center. In fact, even if you do manage to find a bus, it's unlikely you'll want to take it. A more convenient option is to share an authorized airport cab with fellow travelers. However, arranging this can be challenging if your Spanish skills are limited or non-existent.

If you're arriving at the airport during early morning or late night hours, you may have difficulty finding information desk staff who speak English. Look for the information desk upstairs near the escalators – it's hard to miss. The staff members are usually friendly and helpful, but be prepared for some gruff responses from a few of them (a common trait among Panamanian service providers). It's always a good idea to learn a few basic Spanish phrases to help you navigate any language barriers.

As a seasoned traveler who has used Panama airport as both a tourist and a resident, I can attest that even locals are not immune to the airport's quirks. Unfortunately, I've been treated poorly in both capacities – but at least it's 10 times better than some airports in the United States!

Overall, navigating Panama City Airport requires some flexibility and patience, especially for those on a tight budget. But with the right mindset and preparation, you can still have a smooth and enjoyable travel experience.

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