Why do panamanians

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They have their own dialects, languages, and customs and most of them also speak Spanish. In , Panama assumed full control of the Panama Canal. Watch "Destination World".

Now Playing. Up Next. North America. Panamanian culture has roots in at least three continents. It is the result of a blending process that has been going on for five centuries, a hybrid that keeps evolving. Singling out the primary ingredients of this blend seems like a good way to decode it.

The researchers came up with a composition that is The most salient characteristics in Panamanian popular culture, as observed today, can be traced to these groups. Besides their language, Spaniards imported their religion. In a national survey, At a personal level, Panamanians might be pragmatic, even flexible, but they respect the Church and its representatives and follow the rituals: family life follows the sequence from one sacrament to the other, with boys and girls expected to move from baptism and communion to confirmation and wedding.

Regional festivities—the patronales—have a large pagan component, including binge drinking and dancing, but they center on a locally venerated saint honored with flowers, gifts and processions before the partying. Even the greatest national and eagerly awaited yearly celebration—the carnaval—is held preceding Lent. The national dance, el tamborito, is of Spanish ancestry although with obvious influence from native Indian dances , as is the much admired pollera.

An off-the-shoulder top with a full skirt embellished with embroidery, lace and ribbons, the pollera is a tropical adaptation of the dresses that Spanish women wore in the 15th and 16th centuries. Panamanians try to maintain a neat, conservative appearance when in public.

Generally, men pair long pants with a collared shirt; shorts and sandals are usually considered too casual. For women, a dress or jeans paired with a nice top is appropriate. It should also be noted that it is illegal for men or women to walk around a city or town without a t-shirt.

Being shirtless on a beach is fine, but try to wear something while walking through town, as this law is actually enforced. Panamanians generally greet each other with a handshake or hug. Men shake hands with one another, unless they are related or close friends, in which case they may hug.

Depending on the person they are meeting, women will either shake hands, hug, or kiss each other along the side of the cheek. Panamanians value personal space, and thus touch during a conversation is somewhat unusual.

Maintaining eye contact is also important and is seen as a sign of integrity. Titles are important in Panama. This practice may seem formal, but it is a sign of utmost respect for Panamanians. Bargaining is not widely practiced in Panama, although you may be able to get a discount when buying handicrafts at local markets. Tranquilo is a word that you may come across while traveling in Panama. It means calm or peaceful and can be applied to a person, place or a situation.

Similar to the practices of people in other Latin American countries, Panamanians do not place a high importance on promptness. Time is perceived with fluidity, and lunches and dinners can extend for several hours. The emphasis is placed on the people and relationships rather than on a strict adherence to the schedule. This can be problematic for North Americans who want to get things done immediately or maintain a tight timeline. Panama's development as a country and society continues to unfold.

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