Driving In Panama
Mar 9th, 2006 by Don Ray
I have read on the Yahoo groups about several driving experiences here in Panama and then have reflected on my own experience. You have multiple challenges driving here.
If you are not driving in the city and plan on seeing the out of the way areas, then you really need a 4×4. Even some of the main streets can have holes in them that will do a real job on a standard car. You will find that you never consistently drive on the right hand side of the road in many areas. You have to avoid the potholes and that takes you from one side of the road to the other.
Now in the cities, it is a different situation. I have driven only minimally in Panama City and that was usually when leaving. I have never done it without a navigator.
Driving outside of Panama is not that big a problem, but never the less you have to pay attention. After my last day of driving in David, I realized that there is a very good way to practice for your driving experience in Panama before you get here. If you happen to be in an area that has carnival rides, seek out the bumper car ride and make sure you take at least three people with you. Buy tickets for everyone in your party and give them instructions that their purpose is to make sure they try to run into you. Now you get in your bumper car and you try to keep from getting hit. Perfect training.
