Panama/Questions Answered by Expert Lorena Mlns

SubjectDate Asked
pregunta12/19/2011
  Q: soy colombiano, terminando mi universidad. me están ofreciendo puesto en panamá con sueldo de ...
  A: Hola Juan, Dependiendo de donde quieras residir y si estás dispuesto a compartir tu ...
Cars and gas cost4/1/2011
  Q: I had a question about cars in Panama city. i will move there in july and will stay for a few years. ...
  A: Sorry for late reply - I was out traveling. I will try to answer your questions as accurately as ...
Taxi3/2/2011
  Q: Our plane lands in panama at 13h45, will be able to make it for the 16h00 from Allbrook to David? ...
  A: I think the timing is a little tight - as you do not know how long it will be in customs and traffic ...
Furniture Shopping in Panama2/13/2011
  Q: My husband and I are purchasing a home in San Carlos, Panama and we will need to purchase furniture, ...
  A: As I live in the city, I can only recommend stores I know in the city- I am very, very careful in ...
Carnaval in Panama2/7/2011
  Q: Will it be difficult to get medium price hotel rooms in Panama City for the first week in June? Is ...
  A: There should not be a problem getting a medium price hotel in June. However, note that Carnaval is ...
Aeroperlas1/7/2011
  Q: I am very grateful for your generous service! Your help is VERY valuable! My question concerns air ...
  A: I would do my reservations ON LINE, print copies (to bring with you) and then confirm them over the ...
Looking for someone11/24/2010
  Q: My question may sound complicated, but I will try to break it down as best as I can. My grandfather ...
  A: This is complicated :) I am guessing you do not have a last name. Do you know where Bonita was from ...
informacion11/8/2010
  Q: Hola! Deseo ir a comprar ropa a la zona franca,marcas como raphl lauren,gant,lacoste,tommy ...
  A: Hola Madelen, En relación a las marcas que buscas creo que todas las puedes conseguir en la Zona ...
información9/15/2010
  Q: Estoy interesado en retirarme en Panamá el año que viene. No me interesa vivir en la ciudad, sino en ...
  A: Luis, Le puedo recomendar las playas de San Carlos o Coronado. Ambos tienen servicios médicos, ...
Attorney7/22/2010
  Q: Can you recommend a good, honest attorney in Panama City (for immigration, then possibly employment ...
  A: I usually do not recommend anyone I have not done business directly with. However I can recommend ...
visita a Colon7/7/2010
  Q: Lorena, Si llego a Panamá para ir a Colón de compras al por mayor, debo hospedarme en Panamá o ...
  A: Hola William. Recomendaría que te quedaras en la Ciudad de Panamá en vez de Colón. El transporte ...
Travel agent5/8/2010
  Q: do you know the location and phone number of the Jasmin Travel agency in Panama City, Panama? Thank ...
  A: According to the Yellow Pages here ...
Hiring car and driving2/18/2010
  Q: I am taking my 84 year old mother and cousin on a Panama Canal cruise and am interesting in hiring a ...
  A: Yes, you can do: Miraflores Locks and Museum + Gamboa + Coffee Beans in a day. Obviously not more ...
New US cars sold in Panama (gas mileage)2/17/2010
  Q: I have been told that new cars being sold in Panama (that were manufactured in the USA} are required ...
  A: As far as I am concerned I have never heard of this I do not think this is true. There are not many ...
hotel2/9/2010
  Q: i need a hotel in panama city. i want to pay about 100 us a night. What do you suggest? thank you
  A: Try http://www.executivehotel-panama.com/english/panama_hotel_rates.html, Executive Hotel- this ...
Expenses in Panama1/25/2010
  Q: My husband and I are considering Panama for retirement and need help in getting an estimate of ...
  A: I am guessing we do not have anything that falls into the "tabs" category. I will give you my ...
Expenses in Panama1/23/2010
  Q: My husband and I are considering Panama for retirement and need help in getting an estimate of ...
  A: In regards to car registration, there is for now only the license plate charge - which for a regular ...
Panama wholesalers1/19/2010
  Q: I am trying to open up a Tools retail store in Trinidad and heard that Panama wholesalers have some ...
  A: You can check distributors available in the Colon Free Zone here ...
Young Canadian living in Panama - miscellaneous questions1/14/2010
  Q: My fiance and I have relocated to Panama City awhile back (he had a great job offer) and I could ...
  A: First of all, welcome to Panama. In regards to job hunting you can try the following ...
Single female relocating to Panama1/14/2010
  Q: Happy New Year! Lorena - i would like to relocate to Panama in 1-3 years. i'm a single, female, 62 ...
  A: Sorry for late reply, I was traveling. This is a tough question to answer. Right now Panama is an ...
Getting to Puerto Obaldia by land1/14/2010
  Q: First of all, thank you for providing all this wonderful information, you seem very trustworthy and ...
  A: Maarten, Sorry for delay in reply, I was out traveling. In regards to land crossing from Colombia to ...
People1/10/2010
  Q: Hope you had a wonderful Holiday Season. Thanks again for answerling my questions last month. Having ...
  A: I know of someone who used this firm: http://www.mata-kelly.com/ Apparently it all went well.... I ...
Single female relocating to Panama1/8/2010
  Q: Happy New Year! Lorena - i would like to relocate to Panama in 1-3 years. i'm a single, female, 62 ...
  A: In order for you to be close to the market niche that your business is directed towards, I would ...
Hotels, getting around, how to decide where in Panama to live12/31/2009
  Q: FirstIf you live in Panama or have lived there recently (I know you were born and raised there), do ...
  A: Sorry for late reply, I am just back from Boquete. Here are my answers: 1. I do not know of any ...
Hotels, getting around, how to decide where in Panama to live12/30/2009
  Q: FirstIf you live in Panama or have lived there recently (I know you were born and raised there), do ...
  A: I still live in Panama :) and will try to answer your questions, to the best of my knowledge. 1. ...
Do they do this in Panama?12/20/2009
  Q: Do people in Panama call each other brother, sister, uncle, aunt and/or other ...
  A: Melvin, This is not a "custom" in Panama but, yes it can be heard of. For example if you have ...
blues'in and cruz'in11/8/2009
  Q: it sure makes for a better time when you have all your ducks is a row. i am planning a 3 week trip ...
  A: The trip from Panama City to David should take about 6 hours ... giving you time to enjoy the ...
Seguridad11/7/2009
  Q: Hola Lorena, soy Rafael Gonzalez de Caracas, quería hacerte una pregunta, recientemente compré un ...
  A: Estimado Rafael, Lamentablemente Panamá se percibe mas seguro de lo que realmente es. Como en toda ...
crime rates8/29/2009
  Q: what is the going crime rate in pamama? several people have suggested retiring there, but i seem to ...
  A: I do not have the crime rate index. I am not even sure there is one, I saw a report about a year ...
General questions on Panama8/18/2009
  Q: within our MBA program, my colleagues and I are working on an assignment regarding Panama. We are ...
  A: That´s a tough question. The most important issues that will affect (and currently affect) Panama´s ...
Christo Negro festival in Portobelo8/17/2009
  Q: I would like to photograph the 3-4 day Christo Negro festival this October in Portobelo. Do you ...
  A: Allow me to say that Colon is probably the highest ranking in crime in the Republic of Panama. With ...
Working in Panama7/23/2009
  Q: I am from Singapore and if i am to come to work in Panama City, my 2 concerns are accommodation and ...
  A: Yes, the health insurance I told you about is the private one not government. For housing, I would ...
Working in Panama7/23/2009
  Q: I am from Singapore and if i am to come to work in Panama City, my 2 concerns are accommodation and ...
  A: In order to have an estimate of health insurance, the company needs to have you evaluated, health ...
Shopping in Panama7/17/2009
  Q: Foremost, thank you for your kind assistance. I travel to Colon Panama via Carnival. We will be in ...
  A: The port of Colon City is about 1.3 hours from Panama City - Unfortunately Colon City does not have ...
Panama Vacation TIps5/18/2009
  Q: Lorena: Thanks for taking time to reply to this email. My family will be going to Panama for 10 ...
  A: Findind accomodations at any time in Panama has become a little more difficult due to the herds of ...
Costos de vida en Panama5/10/2009
  Q: Hola Lorena, Vivo en Mexico y estoy analizando una oferta de trabajo en Panama, tengo algunas ...
  A: Hola José, A continuación mis respuestas, espero te sirvan: 1. Recomendería vivir posiblemente en ...
license4/23/2009
  Q: I hold a 1600 ton master license and would like to get a panama license. Where should I go to get ...
  A: If by this you mean a driver's license for heavy / cargo transport you can contact the Autoridad de ...
transportation in Panama4/21/2009
  Q: I am visiting Panama this summer and I would like to know if it's best to rent a car and drive to ...
  A: It all depends on what you wish to do, once you arrive there. For example if you drive from Panama ...
taxi or car rental4/18/2009
  Q: Hey, we are coming to Panama City for our first visit. We got a really cheap flight, but it arrives ...
  A: I highly recommend you take the taxi (if you need transportation service I have someone I can ...
Request4/17/2009
  Q: We`re a Norwegian couple going to Panama for 12 days. Maybe you can help us? We are arriving the 27 ...
  A: The hotel I recommend is not close to the airport. But you can always stay at the Riande Airport ...
Request4/17/2009
  Q: We`re a Norwegian couple going to Panama for 12 days. Maybe you can help us? We are arriving the 27 ...
  A: Wow you sure plan ahead :) !! I can surely help you with most things you want to do, however I do ...
Driving time3/18/2009
  Q: How long is the drive from Chiriqui to Bocas del Toro.
  A: Driving time from Chiriqui to Bocas is about 3 hours. But, please note that in December there were ...
driving from panama to boquetes3/9/2009
  Q: we are coming to Panama this coming June 2008 and we are wondering if it is save to drive from ...
  A: Driving to David from Panama City should be safe taking the precautions you would take driving ...
Driver For Hire in Panama City/Former CZ Area3/1/2009
  Q: Lorena: I am interested in returning to Panama for a week long visit sometime withing the next few ...
  A: Panama has changed a lot, specially that area, so a driver is a good idea. It would also be safer, ...
Buying Auto2/24/2009
  Q: Hola My wife and I will be moving to Panama somewhere between the end of June or July. We hold are ...
  A: If you bring your car into Panama try to get "full service" meaning they (your forwarder) do all the ...
colon free zone2/22/2009
  Q: I would like to know if there is a hotel that is in walking distance of the free zone.What do you ...
  A: I was in Colon 3 weeks ago and did not see a hotel nearby... even if there were I would not ...
touring in Panama2/14/2009
  Q: ?Como estas? My friend and I are recent college grads and want to go to Panama for at least a ...
  A: Summer in Panama is now until probably April... (global warming you know :) In order to recommend ...
ordering a bus2/11/2009
  Q: I am representing a group of 52 students who will be travelling to Panama for a week. During that ...
  A: Hola Amund, I can recommend someone/company that I personally use. I am not sure he has one bus that ...
used merchandise1/16/2009
  Q: Are there any flea markets or good used furniture stores in the city? I moved here recently and ...
  A: In Panama there is ot much of a "flea market" / "thrift shop" culture. There are a few I will ...
van and driver for hire in panama1/12/2009
  Q: I am part of a group of 11 going to visit Panama in March from 13-20th.Can you recommend a driver ...
  A: I can recommend the person/company who drives me to the airport every time I have a business trip ...
Panama Travel1/7/2009
  Q: We are trying to plan a trip for 10 people to panama.. first time. Can you help us with any ...
  A: Please let me know exactly what you would like to know. Also, before your trip please consider the ...
RENT OF SMALL APARTMENT - PANAMA12/29/2008
  Q: I am coming to Panama City (Panama) in Feb for 3 months to learn some Spanish. Need a cheap and ...
  A: Indeed, since we have become a "popular destination" all prices, specially housing has increased. ...
re-locating to Panama12/16/2008
  Q: Hola Lorena; ..I just spent two weeks at Decamaron..fantastic - I love Panama...found a townhouse ...
  A: Where are you in Canada ? the reason I ask is because if you are on the coast, for example Victoria ...
Goldwing in Panama?12/9/2008
  Q: .. Please excuse my use of your forum to ask this question, but I am finding very limited web ...
  A: I myself have a Honda and the dealership is very good...considering Panama standards. Before ...
first visit to Panama11/19/2008
  Q: Our family of five will be arrive in Panama City on Christmas day. We were hoping to fly to Bocas ...
  A: On Christmas Day, December 24th most businesses close early. In regards to your trip to Bocas del ...
shipping my car or buying a car in Panama10/12/2008
  Q: I plan on moving to Panama next January. The cost of shipping my car is around 2,500 not counting ...
  A: Before selling the car I would contact THE local Toyota dealer here who is, as far as I know the ...
Info Panama!10/3/2008
  Q: Buenas tardes, soy argentino de 30 años, recibido de arquitecto y queria saber de las posibilidades ...
  A: Buenas tardes Patricio, Disculpa la demora en contestar, estaba fuera de Panamá y lejos de una ...
Panamá9/29/2008
  Q: Cara Lorena, Vou com amigos para New York e faremos uma longa escala no Panamá (+ ou - 12 hrs), ...
  A: Hola! No entiendo mucho portugués pero haré lo posible para contestar... :) Si pueden hacer varias ...
Traveling via driving9/16/2008
  Q: We will be visiting Panama on 9/20 and are thinking about taking a planr from Allbrook to David and ...
  A: I think I am late with the answer, but, here it goes anyway ... Yes, you can drive from Boquete to ...
Neighborhoods9/12/2008
  Q: My vacation there was everything I expected it to be and more. My question is about neighborhoods. ...
  A: I am glad your vacation went as planned. In regards to neighborhoods near Arraijan there are a ...
Long term parking in Panama8/19/2008
  Q: you mentioned other long term parking in Panama city ( besides the airport) Can you help, we need ...
  A: Believe it or not, I could not find a long term parking space - only the one in the airport. The ...
Living & working in Panama8/11/2008
  Q: I am thinking of relocating to Panama (from UK) in about 3 years time. My question is really can I ...
  A: Yes, I think you could get a job in the massage industry. I am not sure of places in Volcan, but ...
Visit to Panama8/8/2008
  Q: I hope you can help me with this one. My husband, myself and two sons (19 and 21) will be visiting ...
  A: I hope I am not too late in answering this question ! I recommend you see: 1. Panama Viejo (old ...
Panamanian Furniture7/31/2008
  Q: I am also from Panama and graduated from Balboa High School in FY 1976. I would like to know where I ...
  A: Hola Olga, There are a couple of places that sell furniture made in Panama. Most of these stores are ...
buying a car7/20/2008
  Q: Is it cheaper to buy a car in Panama and drive it into Costa Rica or just buy in CR? I would take ...
  A: I did a little research before answering your question. It turns out that it is cheaper and simpler ...
traveling from Panama to Colombia7/13/2008
  Q: Hola Lorena, My friend and I are planning a trip starting in El Salvador and hopefully ending in ...
  A: There is no safe confirmed way to cross the Colombian border on foot or transport. There was a ferry ...
travel from panama city to david7/11/2008
  Q: I have a dilhemma i need help with. We are a family of 8 traveling in Aug to panama city. We arrive ...
  A: Well, I think that if you are out of the airport by 2:20pm you should be able to make it on time for ...
Driving Bocas to Panama City7/8/2008
  Q: We will be traveling to Panama in December. We will meet someone in San Jose and travel with them to ...
  A: I checked the phone book for car rentals in Bocas del Toro and could not find any. I suggest you ...
me again6/27/2008
  Q: hey, its me again...still bothering you. i appreciate your honesty once again. i can only hope all ...
  A: I´ts ok, you do not bother me. I think your Boquete options is a good one. It´s a small place, ...
to move or not to move6/27/2008
  Q: lorena, i have read several of your answers, you seem to be very honest and straight forward. for ...
  A: No need to worry, you can ask all you need to know, I´ll do my best to point you in the right ...
to move or not to move6/26/2008
  Q: lorena, i have read several of your answers, you seem to be very honest and straight forward. for ...
  A: In regards to racism towards tourists or people coming from the U.S. I perceive it as none existant. ...
to move or not to move6/26/2008
  Q: lorena, i have read several of your answers, you seem to be very honest and straight forward. for ...
  A: I try to tell people the things the way are, because if it was me asking, I would like to know :) I ...
Driving in Panama6/26/2008
  Q: Lorena, My friend and I are travelling to Panama for 10 days in July. We plan to visit Panama ...
  A: If you really want to drive in Panama, note that people do not obey traffic signs, so you have to be ...
houses and moving to panama6/23/2008
  Q: Some friends of mine are thinking of moving to Panama and setting up a business. They are looking ...
  A: I would recommend the Bella Vista area for this type of business. I am certain you can find a big ...
Cerro Azul6/16/2008
  Q: Can I RENT a small 2-3 bedroom house in Cerro Azul ? Can I have access to High Speed Internet ? ...
  A: Here are your specifics... 1.Places to search for a home in Cerro Azul to rent, try ...
Cerro Azul6/15/2008
  Q: Can I RENT a small 2-3 bedroom house in Cerro Azul ? Can I have access to High Speed Internet ? ...
  A: Yes, there should be homes available for both, rent and purchase in the Cerro Azul area. There ...
younger expats?6/5/2008
  Q: Lorena, My wife and I are considering retiring to Panama within next 7 years. We will be age 50 at ...
  A: Sorry it took so long for me to get back to you. I looked around a bit before I figured I had ...
Driving David to Bocas5/20/2008
  Q: We are a family of seven travelling over the holidays and think it will be less expensive to drive ...
  A: I apologize for delay in reply I was out of the country and had very little access to email. ...
boating to panama4/23/2008
  Q: Good afternoon. I am planning on bringing my 28' bertram( fishing boat) from florida to the ...
  A: I am not familiar with this activity, but I think what you need is orientation from a lawyer. A ...
Getting to Boca del Toro4/15/2008
  Q: My son and I are flying to PTY on Saturday May 3rd and need to fly on to Boca. How far is the main ...
  A: You will most likely arrive Tocumen Airport. From there you can take a taxi (there are no buses) to ...
furniture...linens..mattresses..housewares..tv's4/2/2008
  Q: where do we get best bang for our buck for middle of road tems??
  A: There are plenty of options in the local Panamenian Market. Now, for kitchen and electric appliances ...
School project - art exchange3/27/2008
  Q: I am an art educator in a Chicago Public Elementary school and I grew up in Panama as a Gringo. My ...
  A: I would suggest you contact the First Lady. Their office seems to always sponsoring work that is ...
plane fare & taxi fare3/12/2008
  Q: i am planning a vacation in may 2008. i'm staying at the PANAMONTE HOTEL, although i booked ...
  A: Albrook is about an hour away from the airport, with normal traffic. Taxi fare from the Tocumen ...
plane fare & taxi fare3/12/2008
  Q: i am planning a vacation in may 2008. i'm staying at the PANAMONTE HOTEL, although i booked ...
  A: The aifare (one way) from Panama Albrook Airport to David is approximately 70.00 USD and there ...
Volunteering in Los Santos3/2/2008
  Q: I was wondering if you could help give me some guidance about finding a place to volunteer in the ...
  A: I will do my best to answer all of your questions. If I leav anything out, please let me know so I ...
Dental Hygienists2/23/2008
  Q: Wld it be possible for a very experienced dental hygienist to get employment in Panama? She has ...
  A: Before I answered your question, I called a good friend of mine who is a dentist. My friend is works ...
Renting a Car vs. Taxi Service2/22/2008
  Q: My husband & I are taking our two daughters (ages 7 & 4) on vacation to Panama. We plan to spend a ...
  A: I suggest you use taxis or maybe take a tour. Driving in Panama is crazy, streets are really bad and ...
parking at Albrook airport2/21/2008
  Q: am currently in Coronado and will be going to Bocas next week. Planning on driving to Albrook but ...
  A: Will you be going to Bocas via Albrook bus terminal or Albrook Marcos Gelabert Airport ? Parking in ...
retiring in panama and visiting this summer2/16/2008
  Q: My wife and I are planning on spending 2-3 weeks in Panama this summer with the idea of possibly ...
  A: Retiring in Panama and the places you mention has become very popular lately. It all depends on what ...
Wholesale buying in Panama2/14/2008
  Q: I live in Jamaica and I will be opening a store of my own very soon. Is it true that Panama is one ...
  A: Orlene, Yes, Panama is indeed one of the best places to shop for wholesale. Most wholesale companies ...
food allergies2/11/2008
  Q: good morning. I would like some information about typical food that we might encounter when we come ...
  A: The odds of finding peanuts in Typical Panamenian food is almost as the same as me winning the ...
Moving back to Panama2/8/2008
  Q: Hola Lorena, My name is Jenna. I lived in Panama for a year in 06. I came back to the states to take ...
  A: Many things have changed in Panama since 2006. Unfortunately, to my opinion, to the worst. All ...
Driving in Panama1/26/2008
  Q: WE are thinking of driving from Panama City to Bocas Del Torro and stopping along the way? Is this a ...
  A: Ten days is plenty of time. If I may recommend.. 2 to 3 days i Bocas, 2 days in San Blas (island ...
Driving in Panama1/26/2008
  Q: WE are thinking of driving from Panama City to Bocas Del Torro and stopping along the way? Is this a ...
  A: You can take a plane from Albrook Airport directly to Bocas. Note that Albrook airport is about a 45 ...
Driving in Panama1/26/2008
  Q: WE are thinking of driving from Panama City to Bocas Del Torro and stopping along the way? Is this a ...
  A: Well, if you really want to make the most out of your trip take a small plane from Panama City ...
Renting in Panama12/30/2007
  Q: Lorena I am looking to retire and move to Panama probably during the first week of Feb 2008, I will ...
  A: I did a quick check to update myself in regards to current prices and so I could give you precise ...
Renting in Panama12/28/2007
  Q: Lorena I am looking to retire and move to Panama probably during the first week of Feb 2008, I will ...
  A: Due to the increase in the amount of people coming into Panama to buy property, prices have ...
Daily Culture of Panama12/22/2007
  Q: What are the people of Panama like? Where do they work? what are popular pasttimes? How is Panama ...
  A: Emilia, You have plenty of questions... hopefully I can answer them all. People of Panama are first ...
travel visa12/2/2007
  Q: I have a Panamanian friend that wants to visit me in Canada. What is required( travel documents visa ...
  A: Yes, in order for a Panamenian citizen to visit Canada they need a visa. The visa is given by a ...
Driving12/1/2007
  Q: I heard that it is not recommended for a foreigner to drive in Panama City area
  A: If you consider driving in Panama, there are things that you should know. One of them is that stop ...
moving to Panama11/22/2007
  Q: I have read that as Pensionado a person only needs to prove an income of $500 per month for a ...
  A: If I understand correctly, after you finish building your home, you will be left with: 70k plus your ...
moving to Panama11/21/2007
  Q: I have read that as Pensionado a person only needs to prove an income of $500 per month for a ...
  A: Ray, In order to obtain a PENSIONER TOURIST VISA you: "May opt for an indefinite residence permite, ...
Buying in Panama11/6/2007
  Q: I'm interested in buying electronics, beauty stuff and other things in Panama and ship them to ...
  A: I would recommend a visit to the Colon Free Zone. Here you can get wholesale prices and also a good ...
shipping a car to panama10/23/2007
  Q: i live in new york but my parents live in panama, i am planning to send my car for them, can you ...
  A: I just had friends who moved from DC ship their car to Panama using the port of Baltimore. They used ...
certified mail10/23/2007
  Q: is there certified mail delivery available in Panama? Also, is there a reliable telephone ...
  A: The local Panama mail (Correos y Telégrafos) does have certified mail. If you ask me, by experience, ...
travel10/15/2007
  Q: My 18 year old daughter is planning on going to stay with a friend in Almirante, for a couple of ...
  A: Her visit to Almirante should definately help her with her English and it will all be new to her. To ...
Health Insurance10/9/2007
  Q: 2 Questionswe are retiring to panama in 2009 and need to purchase health insurance. Can you ...
  A: I can recommend the following: Health Insurance- I can imagine you are retiring to Chiriqui as it is ...
furniture, electronics etc9/28/2007
  Q: Where are the best to shop for reasonably priced, good quality furniture in panama City Need to ...
  A: It all depends on what type of furniture you are looking for.. but, going for price, in furniture I ...
Preguntas de seguridad9/25/2007
  Q: Hola Lorena, primero que todo quiero agradecerte en nombre de todos el tiempo que dedicas a ...
  A: Hola Edgar, Trataré de contestar cada punto, lo mas claro posible. 1.Si vienen a Panamá con algo de ...
Preguntas de seguridad9/24/2007
  Q: Hola Lorena, primero que todo quiero agradecerte en nombre de todos el tiempo que dedicas a ...
  A: Hola Edgar, Para serte sincera, en cuanto a índices de criminalidad, lamentablemente no pude ...
Best part of Panama9/23/2007
  Q: I would like to visit in November.I am looking to be in a lively environment but not have to watch ...
  A: November is a busy month in Panama. It's the month where all "patriotic" celebrations take place. ...
Moving to Panama but not a retiree9/12/2007
  Q: My question is regarding Visas and the possibility of moving to Panama without being a retiree. I ...
  A: Hola Denise, Just this morning the mere of Panama was talking about the recent changes in visas for ...
car imprtation8/31/2007
  Q: We are moving to Panama in December 2007, as retirees, and wonder if it would worth while taking our ...
  A: The magic word has been said "retiree". As a retiree in Panama you have many benefits, one of them ...
Panama to Colombia8/24/2007
  Q: Can you offer my husband and I some advise on shipping ourselves and our 2 motorbikes from Panama to ...
  A: I have not used a shipping company to send anything to Cartagena and I am a little "picky" if you ...
Panama to Colombia8/23/2007
  Q: Can you offer my husband and I some advise on shipping ourselves and our 2 motorbikes from Panama to ...
  A: In regards to shipping to Colombia it should be simple and if it goes by sea it should not take ...
Purchase offer8/18/2007
  Q: We will be buying a house in Panama soon and I was considering placing a conditional offer of ...
  A: I will try to answer all the questions to be the best of my knowledge. 1. Clause number one is ...
bus from Bocas to Boquete8/11/2007
  Q: We will be visiting Panama for 2 weeks at the end of this month. We are going to Bocas, then ...
  A: Yes, you can find a decent bus from David (Province where Boquete is located). Now, the roads are ...
Buying a New Car in Panama8/9/2007
  Q: Would you know of any websites for car dealerships in Panama City, Panama? ANSWER: Hi Ana, Would ...
  A: Sure, here`s a couple of them: NEW Consultenos (audi and vw) www.volkswagen.com.pa BMW ...
Bus desde el aeropuerto y Guarda equipaje8/7/2007
  Q: Hola Lorena; Es recomendable tomar un autobus desde el Aeropuerto TOcumen hasta la ciudad de Panamá? ...
  A: Hola Fabian, El aeropuerto de Panamá está en fase de remodelación y la última vez que estuve allí ...
long term parking8/5/2007
  Q: I appreciate it. You said you also know of places where you can rent spaces other than the airport. ...
  A: I looked around for a safe parking spots that you could consider.. The places I looked were in the ...
Cerro Azul/Las Cumbres differences8/3/2007
  Q: You provide very informative answers. I will be moving to Panama in Nov 07 from Canada. We are ...
  A: Both places you have chosen are very green :) Differences between the two, I would say: Las Cumbres: ...
How to go about finding the best minivan to buy in Panama.8/1/2007
  Q: I would like to purchase one of those small white minivans one sees buzzing around Panama City and ...
  A: Honestly I do not know much about cars. I am not sure I can picture the little white minivans you ...
long term parking7/31/2007
  Q: My husband and I are buying property in Panama and will be getting pensionado status soon. We have ...
  A: Yes, the airport has parking at an approximate cost of 10.00 USD per day. A friend used it recently ...
Driving to Panama7/30/2007
  Q: I hope you can help me with this question. I have read so much about driving the Pan American ...
  A: Unfortunately, as far as I know, the road ends there. The only way to bring your car over from ...
free zone7/30/2007
  Q: are there brand name stores in the freezone? are the shops grouped in the free zone, that is like ...
  A: As most companies distribute several brands they tend to have their own name, not the name of the ...
PROPERTY TAX7/29/2007
  Q: I have purchased a property in Santa Clara,Panama.1 acre with 2 old bungalows on it.I was told,that ...
  A: My knowledge is limited in this area..3,700.00 usd does seems a lot, however I can say that you pay ...
work7/23/2007
  Q: I have been an Eye Doctor in the US for the past 30 years. As a prospective retiree to Panama, I ...
  A: Sorry I took sometime to get back to you.. but, before I answered I asked around. Happens that with ...
visiting Panama with little kids7/23/2007
  Q: We are thinking about visiting Panama this coming December. We have 2 little kids -- ages 2 and 4. ...
  A: I think Panama is a reasonable destination to travel to with kids. Mmmm.. I would probably choose ...
work7/21/2007
  Q: I have been an Eye Doctor in the US for the past 30 years. As a prospective retiree to Panama, I ...
  A: I will do the best, to my knowledge, to answer you. The answer to both of your questions is yes. ...
Las Cumbres7/18/2007
  Q: I migth be moving to Panama City in a few months and I have been looking around for the availability ...
  A: Las Cumbres has nice residential areas with plenty of green. It is about a 30 minute drive from ...
My visit to Panama7/11/2007
  Q: Hola Lorena, Thanks for all the answers to my questions. I do have a few more! Would it be safe ...
  A: Casco Viejo: Yes, it would be safe as long as you don't stay out past 6pm. There is the "tourism ...
Places to rent7/3/2007
  Q: Hola, I am visiting Costa Rica and Panama with my son this summer. There is a possibility that I ...
  A: From what you mention, of not a touristy area ... got me thinking. Panama City to be honest is loud ...
Places to rent7/2/2007
  Q: Hola, I am visiting Costa Rica and Panama with my son this summer. There is a possibility that I ...
  A: It all depends what you want. Do you want a house or do you want an apartment? Do you want to live ...
auto loan6/29/2007
  Q: how easy is to get an Auto Loan in Panama?
  A: In order to grant you a loan to purchase a car, most banks in Panama will request the following from ...
Visiting Panama6/28/2007
  Q: Lorena, I have reservations on my first visit to visit Panama at La Costa Inn. What do you think ...
  A: I'll answer your questions one by one :) Costa Inn is located in the city in the "borderline" if I ...
Retiring to Chiriqui area6/16/2007
  Q: my wife and I are planning on retiring to the Chiriqui area, probably near David. We have quotes on ...
  A: Boquete is still a nice place to retire, now it has become a bit overcrowded, prices are rising on ...
Bank Account Requirements5/22/2007
  Q: Re the $10,000minimum deposit for foreigners: Does that amount have to stay in the account, or can ...
  A: Sorry, I am not aware of the 10k deposit for foreigners. In regards to how you can get your check ...
Safety5/22/2007
  Q: I just read that Panama is less safe than it used to be. I also noted that someone in an answer ...
  A: Unfortunately yes, Panama is a lot LESS safer than it used to be. There are several reasons which I ...
Basics5/11/2007
  Q: A few basic knowledge questions...What is the average cost of renting a home per month? I have ...
  A: Sorry about that ! I missed your "voltage" question. The electricity voltage is the same as in the ...
Basics5/8/2007
  Q: A few basic knowledge questions...What is the average cost of renting a home per month? I have ...
  A: Average cost of renting a home ? It all depends on what you are looking for. If you need a house, in ...
safe for women4/20/2007
  Q: Is it safe, more or less for women to travel in Panama? Of course with common sense!
  A: Yes, it is safe with common sense. As in any place, there are areas which you need to be careful ...
Dialisys Treatment in Panama4/10/2007
  Q: Hola que tal me llamo Juan Julio vivo en Atlanta Ga. proximamente pienso mudarme a nuestro pais, ...
  A: Hola Juan, La mayoría de las compañías, si no todas, piden información de condiciones médicas ...
how shipping car to panama4/5/2007
  Q: How do I go about shipping a car to panama and any idea of how much it will cost as far as paying ...
  A: I spoke to a friend who imported a used car from Miami about 3 months ago. His advise is, don't go ...
Health Insurance in Panama.3/12/2007
  Q: We will be living somewhere not too far away from David and if you could give us the name and phone ...
  A: I went a little further and got the below quote, just in case. I am clueless as to how much ...
Panama3/12/2007
  Q: What did the ppl in panama do for fun?
  A: Here in Panama, there are plenty of things to do and places to go. It depends on what your ...
Health Insurance in Panama.3/11/2007
  Q: Hola Lorena. I was just reading your answer to a health question. My wife and I are moving to David, ...
  A: Welcome to Panama! In regards to your question, first of all I would check if your wife's insurance ...
BUS to Puerto Obaldia?1/24/2007
  Q: Is there a bus that goes from Panama City to Puerto Obaldia? If so which one?
  A: Puerto Obaldia is located in San Blas, an indian reserve in Panama. It is on the Atlantic Side of ...
Health Insurance in Panama12/20/2006
  Q: I am a US citizen thinking of retiring and obtaining residency in Panama. I have a friend that is ...
  A: Yes, Panama is still indeed a very nice place to live. Insurance seems to be expensive everywhere ...
motorcycles12/3/2006
  Q: My brother and I are thinking about riding from Texas to Panama City on new Kawasaki 650 Dual Sport ...
  A: First of all, I must be honest and say I do not know much about bikes. Now, what I can tell you is ...
travel agent in Panama City, Panama11/8/2006
  Q: Could you recommend a travel agent in Panama City?
  A: I can recommend the agency that I have been using for over a year for business and private travel. ...
How can I go about moving to panama, or retiring in Panama?9/22/2006
  Q: Im 31 years old. I was born and raised in the US. Have apprximatley 5 years experience in tech ...
  A: For example, if you are moving down here and wish to bring your furniture with you, you can bring in ...
Driving to Panama9/12/2006
  Q: If I want to drive my car from US to Panama, do I need to get, I don't know, like a permit or ...
  A: Sorry, I cannot help you with information regarding permits from Mexico or other countries. To ship ...

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Lorena Mlns

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Expertise

I can answer questions regarding Panama, its people, culture, places to visit, places to watch out for, hotels to stay, how much your taxi fare should be... specific information on getting around on a safe manner.

Experience

I was born and raised in Panama, educated in American schools. Since I enjoy all related to Panama history, I try to keep myself updated on local happenings in the subject. I also enjoy traveling and the internet seems a wonderful tool to use, specially when you are your own guide (which I usually am)- so I am just willing to give some of the help I have received back.

Publications
Articles - La Prensa Newspaper

Education/Credentials
Bachelor's Degree - Marketing and Advertisting MBA - Emphasys in Management

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