Requisitos de Visa de Tailandia para Ciudadanos Panameños.

Population and Size of Country

Thailand has a significantly larger population compared to Panama. As of recent estimates, Thailand’s population is around 70 million, whereas Panama’s population is approximately 4.4 million. In terms of land area, Thailand is also larger, covering about 513,120 square kilometers, while Panama spans around 75,420 square kilometers.

Ethnicity

Thailand is predominantly ethnically Thai, with about 95% of the population identifying as such. There are also smaller communities of Chinese, Malay, and other ethnic groups. In contrast, Panama is more ethnically diverse with a mix of mestizo (mixed Amerindian and European) making up about 65% of the population, followed by Afro-Panamanians, indigenous groups, and people of European descent.

Religion

Buddhism is the dominant religion in Thailand, with over 90% of the population adhering to Theravada Buddhism. Other religions practiced include Islam, Christianity, and Hinduism. In Panama, Roman Catholicism is the predominant religion, practiced by about 85% of the population. Protestantism and other Christian denominations also have significant followings.

GDP

Thailand has a higher Gross Domestic Product (GDP) compared to Panama. As of recent data, Thailand’s GDP is approximately $543 billion USD, making it one of the largest economies in Southeast Asia. Panama’s GDP is around $66 billion USD, reflecting its smaller economy.

Population Age Brackets

Thailand has an aging population with a median age of around 40 years. Approximately 12% of the population is aged 65 and over. In contrast, Panama has a younger population with a median age of around 30 years, and only about 8% of the population is aged 65 and over.

Men vs Women

In Thailand, the gender ratio is relatively balanced with a slight female majority; women make up about 51% of the population. Panama also has a balanced gender ratio but leans slightly towards more women as well, with females constituting around 50.5% of the population.

Source of Popular Types of Income

Thailand’s economy is diverse with major income sources including tourism, manufacturing (particularly electronics and automobiles), agriculture (notably rice and rubber), and services. Tourism plays a significant role in generating income.

Panama’s economy heavily relies on services related to the Panama Canal, which contributes significantly to its GDP. Other important sectors include banking and finance, logistics, and tourism. The Colon Free Trade Zone is also a major economic hub for re-exporting goods.

Violent Crime

Thailand generally has a lower rate of violent crime compared to many Western countries, including Panama. Incidents like armed robbery, assault, and homicide are relatively rare, particularly in tourist areas. However, it’s always wise to stay vigilant and avoid poorly lit or isolated areas, especially at night.

Casual Crime

Petty crimes such as pickpocketing and bag snatching are more common in Thailand, particularly in crowded places like markets, public transportation, and tourist hotspots. Travelers should keep their belongings secure and be cautious in busy areas to avoid becoming victims of such crimes.

Crimes of Passion

Crimes of passion, often driven by personal relationships or domestic issues, do occur but are generally not a concern for tourists. These incidents are typically isolated and involve individuals who know each other. Travelers are unlikely to encounter such situations.

Safety for Solo Women Travelers

Thailand is considered relatively safe for solo women travelers. Many women travel alone without incident. However, it’s important to exercise common sense and take standard precautions such as avoiding secluded areas at night, being cautious with new acquaintances, and dressing modestly in certain areas to respect local customs.

Walking Around at Night

Walking around at night in popular tourist areas like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket is generally safe. However, caution is advised in less populated or poorly lit areas. Stick to well-traveled routes and consider using reputable transportation options like registered taxis or rideshares if you’re unsure about the safety of an area.

Scamming

Scams targeting tourists are relatively common in Thailand. These can range from overpriced goods and services to more elaborate schemes involving fake tour operators or gem scams. Be wary of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help or deals that seem too good to be true. Always use reputable service providers and do some research beforehand to avoid falling victim to scams.

In summary, while Thailand is generally safe for travelers from Panama, staying alert and taking basic precautions can go a long way in ensuring a trouble-free visit.

Thai and Panamanian cuisines share a vibrant use of fresh ingredients and bold flavors, making the culinary journey for travelers from Panama to Thailand both exciting and somewhat familiar. Both cuisines emphasize the use of fresh herbs, tropical fruits, and a variety of spices.

In Thailand, travelers will find that rice is a staple, much like in Panama. Thai jasmine rice, known for its fragrant aroma, is often served with meals. Similarly, Panama’s arroz con coco (coconut rice) has a counterpart in Thai cuisine with dishes like khao man gai (chicken rice) and khao niao mamuang (mango sticky rice).

Both cuisines also enjoy the use of seafood due to their coastal locations. In Thailand, dishes like tom yum goong (spicy shrimp soup) and pla pao (grilled fish) showcase the country’s love for fresh seafood, similar to Panama’s ceviche and fried fish dishes.

The use of tropical fruits is another commonality. Thai markets brim with mangoes, papayas, and pineapples, much like in Panama. Thai desserts such as som tam (green papaya salad) and fruit-based sweets like ruam mit (mixed fruit in coconut milk) will feel familiar to Panamanian travelers.

Spicy food lovers from Panama will appreciate Thailand’s array of spicy dishes. Thai cuisine is famous for its balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavors. Dishes like som tam (spicy green papaya salad), pad kra pao (stir-fried basil with meat), and gaeng daeng (red curry) offer a delightful spicy kick that Panamanians accustomed to hot sauces and spicy dishes will enjoy.

Lastly, street food culture is vibrant in both countries. In Thailand, street vendors sell a variety of quick eats like satay (grilled meat skewers), pad thai (stir-fried noodles), and moo ping (grilled pork skewers), providing an experience akin to Panama’s fondas and street food stalls.

Travelers from Panama will find a rich tapestry of flavors in Thailand that resonate with their own culinary traditions while offering new and exciting tastes to explore.

Cultural Differences and Making Friends

In Thailand, social interactions are often more formal than in Panama. Thais value politeness, humility, and respect for hierarchy. When meeting someone, a traditional greeting called the “wai” is often used, where you press your palms together in a prayer-like gesture and bow slightly. This is a sign of respect and is particularly important when meeting elders or people of higher status. Smiling is also a crucial part of Thai social etiquette and is used to diffuse tension and show friendliness.

What to Do

• Respect Elders: Always show respect to older individuals. Stand up when they enter a room and offer your seat on public transport.
• Dress Modestly: When visiting temples or religious sites, wear conservative clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.
• Use Soft Voices: Thais generally speak in soft tones. Loud or aggressive behavior is frowned upon.
• Public Transport Etiquette: Allow people to exit before you enter buses or trains. Keep conversations quiet and avoid using your phone loudly.

What Not to Do

• Avoid Public Displays of Affection: Holding hands might be acceptable, but kissing or hugging in public is generally considered inappropriate.
• Don’t Touch People’s Heads: The head is considered the most sacred part of the body, so avoid touching anyone’s head, even children.
• Don’t Point with Your Feet: Feet are considered the lowest and dirtiest part of the body. Never point your feet at people or religious objects.
• Avoid Confrontation: Thais dislike confrontation and will go to great lengths to avoid it. If a problem arises, try to resolve it calmly and politely.

Habits Not to Bring from Panama to Thailand

• Loud Conversations: While Panamanians might be used to speaking loudly, especially in social settings, this can be seen as rude in Thailand.
• Casual Attire in Formal Settings: In Panama, casual attire might be more acceptable in various settings, but in Thailand, dressing appropriately for the occasion is crucial.
• Direct Criticism: Directly criticizing someone in public can cause them to lose face. Always approach sensitive topics with tact and diplomacy.

Deportment and Respect

• Bowing Slightly: A small bow with the “wai” gesture shows respect and is appreciated in many social interactions.
• Use of Titles: Address people using their titles and first names (e.g., Khun Somchai), which shows respect.

Touching

• Physical Contact: While friendly hugs might be common in Panama, they are less so in Thailand. Stick to handshakes or the “wai” gesture.
• Personal Space: Maintain a respectful distance during conversations.

Religious Places

• Remove Shoes: Always remove your shoes before entering temples or someone’s home.
• Quietness: Maintain a quiet demeanor inside temples and avoid taking photos unless explicitly allowed.

Public Presentation of Oneself

• Modesty: Dress conservatively and avoid overly flashy or revealing clothing.
• Cleanliness: Personal hygiene is important; being well-groomed is seen as a sign of respect.

Behavior on Public Transport

• Silent Mode: Keep your phone on silent mode and avoid loud conversations.
• Offer Seats: Give up your seat to monks, elderly people, pregnant women, and young children.

Losing and Gaining Face

In Thai culture, “face” refers to a person’s reputation, dignity, and social standing. “Losing face” means being embarrassed or humiliated in front of others, which can occur through public criticism, confrontation, or failure. “Gaining face,” on the other hand, involves actions that increase one’s respect and honor, such as showing kindness, humility, and generosity. It’s important to always act in a way that helps others maintain their dignity and respect.

Bringing Phone from Panama

Ensure your phone is unlocked to use a Thai SIM card. Most modern smartphones should work seamlessly in Thailand, as the country uses GSM networks compatible with international standards.

Internet Availability

Thailand has widespread internet availability with 4G and emerging 5G networks. Free Wi-Fi is common in hotels, cafes, and shopping centers.

Dominant Messaging Apps

LINE is the most popular messaging app in Thailand. WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger are also commonly used.

Must-Download Apps Before Arrival

1. LINE - For messaging and local communication.
2. Google Maps - Essential for navigation.
3. Grab - For taxi and food delivery services.
4. Klook - For booking attractions and activities.
5. XE Currency - For real-time currency conversion.

Currency

The official currency is the Thai Baht (THB). It’s advisable to carry some cash for small purchases, although cards are widely accepted.

ATM Use

ATMs are plentiful in urban areas and accept international cards. Note that Thai ATMs often charge a fee of around 200 THB per withdrawal, in addition to any fees your home bank may charge.

Taxi Apps

Grab is the go-to app for booking taxis and private cars. It’s reliable and safer than hailing street taxis.

Food Delivery

GrabFood and Foodpanda are popular food delivery apps offering a wide range of cuisines from local street food to international dishes.

Credit Cards

Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, larger restaurants, and shopping malls. However, smaller vendors and street markets typically prefer cash.

Shopping

For high-end shopping, visit malls like Siam Paragon and CentralWorld in Bangkok. For local goods and souvenirs, explore markets like Chatuchak Weekend Market and local night bazaars.

Trains

Thailand has an extensive rail network operated by the State Railway of Thailand (SRT). The BTS Skytrain and MRT Subway are efficient ways to navigate Bangkok.

Local Buses

Local buses are cheap but can be confusing for non-Thai speakers. Apps like Moovit can help you navigate the bus routes.

Acceptance of Men from Panama

Thai people are generally warm and welcoming to foreigners, including men from Panama. However, cultural sensitivity and respect for local customs are key. A friendly demeanor and genuine interest in Thai culture can go a long way.

Funny Ways to Tell Women You Are from Panama

You can use humor to break the ice. Say something like, “I’m from Panama, home of the canal, not the hat!” or “You know the Panama Canal? I didn’t dig it, but I can navigate through your heart!”

Which Dating Apps to Use

Popular dating apps in Thailand include Tinder, Bumble, and ThaiFriendly. These platforms have a large user base and are commonly used by both locals and expats.

Good Opening Lines to Use with Thai Women on the Apps

• “Hi! I’m [Your Name] from Panama. Ever met someone from the land of the Panama Canal?”
• “Sawadee krap! I’m new here and would love to learn more about Thai culture. Can you be my guide?”
• “Hello! I’m from Panama and I’m curious about Thailand. What’s your favorite thing about living here?”

Teaching Thai Women About Panamanian Culture

Share interesting facts about Panama, such as its famous canal, beautiful beaches, and vibrant festivals. You can also introduce them to Panamanian music and dance, like salsa or reggaeton.

Dressing and Personal Hygiene

Dress neatly and appropriately for the occasion. In Thailand, casual but tidy attire is often appreciated. Good personal hygiene is crucial; daily showers, clean clothes, and fresh breath are essentials.

Examples of Red Flags You Should Watch For

• Overly quick expressions of love or affection.
• Requests for money or financial assistance early in the relationship.
• Reluctance to meet in person or video chat.
• Inconsistent stories or evasive answers about their personal life.

Examples of Scams on Dating Apps

• Profiles with overly attractive photos that seem too good to be true.
• Individuals who quickly ask to move the conversation off the app.
• Requests for money for emergencies or travel expenses.
• Fake profiles pretending to be someone they are not (catfishing).

Major Difference in Dating Between Panama and Thailand

In Thailand, dating can be more conservative, especially in rural areas. Family approval is often important, and public displays of affection (PDA) are usually limited. In contrast, Panamanian dating culture might be more open and expressive.

Major Differences Between Thai Women and Panamanian Women

Thai women may be more reserved initially compared to Panamanian women, who might be more outgoing and expressive. Family plays a significant role in Thai women’s lives, and they often seek partners who respect their family values.

Popular First Date Activities

• Visiting a local market or night bazaar.
• Exploring cultural sites like temples or museums.
• Enjoying a meal at a Thai restaurant.
• Taking a walk in a park or by the river.

Red Light Districts

Areas like Patpong in Bangkok, Walking Street in Pattaya, and Bangla Road in Phuket are known for their nightlife and red-light districts. These areas are best approached with caution.

Prostitution on Dating Apps

Be aware that some profiles on dating apps may be linked to prostitution. Signs include overly suggestive photos or messages and immediate offers of “services.” Always prioritize your safety.

10 Places to Meet Thai Women Outside of Dating Apps

1. Cafes: Popular spots like Starbucks or local coffee shops.
2. Universities: Attend cultural events or language exchange meetups.
3. Gyms: Fitness centers are great places to meet health-conscious individuals.
4. Night Markets: Places like Chatuchak Market in Bangkok.
5. Temples: Participating in cultural activities or festivals.
6. Shopping Malls: Places like Siam Paragon or CentralWorld.
7. Language Schools: Enroll in Thai language classes.
8. Parks: Lumphini Park in Bangkok is popular for outdoor activities.
9. Social Clubs: Join expat clubs or local social groups.
10. Cooking Classes: Learn Thai cuisine while meeting locals.

Feel free to explore these avenues while being respectful and mindful of cultural differences. Enjoy your time in Thailand!

Practical Guide to Extending a Thai Tourist Visa or Visa Exemption for Panamanian Passport Holders

Extending your stay in Thailand as a Panamanian passport holder is a straightforward process, whether you are on a tourist visa or visa exemption. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the extension process:

1. Gather Necessary Documents

• Passport: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months and has blank pages.
• TM.7 Form: This is the application form for visa extension. You can download it online or get it at the immigration office.
• Passport-sized Photo: One recent photo (4x6 cm).
• Photocopies of Passport Pages: Copies of the main page, the visa page, and the arrival/departure card (TM.6).
• Extension Fee: The current fee is 1,900 THB (subject to change).

2. Find the Nearest Immigration Office

• Locate the nearest immigration office. Major offices are in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, and Pattaya, but there are many others throughout the country.

3. Visit the Immigration Office

• Timing: Go early to avoid long queues. Offices typically open from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, Monday to Friday.
• Dress Appropriately: Dress modestly as a sign of respect.

4. Submit Your Application

• Fill out the TM.7 form if you haven’t already.
• Present your documents to the immigration officer.
• Pay the extension fee (1,900 THB).

5. Wait for Processing

• Processing times can vary; usually, it takes a few hours. Some offices might ask you to return the next day.

6. Receive Your Extension

• Once approved, your passport will be stamped with the new extended date of stay.

Tips and Additional Information

• Multiple Extensions: Generally, you can extend your stay once per entry. For longer stays, consider doing a visa run or applying for a new visa from a Thai consulate outside Thailand.
• Overstay Penalties: Avoid overstaying your visa as it incurs fines (500 THB per day) and could lead to more severe penalties.
• Health Insurance: While not mandatory for extensions, having travel insurance is advisable.

By following these steps, Panamanian passport holders can efficiently extend their stay in Thailand and enjoy more of what this beautiful country has to offer. Safe travels!