The moment you step into a foreign country like Panama, you’re automatically under that country’s jurisdiction.  The only place where you’ll be exempted from it is when you’re in your country’s embassy where you’ll be under your own country’s protection.  But it would be rather senseless to spend your vacation time in an embassy building, wouldn’t it?

Follow the Laws

Basically, therefore, what you need to do is to simply follow the country’s rules and laws and you won’t find yourself in hot water.  Nevertheless, there are some foreigners who engage in money laundering and drug trafficking.  Like most countries, Panama has harsh penalties for these types of crime.  However, if you are not one of these people who have utter disrespect for laws, then you’re perfectly welcome to bask in the sandy beaches of Panama and go boating in the famous Panama Canal.

Safer than New York

Travel advisories usually warn people about bandits and thieves in Panama, and this usually drives away tourists.  In effect, you might miss out on the numerous tourist spots of Panama and believe me; you’ll be missing out on a lot of fun.  While these travel advisories have a bit of truth in them, these bits of truth are actually grossly exaggerated.  They make it sound like Panama is infested with vermin of all kinds but the fact is that you’re actually safer in Panama than you are in New York.

Sure, those security guards patrolling the grounds of every building there might unnerve you and those steel bars on windows and those iron doors might make you think twice about your decision to go there, but really, these things shouldn’t worry you.  These are merely precautions that people take to help both themselves and their fellow countrymen.  Vulnerable buildings pose a temptation to people, especially to those who are criminally inclined.  All things considered, however, Panama is a relatively safe place to visit.

Safety Precaution

If you insist on being extra vigilant about your safety and security, then you might want to go for alarms and dogs.  Really, though, all you’ll need to do in Panama is to use the standard safety measures that you use in your old neighborhood.  You should not wear any expensive jewelry unless absolutely necessary.  Do not walk on the streets alone especially at night and if you’re drunk or female.  You should also perhaps use a taxi whenever possible.  Ultimately, however, all it takes to be safe in Panama is a bit of common sense.