Thread: Any families? Calling moms/dads !

Hi, I am moving to Panama (Panama City to be exact) in a few months.
I would like to know more about raising kids in Panama City - Eg, from school, education system, to mundane things like swimming classes, piano teachers, etc...

Please, any moms/dads out there? Let's talk.

Hello Liont,
I am a mom of 2 but you are a step ahead of me. Our family will not be moving down until March 2012. What schools have you considered in Panama City? I am having a toss up whether to send the kids to bilingual schools or international schools. How old are you kids? Where in Panama City are you moving to?
Panama Dreamer

Hello there!!!!
We will be moving from the Gulf Coast, Alabama. I have 2 boys, they are now in 3rd and 5th grades. We will probably be at Balboa Academy or International School of Panama. Have you seen the tuition/fees? They have this weird one time payment of about 8 to 10 grand USD per kid. That means you really have to choose carefully as the "penalty" for switching schools is prohibitive.
I heard that Balboa is better, ISP has many spoilt kids. Balboa campus looks better (online), but ISP has the International Baccalaureate program, which is good for us as we move around, so IB is flexible for us. So.. really not much info out there, except for the "official" websites. Really wished there is more discussion.
As for places to stay.. I don't know. I am looking at aprtments around San Francisco area, but really, I don't know much for now. We may be going for a look-see later this year. We will find out what is expensive/hard to get there, and ship a loadful from USA! LOL!

Hello Liont,
We are going to Panama for 2 weeks this coming October. I am planning to visit Howard kids bilingual school (Arrijan area outside of Panama City) and Oxford International School. I truly disagree with the one time 8 to 10Usd payment at the other schools. That is a deep hole in our pockets. When are you going down to PC? If it is the same time as us, we can probably go grab a coffee.
Panama Dreamer

No, I wish I could go earlier to take a look. But we will go there end of the year for a visit, the move probably 1st quarter next year.
Do share with me how Howard and Oxford are. I've heard about Oxford. How are the fees at Oxford? If you prefer, you could PM me.
Thks!

Hi!
Stepping in late to this conversation. I searched "classes" and saw this thread. I am ahead of you both in that we've just moved here but way behind as my daughter is under 2! So I was hoping to find some help for toddler/baby gym, music classes, swimming etc. Something for her to be with other kids and maybe for me to meet other moms too!
If you have any info I'd love to have it!!
Thanks!

Hi! Welcome!
I move in Feb 2011. After I settle down, I will start getting a few things organised - soccer, swimming, music classes.
Will share what I find.

Hello Suzfex02,
Are you in Panama City or the interior? How is your experiences so far?

Hey!
We are staying with my in-laws (WHOO HOO!! haha) in Margarita, Colon. Our goal is to be in the city by April-ish. Maybe sooner if I lose my mind! We arrived here mid-December so just in time for Holidays.
We're having ups and downs which I think is par for the course. Re-locating with small child to in-laws near a city that my blonde hair does not allow me to enter! Also still waiting for our container to be released. This has been a major pain but it looks like today or tomorrow (and I think they REALLY mean it this time) we might get our stuff! It was supposed to arrive before the 20th of December but here we are, paying new fees and waiting...my husband is joking at starting his OWN cargo business after all he has learned.
We go to PC quite a bit for paperwork, shopping, visiting my husband's family. The traffic there is absolutely crazy but on Sundays it's empty! So we've been taking advantage and enjoying Sundays to explore the city a bit.
The Holidays were fun, different, but fun. The 24th was crazy mad fireworks and apparantly there is no regulation with store bought fireworks here. I saw better backyard displays here than I've seen in some cities in the states. A little worrisome if you get to thinking about it too much!
All in all, so far, so good. Adjusting to the heat and humidity. We moved from the desert of Vegas where there is NO humidity so we are on a fast learning curve here (as in I should buy stock in Ziplock as I am putting nearly all our food in bins and bags so it stays fresh longer!)
We really are just getting our feet wet as far as living goes but I'm happy to share my experiences!

Hi Suzfez! We will move in less than a month. We went for a looksee in Dec.. scouted for schools and aprtments... We were not interested in any of the toursity things for now. But we explored the supermarkets (Pricesmart!), restaurants, etc.. As it is with relocating, we may have a good idea now, but everything reverses when something new crops up!

Hello Liont and Suzfez02,
Please continue to share your experiences. I love to hear how families with young children adjust to the new country.
Suzfez02, how is Colon like?
Liont, You must be anxious with the move.
Take care,
Panama Dreamer

Hello again!
So here's a quickie on some shopping experiences:
PriceSmart: LOVE but I think just because it feels like Costco (even have some Kirkland brand stuff!) Some stuff is way more expensive and some is super cheap (like beer! ha, my husband was pretty pumped!)
Malls: We've been to 4 shopping centers so far in PC. Mostly because we were here right bf Christmas and needed to do a little shopping. I'm not a big shopper but it also felt nice to just go to the city and be in a familiar setting and to just take it easy! So:
On the way from the airport on Tumba Muerto (yes, Death Tomb!) you pass Metro Mall on your right. So far this is my favorite mall. Appropriately sized, clean, air conditioned, some upscale shops but mostly average consumer stores. Also has a Machetazo which, so far, has been my FAVORITE grocery store. This is the only Machetazo that I've seen here. It is SUPER clean, organized, STOCKED (the REY near our house is always hit or miss for things like milk, bread, etc!).
Albrook Mall: WORST EVER!! haha, it is like Mall of America but crazier! It is TOO big. We were there the Saturday bf Christmas so understandably it was horrific but it is overwhelming for me! It is sectioned off by animals. I think there are 10 sections! Also super busy bc it is right next to the bus station so everyone can come by bus to the city and do shopping.
MultiPlaza: In Punta Pacifica. This is the high end, valet parking, Louis Vuitton mall. Still has Payless and average stores too. Had an indoor ice skating rink over the holidays! It was nice to walk around in and has great department stores (like Macy's) - MetroMall also has these department stores...didn't check them out there.
El Dorado: Very close to a PriceSmart. Some parts not air conditioned. Much less expensive store. Most likely to find locals here. Some great stores with super cheap prices but you need to go in the right mind set with patience and time! Not my favorite but I'm sure it serves it's purpose well.
I think we're going to Taboga Island this Sunday for just a day of relaxation.
Colon - well, I don't recommend ever coming here. I'm not very welcome in the actual city of Colon and it is very dangerous. We live outside in reverted army homes (like Albrook) and there is a great international school here: CIS (Caribbean International School). The beaches and oceans are better on this side as it is the Atlantic/Caribbean side. We've been to Isla Grande twice before on other visits...people rave about it but I wasn't hugely impressed. I think the drive there now is really bad because of all the rains.
Oh, on that note: Our docs and friend here have told us that we should be using bottled or filtered water now because of all the rain. Normally the water is super great here but to be on the safe side we're using a filter on the tap. My husband's familiy is making fun of us...but I'd rather be safe than sorry!
I know your kids are older but someone told me about a place called "Journeys" for classes for babies and toddlers by Punta Pacifica. And another called "Smart Kids" (or something like this) near Clayton. Haven't had the chance to look into it yet but will be soon!
All for now!

Thanks for all the info! El Dorado sounds interesting. When I settle down, I will go suss out those non-gringo places (BTW, I am non-gringo myself!). Yes, agree that Albrook is TOO big. We just went to one animal, and that is about our limit!! Haa... I guess you must know what you are looking for and just go to that section.
Yes, my kids are bigger (3rd and 5th graders). My biggest headache now is where to stay... I would like the kids to be more involved in school's activities, so staying near the school has a big advantage. But that hasn't been our emphasis during the last trip (we were looking at San Francisco, Punto pacifico area). Also, I don't like the idea of a "curfew" - self imposed due to the horrendous traffic - no driving during morning peak hrs, lunch hrs, and evening peak hrs... Guess will have to turn the radar the other way now.
By the way, Suz, where did you move from? I am currently in Alabama.

You are absolutely correct. Albrook Mall is big and always busy. Good for the businesses.
I haven't shop at PriceSmart but had terrible experiences at El Rey. It took me 30 minutes to get chicken from the butcher counter. They actually had chairs for customers waiting! (Albrook Mall) Checking out was equally as long! Remember not to shop on the 15 or the 30th. I think that is when Panamanians get paid and the lines are extra long.
We have been to Bocas del Toro , Coronado...Playa de Serena and Pedasi. The beaches are just okay. I am searching for that white sand beach...but have yet to find. I am hoping on our next trip we get to explore the Caribbean side. San Blas is our list.

LIONT,
What school did you settled on for your kids? Have you consider renting in Clayton area? We rented a condo at Embassy Club when we were there for vacationing. The area seems great with easy access. There are a few schools located in that area too. The drive from Clayton to El Dorado is less than 10 minutes but than again it depends on traffic.

Hi Panama Dreamer, it seems like it is Balboa for now. For accomodation, we are now looking at Clayton area as well, but the selection is definitely fewer than say San Francisco area. Perhaps that is why prices are way high as well - demand and supply. Will see..

Hi again!
We've just moved from Las Vegas. My husband has dual citizenship for US and here but this is the first time he's lived here as an adult so it's nice that we're both sort of figuring it out as we go along! We went to Bocas a few years ago and I really enjoyed it. This past June we were in Coronado for a bit and I LOVED the black sand. Thought it was so beautiful. The ocean wasn't so beautiful though. Going to Taboga this weekend. Friends have told us about the BEST beach just past Portobelo/Isla Grande so maybe we'll hit that up in a bit. Although a neighbor just told me yesterday that the 'summer' here which is Feb/March is NOT the time to go to the beach as the waters aren't nice during this time.
I'm looking into apartments next to Parque Omar. Prices seem decent, it's close to everything, including fairly quick access to Corredor Norte, and you have the huge green family friendly park right next to you.
We still have awhile to decide on moving but I still look almost everyday! haha
Yes, absolutely avoid going ANYWHERE on the 15th and 30th! It's a MAD HOUSE!! Hopefully I'll start to remember this better BEFORE I've left the house!

Parque Omar is a nice green space for kids to play. My two boys had a great afternoon there.
I am not sure if you consider Punta Culebra by the Causeway. I think your young toddler can enjoy the stroll and look at the sea turtles in the tank. I love the star fishes in the tank too.

I new to this forum and signed up because I may the opportunity to move there.. and my kids are in 9th grade.. so schools are very important to me.. I also read the tuition and schools ... I just want them to walk away with a good solid HS education so they are competitive for college... so all this info is good..
thanks

Welcome! So now we have (I think) 4 families with young kids on this forum - from tods to high schoolers!
There is another thread on International Schools in Panama. Take a look there too!

Hello everyone...I'm Agfinguy's wife...does anyone have any animals? And what about renting houses..everyone seems to be in apartments, however that won't do for us...any information would be greatly appreciated!

Hi, I was told by a local friend that houses have higher chances of break-ins compared to aprts. Not sure how true that is. Of course, it depends on location as well.

Thank you, Liont! Any information about blond hair and blue eyes? We have twins, my daughter looks like my husband, who's colombian, and my son favors me, dirty blond hair and very blue eyes...do you know if there is a strong anti american sentient there? thx again!

I really don't know! I read about Martyr's Day on 9th Jan on Panama Guide. I went and googled some more info on it. There is some history - Balboa High, the Canal and the Zonians. Good to know some background.
I really don't know much about anti-american sentiments. I am ethnic Chinese, and when I was there pple tried to speak Spanish to me as I look like the Panamanian Chinese! I think the other forummers may be able to say more.

Good information...I'll check it out!

Hey there!
I am blonde/green eyed with skin that requires 70spf and my husband is Panamanian (US born - dual citizen). We are staying at my in-laws right now in Colon province in Margarita which is a "area revertida" which means an old army base that has been converted into homes.
If you google "living conditions in Colon, Panama" as my family did before we moved here you will NOT be making a trip to this side of the country. Colon, the city, has really turned into the colon of Panama. Everyone here remembers the 'good ol days' but it is not a good place to go if you're not a local, even during the day. Now that I have a toddler my husband is pretty adament about us not going there on our own. We have a decent enough shopping plaza very close that works just fine. ALthough the grocery right outside the cruise terminal sells some great US products that you can't find other places (like whipped cream cheese! - it was my happy moment of today!)
Sorry - off on a tangent there. ANyway, Dia de los martires was just this Monday. This was the day 47 years ago that US troops shot and killed Panamanian students for flying the Panama flag (in a nutshell). Everything was closed here so noone was out anyway so i'm not sure if I would have gotten weird looks.
My husband is more aware of the looks we get than I am. I am probably too busy looking at everyone else too! I speak spanish pretty well (was my major in college - but man I have lost alot!) and I think this shocks people at first and then pleases them after. I think if you attempt to be part of the world you're living in and not just a visitor then you'll be better received. In Panama City there is alot more diversity and extranjeros from all over. Although Panama does have a lot of safety concerns for our family so does every city you'd find yourself in.
I can't wait to get to the city for many reasons (there's not much to do over here...although the beaches are way better on this side - just an hour drive from here).
hope this helps!

On another note...my doctor recommended Condado del Rey to live. Rent is pretty reasonable, its SUPER close to Corredor Norte, any thoughts anyone?

Hello Suzrez02,
I so appreciate the reply..was thinking that everyone on here thought I was nuts. I, too, speak a little Spanish, as we lived in Puerto Rico for about 5 and a half years. They were great! Yet, I know the dialect and meanings are different, it's why I'm so apprehensive about this move. This would be a great career opportunity for my husband, however, my kids, twins (15 years old) are not too keen on it. They are willing to do it for the family. We don't want to move into a condo, or apartment, as we have animals to consider...we have been looking at real estate, and have seen some wonderful homes for sale, yet, we really don't want to buy, just rent, because we don't plan on retiring there.

Now, tell me about Condado Del Rey...are they homes or condos? I appreciate you responding to this, and will be sure to dye my hair brown and get brown contacts...haha! Just kidding, as I'm sure it's not too bad. I did see a documentary about the incident you spoke of, and to be honest, thought that it was doctored for the press...I could be wrong, however, we are all entitled to our opinions.

Again, hope to hear from you soon, if you want to speak in private, let me know.

Parrot

AAAH!! I just posted here and came back to check something and realized it didn't post! Frustration!!
Will try to get back on this weekend to retype whatever I was rambling about...

Originally Posted by Panama Dreamer

Hello Liont and Suzfez02,
Please continue to share your experiences. I love to hear how families with young children adjust to the new country.
Suzfez02, how is Colon like?
Liont, You must be anxious with the move.
Take care,
Panama Dreamer

Hi Panama Dreamer, Liont and Suzfez02

I will move to panama in this summer from Vancouver Canada. I have a 2 kids 6 and 3. Do you have any idea for School. I already apply Crossroad , Balboa, ISP and new school call Metropolitan, but they are all expensive. Do you know which one is best. Also any play group for my 3 years old son and my girl she is learning a piano in Vancouver. do you know all about this .....or any panama info for me. I will live in panama city.....

Hi, welcome. Glad to see one more family! I just sent you a PM.

Originally Posted by Suzfez02

We are staying at my in-laws right now in Colon province in Margarita which is a "area revertida" which means an old army base that has been converted into homes.

Suzfez--Are you comfortable going to the shopping center near the entrance to France Field? I believe there is a Titan, El Costo, etc. there on the main street into old Colon. Thanks.