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Is there McDonald’s in Panama?
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“Is there McDonald’s in Panama?” You would be surprised at the number of times I have heard that question while briefing friends who have booked their tickets and are packing to visit me in Panama. Perhaps it is related to the nervousness of traveling to a foreign place – a desire to find something that will be familiar. Perhaps it is the need to know that some place will have American food that you can identify.
Well, rest assured, if this question too keeps you up at night as you plan your visit to Panama. Yes, indeed, McDonald’s is found in Panama. In fact, as you travel around Panama City, you will be amazed by the number of Golden Arches you see. On many street corners, in the malls, in the Albrook Bus Terminal, there are McDonald’s. The prevalence is scarcer outside of the capital city, but you will find the establishment in David, Santiago, and recently opened in Coronado.
The second question pleads, “Does the food taste same?” Well, from my perspective, there is little taste difference and little difference in the menu. Breakfast features the same choices and ends at 10:30 am (although this seems to be 11:30 am on Sundays). Lunch and dinner menus feature Big Macs and other favorites, and include the McCrispy, which is fried chicken (bones included). The famous fries are the same and McFlurry flavors include Twix and Golden Oreo. And yes, kids, there are even Happy Meals!
Although it may seem like a strange opposition, I can guarantee you, that if the craving hits you, you can stop by McDonald’s for a tasty meal. I must admit, once while in the midst of a 10-month stretch in a remote community in central Panama, I woke up one morning alone and depressed. I boarded the direct bus to Panama City ($5.50 one way), traveled to Albrook Bus Terminal where I ate at McDonald’s, and then boarded the direct bus back. It was the best $11.00 I ever spent in acquiring what I needed and don’t regret the trip to this day. Some times you just need a touch of home, even while exploring as beautiful a place as Panama.
