Panama: Cheek Kiss — Common Between Acquaintances.
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Cheek Kiss — Common Between Acquaintances. A single cheek kiss is a common greeting between women and between men and women, reflecting broader Latin American norms — men typically shake hands with each other.
Panama: Cheek Kiss — Common Between Acquaintances. A single cheek kiss is a common greeting between women and between men and women, reflecting broader Latin American norms — men typically shake hands with each other.
In Panama, cheek kissing (or an air-kiss) between acquaintances is normal and expected in social settings, alongside or instead of a handshake.
A light handshake or friendly nod is a safe default almost anywhere in the world. Let the other person initiate anything closer, like a hug or cheek kiss — following their lead avoids any awkwardness.
This reflects the general, most common pattern for a destination, not a fixed rule — greeting style varies by region, generation, and setting, and it's always fine to follow the other person's lead or offer a simple handshake if you're unsure.