Black Expats In Panama ™

BEIP does NOT have any partners. Previously, BEIP worked with ITA Global, but that affiliation officially ended in 2023.  

Yes, BEIP is a fully Licensed Tour Operator in Panama City, Panama

BEIP is a Black Woman Owned, Black Operated Business registered in the US and Panama. BEIP also holds Registered Trademarks in both the US and Panama.

Yes, BEIP offers private and group tours in Panama and also hosts other Cultural International Tours once or twice per year. BEIP CEO and Founder also hosts an annual “Sistas in Panama Retreat ” for women during the month of January. To learn more about these additional tour services, visit our website at www.blackexpatsinpanama.net or contact us for a consultation for customized tour experiences.

Yes, your Uber App works in Panama

In Panama, both cash and credit cards are widely accepted. We recommend alerting your bank about your travel plans to Panama to prevent any card declines during your trip. US currency is also accepted in Panama. To avoid international fees on ATM withdrawals and card transactions, we suggest you bring cash. This way, you can conveniently handle purchases and transactions without worrying about additional charges.

You can save $25 per person by placing your initial order over the phone at 540-446-5107

Final Payments are due 30 Days Prior to the BEIP Relocation Tour

The airport serving Panama City is Tocumen International Airport (PTY).

Upon arrival at Tocumen International Airport (PTY), please follow these steps:

  1. Connect to the airport’s free WiFi and post in the WhatsApp Chat Group that you have landed.  Tocumen provides 30 minutes of Free WiFi)
  2. Follow signs to Baggage Claim. Note that there are no immediate signs for “Migracion” (Immigration), so follow signs corresponding with your terminal number.
  3. Retrieve your bags from Baggage Claim and proceed to the Exit (Salida).
  4. Let us know if you will be waiting at Terminal 1 or Terminal 2 for pickup.
  5. Look for someone holding a sign that says “BLACK EXPATS IN PANAMA” to meet your group representative.

If you have mobility issues, consider arranging assistance ahead of time. Moving between terminals involves a fair amount of walking, although there are moving walkways available to assist you. Planning ahead can help make your airport experience smoother and more comfortable.

YOU WILL RECEIVE EXACT INSTRUCTIONS AND DETAILS DURING FINAL UPDATE ZOOM CALL

 

Day 5 is free or you can opt in for a tour to the Panama Canal. 

If you don’t have an early flight, you can walk around the hotel area of El Cangrejo and find some last-minute souvenirs. You may also opt-in for the Panama Canal Tour (included). If you have an afternoon/evening flight, ask us about guided tours which can be done before heading out to the airport.

During your stay in Panama, it is recommended that you carry your passport or a copy showing the main page and the entry stamp.

Please ensure that your US Passport has enough validity remaining for travel to Panama (at least 3 months). For specific guidelines and details, please refer to the Embassy link provided below:

https://www.embassyofpanama.org/visas-1

No, you can pay as you wish as long as the account is paid in full 30 days before BEIP Relocation Tour.

To make a payment: simply send an email to payments@blackexpatsinpanama.net and let us know what you wish to pay.  

If you know the amount and schedule you would like to pay, you can provide that information and BEIP will issue invoices accordingly or make the payment using the Credit Card you add to your account

You can make a ZELLE Payment

No Cash accepted

You can also opt to pay system-generated invoices received from BEIP

The average BEIP Relocation Tour has 10 – 15 Guests

On Day One, you will have the opportunity to meet carefully selected professionals such as lawyers, realtors, doctors, insurance brokers and moving companies.  Professionals are standing by to assist you on your relocation journey or fact-finding mission. 

BEIP Relocation Tours typically start on the 1st and end on the 5th of each month (9 months per year) 

Feb 1-5, Mar 1-5, Apr 1-5, May 15-19, Jun 1-5, July 1-5, Aug 1-5, Sep 1-5 and Dec 1-5

  • Transportation to and from Tocumen Airport (on first and last day of tour)
  • All Excursions
  • All Meals (except 2 dinners)
  • Hotel Accommodations

$1750/PP (Double Occupancy)

$250 for  Single (Private Room) Upgrade

If you are traveling with someone that is double occupancy, you will be in the same room. 

If you are traveling alone and do not wish to be paired with a suitable roommate, you can select the option of “Private Room” to ensure you do not share a room with anyone. 

Yes, you can decide later to add the Option to your order.  

Torres De Alba Hotel & Suites. BEIP Guests only stay in the “Superior Suites”

Each unit is a one-bedroom layout with a living/dining area, a full kitchen equipped with a microwave, stove top, blender, utensils, plates, cups, and a washer/dryer and two televisions. The hotel is centrally located, providing easy access to dining, shopping, and entertainment options (there’s even a casino directly across the street). Breakfast is served daily on the Terrace from 6 to 10 am. 

Although you will have time to enjoy breakfast every day, please be prepared for early departures at 8:00 a.m. each day.

The rooms tend to be chilly, especially with marble floors, so be sure to bring warm pjs and/or socks if you tend to be chilly. 

Check-in time is 3:00 pm, but for those who arrive early, the hotel will do their best to expedite your check-in.  Check-out time is 1:00 pm, but you can request a late checkout. Here is the website for Torres De Alba:  https://torresdealba.com.pa

Each day starts at 8:00 am and typically ends at approximately 5:00 – 6:00 pm. The Cultural Caribbean Day (Colon) ends at approximately 8:00 pm.

On a scale of 1-10, the amount of walking during this tour is about a 4.  The walking is short distances.  The only other physical part of the tour would be swimming on Colon Day if you choose.

If you have physical disabilities or require assistance, you should call 540.446.5107 to be certain BEIP can provide appropriate services/accommodations during the BEIP Relocation Tour.

The minimum age requirement to attend a BEIP Relocation Tour is 18 years of age.  If you have a teenager who you like us to consider, please call 540.446.5107.  We do make exceptions when mutually agreed upon by parents and BEIP Management. 

EVERYDAY IS CASUAL – NO DRESSY ATTIRE REQUIRED

Day 1: Come as you are to the Welcome Dinner

Day 2: Wear your BEIP Tees

Day 3: Bring your swimwear and consider wearing it under your clothes or cover-up. Don’t forget to pack a beach towel and waterproof shoes suitable for getting wet.

Day 4: Dress in all-white attire with Panama-inspired pops of red for our Farewell Dinner

Additionally, it’s recommended to pack a sweater or shawl for places with air conditioning, such as rooms, buildings, and the bus. You may not need it outside of these areas.

For trips during the rainy season (May – December), be prepared for intermittent rain showers. Although full washout days are rare, rain can occur at any time. Pack an umbrella or poncho to stay dry in case of unexpected showers.

It’s important to understand your cell phone’s international plan before traveling. In Panama, the network typically operates on a 3G system, which works quite well. You will have Wi-Fi access at the hotel during your stay.

We recommend downloading the “WhatsApp” messaging app on your phone if you haven’t already. It’s an excellent way to stay connected with friends and family back home using your cell phone over Wi-Fi.

Yes, you will receive a Swag Bag at the Reception Dinner held on the first night of the trip, and your Black Expats in Panama T-Shirt will be included in the bag. This shirt is already included in your package, so there is no need to order one separately.

No, the BEIP Relocation Tour does not include these areas at this time.  However, if you want to get more information about visiting any of these areas, please let us know, we can assist in the facilitation of an extended visit if you wish.

Absolutely!  The BEIP Relocation Tour goes to Colon on Day 3.  This is the ONLY a la carte day of the BEIP Relocation Tour.  Current Residents, Panamanians and Passers through are invited to join the 12 hour excursion.  It is a cultural immersion, FUN day!

Absolutely! If you wish to have extra time for excursions, shopping, meetings with professionals, booking private real estate tours, or visiting areas not covered in the tour, we recommend booking a few additional days before or after the tour. We are happy to help coordinate your extended itinerary and arrange appointments with professionals as needed. Just let us know your preferences, and we’ll assist you in planning your extended stay.

If you plan to arrive before the trip start date or depart after the tour ends, you will need to arrange private transportation. Transportation to and from the airport is included in the group rate only for set arrival and departure dates. Please notify us in advance if you require private transportation services, and we will be happy to assist you with arrangements. 

 

During our excursions, we will collect a group gratuity to show appreciation for restaurant workers, Congo dancers, and other dance performances we encounter along the way. These tips hold significant value for the local residents and contribute to their livelihoods. We are delighted to make a meaningful difference in their lives through our support. To see firsthand examples of how your contributions positively impact Panamanian businesses and communities, check out the short YouTube videos provided. They showcase the direct effects of your generosity and support during our journey.

1.CHEF ISAAC, LA TAPA DEL COCO:  

https://youtu.be/rESkIhdXOtQ?si=DF9NQo0WTPZ8-Yu5

2.VICKIE (CONGO DANCER IN PORTOBELO, COLON)

https://youtu.be/Fi9bb6pDMUs?si=NXnZt2UF-XHyORBw

The cost of the 12 hour excursion to Colon, Panama is $150/per person.  Since many people do the BEIP Cultural Caribbean Day more than once, BEIP offers a $20 discount to returning guests (email info@blackexpatsinpanama.net for a discounted invoice). 

Feb 3, Mar 3, Apr 3, Jun 3, Jul 3, Aug 3, Sep 3, Dec 3

Visit our website at www.blackexpatsinpanama.net to see Google Reviews in one place.  You can also visit our Youtube channel to see video recorded Testimonials from previous guests.

You can order your ticket at this link:  https://blackexpatspanama.rezdy.com/612019/beip-cultural-caribbean-day

FOR MORE INFORMATION: RESERVATIONS@BLACKEXPATSINPANAMA.NET

540.446.5107

The cost of the 12 hour excursion to Colon, Panama is $150/per person.  Since many people do the BEIP Cultural Caribbean Day more than once, BEIP offers a $20 discount to returning guests (email info@blackexpatsinpanama.net for a discounted invoice).  

INCLUDES:

  • Private Ground Transportation from Panama City 
  • Professional narration of history and culture of Colon
  • Entrance fees at all stops
  • Picture at Colon Sign 
  • Delicious Lunch over the water in Portobello 
  • Congo Dancers 
  • Ole Skool Music with DJ Savannah on the bus and beach
  • Water on the bus
  • San Felipe Church & Black Christ
  • Water Taxi to Mamey Island
  • Fresh Coconuts upon Arrival  
  • Reserved Cabanas
  • Tunnel of Love 

NOT INCLUDED:

  • Gratuity (TIPS)
  • Food & drinks unless specified 

* ADULTS ONLY

Feb 3, Mar 3, Apr 3, Jun 3, Jul 3, Aug 3, Sep 3, Dec 3

Bus leaves from Torres De Alba Hotel & Suites Lobby (El Cangrego).  Detailed email sent within 48 hours of tour

ITINERARY:

Departure: 8am

Return: 8pm