Los integrantes del Grupo USAR Panamá relatan a ‘La Decana’ sobre las jornadas de búsqueda junto a sus canes en la zona cero del terremoto, las historias...
- 31/01/2009 01:00
PANAMA. I have lived over half a century, travelled a lot of the world, and lived in a number of countries offering interesting and dif...
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Agrega La Estrella en Google ↗️PANAMA. I have lived over half a century, travelled a lot of the world, and lived in a number of countries offering interesting and different ways of life.
Having lived in Panama for several years it has become more than apparent that Panamanians have a trait that I have not come across in any other culture.
The word “no” , and in polite circles the accompanying “I’m sorry, but” seems to be missing from the vocabulary.
In business or social mixing Panamanians never say ‘No’!
Is it because we live in a relatively small country and they are afraid of offending anyone?
The common saying is “I will call you”, which basically means “maybe,” and maybe means never will.
Is it fear of hurting someone’s feelings or of avoiding any form of friction or confrontation?
In other places the conventional dodges come like “I’m too busy” or “NO, I can’t. But in Panama “I’ll call you” has become the phrase to use to politely say “no”.
When it comes to business this trait can be frustrating for foreigners who are used to more outspoken turn downs or refusals. But, at least you know where you stand.
Panamanian people are friendly to the point of exuberance where little encouragement is needed for hugging or kissing on greeting someone.
So please explain why you can never say ‘No’.
Lo Nuevo
