A Couple Cultural Differences

Globs:
People in Panama do not naturally form lines. It is not a built into the brain line forming system like we have in North America. Instead of forming lines it could be said that instead people "glob." In a situation such as a store where people are bringing their selections to the counter unless there is an extremely clear distinguished line already in place, the people will proceed to glob and seep out like lava lamp gel until they reach the counter. A fair amount of awareness is needed to hold on to your place in any glob or someone will easily seep in front of you. On the flight from Atlanta to Panama City a glob quickly formed as soon as the first seating area was called. The glob was packed so tightly it was impossible for many people "ahem...myself," to go through the gate during the time their seating areas were called. Surely enough we all eventually seeped into the plane and miraculously our previously assigned seats were not taken by any one else and we all made it into Panama at the same time!
Greetings: It is very customary to greet many people when going to a grocery store, or simply anywhere where other people can be found, everywhere.... It is normal to arrive late to most things. If a time is set for any event, you should plan to depart from point A no earlier than the set time of arrival for point B, or else you will be ridiculously early. And the party doesn´t really get started til late into the night. It is also customary for things to take a very long time.
If you go out to eat the fact that you are seated at a table will not stop the social action. People will come up to you and say hello and surround your table and shoot the breeze. hahaha!