Taxis are readily available in San Francisco, Panama City, Panama and they are still cheap: around US$2.00 for a short fare, unless you you look like a tourist, hail them in front of a hotel, or both. In contrast to recent years, they are easily recognizable and remind you of Manhattan's yellow cabs, complete with checkered stripes. Usually there's no meter and so it would be advisable to ask your driver (preferably in advance) how much he intends to charge. Many, but not all, are...

Taxis are readily available in San Francisco, Panama City, Panama and they are still cheap: around US$2.00 for a short fare, unless you you look like a tourist, hail them in front of a hotel, or both. In contrast to recent years, they are easily recognizable and remind you of Manhattan's yellow cabs, complete with checkered stripes. Usually there's no meter and so it would be advisable to ask your driver (preferably in advance) how much he intends to charge. Many, but not all, are equipped with air conditioning.

 

The drivers will only accept to transport you if the location you seek to reach is along their intended path. If you are trying to reach a specific destination, it's not as simple as scribbling an address on a piece of paper and handing it to the driver. Panama is one of the few countries in the world where the driver will ask you where that address is located. Since Panama does not have a home-delivery postal service, no one knows or care about street names. You need to provide the driver with a landmark. For example: it's across the McDonald's of Calle 50, or the Bodega Mi Amiga (liquor store) close to Parque Omar. Yes, landmarks rule, and they can be current or ancient. Contrary say to New Yorkers, Panamanians will go out of their way to help you find yours, although you might find their explanations somewhat challenging... Example: do you know the lottery building? Do you know the place where the first Banco General used to be? Do you know the Pepsi-Cola plant? Hmmm... you don't... Do you know where the San Agustin school was located before they tore it down? (Ah yes, yes... I know!) Good, because that's not the right direction! Etc... 

 

Taxis are an excellent way to socialize and meet locals, as your driver is likely to make stops around the way to pick up extra passengers. That's a normal practice. Don't expect all passengers to pool their resources... you still have to pay full fare. Your trip might become a little longer to accommodate the requirements of your fellow passengers, so you'll get an opportunity to see more of the city for the same price. Of course, this situation is not specific to San Francisco and these remarks apply to the whole city of Panama...