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TV in Panama

There is no requirement for a TV license in Panama. Panama has basic cable TV and satellite TV. The main providers for basic cable are Cable Onda and CW Panama, while the main provider for satellite TV is Claro.

TV Channels in Panama

On basic TV, common channels will be some news, movie, comedy and soap opera channels. With satellite TV, there will be hundreds of channels to choose from including HBO, the Disney Channel, MTV, Discovery Channel, Fox Sports and much more.

Cable TV
The main providers for basic cable are Cable Onda and CW Panama. Most packages will range from $20 to $30 USD a month depending on the number of channels you get. This can cost even more if it is bought as a bundle with the internet. For installation, one must contact the cable provider for an appointment which will usually take place in one week.

Satellite TV
The main provider for satellite TV is Claro. Most packages will range from $30 to $50 USD a month depending on the number of channels you get. This can cost even more if it is bought as a bundle with the internet. For installation, one must contact the cable provider for an appointment which will usually take place in one week.

Internet in Panama

Internet is usually bought as a bundle with the TV providers Cable Onda, CW Panama and Claro. The cost of internet is usually around $20-$30 depending on the plan.

Internet Providers in Panama

The main providers are:

• Cable Onda
• CW Panama
• Claro
• Sky TV
• Direct TV

Internet Installation in Panama

For installation, one must contact the cable provider for an appointment, which will usually take place in one week. One must provide identification, which is most likely a passport, as well as their residence contract to have the installation fulfilled.

Internet Cafés in Panama

Most cafes in Panama will offer free wi-fi for its guests. But there are some cafes that cater to people who need reliable Wi-Fi for a longer duration of time to do work, make internet calls or any other internet activities. Often, these cafes will charge a fee. There are many in Panama City, and they will likely charge $1 to $2 USD an hour or less. Some popular ones in the center of town, near the canal zone or the financial district include:

• La Red Internet Cafe
• Ruta 57
• E-Multiservice
• I & PC

Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi is available in most bars, restaurants, and cafes in Panama City. Wi-fi will be pronounced as "wee-fee". To ask for wi-fi in Spanish, one would say "Hay wi-fi?" The word "hay" is pronounced like the English word "eye."