Bus terminals seem to be a dicey place for travelers everywhere, and Panama is no exception.
Caution: watch out for pickpockets at the Albrook Bus Terminal in Panama City.
Waiting in line to board a micro bus one evening, I felt someone's fingers in my pocket trying to lift my wallet (thank goodness for velcro pockets). Note to self: this is why money belts are a good idea and "throw-down" wallets are even better.
When I told the guy in back of me his hands were in my pocket, he acted as if nothing had happened...and get this, smiled and asked me to take a seat on the bus in front of him.?! I guess to give it a second go.
A fellow traveler staying at my hostel was robbed taking a bus from the same terminal just a few days before. On the bus, someone dropped some coins and he later discovered that when he bent over to pick them up, someone lifted his wallet.
I read about this routine on riding buses in Ecuador.
I think these guys must have a web site where they share tips.
As for me, I just went to the back of the bus and got off at my stop without any further problems.
Well, except for trying to squeeze my way out from the back of the bus, turning redfaced most of the way as I apologized to women I had to inch around to make my way to the exit.
