Knowledge Center
Articles About Panama
Explore 155+ research-backed guides covering everything expats need to know about Panama - from visa requirements and real estate markets to neighborhood guides, restaurant reviews, and cost-of-living breakdowns. Written by expats, for future expats.
Dining & FoodRaw Fusion Bocas: Japanese-Caribbean Sushi & Panoramic Views
Raw Fusion Bocas offers authentic Japanese-Caribbean fusion cuisine with fresh sushi, vegan options, and stunning waterfront views in Bocas Town. Discover this expat dining gem.
Dining & FoodPiso 5 Café Gourmet & Deli: Best Healthy Restaurant Bella Vista
Discover Piso 5 Café in Bella Vista - Panama City's premier healthy dining destination since 2015. Executive menus, international cuisine & Chef Orlando's specialties.
Dining & FoodMurphy's California Kitchen: Panama City's Premier Irish Pub Guide
Discover Murphy's California Kitchen, Panama City's only genuine Irish pub on Via Argentina. Features private dining, craft cocktails & American-Irish cuisine.
Dining & FoodMUH Steakhouse Panama City: Premier Argentine Cuts & Dining
MUH is Panama City's top steakhouse featuring premium Argentine cuts, artisan sausages, and authentic meat-focused dining. Book your table today!
Dining & FoodLa City Gluten Free Panama - Complete Guide for Expats 2024
La City GF is Panama's only 100% certified gluten-free bakery in Panama City. Expert expat guide to gluten-free dining options. Get relocation help!
Dining & FoodGran Yong Restaurant Panama City: Authentic Chinese Cuisine in Obarrio
Gran Yong Restaurant in Obarrio offers authentic Chinese & Southeast Asian cuisine with private karaoke rooms. Top-rated Chinese dining experience in Panama City.
Dining & FoodGold Coast Brewing Company Coronado - Best Expat Microbrewery
Gold Coast Brewing Company is Coronado's only microbrewery owned by Canadian expats. Craft beer, gourmet burgers & expat community in Panama's beach town.
Dining & FoodElement Bar Panama: Steampunk Cocktails & Dining in Casco Viejo
Element Bar & Restaurant offers Panama's premier steampunk cocktail experience in historic Casco Viejo with custom drinks by The Alchemist. Book your reservation today.
Dining & FoodAneth Vergara Herrera: Panama Businesswoman & Gary Ceviches Co-Owner
Meet Aneth Vergara Herrera, co-owner of Gary Ceviches Gourmet Panama City. Learn how this entrepreneur empowers women in Panama's growing business sector.
Dining & FoodCoffee Max Paitilla: Premium Italian Coffee & Expat Dining
Coffee Max in Panama City's Paitilla district serves authentic Italian Illy coffee & gourmet international cuisine. Popular expat hangout with Kosher options.
Dining & FoodChivita Food House Panama: Steakhouse & Fine Dining Marbella
Chivita Food House in Marbella offers premium steaks, fusion cuisine by Chef Felipe Mayorca, VIP lounges & European wines. Reserve at +507 6590-3868.
Dining & FoodLa Rana Dorada: Panama's Craft Brewery Pioneer in Casco Viejo
Discover La Rana Dorada, Panama's first craft brewery in Casco Viejo's oldest private house. Craft beer, whiskey, sourdough pizza & expat favorite since 2010.
Frequently Asked Questions About Panama
What visas are available for moving to Panama?
Panama offers several visa options including the Pensionado (Retiree) Visa with a $1,000/month pension requirement, the Friendly Nations Visa for citizens of 50+ countries, and the Self-Economic Solvency Visa requiring a $300,000 investment. Each has different requirements and benefits.
What is the cost of living in Panama compared to the US?
Panama's cost of living is typically 30-50% lower than major US cities. A couple can live comfortably on $2,000-3,500/month depending on location. Panama City is the most expensive, while towns like David, Boquete, and Pedasi offer significantly lower costs.
Can foreigners buy property in Panama?
Yes, foreigners have the same property rights as Panamanians with a few exceptions (island and border properties have restrictions). There are no restrictions on titled property, and Panama uses a dollarized economy, making transactions straightforward for US buyers.
What are the best areas in Panama for expats?
Popular expat areas include Panama City for urban living, Boquete for mountain climate and coffee culture, Coronado for beach lifestyle near the city, Bocas del Toro for Caribbean island living, and Pedasi for Pacific coast authenticity.
Is Panama safe for expats?
Panama is generally considered one of the safest countries in Central America. Expat-popular areas like Boquete, Coronado, and upscale Panama City neighborhoods have very low crime rates. As with any country, basic safety precautions apply in urban areas.