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 & FoodThe Chubby Gourmet: International Cooking Channel for Panama Expats
Discover how The Chubby Gourmet YouTube channel helps expats in Panama explore international cuisine and cooking techniques. Get inspired to cook!
Dining & FoodCasa Acuario Bocas del Toro: Sustainable Dining & Breakfast
Casa Acuario on Carenero Island serves organic breakfast daily 8-11 AM using 100% locally-sourced ingredients. Experience sustainable dining in Bocas del Toro.
Dining & FoodBocas Sushi To Go: Gourmet Japanese Cuisine in Bocas del Toro
Discover Bocas Sushi To Go's 3-year success story bringing authentic Japanese cuisine to Panama's Caribbean coast with island-wide delivery and eco-friendly rolls.
Dining & FoodBibi's on the Beach Bocas del Toro: Over-Water Caribbean Restaurant
Bibi's on the Beach offers premier over-water Caribbean fusion dining in Bocas del Toro, just 1 minute from Isla Colón. Fresh seafood, tropical cocktails.
Dining & FoodEmotions Dinner Theater Panama - Live Shows with 3D Holograms
Experience Panama City's premier dinner theater at Hilton Hotel featuring live international performances, 3D holograms, and Chef Jorge Jurado cuisine. Book now!
Dining & FoodAzul Restaurant Oceano Bocas del Toro - Overwater Caribbean Dining
Azul Restaurant Oceano offers overwater Caribbean dining in Bocas Town with fresh seafood, tropical cuisine, and stunning sunset views. Call +507 6664-7100 for reservations.
Dining & FoodMuelle 67 Panama: #1 Lobster Restaurant & Seafood Guide 2024
Discover Muelle 67, Panama's top-rated seafood restaurant famous for lobster fillet & bisque. Complete guide with menu, prices & expat dining tips.
Dining & FoodReceta Michilá Bocas del Toro - Chef Archbold's Caribbean Fine Dining
Discover Receta Michilá, Bocas del Toro's premier Caribbean fine dining destination by Chef Joseph Archbold. Innovative local cuisine, craft cocktails & BBQ Sundays.
Dining & FoodFincas y Estancias Restaurant Bocas del Toro - Wine & Dining
Fincas y Estancias offers Argentine-Italian fusion cuisine in Bocas Town with 700+ wines. Experience stone-baked pizza & grilled meats. Reserve now!
Dining & FoodBrother's Restaurant Bocas del Toro - Best Burgers & Caribbean Terrace
Brother's Bocas Town offers open-air Caribbean dining with signature double Angus burgers, local craft beers, and international atmosphere. Perfect for expats.
Dining & FoodLuna Rooftop Panama City - 31st Floor Dining Experience 2024
Luna Rooftop on the 31st floor of PH Downtown 55 Street offers Panama City's most spectacular skyline views. Experience elevated Panamanian cuisine with truffle ceviche and craft cocktails in Obarrio's Banking District.
Dining & FoodLa Boucherie Panama: Premier French Dining at Multiplaza
La Boucherie offers Panama's finest French cuisine with imported prime cuts, Mediterranean influences, and panoramic views at Multiplaza. Reserve your table today.
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.