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 & FoodOasis Bluff Beach: Eco-Luxury Hotel & Top Dining in Bocas del Toro
Discover Oasis Bluff Beach, a 6-room boutique eco-luxury hotel on Bluff Beach featuring solar power, award-winning dining at The View restaurant, and pristine beach access.
Dining & FoodJasulounge: Panama City's Premier Omakase Sushi Restaurant
Discover Jasulounge in San Francisco, Panama City - featuring authentic omakase experiences, Panama's first Sushi Rodizio, and signature cocktails in an exclusive setting.
Dining & FoodFURIA Panama City: Premier Japanese Fusion Restaurant & Nightclub
FURIA offers Panama City's ultimate Japanese fusion dining and nightclub experience. Open Mon-Sat 6pm. Reservations: reservas@grupofuriapanama.com
Dining & FoodThe Garden Restaurant Panama: Farm-to-Table Dining Guide
Discover The Garden Restaurant & Country Store's authentic American cuisine in Panama. Farm-fresh ingredients, 32-item salad bar, and event venue since 2015.
Dining & FoodThe Executive Hotel Panama City: Luxury Business District Accommodation
The Executive Hotel in Panama City's financial district offers 150 contemporary rooms with modern amenities since 1970. Prime location for business travelers & expats.
Dining & FoodCiao Bella Italian Restaurant Panama City: 5 Locations Review
Ciao Bella Italian restaurant expands to 5 locations across Panama City including new Isla Pelicano waterfront spot. Authentic wood-fired pizza, pasta & Spritz cocktails.
Dining & FoodTapOut Sports Zone Boquete: Premier Expat Sports Bar & Restaurant
TapOut Sports Zone is Boquete's top expat sports bar with HDTVs, outdoor terraces, craft beers & mountain views. Perfect for events & dining.
Dining & FoodSabor Escondido Restaurant Valle Escondido Boquete Panama
Discover Sabor Escondido Restaurant at Valle Escondido Wellness Resort - Boquete's premier farm-to-table dining with organic ingredients and mountain views.
Dining & FoodPrimos Pizzeria Panama City: Authentic Neapolitan Pizza Guide
Primos Pizzeria serves Panama City's best authentic Neapolitan pizza with signature La Burratina and Peppa Pig pizzas. Expert dining guide for expats.
Dining & FoodMesa Azul Restaurant Panama City: Farm-to-Table Fine Dining
Mesa Azul Restaurant offers award-winning farm-to-table dining in Panama City with river views, imported steaks, and extensive vegan options. Top 10% worldwide by TripAdvisor.
Dining & FoodMadre Cucina Italiana: Casco Viejo's Premier Italian Restaurant
Madre Cucina Italiana in Casco Viejo serves authentic Italian cuisine with signature Sexy Mamma pizza and Papardelle ai Short Ribs. Located in historic Plaza Herrera.
Dining & FoodLa Strega: Panama City's Premier Italian Restaurant Guide 2024
Discover La Strega, rated among Panama City's top Italian restaurants with locations on Calle 50 and Costa del Este. Famous for their 3,000+ monthly Fettuccini Strega dishes.
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.