Knowledge Center
Articles About Panama
Explore 29+ 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.
Travel & HotelsHotel Santa Catalina Panama: Premier Surf & Dive Resort Guide
Hotel Santa Catalina: Panama's top beachfront resort at La Punta surf break. Gateway to Coiba National Park diving. Full amenities & adventure activities.
Travel & HotelsSleeping Indian Hike El Valle: Complete Guide to Panama's Iconic Trek
Discover the Sleeping Indian Hike in El Valle de Antón - 3,000 feet of stunning views, unique flora, and challenging trails. Expert guide with tips, costs & logistics.
Travel & HotelsCatalina's Hideaway: Luxury Eco-Resort Santa Catalina Panama
Catalina's Hideaway offers luxury eco-accommodation near Santa Catalina & Coiba National Park. Farm-to-table dining, private beach, exclusive adventures. Book now!
Travel & HotelsVilla Condesa del Mar Pearl Islands Resort | Luxury Panama Hotels
Villa Condesa del Mar on Isla Contadora offers luxury oceanfront villas with private beaches, swim-up bars, and world-class fishing. Book your Pearl Islands escape today.
Travel & HotelsJabriel Lafrance Johnson's Art Studio Opens in Casco Viejo Panama
Cuban artist Jabriel Lafrance Johnson opens new visual arts studio and gallery in Panama's historic Casco Antiguo district, contributing to Panama's growing cultural scene.
Travel & HotelsSurfnSail Catamaran Charters Bocas del Toro Panama 2024
Luxury all-inclusive catamaran charters in Bocas del Toro with experienced expat sailors. Sailing adventures, surfing, snorkeling from $350/day. Book now.
Travel & HotelsIsland Plantation Bocas del Toro: Luxury Eco Resort Guide 2024
Island Plantation offers 10 Bali-inspired units on Bluff Beach, Bocas del Toro. Eco-luxury resort with beachfront cabins, pool suites, and sustainable amenities. Book now!
Travel & HotelsHorizonte Resort Hotel & Spa: Luxury Mountain Retreat in Chiriquí
Discover Horizonte Resort, Hotel & Spa - Panama's premier luxury mountain resort in Chiriquí province. 129 hectares of rainforest, Pacific Ocean views, spa facilities & adventure activities.
Travel & HotelsCasa Lajagua: Panama's Premier Eco-Luxury Boutique Hotel
Discover Casa Lajagua, Panama's award-winning eco-luxury boutique hotel featuring 6 uniquely designed rooms, sustainable architecture, and world-class hospitality in lush natural surroundings.
Travel & HotelsJovanna Malberti: Italian Fashion Designer's Exclusive Bohemian Collection in Panama
Discover Jovanna Malberti's exclusive bohemian fashion collection in Panama luxury hotels. Handmade textiles from Panama, Bali & India. Flagship at Boulevard Pacifica.
Travel & HotelsBoquete Luxury Mountain Villa: Ultimate 8-Suite Retreat Guide
Discover Boquete Luxury Mountain Villa - a 5-star retreat with 8 luxury suites, chef kitchen, and concierge services on Barú Volcano slopes. Book your exclusive Panama escape.
Travel & HotelsEtnik Panama: Authentic Pre-Columbian Cultural Artifacts & Indigenous Huacas
Discover authentic pre-Columbian artifacts and indigenous Huacas from Etnik Panama, led by Angela Mellana. Perfect cultural souvenirs for expats and visitors exploring Panama's rich heritage.
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.