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 & HotelsAzul Paradise Bocas del Toro: Ultimate Overwater Bungalow Guide
Experience Panama's premier overwater bungalows at Azul Paradise, Bocas del Toro. Glass floor villas, all-inclusive packages from $450/night. Book luxury Caribbean escape today.
Travel & HotelsRambala Jungle Lodge: Panama's Premier All-Inclusive Eco Resort
Experience Panama's only hike-in jungle lodge in Bocas del Toro. All-inclusive eco resort with farm-to-table dining, renewable energy, and wildlife viewing.
Travel & HotelsZ Wellness Panama: Functional Medicine & Wellness Services
Board-certified pharmacist Dr. Ahmed Zikri offers functional medicine and wellness consultancy in Panama for expats. Expert nutrition, exercise, and health optimization.
Travel & HotelsJoseph Wilmoth Panama Entrepreneur Success Story | Business Growth
Joseph Wilmoth built a multi-million dollar hospitality empire in Panama after relocating from California in 2004. Learn how expats achieve business success in Panama.
Travel & HotelsHotel Bocas Town: Luxury Boutique Hotel in Bocas del Toro
Hotel Bocas Town offers 19 oceanfront rooms in downtown Bocas del Toro. Experience Caribbean luxury with personalized service, restaurant, and excursion booking.
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.