Nature Vibes in the City Center: Obarrio, Panama City – A Developer Tour of Boreal
At Boreal, well-being is the result of conscious design. Its strategic location puts you close to everything. Where proximity fosters ...
Nature Vibes in the City Center: Obarrio, Panama City – A Developer Tour of Boreal
Looking for a place where you can live surrounded by nature without giving up the convenience of a world-class city? That's exactly what the Boreal project in Obarrio, Panama City offers. In this exclusive tour, DoPanama's Susana Isabel sits down with developer Henry to uncover why this 133-unit wellness-focused condo is one of the hottest opportunities for expats and investors alike.
Why Obarrio is the Heart of Panama City
Obarrio isn't just a neighborhood – it's the sweet spot of Panama City. As Henry puts it, 'Obarrio is for me the center of the center of Panama.' It's a walkable, vibrant area packed with amenities: Park & Paddle (the city's top paddle tennis facility), Multiplaza Mall with global brands, a Johns Hopkins affiliate hospital, and a lush park with tennis courts, basketball court, and kids' areas. The location puts you minutes from everything by car or $2-$5 Uber ride. And with upcoming developments like the CAF (Latin American Development Bank) headquarters and a new mega-embassy bringing 400+ families, Obarrio is poised for even more growth.
Average Uber rides in Panama City cost $2-$5
Source: Transcript – DoPanama vlog
Inside Boreal: Wellness Meets Urban Living
Boreal is built around the idea that well-being starts at home. The project features two amenity levels: a wellness-focused ground floor with a huge open garden blending nature with skyscrapers, plus a co-working space and a full gym. Up top? A stunning rooftop infinity pool with views of the Pacific Ocean and the Punta Pacifica skyline. Unit layouts range from 54 sqm (one-bedroom) to 108 sqm (three-bedroom family units), with prices starting at $199,000. The design is flexible – perfect for singles, couples, or families looking for a modern base in Panama City.
Starting price of $199,000 for a 54 sqm unit
Source: Transcript – developer interview
The Friendly Nations Visa: Your Path to Permanent Residency
One of Panama's biggest draws is the Friendly Nations Visa, which grants lifetime permanent residency to eligible nationals. During the video, Susana explains that 'all of these units will provide to you the investment requirements you need to apply to the friendly nations visa.' In other words, buying a property like Boreal can qualify you for residency – a huge advantage for those planning to retire or relocate long-term. DoPanama's team, led by President Nalini Navarro and COO Austin Hess, offers full support for the visa process, from legal paperwork to property selection.
Friendly Nations Visa offers lifetime permanent residency with a qualifying real estate investment
Source: Panama National Immigration Service (SNM) and DoPanama experts
DoPanama: Your Trusted Local Partner
DoPanama Real Estate & Relocation is a licensed and bonded company (PJ-1430-2023) with a proven track record. 'We have been listed as the buyer brokers and we even offer a free VIP premium package for you,' says Susana. Their headquarters are inside the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in Panama City, and they also have an information desk at the Hilton Hotel on Avenida Balboa, open Monday to Friday 8-5. Whether you're looking to buy a condo, a house, or land anywhere in Panama, their network of in-house and affiliate agents covers the whole country.
DoPanama is licensed and bonded under license PJ-1430-2023
Source: DoPanama official website and company information
Boreal in Obarrio isn't just a condo – it's a lifestyle upgrade with nature, convenience, and a clear path to residency. Whether you're an investor or a future resident, Panama City's central neighborhood offers unbeatable energy and growth. Ready to see it for yourself? Contact DoPanama Real Estate & Relocation today. Visit dopanama.com or call +507 6443-3341. Your new life in Panama starts here.
Expert Insights
“So, Boreal is located in Ovario, which is for me the center of the center of Panama. It's a great location, very friendly for people to come, live, walk around, and have everything they need.”
— Henry, developer of Boreal
“All of these units will provide to you the investment requirements you need to apply to the friendly nations visa. This visa can provide to you lifetime permanent residency here in Panama.”
— Susana Isabel, DoPanama Real Estate & Relocation
“We are your boots on the ground assisting you with several services including schools, pet relocation, attorneys, and many, many more.”
— Austin Hess, COO of DoPanama
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Friendly Nations Visa for Panama, and how do I qualify?
The Friendly Nations Visa gives eligible nationals from about 50 countries lifetime permanent residency in Panama. One common way to qualify is by investing in real estate – like buying a condo at Boreal. You need to make a qualifying investment (often $200,000+ in property) and show you can support yourself financially. DoPanama can guide you through the entire application process.
Is Obarrio a safe neighborhood in Panama City?
Yes, Obarrio is considered one of the safest and most desirable neighborhoods in Panama City. It's centrally located with high-end stores, hospitals, parks, and new developments. The area is walkable and patrolled, and the presence of luxury hotels like the Waldorf Astoria and Hilton adds to its security. As with any city, it's wise to stay aware of your surroundings, but Obarrio is generally very safe for expats.
How much does it cost to buy a condo in Panama City?
Prices vary widely, but you can find modern condos starting around $150,000 in some areas. In prime central neighborhoods like Obarrio, new construction projects like Boreal start at $199,000 for a one-bedroom unit (54 sqm). Luxury penthouses can exceed $1 million. DoPanama can help you find options within your budget across the city.
Can I get residency in Panama by buying real estate?
Yes, buying real estate in Panama is one of the most common paths to residency. The Friendly Nations Visa requires a qualifying investment – typically $200,000 in property (or $300,000 for non-friendly nations). The Boreal project, starting at $199,000, can meet or exceed that threshold. DoPanama works with immigration attorneys to handle the visa paperwork.
What amenities does Boreal offer?
Boreal features two amenity levels: a wellness ground floor with a large open garden, co-working space, and full gym; plus a rooftop with an infinity pool offering sea and skyline views. The design blends nature with urban living, making it a great fit for active expats and families.
Is healthcare good in Panama City?
Panama City has excellent healthcare, with several top-rated hospitals and clinics. The Boreal project is close to a Johns Hopkins affiliate hospital, which offers world-class medical care. Many doctors speak English, and health insurance is affordable – about $100-$200 per month for comprehensive coverage. The WHO ranks Panama's healthcare system among the best in Latin America.
How do I start the process of buying property in Panama as a foreigner?
First, contact a trusted local real estate company like DoPanama. They can help you identify properties, negotiate, and connect you with a lawyer. Foreigners can buy freehold property in most areas (except near borders or coastlines without a permit). You'll need a Panamanian tax ID (RUC), a bank account, and a down payment typically 20-30%. DoPanama's free VIP package includes pre-qualification, property tours, and visa guidance.
What is the cost of living in Panama City compared to the US or Canada?
Panama City is significantly more affordable than most major US or Canadian cities. According to Numbeo, a single person can live comfortably on $1,200-$1,500 per month excluding rent. Rent for a one-bedroom in a central area like Obarrio ranges from $800-$1,200. Dining out, groceries, and transportation (including $2-$5 Ubers) are all much cheaper. Many expats find they can live on 50-60% of their previous budget.
Key Statistics
Average Uber ride cost in Panama City: $2-$5
Source: Transcript from DoPanama vlog (2024)
Boreal project has 133 units with starting price $199,000
Source: Developer Henry in DoPanama video (2024)
Friendly Nations Visa grants lifetime permanent residency with qualifying investment
Source: Panama National Immigration Service (SNM) (2024)
DoPanama is licensed and bonded under license PJ-1430-2023
Source: DoPanama company information (2023)
Panama City cost of living for a single person: approximately $1,200-$1,500 per month (excluding rent)
Source: Numbeo (2024)
Upcoming CAF headquarters and new embassy in Obarrio expected to bring 400+ families to the area
Source: Developer Henry in DoPanama video (2024)
Locations Mentioned
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