Panama Index

10 Cultural Faux Pas to Avoid While Living in Panama
Digital nomads should avoid making these 10 Cultural Faux Pas while living in Panama.

9 Best Cities in Panama & Best Time of Year to Visit
If you're planning a trip to Panama, here are the 9 Best Cities in Panama & Best Time of Year to Visit.

Moving with a Pet to Panama
Prepare for your move to Panama with a pet. Understand the vaccination needs, travel details, and item restrictions in Panama. This essential guide helps you navigate the process of moving with your pet and reduce the chance of unnecessary complications.

Christmas in Panama
Explore the festive traditions of Christmas and New Year in Panama, where the celebrations are marked by special foods, church ceremonies, the exchange of gifts, and an array of cultural customs.

Culture Shock in Panama
If you're planning a move to Panama, or have recently settled there, it's natural to encounter some culture shock as you adjust to your new surroundings. Our insightful article is designed to help you navigate this transition smoothly. It offers practical tips and draws on the experiences of fellow expats.who have successfully embraced the cultural nuances of Panama.

Homeschooling in Panama
If you're moving with kids to Panama and homeschooling is something you're considering, it's important to do your research and learn about homeschooling in Panama.

How to Enroll Your Children in School in Panama
If you're a newcomer in Panama and enrolling your children in school in Panama, here's how:

Educational System in Panama
The one tip that you hear expats.living in Panama repeatedly sharing with newcomers is not to buy a home when you first move to Panama. Rent for a few months or longer so that you have time to find the right neighborhood. Give yourself time to ensure that Panama is right for you for the long term. If you've already taken time to do those things and are ready to take the plunge and become a property owner, here are tips about buying a home in Panama.

10 Things to Know Before Moving to Panama
If you're planning a move to Panama, here are 10 things expats.living there wish they had known before moving to Panama.

How to Buy a Home in Panama
The one tip that you hear expats.living in Panama repeatedly sharing with newcomers is not to buy a home when you first move to Panama. Rent for a few months or longer so that you have time to find the right neighborhood. Give yourself time to ensure that Panama is right for you for the long term. If you've already taken time to do those things and are ready to take the plunge and become a property owner, here are tips about buying a home in Panama.

Pros and Cons of Living in Panama
If you're moving to Panama, it's important to learn about both the Pros AND Cons of living in Panama.

How to Rent a Home in Panama
Renting a home in Panama for the first time can be daunting. You probably have so many questions: Do I need a lawyer? Do rentals come with appliances? How do I find good rentals? How do I choose the right neighborhood? The list goes on and on. Here are answers to some of the top questions plus insight from our members living in Panama.

Getting a Driver's License in Panama
Here's a primer on how to get your driver's license in Panama.

Expat Survey: 85% of Expats in Panama Love Living There
Our survey to find the Best Places to Live in 2022 revealed that 85% of expats.in Panama report that they are happy with the expatriate experience there.

Expat Survey: Panama Remains Popular With Expats
Expats remain attracted to Panama for its cost of living, excellent climate and the variety of options available for places to live. Read about how Panama ranked relative to other expat destinations and specific comments from expats.themselves.

10 Tips for Living in Panama
Expats, global nomads and retirees are drawn to Panama's ease of residency, low taxes (Panama does not tax on worldwide income), friendly Panamanians who always put family first, inexpensive healthcare and laid back lifestyle. Like any country, life in Panama does come with a few challenges. This articles covers all of these topics and more.

Panama's Pensionado Visa
Panama's Pensionado Visa offers retirees with a retirement income of at least $1,000 an easy way to become legal residents of Panama and includes many perks.

Panama's Pensionado Discounts
Panama's pensionado discounts are available to legal residents (55+ for women, 60+ for men). These generous discounts include 25% off airline tickets, 25% at restaurants, 50% off at hotels during the week, exemption on import tax for up to $10,000 household goods and much more.

How to Open a Bank Account in Panama
How to open a bank account in Panama from the expat perspective: covers what documents you'll need to open a bank account, key criteria when choosing a bank, opening a bank account before you obtain residency and more.

Best Banks in Panama for Expats and Global Nomads
Expats share their recommendations for the best banks in Panama for expats.and global nomads.

Cost of Living: Costa Rica vs. Panama
Expats in Costa Rica and Panama discuss the cost of living, with some managing on $2,000 a month while others spend more due to lifestyle choices. The affordability of living in these countries varies based on personal needs, with expenses like dining, travel, and housing influencing the budget. Local insights reveal that while some costs are lower than in the US, others are comparable, making careful budgeting essential for a comfortable expat life.

Expat Banking: Tips for Expats in Panama
Expats in Panama face unique banking challenges, as the country's banking system is closed and lacks direct connections with international banks. Popular options include using banks like Scotiabank, Banistmo, and Global, which accept U.S. Social Security checks and offer online banking in English. Expats recommend using ATM cards with fee reimbursements and keeping savings in FDIC-insured accounts abroad for better security.

Pros and Cons of Living in Panama
Panama offers a mix of benefits and challenges for expats. including affordable residency visas and welcoming immigration policies, but navigating bureaucracy can be frustrating. Healthcare options vary, with private hospitals like Paitilla offering quality care, while the public system is hit or miss. Popular expat destinations like Boquete, Bocas Del Toro, and Coronado provide diverse lifestyles, from vibrant communities to tranquil beachside living.

Thanksgiving in Panama
The American Society of Panama is hosting a Thanksgiving meal at the Tryp Hotel in Panama City, offering a traditional feast for members and non-members alike. The Rock Boquete restaurant in Boquete is preparing a succulent Thanksgiving dinner with a variety of dishes, including turkey with rosemary and orange sauce. Playa Tortuga Hotel & Beach Resort in Bocas del Toro is also offering a Thanksgiving buffet with live music, making it a festive option for expats.and locals.

Panama Retirement, The Other Option
Many expats.in Panama choose to live off the beaten path, embracing a more adventurous and independent lifestyle. These individuals often integrate deeply with local communities, learning the language and participating in cultural events. While this lifestyle comes with challenges like third-world bureaucracy and safety concerns, it offers a fulfilling and free way of life.

5 Great Places to Retire in Central America
Antigua, Guatemala offers a unique blend of colonial charm and modern amenities, making it an attractive retirement destination. Expats can enjoy a mix of authentic Guatemalan culture in the surrounding villages and a cosmopolitan vibe in the town center, with diverse dining and entertainment options. The climate is ideal, and the proximity to Guatemala City ensures access to advanced healthcare and urban conveniences.

10 Tips for Living in Panama
Living in Panama offers a variety of lifestyle options, from bustling city life in Panama City to serene, park-like settings in areas like Hacienda Los Molinos. The cost of living can vary widely, with affordable housing options available both inland and near the ocean. Panama also provides significant retirement benefits, including tax exemptions and discounts on various services, making it an attractive destination for retirees.

The Most Sought After Document in South America
Essential tips for safeguarding your US passport in Ecuador

Ten Things You Should Know Before You Move To Central or South America
Moving to Central or South America requires thorough preparation, including research, language learning, and cultural adaptation. Building a support network of locals and expats.is crucial for a smooth transition. Choosing the right neighborhood and maintaining a patient, open-minded attitude will help newcomers adjust to the slower pace of life.