Panama is fast becoming the new Costa Rica bor several reasons. I will post here a few for you to look at.1. The Panama Economy -- the Panamanian economy is one of the most stable in Latin America. Thanks to solid banking and the dozens of industries supported by the constant cash flow of the Panama Canal, business is booming in Panama and cash is readily available.
2. Panama Uses Dollar Currency -- the Panamanian "Balboa" is actually the U.S. Dollar. Retirees love that they don't have to calculate conversions or learn a new currency.
3. Panama's Climate -- Panama's climate is as varied as any nation. From hot, sunny lowlands to the dry, windy beaches all the way up to the cooler mountain climates of Chiriqui...there's something for every retiree.
4. Friendly Panamanian People -- Panamanians are accustomed to foreigners. The U.S. military had a major presence in Panama until the handover of the Cand thus, the locals are quite accustomed to foreign ways and dealing with outsiders.
5. Panama's Low Cost Of Living -- Panama is still relatively inexpensive compared to the U.S., Europe and other retirement destinations such as Costa Rica. The quality of life in Panama is very good for the value. Thanks to the Canal, most products available anywhere can be found in Panama City and at real market prices.
6. Panama's Modern Infrastructure and Services -- Panama's highways, telephones, shopping, hospitals and banks are incredibly modern. Most foreigners are pleasantly surprised at how advanced Panama is, even in remote areas.
7. Panama's Government & Safety -- Panama's is led by a popularly elected President in a Democratic system that is similar to most modern nations. Police presence is visible and efficient. Crime is minimal compared
Popular retiree areas include Panama City, El Valle Anton and most of all the Chiriqui Province (the town of Boquete, in particular). There are several real estate projects aimed to specifically meet the needs of foreign retirees. We can help you find the area and real estate project, house or lot that is right for you.
However, the best way to find out whether it has what you are looking for is to go visit first and take your time looking at the retirment areas available.
"Retirees love that they don't have to calculate conversions or learn a new currency." First time I've that as a reason to live somewhere or not... "Panama's Low Cost Of Living" I don't find that the case with hotels in Panama City... especially if you have to add $27 taxi fare to the airport.
"Friendly Panamanian People"... I didn't find that true at the hotels or the airlines... for me immigration was nice... for my wife they denied her entry into Panama and made her sleep in the airport.
"Panama's Modern Infrastructure and Services" Panama is the only place I've paid for wifi access.
