What if I told you that one of the most powerful travel hubs in Latin America just tripled its capacity—and hardly anyone outside of Panama noticed? Welcome to Tocumen International Airport, or as frequent flyers call it, PTY. After years of construction and more than $1 billion invested, this transformation isn’t just about more gates—it’s about more opportunities for everyone living in or visiting Panama.

So… what does this mean for you? Let’s count down the top 7 ways the massive PTY expansion will change your life—from least to most exciting.

#7: More Room, Less Chaos
Let’s start with the obvious: more space. The new Terminal 2 added over 20 new gates, bringing the total to more than 50. That means fewer crowded corridors, shorter lines at immigration, and—praise be—more elbow room at baggage claim.

Here’s a Fun fact: The new terminal added 1.25 MILLION square feet of sleek, modern infrastructure. That’s the size of 10 Walmart Supercenters, lined up side by side! ⚽

#6: More Flights, More Destinations
Tocumen now has the capacity to handle 50 million passengers per year, up from about 15 million. That’s more than triple the previous capacity. Translation? You’ll start to see more flight options, more direct routes, and fewer long layovers in Miami or Bogotá.

Whether you’re heading to Europe, the U.S., or deep into South America, Panama is now a true international hub.

#5: Jobs, Jobs, Jobs
The airport expansion isn’t just good news for travelers—it’s a major win for the Panamanian economy. Over 7,000 jobs were created during construction, and thousands more will follow in operations, retail, and services.

That means more opportunity for locals—and more helpful, smiling faces for visitors.

#4: Travel is Now Even Faster and Easier
The new terminal includes automated passport control, state-of-the-art baggage systems, and faster customs clearance. If you hated the old long lines, you’re going to love this new setup.
You can check your bag at one end of the terminal and have it show up on the other side of the world—seamlessly.

#3: A Foodie’s Paradise
Gone are the dingy halls and flickering fluorescent lights. Terminal 2 is a stunning glass-and-steel structure that feels more like a luxury mall than an airport.

With sleek design, tropical accents, and upscale amenities, PTY now offers travelers an experience—not just a terminal. Hungry? Grab a gourmet sandwich, sip a craft beer, or treat yourself to ultra-fresh sushi with a curated bottle of wine. When you want to indulge your sweet tooth, you can choose between Ben & Jerry’s ice crem, Krispy Kreme donuts, French pastries, gourmet chocolate, cookies, cakes… and even tiramisu.

It’s a first-class welcome to a first-class country.

#2: Real Estate and Business Boom
Here’s where it gets juicy. A world-class airport makes Panama even more attractive to multinational companies and international investors. And for expats? That means more infrastructure, more conveniences, and yes—rising real estate values.

Whether you’re buying a condo or starting a business, this expansion just made your investment even smarter.

#1: Panama is Now the "Hub of the Americas"—For Real
Panama has always had a great location, thanks to the Panama Canal. But now? It’s a powerhouse. The PTY airport expansion cements Panama’s role as the #1 travel and logistics hub in the region. You can reach over 90 destinations directly from this airport—making it the perfect launchpad for global citizens.

This isn’t just an airport. It’s your gateway to the world.

CLOSING
Whether you're a retiree looking to fly back to see the grandkids, a digital nomad planning weekend escapes, or an investor looking for the next big thing… Tocumen Airport’s massive expansion is more than just concrete and gates—it’s your ticket to a better life in Panama.
 
See you in Panama!

What if I told you the Panama real estate market is booming… but not in the way you'd expect?
Most people think it's just retirees looking for sunshine and low costs—but the real story is way more exciting.

Want to know where North American buyers are actually putting their money right now? That answer might surprise you.

But before we get to that, let me ask you something even more important… What trend is quietly reshaping the most popular expat communities in Panama?

And no—it’s not just about saving a few bucks.

Let’s count down the seven biggest trends you need to know before you buy real estate in Panama.

Trend #7 – Panama Is the “Plan B” Playground
Let’s start with the most misunderstood trend: the Plan B buyers. A wave of people from around the world are buying property in Panama not because they’re ready to move today… but because they want options for tomorrow.

They're not applying for second passports. They’re simply hedging their bets. In today’s uncertain world, the idea of owning a second home in a stable, affordable, tropical country? That’s peace of mind you can’t put a price on.

If you don’t have a Plan B yet, it’s time to seriously consider Panama.  Because the people who sleep best at night are the ones who already have a plan in place.

That’s why buyers are acting now—not for a big move tomorrow, but to secure their Plan B today. But here’s the twist--why are so many of these buyers choosing pre-construction over ready-to-move-in homes?


Trend #6 – Pre-Construction Is on Fire
In Panama City, Playa Bonita, and even Boquete, pre-construction units are flying off the shelves.
Why?

Because it’s the sweet spot between affordability and flexibility. Buyers can lock in pricing now, make payments over time, and move in when they’re ready—or rent it out for passive income until they ARE ready.
Some of my clients don’t plan to move for another three to five years—but they’ve already secured the perfect ocean-view condo or mountain retreat.

For anyone thinking long-term, pre-construction just makes sense. But what happens when demand starts to outpace supply?

Trend #5 – Inventory Is Shrinking in Hot Areas
This is especially true in Panama City—good resale units are disappearing fast. Ocean-view condos, luxury apartments, anything turnkey? You better act quickly or someone else will.

Now in Boquete, the inventory hasn’t tightened as much…yet… but that’s changing. New developments are popping up to meet growing interest, and smart buyers are getting in early. Developers are rushing to meet demand—and that’s a good sign for future value.

So what kinds of properties are disappearing first? It’s not what most people expect.

Trend #4 – Smaller, Smarter Homes Are In (and Built for Aging in Place)
Forget the McMansion. Today’s expats are thinking practical, modern, and low maintenance.
Smaller condos, smart-home features, lock-and-leave options—they’re all hot.
But here’s what’s really interesting…People are choosing homes they can age into.
That means no stairs. Buildings with elevators. Walk-in showers. Minimal upkeep.
They’re planning for today AND tomorrow, and it’s changing how developers design spaces.
You see, it's not just about size—it's about sustainability and longevity.
But how much do these properties actually cost? Let’s break down the numbers.

TREND #3 – Prices Are Rising… But Are Still Affordable
Compared to the U.S. and Canada, Panama’s prices still feel like a bargain. In top Panama City neighborhoods, you’re looking at around $2,000 to $3,000 per square meter, depending on location and amenities.

Want a beachfront condo? You can still find options in Coronado starting around $200,000 or in Playa Bonita starting at about $300,000.

And in Boquete, you can get a pre-construction apartment starting at about $250,000. Yes, prices are rising—but the window of opportunity is still open. That’s why savvy buyers are jumping in now before the next price wave hits.
​
So where are the hidden gems—the places people aren’t paying attention to yet?

TREND #2 – Secondary Markets Are Heating Up
While Panama City and Boquete get most of the headlines, other areas are quietly gaining traction.

Think Playa Bonita, Punta Chame, and mountain communities such as Altos del Maria. Why? Because they offer better views, more privacy, and in many cases—better value. And once a few smart buyers move in… the demand follows.

If you want to get in early and ride the appreciation wave, don’t sleep on these emerging areas. But what’s the #1 trend that’s shaping Panama’s real estate market for the next decade?

Trend #1 – Buyers Are Thinking Long-Term
We’ve officially entered the era of the long game. Gone are the days of quick flips or short-term speculation.
Today’s buyers are looking for retirement homes, legacy properties, rental income opportunities, and second homes they can pass on to their kids. They’re choosing lifestyle over short-term ROI.

And they’re investing in something that gives them both peace of mind and freedom of choice. This is no longer just a trend—it’s a transformation.

CLOSING
whether you're investigating Panama for lifestyle, investment, or your own personal Plan B… the Panama real estate market has never been more dynamic.

It’s affordable, it’s accessible, and most importantly—it’s evolving.

If you’re ready to explore the best properties in Panama’s most popular expat areas, reach out to me directly at ChoosePanama.com/contact. Remember, experience matters, and at Choose Panama, we can help you avoid costly mistakes.

Thanks for tuning in,
See you in Panama!

HOOK
Everyone dreams of moving to paradise…
But what if I told you that some expats come to Panama--
fall in love with the beaches, the prices, the weather--
and still regret it?
Why?
Because they didn’t know this one thing before they moved.
But before we get into that—let me ask you this:
What’s the #1 habit that turns first-year expats into lifelong success stories in Panama?
(And no—it’s not learning Spanish.)
 
EXPECTATIONS VS. REALITY
What’s the one thing you need to know to avoid regret? You have to come with realistic expectations. This isn’t a slower-paced version of the U.S. This is Latin America—and it dances to a different rhythm. Things move slower. Communication is indirect. And “mañana” doesn’t always mean tomorrow.

If you come expecting everything to work like it does back home… you’re setting yourself up for disappointment. But what about the success stories? What’s the one mindset shift they ALL seem to have in common?

THE FLEXIBILITY FACTOR
Here’s the truth: Flexibility is your superpower in Panama. The expats who thrive here are the ones who roll with the unexpected—Like when the Wi-Fi drops during a Zoom call… or your new piece of furniture shows up three days late.

They don’t sweat the small stuff. Instead, they laugh, adjust, and pour a glass of wine. Because here’s the thing: The more you let go, the better life gets. And that #1 habit?

It’s not about schedules or language or budgeting. It’s the habit of staying curious. Asking “What can I learn from this?” instead of “Why doesn’t this work like it should?” But there’s one mistake that even flexible expats make--and it’s the fastest way to ruin your dream life in Panama. Can you guess what it is?

COMMUNITY IS EVERYTHING
It’s isolation. You can’t build a life here alone. Panama’s not just about palm trees and low taxes—it’s about connection. Whether it’s joining a local hiking group, volunteering at a rescue shelter, or just chatting with your Uber driver…

Finding community is the single best way to make this country feel like home. Because here, relationships open doors. To learn more about why community is so important, watch this video next. 

But even the most connected expats can feel lost if they miss this final piece of the puzzle. What’s the ONE decision you need to make early… or risk regretting it forever?

You need to decide what kind of life you want to live.
Not what kind of house. Not what kind of neighborhood. But what kind of life. Do you want adventure or comfort? Quiet mornings or vibrant nightlife? Ocean breeze or mountain mist?
​
Panama offers it all—but it can’t read your mind. (And as your real estate broker, neither can I.)

If you don’t choose your lifestyle with intention, you’ll drift. And drifting is what leads to regret. So think about what kind of life you want… and then be sure to let me know before you go house hunting.

CLOSING
So here’s the bottom line: Come curious. Stay flexible. Plug in. And above all—be intentional with your new life in Panama.

That’s how you live in Panama without regrets.

If you found this helpful, hit that Subscribe button and join me for more expat insights every week.

What kind of life are YOU hoping to build in Panama? I can’t wait to hear.

Until next time, Cheers!

​A new life in paradise… it’s a dream many of us share. But when it comes to Central America, two countries often come up in the conversation--Panama and Guatemala. Both have vibrant cultures, stunning landscapes, good weather, and a much lower cost of living than North America or Europe.

But which country is really better for English-speaking expats?

As someone who’s lived in Panama for years and explored other parts of the region, I’ve got some first-hand insight that might just help you make that all-important decision. From affordability and healthcare to retiree benefits and lifestyle, we’re comparing these two Central American gems in a head-to-head countdown.

By the end of this video, you’ll have a crystal-clear picture of which country might be your future home.

#10 – Weather
Both Panama and Guatemala offer great weather, but they’re very different climates. Panama is tropical—think warm, sunny, and humid along the coast, with cooler temps in the mountain towns like Boquete.

Guatemala, on the other hand, has a more temperate climate in its highland regions, such as Antigua, which appeals to people who want a spring-like feel year-round.

If you're sensitive to heat, you might lean toward Guatemala. But if you want access to both beach and mountain weather within a few hours’ drive, Panama gives you more variety and flexibility. Having just been to Antigua on vacation, one thing I didn’t like is that you can’t find air conditioning … anywhere! Not in private rental homes, not in shops, and not in restaurants. Mornings and evenings are comfortable, but the afternoons can be hot, and without air conditioning to cool things off, it can be a little uncomfortable. I was tempted to give this one to Panama just for this reason, but the category is “weather” and not comfort… so for this reason, I’m going to consider it a tie.
✔️ TIE

#9 – Cost of Living
Because Guatemala uses the Guatemalan Quetzal as its currency, I thought it would be less expensive than Panama. Imagine how SHOCKED I was when just about everything was MORE expensive. Everything from grocery store staples to restaurants to the all-important bottles of wine. In fact, a bottle of wine from Spain that I like, Marques de Riscal Rueda, is about $12 per bottle in Panama. This same bottle was 140 Quetzals, which converts to more than 18 US Dollars. That’s a 50% increase in price… for the exact same bottle of wine!

According to expats who live in Guatemala, you can live comfortably there for under $2,000 a month if you’re on a budget…. But Panama offers a better value for the price—especially considering the infrastructure, healthcare, and overall quality of services you get for your money.

Plus, Panama uses the US dollar, so you don’t have to worry about currency fluctuations or constant conversions.

✔️ Score one for Panama on value and simplicity.

#8 – Healthcare
Guatemala has decent healthcare in larger cities like Guatemala City, but it can be hit or miss in smaller towns. Panama, on the other hand, has a world-class private healthcare system with internationally trained doctors, modern hospitals, and fast access to specialists.

As a retiree, access to reliable, affordable healthcare is critical—and Panama absolutely delivers.
✔️ Another win for Panama.

#7 – Strength of the Economy
Panama’s economy is one of the strongest and most stable in all Latin America, thanks in large part to the Panama Canal and its role as a global logistics hub. But Panama’s economy doesn’t depend solely on its canal. It has a well-rounded economy and includes diverse sectors, such as financial services, mining, agriculture, real estate, logistics, tourism… and even fishing.

Guatemala’s economy is still very focused on agriculture and manufacturing. It has less international investment and fewer financial safeguards. You can see this as you compare the downtown areas of each capital city--Panama City looks very cosmopolitan … while Guatemala City doesn’t.

✔️ For economic strength and long-term peace of mind, Panama wins again.

#6 – Retiree benefits
Panama offers one of the most generous retiree programs in the world—the Pensionado Visa. This visa is available to anyone with a lifetime pension of just $1,000 per month, and it comes with a host of perks: 25% off airline tickets, 20% off medical consultations, 15% off hospital bills, 25% discounts at restaurants, Half off of movie theaters, and even discounts on your utility bills. Guatemala, on the other hand, doesn’t offer a specific retiree visa or built-in benefits for pensioners. While the cost of living in Guatemala is lower than in North America, retirees won’t find the same kind of formal incentives that make daily life in Panama more affordable and enjoyable for seniors.

✔️ When it comes to retiree benefits, Panama is the clear winner.

#5 – Access to Goods and Services
If you're used to shopping for certain brands, modern conveniences, or importing products, Panama wins hands-down. From international malls and reliable Amazon delivery, Panama City offers first-world access to goods and services.

Guatemala, while charming and culturally rich, doesn’t have the same infrastructure or variety.

✔️ Easy win for Panama.

#4 – Ease of Travel to Major Cities
Panama’s Tocumen International Airport is the busiest and best-connected airport in Central America, with direct flights to the U.S., South America, Europe, and beyond.

Guatemala’s airport is more limited, with fewer direct international connections and longer layovers. If frequent travel is on your radar—whether for family visits or adventure--Panama makes it much easier.

✔️ Another clear win for Panama.

#3 – Food
Both countries offer great cuisine, but they’re very different. Guatemalan food is hearty and traditional—lots of corn, beans, stews, and grilled meats.

Panama, thanks to its international population, has a wider variety of culinary options, especially in Panama City. From fresh seafood and sushi to gourmet Italian and Peruvian restaurants, Panama is a foodie’s paradise.

Plus, access to both the Atlantic and Pacific oceans means fresh fish and shellfish are always on the menu.

✔️ Panama wins for food diversity and freshness.

#2 – Clean Drinking Water
Let’s talk about something we often take for granted--clean, drinkable water. In most parts of Panama, you can drink water, straight from the faucet. Whether you’re filling a glass from your kitchen sink or brushing your teeth, it’s safe, clean, and hassle-free.

Guatemala? Not so much. In Guatemala, you can’t drink the tap water. You’ll need to buy bottled water, boil the water, or install a filtration system—and that’s just the beginning. Many expats in Guatemala even soak their fruits and vegetables in a mixture of purified water, vinegar, and a few drops of bleach to kill off harmful bacteria. When staying at our vacation villa, I didn’t even brush my teeth tap water. Sounds like a lot of work, right? That’s because it is.

One of the small-but-mighty luxuries of living in Panama is not having to worry about your water—because peace of mind is part of living well.

✔️ Panama doesn’t just win this one by a trickle …but by a tsunami.

#1 – Infrastructure
Infrastructure is one of those things you don’t always think about—until it becomes a daily frustration. In Panama, you’ll find modern roads, reliable utilities, high-speed internet, and clean, well-maintained public spaces, especially in and around Panama City and the major beach communities.

In contrast, Guatemala’s infrastructure can be hit or miss. In popular expat hubs like Antigua, the charm of cobblestone streets quickly wears off when you’re dodging potholes and bruising your body parts just to go to the grocery store. It doesn’t take long to realize that roads in Antigua weren’t built for cars, let alone modern traffic. And if the roads aren’t bad enough, you also have to deal with frequent water outages, and antiquated Internet speeds. This was actually the most frustrating thing for me during my recent trip. In Panama, I have 1 gigabyte download speed, which makes surfing the net or streaming a movie easy peasy. In Antigua, the speed was about 30 megabytes… on a good day, while on a bad day, there was just no signal. For the most part, two people couldn’t be on the Internet at the same time, or any request would just time out.

Panama simply delivers a smoother, more reliable living experience when it comes to infrastructure—and that makes a huge difference in day-to-day comfort and convenience.

✔️ This final point goes to Panama.

Closing
So there you have it--Panama vs. Guatemala! While both countries offer incredible experiences, Panama comes out on top in 9 out of 10 categories in this countdown.

From world-class healthcare and modern infrastructure to international airports and clean drinking water, Panama is built for a lifestyle that’s not just affordable—but truly enjoyable.

If you’re dreaming of life in paradise withjust the right mix of luxury and simplicity, Panama might be exactly what you’re looking for.

Got questions? Drop them in the comments—or check out one of my other episodes where we dive deeper into healthcare, real estate, water…and daily life in Panama.
​
Thanks for tuning in. See you in Panama!