Panama has become a popular destination for expats from around the world. Its welcoming culture, diverse landscapes, and relatively low cost of living make it an attractive place to call home. Whether you are looking for a bustling city environment, a tranquil beachside retreat, or a cool mountain escape, Panama has something to offer. Here are the main areas in Panama where expats can live well.
Panama City: The Heart of Urban Living
Panama City is the bustling heart of the country and a major hub for commerce and culture. It’s a place where modern skyscrapers sit alongside colonial-era buildings, offering a unique blend of old and new. For expats, Panama City offers a range of amenities and services that make urban living comfortable and convenient.
Neighborhoods to Consider
Why Choose Panama City?
Living in Panama City means having access to excellent healthcare, international schools, and a variety of leisure activities. The city's infrastructure is well-developed, and its strategic location makes it easy to travel to other parts of the country. Moreover, the presence of a large expat community can help newcomers feel at home quickly.
Coronado Beach Area: Beachside Living at Its Best
For those who dream of living by the beach, Coronado is the place to be. Located about an hour's drive from Panama City, Coronado offers a laid-back lifestyle with all the conveniences of a modern town. The area is known for its beautiful beaches, golf courses, and a growing expat community.
Lifestyle and Amenities
Coronado boasts a range of amenities that make life comfortable and enjoyable. There are supermarkets, banks, medical clinics, and a variety of dining options. The Coronado Golf and Beach Resort is a major attraction, offering world-class facilities for golf enthusiasts.
Community and Activities
The expat community in Coronado is active and welcoming. Regular social events, such as beach barbecues, yoga classes, and community markets, provide ample opportunities to make new friends and integrate into local life. The area’s natural beauty also offers plenty of outdoor activities like swimming, fishing, and hiking.
Boquete: A Mountain Paradise
Located in the highlands of Chiriquí province, Boquete is known for its cool climate and stunning natural scenery. This mountain town is a favorite among retirees and those seeking a peaceful, outdoor-oriented lifestyle.
Health and Wellness
Boquete’s climate is one of its biggest draws. The cool, spring-like weather is ideal for those looking to escape the tropical heat. Additionally, the area is known for its clean air and abundant fresh water, contributing to a healthy lifestyle. The town also has a well-equipped health clinic and access to larger medical facilities in nearby David.
Outdoor Activities
Boquete is a paradise for nature lovers. The surrounding mountains and forests offer numerous hiking trails, including the famous Quetzal Trail. Other popular activities include bird watching, coffee farm tours, and hot springs visits. The Rio Caldera provides opportunities for white-water rafting and fishing.
Community and Integration
The expat community in Boquete is tight-knit and supportive. There are numerous clubs and organizations catering to various interests, from gardening and art to volunteering and language exchange. The annual Boquete Flower and Coffee Festival is a highlight, drawing visitors from all over Panama and beyond.
Pedasí: Tranquil Coastal Living
Pedasí is a small town on the Azuero Peninsula, known for its tranquil beaches and charming, laid-back vibe. It’s an excellent choice for expats looking to immerse themselves in a more traditional Panamanian lifestyle while still enjoying modern conveniences.
Nature and Outdoor Life
Pedasí’s natural beauty is one of its main attractions. The area is perfect for surfing, fishing, and diving, with several stunning beaches nearby, including Playa Venao and Playa El Arenal. The Isla Iguana Wildlife Refuge, a short boat ride away, is a must-visit for its pristine beaches and abundant marine life.
Community and Culture
The town’s small size fosters a close-knit community where everyone knows each other. Expats in Pedasí often find it easy to integrate into local life. The town hosts several cultural events and festivals throughout the year, providing a rich cultural experience.
Amenities and Services
While Pedasí is more rural than places like Panama City or Coronado, it offers essential services such as grocery stores, restaurants, and healthcare facilities. For more extensive needs, the larger town of Las Tablas is a short drive away.
Bocas del Toro: Island Living
Bocas del Toro is an archipelago on the Caribbean coast, famous for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and laid-back lifestyle. It’s a popular destination for expats who enjoy water activities and island living.
Activities and Attractions
Living in Bocas del Toro means having endless opportunities for snorkeling, diving, surfing, and sailing. The islands are home to numerous coral reefs, tropical fish, and other marine life, making it a paradise for underwater enthusiasts. The town of Bocas offers a vibrant nightlife with plenty of bars, restaurants, and live music venues.
Community and Lifestyle
The expat community in Bocas del Toro is diverse and welcoming. Many expats live on the main island, Isla Colón, but there are also smaller, quieter islands that offer a more secluded lifestyle. Community events, environmental initiatives, and volunteer opportunities are plentiful, helping expats integrate and contribute to local life.
Services and Infrastructure
While Bocas del Toro is more remote than other expat destinations, it still offers necessary amenities. There are grocery stores, medical clinics, and schools, but some services may require travel to the mainland. The islands are accessible by boat and plane, with regular flights to Panama City.
Santa Fe: A Hidden Oasis
Santa Fe is a small town located in the mountains of Veraguas province. It’s known for its cooler climate, beautiful landscapes, and friendly community. Santa Fe is an excellent choice for expats seeking a peaceful and off-the-beaten-path lifestyle.
Outdoor Activities
Santa Fe is surrounded by natural beauty, including rivers, waterfalls, and hiking trails. The Santa Fe National Park is a highlight, offering numerous outdoor activities such as bird watching, hiking, and swimming. The area’s agricultural heritage also means that fresh, locally-grown produce is readily available.
Community Life
The expat community in Santa Fe is small but growing. The town’s relaxed pace of life and friendly residents make it easy for newcomers to feel at home. Community events, local markets, and volunteer opportunities provide ways to get involved and build connections.
Summary
Panama offers a diverse range of living environments for expats, each with its own unique advantages. Whether you prefer the bustling city life of Panama City, the beachside tranquility of Coronado, the cool mountain air of Boquete, or the island charm of Bocas del Toro, there is a place in Panama that can cater to your lifestyle and preferences.
Each area provides a supportive expat community, a variety of amenities, and ample opportunities for recreation and relaxation. By choosing Panama, you are selecting a country that welcomes expats with open arms and offers a high quality of life. With its beautiful landscapes, friendly people, and commitment to safety and well-being, Panama is an ideal destination for those looking to live well.
Panama City: The Heart of Urban Living
Panama City is the bustling heart of the country and a major hub for commerce and culture. It’s a place where modern skyscrapers sit alongside colonial-era buildings, offering a unique blend of old and new. For expats, Panama City offers a range of amenities and services that make urban living comfortable and convenient.
Neighborhoods to Consider
- Playa Bonita: This is the only beachfront area that's both "beach" and "city." Located just outside of the city limits, it combines nature and quiet with all that Panama City has to offer.
- Casco Viejo: This historic district is a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its charming cobblestone streets and vibrant nightlife. It’s a favorite among expats who enjoy a lively atmosphere with plenty of dining and entertainment options.
- Punta Pacifica: This upscale neighborhood is ideal for those looking for luxury living. High-rise apartments with stunning ocean views, close proximity to shopping centers, and top-notch healthcare facilities make it a popular choice.
- Costa del Este: Known for its multi-cultural community, it is home to over 120 multinational companies. It's a great place for expats who enjoy a mix of cultural experiences but want a lifestyle that is also reminiscent of home, with wide streets, dog parks and all the amenities a planned community offers. It’s also home to some of the best international restaurants in the city.
Why Choose Panama City?
Living in Panama City means having access to excellent healthcare, international schools, and a variety of leisure activities. The city's infrastructure is well-developed, and its strategic location makes it easy to travel to other parts of the country. Moreover, the presence of a large expat community can help newcomers feel at home quickly.
Coronado Beach Area: Beachside Living at Its Best
For those who dream of living by the beach, Coronado is the place to be. Located about an hour's drive from Panama City, Coronado offers a laid-back lifestyle with all the conveniences of a modern town. The area is known for its beautiful beaches, golf courses, and a growing expat community.
Lifestyle and Amenities
Coronado boasts a range of amenities that make life comfortable and enjoyable. There are supermarkets, banks, medical clinics, and a variety of dining options. The Coronado Golf and Beach Resort is a major attraction, offering world-class facilities for golf enthusiasts.
Community and Activities
The expat community in Coronado is active and welcoming. Regular social events, such as beach barbecues, yoga classes, and community markets, provide ample opportunities to make new friends and integrate into local life. The area’s natural beauty also offers plenty of outdoor activities like swimming, fishing, and hiking.
Boquete: A Mountain Paradise
Located in the highlands of Chiriquí province, Boquete is known for its cool climate and stunning natural scenery. This mountain town is a favorite among retirees and those seeking a peaceful, outdoor-oriented lifestyle.
Health and Wellness
Boquete’s climate is one of its biggest draws. The cool, spring-like weather is ideal for those looking to escape the tropical heat. Additionally, the area is known for its clean air and abundant fresh water, contributing to a healthy lifestyle. The town also has a well-equipped health clinic and access to larger medical facilities in nearby David.
Outdoor Activities
Boquete is a paradise for nature lovers. The surrounding mountains and forests offer numerous hiking trails, including the famous Quetzal Trail. Other popular activities include bird watching, coffee farm tours, and hot springs visits. The Rio Caldera provides opportunities for white-water rafting and fishing.
Community and Integration
The expat community in Boquete is tight-knit and supportive. There are numerous clubs and organizations catering to various interests, from gardening and art to volunteering and language exchange. The annual Boquete Flower and Coffee Festival is a highlight, drawing visitors from all over Panama and beyond.
Pedasí: Tranquil Coastal Living
Pedasí is a small town on the Azuero Peninsula, known for its tranquil beaches and charming, laid-back vibe. It’s an excellent choice for expats looking to immerse themselves in a more traditional Panamanian lifestyle while still enjoying modern conveniences.
Nature and Outdoor Life
Pedasí’s natural beauty is one of its main attractions. The area is perfect for surfing, fishing, and diving, with several stunning beaches nearby, including Playa Venao and Playa El Arenal. The Isla Iguana Wildlife Refuge, a short boat ride away, is a must-visit for its pristine beaches and abundant marine life.
Community and Culture
The town’s small size fosters a close-knit community where everyone knows each other. Expats in Pedasí often find it easy to integrate into local life. The town hosts several cultural events and festivals throughout the year, providing a rich cultural experience.
Amenities and Services
While Pedasí is more rural than places like Panama City or Coronado, it offers essential services such as grocery stores, restaurants, and healthcare facilities. For more extensive needs, the larger town of Las Tablas is a short drive away.
Bocas del Toro: Island Living
Bocas del Toro is an archipelago on the Caribbean coast, famous for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and laid-back lifestyle. It’s a popular destination for expats who enjoy water activities and island living.
Activities and Attractions
Living in Bocas del Toro means having endless opportunities for snorkeling, diving, surfing, and sailing. The islands are home to numerous coral reefs, tropical fish, and other marine life, making it a paradise for underwater enthusiasts. The town of Bocas offers a vibrant nightlife with plenty of bars, restaurants, and live music venues.
Community and Lifestyle
The expat community in Bocas del Toro is diverse and welcoming. Many expats live on the main island, Isla Colón, but there are also smaller, quieter islands that offer a more secluded lifestyle. Community events, environmental initiatives, and volunteer opportunities are plentiful, helping expats integrate and contribute to local life.
Services and Infrastructure
While Bocas del Toro is more remote than other expat destinations, it still offers necessary amenities. There are grocery stores, medical clinics, and schools, but some services may require travel to the mainland. The islands are accessible by boat and plane, with regular flights to Panama City.
Santa Fe: A Hidden Oasis
Santa Fe is a small town located in the mountains of Veraguas province. It’s known for its cooler climate, beautiful landscapes, and friendly community. Santa Fe is an excellent choice for expats seeking a peaceful and off-the-beaten-path lifestyle.
Outdoor Activities
Santa Fe is surrounded by natural beauty, including rivers, waterfalls, and hiking trails. The Santa Fe National Park is a highlight, offering numerous outdoor activities such as bird watching, hiking, and swimming. The area’s agricultural heritage also means that fresh, locally-grown produce is readily available.
Community Life
The expat community in Santa Fe is small but growing. The town’s relaxed pace of life and friendly residents make it easy for newcomers to feel at home. Community events, local markets, and volunteer opportunities provide ways to get involved and build connections.
Summary
Panama offers a diverse range of living environments for expats, each with its own unique advantages. Whether you prefer the bustling city life of Panama City, the beachside tranquility of Coronado, the cool mountain air of Boquete, or the island charm of Bocas del Toro, there is a place in Panama that can cater to your lifestyle and preferences.
Each area provides a supportive expat community, a variety of amenities, and ample opportunities for recreation and relaxation. By choosing Panama, you are selecting a country that welcomes expats with open arms and offers a high quality of life. With its beautiful landscapes, friendly people, and commitment to safety and well-being, Panama is an ideal destination for those looking to live well.
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