Retiring in Panama has been popular with many North Americans and Europeans for quite some time now. Over the years, the country has offered fantastic options for expats to spend their retirement in comfort, at a great price, with many amenities and activities to make it all worth while. Have you been thinking about retiring in Panama? Chances are, you’re overwhelmed with all of the information out there. When you do commit to retiring in Panama, it’s time to get ready to live there. That takes some preparation, and more importantly, leveled expectations.

With so many options for retirees in Panama, it can be tough to gauge where you fit in, and how you’ll feel once you’re here. Don’t worry! That’s what we’re here for. Here are some basics that you can prepare for and expect as a new arrival, once you’ve taken the leap to make Panama your new retirement home.

Getting to know your community

As a new arrival to Panama, no matter where you choose to live, one of the most important first steps is to get to know the people and culture of your community. Many retirees choose to live in communities with large expat populations, and other retirees. Others choose to live in more local communities. There’s no wrong choice here (it’s all about preference), but no matter where you choose to live, it’s important to to immerse yourself in your community. Panama is a country that values community and culture, and the best way to smooth out your transition into a new life here is to get to know your neighbors. Go to local events, attend a town (or neighborhood) meeting, volunteer, and introduce yourself!

Adjusting to the climate

It seems like a silly warning if you love the heat, but even the most warm-blooded amongst us can get a bit overwhelmed in the tropics if we’re not careful. Panama has a year-round hot climate with about 8 months of heavy humidity and tropical rain. If you’re an outdoors person, try to do your activities in the early morning or late afternoon, to avoid peak heat. Also, from May to December, bring an umbrella with you and expect rain, particularly in the early afternoons. Remember, no matter how much you love the heat, you need to make sure not to overexpose yourself to the sun, drink lots of water, and don’t overexert.

Struggling with the local language is OK!

One thing that many of the retirees face when first arriving to Panama is a bit of a culture shock with the Spanish language. This is very normal for people who are experiencing their first residency somewhere that their native language isn’t spoken. The trick to getting by is to actively try and learn Spanish, practice with locals, and don’t get too hard on yourself if your Spanish isn’t perfect. It takes years to fully master a language, but as long as you put the work in and try to improve, you’ll find your retirement is a lot more enjoyable. Better yet, you’ll also find that people are more endeared to you and respect you as an expat. Learning a new language can be fun, challenging, and a great way to keep yourself motivated during retirement. Don’t miss this opportunity!

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When looking to live and invest in Panama, you’re sometimes not just making a decision for yourself, but for your whole family. Relocating your family can be tough, especially if you have kids. Luckily, in Panama, there’s lots of potential for kids, including expats who relocate. Whether you’re moving to Panama for just a few years, or here for the long haul, you can find family-friendly activities, housing, recreation, and schools to fit your need. To give you a little taste of what’s in store for you and the family in your Panama adventure, here are 5 great reasons that make Panama a family-friendly destination.

1.Safety

Earlier this year, when polled on what was the number one concern of Panama’s citizens, the majority of Panamanians said safety. And there’s a reason for that. While Panama has seen crime fluctuate over the past two years, it continues to be the safest country in the region, and one of the safest in all of Latin America. And people in Panama are very aware of safety and security. This creates a much healthier atmosphere to raise families in, and is a major factor in drawing both businesses and expats to relocate to Panama.

2. Accessibility.

Bringing your family to a foreign country will more than likely cause some homesickness from time to time; and that’s perfectly normal. One of the biggest benefits for expat families who relocate to Panama is that Panama has an incredibly accessible location. Travel, be it for going home to see the grandparents or taking a quick vacation, is very easy and accessible. Panama is just a few hours flight from the US, and has around 100 non-stop international destinations via its 3 international airports.

3. Climate

Panama has a tropical climate that allows for kids, and adults alike, to enjoy outdoor activities all year round. This is great for families who want to explore their new home, and for children who want to play and learn outdoors. Even in rainy season, there are lots of fun things to do in the outdoors in Panama that can be both a fun and educational experience for people of all ages.

3. Climate

Panama has a tropical climate that allows for kids, and adults alike, to enjoy outdoor activities all year round. This is great for families who want to explore their new home, and for children who want to play and learn outdoors. Even in rainy season, there are lots of fun things to do in the outdoors in Panama that can be both a fun and educational experience for people of all ages.

4. Schools

If you’re bringing your family to Panama with school-aged kids, you don’t need to alter their curriculum drastically. Panama is home to many private, international schools, which are taught in English, and have up to college preparatory courses. Private schools in Panama are also comparably very affordable, giving international schools and students an advantage over many other popular expat destinations.

5. Community

There are so many great family-friendly communities in Panama, that it would take a blog post in and of itself to name them all. Panama is very much a family oriented country, and residential communities try their hardest to keep this spirit alive. Most towns/cities have local community centers, sports groups, and religious groups for children. Even in the hustle and bustle of Panama City, most buildings and neighborhoods have well equipped social areas and playgrounds for kids of all ages.

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If you’re planning on moving to Panama, chances are you’ve done some research on where to live. There are many expats all over Panama, and a variety of great expat communities in nearly every part of the country. When it comes to population density, however, the greatest numbers of expats live in the capital, Panama City. Panama City is a bustling metropolis with many things to offer, whether you’re an expat or a local.

The city is growing at a breakneck pace, and each neighborhood offers something a little different. If you’re looking at moving to Panama City, and want to know where you should live, we recommend you visit first. That being said, here’s some solid info to get you started so you know what to look for once you’re here. Here are Panama City’s top 5 neighborhoods for expats:

1. Casco Viejo:

Panama City’s Casco Viejo neighborhood is by far the most popular for expats. It is the #1 tourist destination, and a hub for local culture, as well as some of the city’s oldest architecture, and a UN heritage sight. It’s also going through a renaissance of sorts, with massive refurbishment making it the country’s hottest spot for real estate. Casco has a vibrant expat social scene, but also a very authentic local flavor, which makes it ideal for people who want to relocate to Panama and really experience the best the country has to offer. Casco isn’t for everyone, however, as prices for real estate and nightlife tend to be very high when compared to the national average.

2. San Francisco:

The San Francisco neighborhood of Panama City is very up and coming, and more expats are choosing this area now as prices in other parts of the city are rising. San Francisco is a huge neighborhood with a variety of housing options, so you can find a place to rent or buy at nearly any budget. There is also an up and coming restaurant scene there, and many expat-friendly social events and conferences at the ATLAPA Convention Center in the heart of the neighborhood.

3. Punta Pacifica:

One of the newest neighborhoods in Panama City, and a growingly popular one for expats, is Punta Pacifica. This is an area with prime luxury real estate, right on the ocean, with stunning views of the Pacifica Ocean in nearly every building. It’s expensive, but when it comes to conveniences for expats, it’s second to none. There is a 24-hour supermarket, a number of business towers, a marina, and easy access to the highway, as well as the airport. Punta Pacifica has very high prices, so it may not be ideal for people on a limited budget.

4. El Cangrejo:

The El Cangrejo neighborhood of Panama City has long been a popular area for expats from all over the world. El Cangrejo is centrally located in the city, and has many options for both renting and buying real estate. El Cangrejo is moderately priced too, which makes it ideal for people living off fixed incomes, or limited salaries. There is a huge expat community there that gathers at various local cafes, restaurants, shops, and bars. Also, there are many Spanish schools in El Cangrejo, and many people in the area who speak English, and offer English language services in their businesses.

5. Clayton:

While it’s not in the center of the city (in fact, it’s part of the old Canal Zone), Clayton is a great area for expats, and has been for nearly 100 years. Due to its long-standing status as the hub of the Canal Zone, Clayton has an infrastructure that was set up by North American expats, and continues to draw them in today. It offers tropical suburban living, and houses many new tech businesses and NGOs in the nearby “City of Knowledge” business park.

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Retirees, working expats, and locals, have long sought after Panama’s beach communities as the ideal place to live both full-time and part time. In recent years, and especially today, many of these communities are going through a major Real Estate boom. This is great for the local economy, and is really driving investment and revenue into Panama’s top beach locations. The only downside is that with all of the development, many communities are becoming crowded, and more importantly, expensive. They are also moving further and further away from the city as land becomes less available. And that may not necessarily be a bad thing, especially for people looking for an authentic, natural experience. The problem is, once you bring the city to the beach, it loses some of its authenticity.

For many expats there is a need for something a little quieter, and away from the hustle and bustle of modern beach development. And there’s a huge demand for eco-friendly areas that are unspoiled by cookie cutter developments and rush hour traffic. If you’re looking for something off the beaten path, but still a quality, safe beach community, Panama’s got a lot of unique options for you. From Isla Grande on the Caribbean side, to Pedasi in the Azuero Peninsula, there are some great finds when it comes to Real Estate. There is one area, however, that’s attracting a new kind of attention, and for all the right reasons.

Playa Venao: Clean, unspoiled beach living

Whether you’re looking to retire, rent, or just vacation, you’ll find that Panama’s “off the radar” beach communities offer the perfect fit for what you’re looking for. One of our favorites, and one that’s been picking up steam recently, is Playa Venao. Playa Venao is located on the Azuero Peninsula, in one of the southernmost regions of Panama. “El Azuero”, as locals call it, is surrounded by hundreds of miles of Pacific beaches, with the peninsula’s interior being dominated by rolling hills, and dense tropical forests.

Playa Venao is located about a 4-5 hour drive from Panama City. There are no direct busses that go there from the capital, but there are a number of daily routes that service nearby Las Tablas and Pedasi. You can also fly from Albrook (Panama City) to Pedasi. From there, there are regular busses and shuttles to the beach, as well as car rental options should you want to explore on your own. The town itself is very small, but the surrounding green space and undeveloped land is enormous. Even better, both the interior land and beach area are nearly completely free of mass development. That is to say, that the development that is there is done with eco-friendly building in mind, as well as incorporating sustainable wildlife and reforestation projects.

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Panama is rich with natural beauty and modern conveniences, and when it comes to both in one place, Coronado has it. This is one of many reasons why Coronado is one of the best places to retire in Panama. Coronado is a beach town with so much to offer for retirees; you’ll feel right at home. At the same time, you’ll also enjoy the tropical paradise that is the Panamanian Pacific coast. There’s world-class shopping, golf, great restaurants and bars, and of course, a booming real estate market. Coronado is also just an hour’s drive from Panama City, making it an easy trip to Tocumen International Airport, and all of the amenities the capital has to offer.

Why Retire in Panama?

You may be thinking, “is retiring in a foreign country a good idea?” and that’s a very valid and normal concern for many who are looking to make the big move. In Panama, you’ll find that foreign retirees enjoy some of the best quality of life in the world, with government-sponsored incentives like nationwide discounts (25-50% off almost everything), tax breaks, and healthcare. As a retiree, you will also enjoy a favorable climate, and find a number of communities that cater to your needs, along with plenty of fellow retirees to help make the transition smoother.

Why Coronado is One of the Best Places to Retire in Panama

Coronado has long been a favorite beach escape for many Panamanians who want a taste of the good life, while still being close to the city. Now, after years of development and great press, Coronado has also become one of the best places to retire in Panama. While there is plenty to love about Coronado, retirees seem to love it for a few key reasons. It has a gorgeous white sand coastline, beautiful (and often very affordable) properties, great food and shopping, and easy access to the national highways, Panama City, and international airports. Many compare it to Boca Raton or Sarasota, Florida, but at a fraction of the price. You can live very well on a modest retirement savings or social security payments, and still get world-class healthcare and services.

Finding the Right Fit for You in Coronado

Like any good retirement community, there are plenty of options for a variety of tastes and budgets. Because the real estate market is so diverse, we recommend you visit Coronado before deciding to take the plunge and commit to retiring there. It’s also good to plan your budget ahead of time, and search for areas to live based on what you’re looking for, and what you can afford. Purchasing a house on the beach can run you anywhere between $200,000-$1,000,000 so there really are a lot of choices. If you choose to rent, you can get a modest house or apartment for under $1,000 per month, with nicer properties ranging from $1,500-$2,500.

Live a Tropical Beach Life, at a Fraction of the US Cost

One big reason that makes Coronado one of the best places to retire in Panama is its proximity to the beach. Coronado has a few miles of some of Panama’s best white sand beaches, and runs adjacent to similar towns, which make up a seemingly endless stretch of Pacific coastline. The waves are relatively calm, and there’s a steady breeze that washes ashore all year round, making Coronado a great place for people who love tropical, breezy weather. The center of town is mid-sized, and has dozens of restaurants that serve exquisite seafood, land fare, and international cuisine.

There is a small international supermarket where you can find all of your favorite products from back home, and you’re a quick drive from bigger chain stores, and other services. In the town of Coronado, you’ll find lots of boutique shopping, especially for beach gear, clothing, and home décor. Coronado is also extremely safe, and has a very tight-knit community of both expats and locals who look out for each other, and share in their experience, whether retiring or there to work.

To learn more about how to retire to Panama, check out our website, or contact us today

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When you plan on moving to Panama, for many of us, this means moving with the whole family. And in many cases, that means kids, and kids of all ages. Relocating anywhere with your kids can be tough on the whole family, and it’s understandable. There are so many changes that take place, and it is a big transition, especially when you’re young. But that doesn’t mean that it doesn’t have to be fun. Moving to Panama can be a rewarding, and learning experience for people of all ages, and a great way to bond with your kids. Here are 5 things we recommend knowing, before you move to Panama, to make the transition as fun, and as easy as possible.

Apply for English Language Schools:

For many kids, switching schools is difficult, and learning in a new language can be challenging, and hold them back. This is why we recommend that if your kids don’t have a strong background in Spanish, send them to one of Panama’s many private, English language schools. Tuitions are a fraction of what similar schools would cost in North America, and they will still have Spanish worked into their curriculum. In other words, they can stay on track as far as their education, while still learning the local language, and feel much more comfortable during the transition.

Enroll your kids in Spanish Language classes:

While continuing their general education in English can be beneficial, your kids should still take extra curricular Spanish language classes. Learning the local language will help with making friends, getting around within a new culture, and an invaluable skill to have for their future careers. Even 2-3 hours a week can be highly effective, and costs around $20-$30 an hour for private lessons.

Panama has TONS of outdoor activities:

As parents, keeping your kids active and healthy is a critical part of raising them, and in Panama they’ll have a lot to do. Panamanian kids are very outdoor-oriented, and there are many types of school and community sports groups, hiking clubs, beach clubs, races, bicycling and climbing. The weather is warm all year long, so getting your kids outdoors is not seasonally affected.

Good healthcare:

Your children’s health and well-being are probably the most important factors you consider when moving to Panama. Luckily, Panama has world-class healthcare, at a very affordable price. There are a number of Public health services and hospital, which operate for free, as well as private services, and hospitals, and a number of insurance options for kids, should you choose them. Panama is even home to a John’s Hopkins partner hospital (Punta Pacifica), and has some of the most modern health facilities in the hemisphere.

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How to work remotely from Panama as explained here involves first understanding Panama’s laws, including immigration and taxes. We cover that all here for a complete guide to working remotely.

Definition of Remote Worker

People often ask, “What is a remote worker”? Business dictionaries define a “remote worker” as an employee working outside of a company’s workplace. Often from home or an outside office. Communications mainly occur by telephone, email, or text messaging.

Over the past 10 years, remote workers also include people working outside of their countries. Whether in a company’s satellite office in another country or as an independent contractor in a foreign land.

Types of Remote Workers

Three types of remote workers categories fit nearly every remote worker in Panama, including:

1. Working for a company as a remote employee – Your company transfers you to work in their branch office in Panama. As a foreigner working for a foreign-owned company in Panama requires an immigration residency visa and a work permit. Read the explanation of these requirements below.
2. Freelancer – You move to Panama in order to support yourself by being a freelancer. Depending upon the types of clients and customers you intend to have may require the proper immigration residency visa and a work permit as explained below.
3. Online entrepreneur – You come to Panama and become an online entrepreneur only servicing clients online. Again, depending upon the types of clients you service online determines whether or not you need a work permit or pay Panama income taxes.

Finding a Remote Job in Panama

As a foreigner, working in Panama as an employee, whether for a local company or a foreign multinational company’s office in Panama, will require the right immigration residency visa and a work permit.

The best ways to find remote jobs in Panama include:

• Online jobs found through Craigslist, Encuentra24, expat (expatriate organizations) blogs, and forums, and local online newspaper classifications sections advertising available jobs.
• Newspaper classifieds found in every major national newspaper in Panama like the La Prensa newspaper (Panama’s largest).
• Employment agencies in Panama looking for workers like Manpower and Adecco.
• Tourist hotels and tour companies often look for English speaking workers (or other languages) to interact with foreign guests and advertise in their countries.
• Language schools are abundant in Panama where you can teach English (or any other language you are able to teach) to Spanish speaking children and adults. On the other hand, if you are proficient in Spanish, you can teach English speaking expats and others seeking to learn Spanish in Panama.

Panama Immigration Residency Visas for Remote Workers

In order to legally work in Panama, you need the right immigration residency visa. Instead of explaining all the requirements and details for applying and the costs involved for every visa option available, our website contains web pages explaining all of them.

Start with our Panama Visa introduction. You will learn that Panama provides 8 permanent residency visas. If you prefer, you can watch our Panama immigration video and get all the information you need. 

On the other hand, read the summary of the most relevant Panama immigration residency visa for remote workers:

Friendly Nations Visa

The most popular of all permanent residency visas leading to full Panama citizenship (if you desire) for citizens of 50 nations considered “friendly” with Panama. This is the fastest method to obtain permanent residency in Panama.

Read more about the Friendly Nations Visa, which highlights the list of the 50 friendly nations, visa requirements, and costs.

Several other options exist for a foreigner with sufficient funds to invest in Panama’s economy or marrying a Panama citizen. Read more about “How to Gain Permanent Residency in Panama”.

Panama Work Permits

Panama City of Knowledge Work Permit

The Panama City of Knowledge Work Permit specifically designed for the former U.S. military base (Fort Clayton) converted into foreign-owned companies and world organizations Business Park.

Foreigners coming to Panama to work as professors, researchers, technicians, businesspersons, or students for the companies and organizations located in the City of Knowledge can obtain work permits.

Learn more about the requirements, application process, and costs involved with obtaining a City of Knowledge Work Permit. Besides the City of Knowledge Work Permit, 10 other ways to obtain a work permit in Panama exist. Learn about all of them Here.

Panama Labor Laws

Working remotely in Panama explanations should include the Panama Labor Laws. We have an informative web page dedicated to explaining the complex Panama Labor Laws in an easy to understand Questions and Answer format. 

Working as a Remote Freelancer in Panama

Choosing to work remotely in Panama as an independent contractor (freelancer) requires knowing the correct immigration residency status. Some residency visas prevent foreigners from performing any type of work in Panama. Others allow you to work as a freelancer in Panama. For instance, entering Panama on a tourist visa prevents you from doing any type of income-producing work here.

Pay close attention to the permanent and temporary residency visas explained above to see if you can freelance in Panama using one of them.

Besides your immigration residency status in Panama, a work permit may not be required if your freelance business is totally dependent upon clients and customers residing outside of Panama. However, if your freelance work involves Panama residents you may be subject to Panama income taxes.

Depending upon the business relationship between yourself and your clients, a work permit may be required. Keep in mind the “independent contractor” relationship not allowing your clients to exert control over your hours, duties, functions, and other factors indicating more of an employee to employer relationship.

Panama Income Taxes

Earning money within Panama’s borders may require paying income taxes.

However, working remotely in Panama and only obtaining payment from foreigners residing outside of Panama may not be interpreted as “earning income within Panama”. That’s because Panama is a territorial taxation country. That means income taxes are levied only upon persons (and companies) earning money within Panama’s borders and not from outside of Panama.

Other countries (like the United States and some Asian & EU countries) impose income taxation on all “worldwide income”. That means their online freelancers are subject to taxation on all of their globally sourced income.

Take a look at our guide to Panama Income Taxes.

Panama Relocation Checklist

Before moving to Panama, take a look at our informative Panama Relocation Checklist to learn about required documentation to bring pets to Panama, vaccines, health insurance, documents required to open a Panama bank account, vehicle insurance, and other important information Here.

Contact Us regarding all of your Panama relocation, immigration, work permits, taxation, and employment law needs.

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Panama is full of islands. Known as one of the most diverse tropical countries on earth, Panama has a unique landscape that includes hundreds of the most beautiful islands on both coasts. Whether you’re moving to Panama, or just visiting Panama, checking out the islands is sure to be high on your agenda. With so many islands to pick, you’ll literally never run out of places to go. You may, however, want to narrow down your search. Here are a few of our suggestions for a beautiful Panama island getaway.

San Blas:

The archipelago of San Blas is a sight to be seen, and really a special kind of treat for more “off-the-grid” travelers. The area consists of over 400 islands Caribbean, with only about 10% of those inhabited by people. The islands are native territory, managed and lived in by the Kuna Yala tribe. We recommend getting a tour of the islands from one of the many groups in the city that offer the services, as it’s pretty hard to navigate out there alone. Keep in mind that there is sparse electricity, and no real luxury amenities (which is a big draw for many), so if you’re used to resort travel, this may not be for you. It’s as close to a trip back in time as you’ll get in all of Panama.

Pearl Islands:

For a natural and rustic, yet comfortable (and even luxurious) island experience, check out Panama’s famous pearl islands. The Pearl Islands are also an archipelago, although much smaller, and much more accessible to the city. The islands are located just outside of the bay of Panama in the Pacific Ocean. You can reach there by ferry from the Balboa Yacht club in Balboa, or by ferry from the Trump Ocean Club in Punta Pacifica. You can also fly. The islands are famous for whale and dolphin watching, and have a number of both luxury accommodations and rustic island-style ones. The water is crystal blue, and you’ll never run into a big crowd there, even on holidays.

Isla Taboga:

If you’re looking for a quick day trip, at an unbelievably affordable price, your best bet (from Panama City) is Isla Taboga. This island is small, but very close to the city by boat (20 minutes), and a favorite hangout for people who just need a bit of beach time and island vibes. There are a few hotels on the island as well, if you do decide to spend the night. The island consists of a main beach, with a small town going up a hill, and some smaller, less accessible beaches in the surroundings. Ferries cost about $12 each way, and food and drinks are very reasonable once there. There is also a new restaurant called La Vista Experience, which brings diners from the city with an upscale “all inclusive” vibe that provides transportation, dinner, and drinks for patrons.

Bocas del Toro:

Probably the most famous, and popular island destination in Panama is Bocas del Toro. It’s a Caribbean archipelago in the far northwest corner of Panama, and is one of the most authentically Caribbean experiences available in the country. The main town (Bocas Town) boast lots of restaurants, bars, and tours, while the surrounding beaches and islands offer unmatched tranquility. The wildlife in Bocas is something to behold, too, with nature tourism being a highlight for most visitor, both local and foreign. Flying is the quickest way to get to Bocas del Toro, and while you’re there, you’ll mostly get around by foot or water taxi.

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For most people who move to Panama, the cost of living, and being able to enjoy more on a limited budget is a big part of the draw. Living on a fixed income in Panama is not only possible, it’s a reality for many expats, and one that still allows them to enjoy life to the fullest. In Panama, living on a budget is all about choices, and knowing how to navigate the lifestyle you want, in the setting provided for you here. Whether you choose to live in the city, on the beach, or up in the mountains, you will find what you need, and at the budget you choose. Here are some tips how.

Find affordable housing.

Many people who come to Panama without doing much research first will find that their first impression of the real estate market is that it’s expensive. That’s because in Panama, much like anywhere else, there is an enormous variety when it comes to housing type, prices, and whom places are marketed to. If you shop around, and do some thorough due diligence with trusted realtors, you will find some great deals for both rentals and purchases. Remember, the center of Panama City is largely more expensive than other, less central areas, so looking at places a few miles out of downtown will save you thousands over time.

Try to limit buying imported products.

Panama has tons of imports, for lots of industries and markets, and that’s a great thing for variety. However, many of the imports come at a steeper price, which (for some) can drive up the cost of living, especially when you’re on a budget. There’s a way around this, though: buy local goods. Buying local Panamanian foods, clothing, hardware, and services will save you lots of money, without too much difference in quality. Of course, buying imported products can still be a part of your lifestyle. However, if you create a balance, you’ll find that your fixed income will go much further with more local goods than not

Cut down on your electric use.

Panama is a hot country, and because of this, many people love their A/C. But did you know that without heavy daily A/C use, and lots of lights going, you can reduce your total electric bill to under $40 a month in Panama? Most of Panama has a breeze strong enough to cool down your house significantly if you keep the windows and sliding doors open (with screens, of course). Plus, with such warm, tropical surroundings, you will need very little electric use during daylight hours, as you’ll be out enjoying all that great weather. You can easily lower your bill by $100 by simply limiting you’re A/C usage to 6-8 hours at night, while you sleep.

Take public transportation.

Public transportation is dirt cheap in Panama, and is the primary way most Panamanians get around. In the city, you’ve got clean air conditioned buses, as well as a subway to get you anywhere you need to go. In the countryside, you have smaller air-conditioned buses, with comfortable seats, and flexible routes, depending on how rural you are. The standard fare for public transportation is around 30-40 cents, and goes up by pennies the further away from your destination you are. If you opt out of taxis, and take public transportation 5 days a week, your total monthly transport bill will be around (or under) $15. Now, that’s a steal!

Do as the locals do.

One of the best ways to live on a limited budget in Panama is to live in the carefree, low cost style that many locals do. Panamanians typically make $800 or less per month, and live relatively comfortable for it. Panamanians are also some of the happiest, least stressed out people in the world. If you plan on living in Panama, use the Panamanians as a model for how to be happy without blowing the budget, and how to live life moment to moment for what it’s worth. Trust us, you’ll be better off for it, budget and all.

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