International Living Community

P.S. Companies like Expedia often have no clue about the above. (I.e., they're not present locally and are often clueless about local car rental conventions.)

Everyone - my experience in Panama is that big chain car rental companies like Avis, National, etc, will insist on your paying for the basic insurance no matter what credit card or other coverage you have. Small regional outfits like Trinity or Coronado Car Rental, mentioned in my post above, often have the best prices even with basic insurance, though cars are, in my experience, older (but get the job done)

Best,
IL Panama Editor Jess Ramesch

Hi JOANCHAMBERLAIN14 you've posted your Portugal question in the Panama section by mistake. Do go and post it in the Portugal section in case there's another member who can answer your specific question about asthma. Perhaps you should also try reaching out to a medical provider in Portugal, there are resources listed at https://www.mobidoctor.eu/blog/healthcare-in-portugal-for-travellers-and-tourists, perhaps they can help.

Best,
IL Overseas Editor Jess Ramesch
Coronado Beach, Panama

In English:
"It's easy to live with your eyes closed, misinterpreting everything you see."

Here's a thread for silly, quirky, unique things spotted around Panama!

I'll kick it off with:

(Great quote but maybe someone should've googled how to spell John

https://photos.app.goo.gl/1p4M1t2weXHnG8w59

https://photos.app.goo.gl/m983AbvLSV8TcBtW8

https://photos.app.goo.gl/Heypk7w7k9wwsjbn8

One of my favorite winery visits ever! No this isn't Napa... it's Viña Eden... in Uruguay!

Here are some photos!

I wrote all about my wine-infused scouting trip in IL magazine, you can still access the issue in the archives! https://magazine.internationalliving.com/internationalliving/library/item/may_2024/4189981/

Photos from my trip.

~IL Overseas Editor Jess Ramesch

Did you know... you can ski in Argentina! (Or pretend to snowboard, like me, Miss Fallsonherbutt!)

Amazing wine, chill people, snowy slopes... I'm in love with Bariloche!

20230804_182304.jpg

Protests in Panama (& Why This Country is Still Where I’d Rather Be)

You may have heard about protests in Bocas del Toro dragging on and finally leading to a declared state of emergency… and if so, you’ve probably got questions. (Just how bad… or not bad… is a “state of emergency” in Panama, anyway?)

Here’s a breakdown, with some local perspective to help you understand more fully (because the superficial coverage offered by international news outlets can get a lot wrong).

- The epicenter of the protests is in Changuinola. Close to the Costa Rica border, this is a lesser-known part of the Bocas del Toro province. Most visitors (and expats) fly straight to the islands—the Bocas archipelago—and never even set foot on the mainland territory where Changuinola is located. (In Changuinola, peaceful protests escalated with some reports of vandalism and looting.)

- Everything’s peaceful for now, but internet and cell service were suspended, though many who have internet through Starlink were able to stay (mostly) connected. That part—in addition to supply-chain difficulties caused by some 45 days of protests and roadblocks—did inconvenience folks on the islands. That said, tourists have continued to arrive and enjoy the islands and their beaches. And expat communities, known for their close-knit grapevines, really shine when there are problems or inconveniences. Expats know better than most how to come together, help each other… and stay happy and grateful, too.

- The protester’s concerns are valid. The protests were sparked by the current government’s plan to make changes to Panama’s beleaguered social security system. (Workers—especially banana workers—said they would not accept having to work even more due to new social security regulations. Chiquita fired thousands of striking plantation employees and suspended operations in Panama entirely.

- There were protests all across the country, but by and large these have been peaceful. Protests are super common here; Panamanians young and old are vigilant about protecting their rights, the environment, unions, indigenous communities, social security… whatever they feel needs to be protected, in short. (In that sense they are very like the French—another people known for their penchant for protests.)

- Police in Panama are remarkably effective and moderate. I won’t say there aren’t some bad apples or regrettable periods in Panamanian history, but over my two decades here I can say they do tend to strike an admirable balance between safety and heavy-handedness. (Panama has one of the world’s highest ratios of police per capita, and the force cracks down crime waves before things get out of hand… hence this country’s reputation as a modern, safe, welcoming mecca.)

Want to know even more? Read on for my perspective piece after 20 years in Panama…

My Chosen Life in Panama

By Jess Ramesch

“Do you still love Panama?” he asked.

I was at a small gathering last night, talking to a neighbor about my travels.

“Yes. Now more than ever, really.” I said.

We were in my building’s rooftop social area, sharing appetizers, potluck-style, and listening to our friend Pete play the guitar and sing. It was a hot day, but a spirited breeze worked its mischief, lifting napkins, paper plates, and bits of rum baba... and cooling sweaty brows. Sunset gifted us pink ice cream clouds that floated deliciously over tropical fiesta blues and greens….

As I looked around me, taking in the warm Panamanian Pacific and the golf course beckoning beyond, I couldn’t help but feel incredibly lucky.

I love being home just as much as I love traveling. I fall for nearly every country I visit. (I adore Mexico and Argentina… am newly interested in Uruguay… )

But Panama… Panama is my rock.

When I consider my travels throughout the country and abroad… what I’ve read in the US and global news… the turmoil of the past few years (and the silver linings)… all of life’s little foibles and pleasures… I am more grateful than ever for Panama.

Life is good here. People are chill. Even during times of great uncertainty—the global financial crisis, the pandemic, and the driest, hottest year all come to mind—in fact, especially during times of great uncertainty, Panama is where I’d rather be.

It’s boringly stable, comfortable, and convenient. It’s number one in Latin America for its environmental performance and sustainability. (Panama is one of only a few carbon-neutral countries on the planet.) It’s the wealthiest country in Latin America by PPP… it’s had the fastest growing economy in the region for years… and it’s known as the Hub of the Americas because of its incredible international airport, home to Central America’s best airline.

Panama is perfect… for me… but it isn’t without its problems. No country is perfect.

Here there are inefficiencies in government, the judiciary, and trash collection… to name a few. While very modern, with high-speed internet across the country and countless services online… it is also, in many ways, still developing. (As is every single country in Latin America.)

But there’s no other place on earth that offers so much with so little inconvenience:

• A mild sunny tropical climate, Pacific and Caribbean beaches and islands, and zero hurricanes

• Proximity to the US and Canada (we’re about a three-hour flight from Miami)

• A strong dollarized economy (Panama adopted USD over a hundred years ago)

• Affordable quality healthcare

• No foreign income tax

• Low property taxes

• And much more…

Panama keeps rising to the top (in fact, it has topped IL’s Annual Global Retirement Index more times than any other country).

I live very well here… and I have a deep sense of security and well-being.

No matter who you are or what part of the world you’re in, I think we can all agree on one thing: The past few years have been kind of crazy. All kinds of crazy, really.

Collectively, we’ve lived through “interesting times” of the sort that come along once every few decades… and that force us to stop and take stock of our lives.

I’m incredibly grateful that I got to spend those years in Panama. It’s here that I found my place in the sun. It’s also where I’d choose to weather any metaphorical storm.

And no matter who you are, or what part of the world you’re in, a storm is bound to come along, sooner or later. Choose your safe harbor wisely… and weather it well.

Hello HPMALM,

While I can't anticipate what special needs your group might have here is some important information. (I'm including some resources you can reach out to for further information, scroll all the way down.)

Re your other question here's all the info I have about firearms (I am fairly certain there would be zero recognition in Panama of any permits you hold in the U.S.):

"Hunting is not allowed in Panama. The fauna is protected here, and illegal hunting
will subject you to arrest and the imposition of heavy fines.

Importing firearms and obtaining permits for use of firearms have always been
arduous processes in Panama. At present, there is a moratorium on the importation
of certain firearms—consult a reputable Panama attorney to ensure you have the
latest info before attempting to ship or bring in any type of weapon.

In mid-2018 the government also announced new requirements and restrictions on gun permits.
Applicants are subject to biometric facial recognition exams and must provide DNA in
addition to fingerprints. Again, for the most up-to-date information, consult with your
Panama attorney.

Keep in mind that very few countries outside the US are liberal about gun
ownership and use. Bringing a gun into Panama without an importation permit is
considered gun running, with stiff penalties. Having a gun without a gun permit is a
serious offense. Shooting an intruder or trespasser could land you in prison with no
recourse. And while Panama is modern in many ways, its jails are not."

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IMPORTANT INFO FOR YOUR PANAMA TRIP

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Dear Panama Enthusiast,

International Living (IL) takes pride in being your best resource for info about life in Panama & other locations around the world. I’d like to take this opportunity to share some important information with you.

Immigration

US/Canadian citizens: You must have a passport to visit Panama. You do not need a tourist visa. Check your passport expiration date—it must be valid for 6 months from your date of arrival. Be prepared to show proof of solvency & of intended departure. Panama law requires adults to carry ID. Panama’s tourist law states that Americans/Canadians can stay for 90 days but for many years now immigration has been granting 180 days, meaning you are welcome to stay up to six months with no visa required.
All information in this message is subject to change.

Always check travel info and advisories before you go (see US State Dept - travel.state.gov or Government of Canada - travel.gc.ca). It’s wise to also double-check websites/social media for updates from airlines/airports, embassies/consulates, etc.

Additional resources you may find helpful:

US Embassy in Panama: https://pa.usembassy.gov.
Panama Tourism Authority: www.tourismpanama.com.

Resources & Trip Planning

Airport: Most travelers fly into Tocumen International (PTY), aka the Hub of the Americas, located east of the Panama City center. Copa, Panama’s flag carrier and Latin America’s largest airline, helped transform Tocumen into the region’s best and busiest hub with an incredible selection of international flights (and domestic flights between Panama City & David).

Many other airlines also serve Tocumen, including United, Delta, Air Canada, Air France, KLM, and Turkish Airlines. If flying from Canada, Sunwing or Air Transat might offer packages/charter flights direct to the beach (Scarlett Martinez airport, Rio Hato, about 30 mins from Coronado).

*If you need help planning your visit, contact a travel agent or make use of travel and airfare tracker websites/apps such as Kayak.

Hotels/accommodations: Use online services like TripAdvisor, Airbnb, or Google Maps reviews to ensure your pick has good, recent reviews.

Panama City: The Crowne Plaza Panama Airport and Riande Airport Hotel are far from city conveniences. You may want to choose central/downtown areas for ease of exploration. Obarrio and El Cangrejo are popular neighborhoods for metro access, walkability, & good value hotels like Best Western Plus Panama Zen Hotel (there are MANY other options). Bella Vista is also walkable and offers ocean/Cinta Costera views/access (luxury hotels here include the Hilton Panama and the Waldorf Astoria Panama). Casco Viejo is very romantic with its historic plazas and colonial architecture. It’s generally expensive and can be noisy (loud music). It’s beautiful and walkable and fun.

I use Uber to get around Panama City as it's inexpensive and GPS-tracked. I also use the metro for easy access to the city center and Albrook. I do not recommend yellow taxis in Panama City. I do use yellow taxis in other parts of the country.

White "tourism taxis" are the only ones authorized for pickup right outside airport doors. These & private ground transport companies charge $35 and up to/from city center. I don’t use them as Ubers tend to be cheaper & nicer. Uber pick up is from the middle lane or airport parking lot.

Domestic air travel: Marcos A. Gelabert Airport (“Albrook airport”) is a hub for Air Panama with domestic flights to Bocas del Toro, Chitré, and David.

Boquete/David: You can drive, take a bus, or fly to David from Panama City (Copa Airlines/Tocumen Airport or Air Panama/Albrook Airport). The Enrique Malek airport in David is mostly domestic (Costa Rica being the exception). There are several car rental agencies at the airport. The drive/bus ride from David to Boquete is about 40 mins.

Coronado/Arco Seco Pacific beach region: Drive or take a bus from Albrook bus terminal (Gran Terminal Nacional de Transporte, Grantnt.com). The Scarlett Martinez/Rio Hato airport is used for private/charter flights only (no regular commercial flights). The drive to Coronado is about 1.5 hours. Avoid rush hour (heavy traffic, lane reversals).

Tours/ground transportation: There are many providers offering road trips, tours (day tours, eco-tours, etc.), ground transportation, airport pickups, trip planning assistance, etc. Here are a few options, and you’ll find more on review websites like TripAdvisor:

• Ancon Expeditions anconexpeditions.com
• Roadrunner Panama panamaroadrunner.com
• Inside Panama transport@insidepma.com
• Namu Travel Group namutravel.com
• (Coronado beach region) Services Coronado servicescoronado.com

Kindly note I am a writer and not a tour guide.

Rental Cars: There are many options, including National Rent A Car (www.nationalpanama.com/english/index.htm), which in my experience tends to have good rates/service.

Navigation/connectivity: Waze is a great driving app to help you navigate Panama City if you get local data. Download Panama to your smartphone’s Google Maps app for offline access. For local cell/data service, you can buy an esim or get a local sim card/cheap cell at the airport or local malls. Many restaurants have WiFi if you don’t have data or don’t want to incur roaming charges.

Money matters: Panama uses the US dollar ($). It is locally referred to as the Balboa (B/.). Paper currency is all US but you will see Panama-minted coins.

Visa/Mastercard are widely accepted. Amex is not. Outside the city you may need cash for expenditures including lodging (as always in travel, assume nothing & ask before you go).

Foreign exchange: You can withdraw USD from ATMs, use your credit card for purchases, or take care of your exchange needs on arrival in Tocumen Airport. ATMs are easy to find in most cities but some small towns/islands do not have ATMs. Plan ahead.

Climate & weather: Average temp at sea level in Panama City: 88F daytime/78F nighttime. The Coronado beach region is generally a few degrees cooler. Boquete and other mountain towns are generally 10-15 degrees cooler than Panama City and can drop to 60F at night. Wherever you go, bring a light cardigan/jacket. Bus, boat, & plane rides in Panama are often extremely cold.

Dry/summer season: December through April in most parts of the country.

Rainy/green season: starts in May, most of the country outside of the Caribbean gets afternoon showers (an hour or so).

July: Often there’s a “second summer” (three weeks or so with no rain).

Heaviest rains and storms (no hurricanes): usually from August through November.

Mountains and Caribbean get nearly 2x as much rain as the Pacific region.

For current weather information consult a trusted news/weather source like Weather.com.

**Important resources for potential expats: **

Here are some providers that will be happy to hear from you and help with relevant matters:

VISAS/ATTORNEYS: If you plan to live or buy a home here, you'll need a reputable, reliable Panamanian lawyer to assist you with legal matters. You can send Panama-related legal questions (about residence, real estate, business, estate planning, etc.) to:

Rainelda Mata-Kelly
Mata-Kelly & Partners
Local tel: +(507) 216-9299
Dailing from the US/Canada: (011 507) 216-9299
rmk@mata-kelly.com
www.mata-kelly.com

Ted Baumann is IL’s Global Diversification Expert, focused on strategies to find the right country for residence, expand your investments, lower your taxes, and preserve your wealth overseas. To book a consultation visit https://internationalliving.com/author/ted-baumann/.

Real estate/rentals: International Living does not sell/broker real estate/rentals. You can write to Pangea, exclusive real estate advertiser to IL, to request broker information or to ask questions about real estate, developments, and renting:
Email: info@pangearesearchgroup.com
Website: https://pangearesearchgroup.com

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Serious about Panama? Step it up with IL’s best-selling book on Panama.

Escape to Panama by Jess Ramesch is the ultimate resource, with detailed chapters on everything from high-value destinations with active expat communities to property law, taxes, cost of living, healthcare, and visas. Learn about important regions that are worth exploring now… and get insider tips for a smooth move, along with info on Panamanian culture, language, etiquette, and more. See www.ilbookstore.com.

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Information on the next International Living seminar in Panama City, Panama will be posted at https://internationalliving.com/conferences as it becomes available. The next event will be in 2026. To contact IL Events see Internationalliving.com/events-questions/, or call toll free from the US/Canada: 1-800-681-2402. International/direct dial (not toll-free): + 443-353-4232.

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Panama Holidays*

2025

Jan 1, 2025: New Year's Day
Jan 9, 2025: Martyr’s Day (Dry - no alcohol sold for 24 hours)
(Feb 7-9: International Living’s Fast Track Panama Event**)
Feb 28-March 4, 2025: Carnival
Mar 5, 2025: Ash Wednesday
Apr 17-20, 2025: Holy Week (Dry - no alcohol sold for 24 hours Good Friday)
May 1, 2025: Labor Day
Aug 15, 2025: Founding of Panama La Vieja (Original Site of Panama City)
Nov 2, 2025: Day of the Dead (Dry - no alcohol sold for 24 hours)
Nov 3-5, 10, 28, 2025: Fiestas Patrias (Independence/national holidays)
Dec 8, 2025: Mother’s Day
Dec 20, 2025: National Day of Mourning (Dry - no alcohol sold for 24 hours)
Dec 25, 2025: Christmas Day (Many businesses close at noon Dec 24 & 31)

• Subject to change. If a holiday falls on a Sunday observance may be moved to the following Monday via executive decree (dates in parentheses). May be announced only days ahead of time.

Best of luck with all your Panama plans!

IL Panama Editor Jess Ramesch

Hi Brian,

For info on brokers who manage luxury rentals you can get in touch with Pangea, the IL preferred real estate advertising partner, email: info@pangearesearchgroup.com.

You can also find a wide range of rentals in the different regions of Panama on sites like www.tripadvisor.com, www.vrbo.com, www.viviun.com, www.encuentra24.com, www.compreoalquile.com or www.airbnb.com (many of the better-priced listings will be in Spanish).

Many expats also list great options on expat Facebook pages.

If you find a long-term rental that you like, don’t be afraid to ask if the owner will rent to you for a shorter term, and vice-versa.

If you're planning on renting in a specific town for 1-2 months, I highly recommend booking something with great reviews for your first few days and then going to see places in person before committing to a month or more in one apartment or house.

Have a great stay.

Best,

IL Panama Editor Jess Ramesch

Googdness gracious, Panama City has everything... a sparkling skyline filled with oceanview condos... green neighborhoods filled with families and nice houses that feel 100 miles away but are a 15-minute drive from the city center's Johns Hopkins International affiliated hospital... and so, so much more. If you caught my article six months ago, in the Dec 2024 issue (https://magazine.internationalliving.com/internationalliving/library/item/december_2024/4235809/), you know what I'm talking about (and if you're curious, head on over and give it a quick read)

On my most recent extended stay in Panama City, here's what things cost $$$

Here's some of the great stuff I did in Panama City, and what it cost me:

$0 Phenomenal walks on the Cinta Costera into Casco Viejo
$0 Rollerblading on the Amador Causeway
$0 Hiking up Ancon Hill with friends
$0 multiple visits to the gym and pool in my building
$0 live jazz/salsa at Villa Ana, the best speakeasy I’ve ever been to (sorry NYC)
$0 live classic rock at Tres Gatos Brewery
$3.25 coffee at Café Unido
$5.35 coffee and tour of the art-filled Sofitel Hotel in Casco Viejo
$8 coffee and snacks at Misawa Japanese Bakery
$10 coffee and pastries at Maru Korean Dessert Café
$20 cognac at Villa Ana
$20 flight of microbrews and snacks at Tres Gatos Brewery
$30 guided rainforest walk for three at Parque Metropolitano
$85 lavish dinner at Popino
$230 shopping at Express and Steve Madden (Multiplaza mall)
$52 cocktails and dinner at hip Fonda Lo Que Hay in Casco Viejo
$281 maintenance for my Hyundai Accent at the agency
$27 lunch and Soju at Soban Korean restaurant
$34 sparkling water and two Manhattans at the ritzy bar of Hotel La Compañía in Casco Viejo
$21 two coffees, sparkling water, and spanakopita for lunch at Meze
$17 pastry and mimosa at American Society luncheon at Petit Paris

I also took about ten Uber rides ranging in cost from $3.26 to $5.66

Other free events taking place in the city included two modern art exhibits, a full moon meditation, a National Symphony concert, and an alternative world film festival at the University of Panama. Paid events included Panama’s very own Comic Con (tickets from $15), Live salsa at Voodoo Lounge ($20), and a Sandeman Port tasting event ($20, which you could then use toward a purchase of the port.) These are activities I was interested in, but there were myriad others… if you’re into other things… golf, cigars, what have you… you can probably find it here!
*Retiree residents of Panama get 50% off event tickets.

You can read more at the above link... happy exploring!

Best,
IL Panama Editor Jess Ramesch

Hi Lisa,
Sounds like you've yet to complete your application process but please do come back and post about the experience once you've gotten your residency and ID card.
Best of luck with all your Panama plans.
Regards,
IL Panama Editor Jess Ramesch

Thanks Doug, I'll add that Casco is romantic, beautiful, and fun, but it's also pricey by local standards and filled with tourists and revelers, so it's worth booking a longer stay to see how you feel... some expats adore it and don't mind the tourists while others prefer to visit often but live elsewhere. Happy exploring...