Next we will mention some of the reasons for which, Panama is a great residence alternative . For retirement, businesses, or simply to have a splendid place to vacationate and invest.

VISA Requirements
Depending on your nationality, you may be required to have a valid passport and a visa or a $5.00 tourist card.

Religion
Most Panamanians are Roman Catholic. However, due to the great diversity in the country, there are numerous churches, temples and synagogues all over the country. There is freedom of religion in Panama.

Language
Although the official language in Panama is Spanish, English is widely spoken and understood in the major cities.

Climate
The country enjoys an agreeable tropical climate and an average daytime temperature of 80 degrees Fahrenheit, with cooling in the evenings. The average humidity is 70%. The rainy season goes from May to December. Throughout the dry season, trade winds keep the air continuously cool. In the mountains, the average temperature is between 50 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit.

Clothing
Light clothes are recommended. Business clothing is formal. A light jacket for men and a tailored suit or a two-piece pants suit for women is recommended. A wide-brim hat and sun glasses are necessary if you go to the shore or inland.

Time Zone
Panama time is the same as the United States Eastern Standard Time (GMT -5).

Electricity and Public Services
The current is 110w - 60hz and 220w. Telephone and international cable services in Panama are excellent. We have a direct-dial system to locations inland and all over the world. Our country code is 507.

Business Services
More than 150 international banks and their branches operate in Panama. The United States, Brazil, Colombia, Venezuela, Taiwan, Argentina, South Korea, Japan, Germany, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Canada, China, Spain, France and others are represented here. The banking hours vary, but most of them are open from Monday to Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Some banks offer services on Saturday. www.superbancos.gob.pa

Customs
United States and Canadian citizens need only a valid passport and tourist card to visit Panama. Tourist cards cost about five dollars and are available both on your arrival in Panama from the immigration authorities and through most airlines. A tourist card gives you an automatic 30-day stay, and is extendable for another 60 days. Travelers from other countries should consult with the Panamanian consulate or embassy in that country to obtain the latest information on entry requirements. When entering the country, you may only bring up to one carton of cigarettes and 3 bottles of liquor. Like other countries, you may be fined and charged for leaving Panama with products made from endangered species.

Health/Water
No vaccines or pills are necessary prior to visiting our country. Remember, the tropical sun can be strong; so it’s wise to take protective sunglasses and sunscreen with you. Although Panama is indeed a tropical country, mosquito control is effective. Exceptions would include hiking and over-nighting in the jungle, in which case you should use protective insect repellant. Panama is the only country in Latin America where you can drink water straight from the tap.

Dangers
Panama was given the highest ranking (along with the United States) for tourist safety from the Pinkerton Intelligence Agency. But as with any foreign destination, it is not advisable to walk around the streets flashing your money or valuable belongings. Reports of people being pickpocketed in Panama are rare, but it’s best to assume that pickpockets are around. Just use common sense and your intuition to protect yourself. Remember that the less attention you draw to yourself, the less likely you are to have an unpleasant experience.

Panama has it all, is affordable and beautiful. Located just two and one half hours by air from Florida this best kept secret is a perfect alternative to live.

When it comes to day to day living expenses Panama is more affordable than most countries. Electricity runs from 10 to 12 cents per kilowatt hour. Panama uses North American 110 voltage. Living in the highland areas of Panama means you’ll need no air conditioning or heat, with a monthly expense of around $50. Live in the hotter areas of Panama, use air conditioning every day at a much inexpensive price you will pay in United States.

Panama’s drinking water is safe. Panama is the only Central American country where you can drink water straight from the tap. A cup of coffee cost about 30 cents. You can eat local food for a couple of dollars or dine at an upscale restaurant and pay considerably less than in U.S.

Entertainment is considerable less expensive than in the states. Going to the movies, concerts, sports, and dancing at a disco are some of the things you can do to enjoy your stay in Panama and its all at a lower price you would pay stateside.

Panama is modern, stable, has great real estate, uses US currency and many of its citizens speak English. Living in Panama, offers most of the advantages of living in the United States and adds a great climate, low crime rate, and the wonders of nature that only living in Panama can offer.

If you are one of the many people looking for an alternative to the spiral cost of living in the United States or any other country, join the growing number of people from all ages that made living in Panama the affordable place to live or retire without sacrificing their current lifestyles. Living in Panama, one of Latin America’s best-kept secrets, might be
The answer you are looking for. The local government not only welcomes foreigners but also make relocation as easy as possible.

Panama is one of the very best retirement places in the world.

Panama has a modern banking system; inexpensive medical care with a number of U.S. standard health care facilities.

Living in Panama makes it affordable to buy real estate. Foreigners can buy and own property in Panama with the same rights and protection as the local residents.

Panama has a great transportation system as well as reliable communications system including internet.

Enjoy excellent shopping at a mall or one of the many local stores. Panama City has large shopping districts where you can find Boutiques, Bazaars, gift shops, jewelry stores and many shopping malls.

Imagine yourself living in Panama. Year-round spring time weather in Panama’s beautiful mountains and tropical weather in the rest of the country. Panama is full of friendly people; uses US dollars as currency; has political stability and a low cost of living. Residents pay no tax on foreign earned income. You will have the same conveniences you have now living in U.S , Canada or Europe. You will find living in Panama is convenient and perfect for foreign retirees and people in general.


You will find living in Panama the best decision you ever made.

After moving to Panama and becoming a Panamanian resident you are immediately eligible for the most comprehensive program of advantages and benefits offered in the world, including:

• 50% discount of hospitality anywhere in the country (films, theaters, concerts, events of entertainment, etc.)

• 50% discount in hotels from Monday to Thursday and 30% of Friday to Sunday

• 50% discount in closing costs when purchasing real estate

• 30% discount in the use of public transportation (bus, boat, train)

• 25% discount for domestic trips by airplane

• 25% discount in meals in restaurants

• 20% discount on professional and technical services including utilities

• 20% discount in visits to doctors

• 15% discount in hospitalization bills (if you do not have insurance cover)

• 15% discount in fast food restaurants

• 15% discount in dental examinations

• 15% discount on eye examinations

• 10% discount in prescriptions