PANAMA

Escape to Panama

Tue, 30 May 2023 14:26:06 GMT

"I knew if I was ever going to enjoy retirement on my terms, with my budget, I would have to look for a place
to live that had a lower cost of living. And I wanted to
live somewhere warm… a place where I could
have my windows open all day…"

"With its excellent infrastructure and healthcare system, no hail storms, tornadoes or hurricanes, and the low
cost of living, Panama ticked all the right boxes."

In Panama, she says, she easily lives on "around $1,100 a month"

Dear Reader,

If living comfortably well in retirement is important to you, you'll want to know about Panama's world-class retirement program.

Thanks to the hefty discounts it offers, expat Nanette Witmer—who retired to Panama's second-largest city of David—says:

"My budget for living in Panama is about $1,100 a month"

Nanette lives simply—you might even argue frugally. If you have a bit more to spend, you'll have even more options in Panama, where many expat couples say they live well on just $2,199 a month.

Here, in her own words, is exactly how Nanette does it:

"When I decided to get away from the cold winters of Colorado, Panama attracted me with its warmer climate, low cost of living, and first-rate infrastructure. That alone was worth moving for…but as a retiree here, it gets even better.

"One of the national laws of Panama can make the already low cost of living even lower. Law #9 entitles any resident of the country who qualifies to receive a discount on specific services. Called the 'jubilado descuento.' it's mandated by law for all Panama residents. And expats with a temporary or permanent visa qualify for this program too.

You Can Easily Qualify for Panama's Pensionado Program—And it Comes With an Abundance of World-Class Benefits

Panama offers the World's Best Retirement Program.

It's easy to qualify as a pensionado in Panama and be eligible for HUGE discounts on everything from restaurants meals and medical services to travel, entertainment events, and much more, even including your utility bills!

Keep reading for all the details…

"To give you an idea of how the discount can help with everyday costs, I get hotel discounts of 50% off Monday through Thursday and 30% off for Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. These discounts apply to the rack rate, so ask for them at the time of booking and make your reservations directly with the hotel instead of online.

"Last month I went for mid-week outing to the beach. I didn't even make a reservation beforehand but asked for my jubilado discount when I arrived at the hotel. I was told the rack rate was $95 so I was charged $47.50 plus tax for an overnight stay. Not bad for an ocean view room.

"I also get discounts on public transport. The cost of a ticket for local bus services or long-distance buses within Panama get a 30% discount. Panama trains and boats give 30% off...

"You can even get discounts on flights out of the country… there is a 25% discount on Panama airlines. Again, you can't get these by making online reservations. You must reserve tickets and get your discount at local travel agencies or the local airline offices.

"Medical expenses are another area where I get to take advantage of these discounts. Doctor's visits, ongoing prescription medications, as well as over the counter medicines are all cheaper when you're part of this program. It is great to get discounts on cold medications, cough syrup and even aspirin. All doctor's prescriptions and over the counter medicines get a 10% discount.

"You can receive 15% off services in hospitals and private clinics. Medical doctor's fees are reduced by 20%. Dentists give a 15% discount.

"The entertainment discounts are great too. I get 50% off tickets to movies, theaters and all sporting events like baseball games and soccer… so first-run movies that normally cost $3.50 set me back just $1.75.

"Eating out is also cheaper when you're a jubilado. Sit-down restaurants offer a 25% discount when you purchase a full meal. Be aware that the restaurant does not have to give a discount if it has less than five tables to serve people. Fast food restaurants are required to give a 15% discount. A recent visit to a new upscale restaurant for a buffet lunch cost me $10.50 with the discount instead of the usual $14. With a savings of $3.50, every fourth lunch is basically free.

"Another great advantage is that I get my own lines at banks, utility companies and anywhere else where you have to queue. If there are three tellers and 20 people in the regular line, everyone must wait until the jubilados are served first. And everyone complies with kindness towards the jubilados, knowing someday they will get their turn.

"Adding up all the savings in a month… in addition to the already affordable cost of living… it's not hard to see how inexpensive living in Panama can be.

"My budget for living here is about a quarter of what I spent in Denver."

The Perks and Prestige of
Being a Retiree in Panama…

It's true. Panama's Pensionado Program is the most generous and appealing program of special benefits you'll find anywhere in the world today.

It's easy to qualify for Panama's Pensionado Program—widely recognized as the best retirement program in the world. Just provide documentation of a guaranteed pension income of $1,000 a month from a government agency (e.g. social security, disability, armed forces) or corporation. If you buy a home in Panama valued at $100,000 or more, that amount is reduced to just $750 per month.

As a qualified pensionado (or jubilado) in Panama, you're entitled to:

50% off entertainment—such as movies, theaters, concerts, and sporting events—anywhere in the country
50% off closing costs for home loans and more…
50% off hotel stays from Monday through Thursday
30% off hotel stays from Friday through Sunday
30% off bus, boat, and train fares
25% off airline tickets
25% off at restaurants
20% off medical consultations
20% off professional and technical services
15% off hospital bills (if no insurance applies)
15% off dental and eye exams
10% off prescription medicines
And more…

You're also entitled to a one-time exemption from duties on the importation of your household goods (up to $10,000) and tax exemptions on the importation or local purchase of a car.

Is Panama Safe?

Panama's economy—one of the fastest growing in Latin America—is based primarily on a well-developed services sector, accounting for about 75% of GDP. These services include banking, insurance, activities in the Colón Free Trade Zone, and of course, the Panama Canal, container ports, and flagship registry.

The literacy rate in Panama is 90 percent and there's just 3.5 percent unemployment.

You can imagine how a strong economy and low unemployment affects crime stats. According to several media sources, Panama is safer than ever, having steadily climbed up the ranks to become one of the safest countries in Latin America.

Put Panama in the Top Spot on Your
Retirement Destination List Now

I'm Jackie Flynn, International Living publisher. For years International Living has been sharing information about all that Panama has to offer. As quality of life (worsened by crumbling economies and heavy-handed governments) deteriorates elsewhere in the world, Panama looks better and better.

Nowhere else can you enjoy such a comfortable life… with a year-round mild tropical climate, excellent medical care, fresh, healthy food straight from the farmer's truck… and a retirement incentive program that's truly welcoming of expats…

Why has Panama topped our Global Retirement Index more times than any other country?

First published in 1992, International Living's Global Retirement Index measures everything from climate and healthcare to cost of living and ease of fitting in. Panama scores high in all these and more, including "buying and renting," "entertainment and amenities," "healthy lifestyle," and "infrastructure" categories. Its benefit-rich Retirement Program puts it over the top. Plus, as recent survey indicates, Panamanians are the most "positive people on the planet." For all these reasons and more, Panama has earned the #1 spot on the index more times than any other country.

But don't just take it from me…

The AARP says that Panama is a "smart choice for retirees who want it all."

Business Week dubbed it "the New Florida."

Forbes says, "It truly can be paradise."

CNN reports: "How do you retire on $25,600 a year? Move to Panama."

And the Washington Post says:

"With all of its benefits and active expatriate community, Panama is among the most affordable and appealing options for retirees."

Panama frequently earns the top spot in International Living's Global Retirement Index. Once our editors and researchers crunch the numbers and analyze the data, there's no denying: Panama is one of the best overseas retirement destination there is.

In Panama you really can have it all: a cosmopolitan capital city with one of the world's largest financial districts…hundreds of miles of spectacular beaches…highland retreats with green valleys where the weather is spring-like, even in January and August…and did you know that there are never any hurricanes?

So please, don't put off your dreams of a better, less-stressful (and lower cost) life any longer…

If you're considering retiring overseas, but you're not yet sure where that might be, put Panama at the top of your list right now.

More than any other destination that International Living covers, Panama is—hands down—the most popular. And there are so many reasons why…

Panama meets all the criteria on most anyone's "perfect overseas lifestyle" checklist:

Close to the U.S. (less than a three-hour flight from Miami)
Politically stable and business friendly
Mild weather, with a climate for everyone, from tropical beaches to temperate mountains
Top-quality healthcare—the gleaming Punta Pacifica Hospital is affiliated with Baltimore's renowned Johns Hopkins Hospital
No income taxes on foreign-earned income

Now, it's true that many of the things I've just mentioned can be found in other Latin American countries, too. Some are even closer to the U.S. (but not by much). And many have democratically elected governments. (Although few are as stable and safe as Panama.)

Plus, there are many things that are unique to Panama that you may not be aware of:

You can drink the tap water almost anywhere
Property tax exemptions on a wide variety of homes and condos constructed in the last 3 years
The U.S. dollar is the official currency—your retirement income won't fluctuate with currency exchange rates
A built-in community of English-speaking locals and expats
No hurricanes
No income taxes on foreign-earned income
The world's best retirement, most lucrative incentive program, and…
It's very affordable—live well on $2,199 a month or on even less!

I'll explain more in a moment about how comfortable and inexpensive it is to live in Panama and I'll give you a look at exactly what kind of monthly expenses you might expect in Panama…

Claim Your Complimentary REPORT and Quickly Get Up
to Speed on All the Benefits Panama Offers

First, I'd like to tell you how to get your hands on a Special Report called Discover the World's Best Retirement Program: Your 3-Step Guide to a Pampered Life in Panama.

In this comprehensive reference guide, we'll share three steps to take to you on the road to living the life you've always dreamed of in Panama. We'll share some of the best (yet little-known and still affordable) places to look for your dream home. If you're looking for beach living, an island lifestyle, or to be in a sweet, little mountain hideaway, this report has you covered.

You'll also get pointers on how to start your real estate hunt in Panama. You'll be happy to know Panamanian law grants equal property rights to both local and foreign buyers, and that construction adheres to international standards. While real estate processes are similar to those of the U.S., it's also important to know what you can't buy in Panama… the locations and types of real estate to avoid at all costs.

In Discover the World's Best Retirement Program: Your 3-Step Guide to a Pampered Life in Panama, you'll learn about all this and more.

Very importantly, you'll discover details about the best residence visa options available to you in Panama, including the famed Pensionado Program. Created as Law No. 9, this is the most appealing program of special benefits for foreign residents and retirees you'll find anywhere in the world today.

It's a government-backed program that will actually pay for part of your retirement. And in this Special Report, you'll discover how to qualify and more about the benefits you'll receive. You'll also get the details of a new visa option designed for professionals and entrepreneurs.

Getting a residence visa in Panama has never been easier, more affordable, or quicker to obtain. Everything you need to know is in this Special Report, and we'll send it to you immediately, when you agree to take a look at our best-selling manual Escape to Panama: Everything You Need to Know to Retire Better, Invest Well, and Enjoy the Good Life for Less.

We've been publishing this hefty manual for more than a decade now. There's nothing else like it on the market.

It's not a travel guide (although you'll find our insider recommendations for hotels, restaurants, and more) it's a complete encyclopedia of everything you need to know about life in Panama for the expat.

And of course, along with all the details, we've included names and contact information, websites, and much more.

I guarantee our Escape to Panama manual will help you decide if Panama is for you.

Keep reading to learn about our ironclad, no-risk International Living guarantee.

But again, you needn't just take my word for it. Panama is the place to be, according to the Migration Policy Institute, a Washington-based think tank that studies the movement of people around the world. The number of Panama visas issued to U.S. and Canadian citizens alone began to rise dramatically after 2003, and an estimated 25,000 U.S. expatriates live in Panama today.

I'll tell you more about Escape to Panama in just a minute. But first… I know one of the biggest questions on your mind right now:

Are There Still Deals to Be Had
on Panama Real Estate? YES!

International real estate expert Ronan McMahon—director of Pangea and publisher of Real Estate Trend Alert—says that while there wasn’t a spectacular crash in Panama City in the last decade, prices had risen too high, in his opinion.

That’s now changed, he says. Prices have leveled off and are particularly attractive in certain pockets of the country. If you’ve been on the fence about buying in Panama, Ronan says now’s the time to take a look.

Pangea’s managing director, Margaret Summerfield—who lives in Panama City herself—has this to say: "Panama is one of the best locations in Latin America for re-location, retirement or a vacation home. It’s safe, stable, business-friendly and welcoming to foreigners…who have basically the same property rights as locals.

“There are properties to suit most tastes and budgets, whether you want a home or a condo, a beach pad or a mountain hideaway. And, if you know where to look…you can find a killer deal that will throw off fat capital gains and decent rental returns.”

Point is: There are bargain opportunities out there if you know where to look. (Your Escape to Panama manual will introduce you to the resources you need to locate the best real estate deals.)

Check out these bargains in exciting, cosmopolitan Panama City:

How much does it cost
to rent in Panama

Average rental prices in Panama City's nicer areas tend to range from $800 to $1,800, but a little legwork can yield some bargain results. And outside the city… in popular Boquete or up-and-coming coastal Pedasí, you can find rentals for half as much or even less. In the countryside you might pay $350 a month for a three-bedroom home on a quiet acreage.

You can buy a brand-new two-bedroom two-bath condo—in a building with a pool and gym and in a great neighborhood of Panama City—for just $139,500.
Along Via España, one of the city’s main thoroughfares—and close to pharmacies, hospitals, and easy access to public transport—a three-bedroom/three-bath condo in a secure high-rise building with a balcony offering city views and covered parking is selling for just $165,000.
In the popular upscale Coco del Mar neighborhood—with expansive jaw-dropping views of the ocean and city skyline and with quick access to downtown and the rest of the city, you’ll find a brand-new luxury high-rise building with a rooftop pool, bar, sports facilities and much more. Two bedroom/two-and-a-half bath condos start at just $195,000.

In Escape to Panama: Everything You Need to Know to Retire Better, Invest Well, and Enjoy the Good Life for Less, you'll learn exactly where to look to find the best bargains.

Prefer to live outside bustling Panama City? That's where the real bargains are found:

A spacious 2,530-sq.-ft. four-bedroom, four-bath wood-sided A-frame home on a pretty landscaped lot surrounded by trees is selling in the cool mountain Cerro Azul, just 40 minutes from Panama City. With two stories and a huge covered terrace for entertaining, it’s selling for just $150,000.
In Boquete, the boutique mountain town in the Chiriquí province that’s Panama’s most popular expat enclave (although it certainly retains its Panamanian flavor) you can buy a spacious new three-bedroom/two-bath home just 10 minutes from the center of town —with beautiful volcano and mountain views, and all for just $225,000!

In Panama, It's Easy to Start a Business, and Property Rights are Guaranteed By the Country's Constitution

As The New York Times reports, Panama's "laissez-faire stance on private property rights and entrepreneurship" makes it an easy place to invest and to start a business.

Property rights are guaranteed by the country's constitution and foreigners can legally buy property in Panama and generally enjoy the same rights as Panamanian citizens.

A word about Boquete… it's been named one of the top destinations to retire outside the U.S. by Forbes, Fortune, and AARP's Modern Maturity magazine.

That's thanks to its stunning vistas (and oh so healthy) temperate mountain climate, its modern amenities, delicious fresh food, and more. (Boquete is known for its fresh strawberries and cream and for having the best coffee in the world! Need I say more?)

You'll learn all about the bounteous beauty and benefits of Boquete when you order Escape to Panama.

Maybe beach living is more your style? You, too, will be happy in Panama:

In the upscale beach town of Coronado, a gorgeous three-bedroom, three-and-a-half bath home on a flower-filled lot with a large covered terrace and a swimming pool comes with all appliances for just $197,000.
And in nearby Gorgona, a luxury condo with gorgeous ocean views has three bedrooms and two baths in a high-rise building with an infinity pool, gym, restaurant, and more is selling for just $325,000.

Panama Is Politically and Economically Stable—Exactly What You Want in a Retirement Destination

Yes, Panama is thriving. It boasts the most vibrant economy in Latin America… with almost 6% compound annual growth year on year for over a decade.

For you, this means that Panama is a land of opportunity. Many foreign retirees who have settled in Panama have started B&Bs, opened restaurants or bars, run import-export businesses, and more…

As one successful expat entrepreneur put it:

"This country invites and welcomes businesses with tax incentives, streamlined paperwork, quick turnaround, and a big smile. Starting a business in Panama is easy, empowering, and exciting. There are endless possibilities for adventure."

I'm sure you've heard of Panama's biggest stimulus project of late: a massive expansion of that Modern Wonder of the World called the Panama Canal. It's just one of several mega-projects expected to fuel Panama's economy in the years to come.

Not bad for a "Third World" country, huh? Well, believe me, Panama is hardly Third World these days. For instance:

Panama is more modern than any other Central American country. You can stay at a rainforest resort or an island hostel and still enjoy the same high-speed Internet that you would in Panama City.
From the expanding international airport at Tocumen, also known as the Hub of the Americas, you can travel anywhere in the world, and often on a direct flight.
New cars of every make and model safely travel modern roads and highways. The country is small, so you can easily drive from the city to the rural, interior areas, including those gorgeous cool mountains, in just a few hours. See the sun come up over the Caribbean and go down over the Pacific all in one day!
With historically low inflation, one of the world's biggest banking sectors, and the government's business-friendly posture, Panama offers a combination of benefits that no other Central American country can match.

So let's talk affordability… and how, in Panama, you might retire earlier than expected.

I've already touched on the low costs of buying real estate in Panama. But what about the low cost of living overall? Many expats report they're living well on budgets of less than $2,000 per month. That doesn't include rent, but even if it did, you can see that in Panama, you can live very comfortably.

Terry and Clyde Coles spent many years living in the beach community of Chame—close to the popular Coronado area and not far from Panama City. By moving to Panama, they were able to retire at the young ages of 51 and 57—far earlier than they would if they had stayed in the States.

Terry and Clyde have generously agreed to share their average monthly budget. They owned their own home so they didn't include rent, but as you can see, living in Panama can be very affordable:

Electricity:	$35
Propane (cooking and hot water):	$5
Water and trash collection:	$5
Maintenance/ insurance/ fuel for one car:	$200
Internet:	$50
Cellphone (prepaid cards):	$10
DirecTV (US channels):	$20
Groceries/ prescriptions/ dining out:	$900
Health insurance:	$270
Home maintenance, etc.	$200
Spanish classes	$25
Clothing/misc.	$50
TOTAL:	$1,770

As Terry says, their food budget was high because "we're spoiled Americans and we buy chips, cookies, alcohol, soda and all the U.S. imports that we like. If we ate a typical Panamanian diet, our food expenses would be far, far less."

A good rule of thumb for your grocery bill in Panama is to budget about 40 percent less than what you spend at home. All of your expenses, of course, will depend on your habits and consumption.

And while city living may cost a bit more—thanks to all those entertainment and shopping temptations—when you choose to live outside the city… in a pretty little out-of-the-way beach town or even in a mountain town like Boquete, your monthly expenses may be considerably less.

Pamper Yourself—
You Deserve It

In Panama, a manicure and pedicure at any number of salons is just $10, and a relaxing hour-long massage is just $30. You can hire a maid to clean your house for $15 a day. A hearty, three-course executive lunch can be had just about anywhere for under $7.

Terry and Clyde, for example, lived near Panama's most popular and most upscale beach community, on less than $2,000 a month.

That allowed them to save money each month for travel, one of their favorite activities.

Yes, in Panama even a low budget affords a very good lifestyle. You'll enjoy guilt-free conspicuous consumption at laughably low prices. For instance, splurge on a day of beauty at any number of salons ($20 for a blow-out and mani-pedi); pay a maid to clean your house (just $20 a day).

A complete blood workup at that gleaming Hospital Punta Pacifica I mentioned earlier (the most technologically advanced hospital in Latin America) is $170. A consult with a physician at this state-of-the-art hospital is $50.

At smaller-but-modern clinics, like Hospital America or Clinica Omega, you'll pay 50-75% less, and outside the city a doctor's visit can be far less.

As Terry Coles explains, it costs $15 to see an English-speaking doctor at the local clinic in Coronado. If you have an emergency and you go to the local Social Security hospital, the doctor charges just $1. An ambulance ride the 90 minutes from Coronado to Panama City is just $25.

And remember, retirees on the Pensionado Program are entitled to sizeable discounts!

What about health insurance? Retirees like Terry and Clyde who would be paying $1,250 a month or more—$15,00 a year—in the U.S. for health insurance with a high deductible say that in Panama, they paid, on average, $3,240 a year for coverage—and that's with a deductible of just $250 a year. That's a substantial savings of nearly $12,000!

It's easy to see how living in Panama can contribute to your quality of life. You'll save, too, on the little things that matter the most, but can add up.

Imagine… sitting at a sidewalk café and enjoying a cup of premium Panamanian coffee, aromatic and hot, for just $1. (True, at $3 per pound, you can make delicious coffee at home for just pennies. But this way, you can enjoy the beautiful scenery as you soak up the sunshine and enjoy the tropical breeze.)

A taxi anywhere in town is only a few dollars. In any of Panama's cities or towns you can buy juicy tropical fruits and fresh vegetables for "locally grown" prices… little more than a buck a bag. At any of the many ocean-side restaurants, you can enjoy a cold beer for $2 or less. A satisfying executive lunch can be had just about anywhere for under $7.

More time and more money to spend as you like… no taxes on your foreign income, no inflated healthcare costs, no more worries about outliving your retirement nest egg.

Are you ready to learn more about all that Panama has to offer?

Your Quickest Route to Enjoying
the Good Life in Panama

Nothing compares to Panama and its Pensionado Program.

With all the economic problems, social unrest, and political upheaval going on elsewhere in the world, Panama shines as a tranquil, safe haven… where you can live affordably, securely, and happily. And that's all we really want, isn't it?

In Panama you can have it all—great weather, gorgeous beaches, fresh mountain air, a safe, sparkling city, warm, friendly people and all the luxuries you deserve… but at a fraction of the cost you'd pay at home.

You'll learn all about it… and then, no doubt, you'll be on the first plane to Panama… once you reserve your copy of Escape to Panama: Everything You Need to Know to Retire Better, Invest Well, and Enjoy the Good Life for Less.

As I mentioned, Escape to Panama: Everything You Need to Know to Retire Better, Invest Well, and Enjoy the Good Life for Less is one of the best-selling publications in the International Living library. And for good reason.

It's a comprehensive 298 page guide that contains the latest inside information and research gathered by our on-the-ground experts and sources in Panama.

Dig into Escape to Panama and get the inside scoop. You'll be introduced to expats living full-time in Panama as well as to the country's best resources: attorneys, bankers, real estate and insurance professionals, doctors, dentists, veterinarians, and more.

There's even a comprehensive section on moving your pets to Panama and the specific documentation you'll need.

Plus, we'll introduce you to the country's best cities, towns, beaches and islands where you can start your new life:

Affordable, cosmopolitan Panama City. It's a city of skyscrapers, modern office buildings, state-of-the-art new hospitals and hotels of shining glass. You can dine in five-star restaurants. Attend plays, symphonies, and the ballet and shop at the many unique boutiques. High-speed Internet is everywhere. And in Panama City, you can enjoy these First-World luxuries at about half the price you'd pay in any U.S. city. You'll learn all about this future-forward city in Escape to Panama. One complete chapter is devoted to helping you find the home of your dreams here. Read all about the best neighborhoods to buy in, and at bargain prices.

A lush, hidden valley just an hour from the city. Closer than you'd imagine to Panama City, an idyllic valley awaits. With lush green mountain vistas, tinkling waterfalls, bright flowers that offer explosions of colors, markets filled with fragrant tropical fruit, near-perfect, spring-like weather year-round… and surprisingly inexpensive homes and land. Cradled in one of the world's largest volcanic craters, this town is also less than an hour from Panama's best white-sand beaches. More and more expats are moving to this secret garden valley… and you'll understand why after you read Chapter 5 of Escape to Panama.

Glorious coastlines, pretty beach towns and unspoiled tropical islands.Where are the best and most affordable places to buy beachfront property right now in Panama? Remember, we have both a Caribbean Coast and a Pacific Coast… and hundreds of tropical islands plucked straight out of a travel guide poster. There are a couple of beach areas, in particular, that are poised to boom. Read all about them…

Boquete and its up-and-coming (and affordable) alternative. For all the reasons I've already explained, Boquete is, hands down, one of the most popular destinations for foreign retirees. But there's another nearby village with many of the same traits. With the same spring-like climate year-round, the same fresh mountain air, and the same beautiful scenery as Boquete—but with prices that are 40% to 70% less! You'll want to know about this secret spot. And you will, when you get your hands on Escape to Panama.

No one has better insider intelligence, better resources, or better advice about Panama than International Living does… and in Escape to Panama, you'll be privy to it all, including:

How to choose and easily qualify for the right visa. The residence process is simple. And unlike some other countries we know, Panama has never revoked residence rights. So once you have your residence it's yours… for life. Your visa typically takes no more than 90 days to process. You just need to know which visa is right for you and where to start.
Where to find affordable, first-rate healthcare. You'll find all the health care services that you want and need, but at a fraction of the price in the U.S. or elsewhere. Insurance, too, is highly affordable, as are prescription medications. Many that require a prescription in North America are available over the counter in Panama. Get the complete rundown as well as contact info for doctors, hospitals, insurance agents, and more in your newly updated Escape to Panama.
Financial privacy and tax benefits. Long before Panama became known as a top retirement destination, it was known as a business and banking haven. Open a bank account, set up a corporation, trust, or private foundation… and take advantage of major tax and asset protection benefits. And remember, when you move to Panama, you're poised to take advantage of exemptions on import taxes, exemptions on real estate taxes, and zero income tax on your foreign-earned income.

Of course, this is only the tip of the iceberg… just a small glimpse at what you'll learn in Escape to Panama: Everything You Need to Know to Retire Better, Invest Well, and Enjoy the Good Life for Less.

If you think about it, you can see that it would take years to gather all this information on your own. But you don't have to do it on your own. You can leverage our expertise, experience, and resources when you reserve the latest edition of Escape to Panama.

This is the most affordable way to discover everything you need to know to decide if Panama is for you. Far less expensive than hopping on a plane… although that will likely be your next step after you have Escape to Panama in your hands. (And believe me, this will be the perfect guide once you're in Panama, too. Remember, all the contact info for our best Panama resources is included.)

The best part is that we publish all this electronically… so it's much more useful, colorful, and interactive than ever before. And you'll have access to it as soon as your order has processed.

Plus, we'll send you that valuable free Special Bonus Report—Discover the World's Best Retirement Program: Your 3-Step Guide to a Pampered Life in Panama when you order Escape to Panama today. In this Special Report, you'll discover how to qualify and more about the benefits you'll receive. You'll also get the details of a new visa option designed for professionals and entrepreneurs.

Getting a residence visa in Panama has never been easier, more affordable, or quicker to obtain. Everything you need to know is in this Special Report, and we'll send it to you immediately, when you agree to take a look at our best-selling manual Escape to Panama: Everything You Need to Know to Retire Better, Invest Well, and Enjoy the Good Life for Less.

Just Like the Country Itself, This In-Depth Look at Panama is Remarkably Affordable

Escape to Panama is your best guide to the best retirement haven around, and right now we're offering it for just $103.

Just like Panama itself, this is a huge bargain—especially for the amount of current, usable information included. And especially considering that it could launch you on your way to the most enjoyable—and affordable—life you've ever imagined.

As Always, Your Satisfaction
is GUARANTEED

I'm so confident that the Escape to Panama manual will help you realize your dream life in Panama that I'll offer you this guarantee:

If, for any reason, you're not completely happy with your Escape to Panama manual, just let us know. You have our 30-day no-hassle money back guarantee…

We'll refund your $103, no questions asked… and you can keep your copy of The World's Best Retirement Program: Your 3-Step Guide to a Pampered Life.

Think about it. Escape to Panama: Everything You Need to Know to Retire Better, Invest Well, and Enjoy the Good Life For Less and your free Special Report, Discover the World's Best Retirement Program: Your 3-Step Guide to a Pampered Life in Panama.

All for just $103.

And a no-question money-back guarantee if you're not 100% satisfied.

Order now and you'll also receive our complimentary International Living Postcards, sent everyday via email. You can unsubscribe from this service at any time, with no hassle.

Once you read about everything Panama has to offer… and read the stories about those who are living the good life here I expect I'll meet you in Panama someday very soon. I look forward to it!

Sincerely,

Jennifer Stevens
Executive Editor, International Living

P.S. Last year Escape to Panama was one of the best sellers in the International Living bookstore. No other country offers the benefits of Panama's Pensionado Program—the best retirement program in the world, offering a host of benefits and hefty discounts. If you're looking for the most welcoming place in the world to retire, start a new business, or where you can just enjoy life the way it's meant to be… then you need to know more about Panama. Act now and put yourself on the path to a fantastic future!

Panama 101

Wed, 31 May 2023 08:22:05 GMT

A Warm, Tropical Climate with No
Hurricanes Ever, Totally Modern
Infrastructure, Excellent Healthcare, and
a Very Affordable Cost of Living...

Just 3 Hours From Miami, You’ll Find the
World’s #1 Retirement Spot.

But That's Just the Beginning

The Top 10 Reasons So Many Retirees—and People of All Ages—Are Choosing Ultra-Modern, Welcoming, Scenic Panama…

Dear Reader,

If you're thinking about retiring overseas, I'll wager that Panama is in the top one or two places you're considering. That's smart on your part.

Panama is the world's #1 retirement spot for many very good reasons.

Here are the Top 10 Reasons for Choosing Panama:

#10. If you live in the U.S. or Canada, you know Panama is close to home…just a three-hour flight from Miami, pretty much directly south. It's in the same time zone as North America, in fact—either central or eastern time, depending on the season.

(Panama doesn't do daylight savings time as the sun rises and sets at about the same time every day, month in and month out.) This makes it easy to work or stay in touch with everyone back home.

#9. The warm, tropical climate is a big attraction. As a friend of mine who lives in Panama's pretty mountain town of Boquete says, “Panama is not the end of the rainbow, but it's pretty close. In fact, we see rainbows here almost every day. The greenery grows and the flowers bloom year-round.”

Best of all, he says, “I now have a one-season wardrobe. That's something nobody tells you…you'll save thousands on your wardrobe costs when you live here. It's one of the unexpected savings. Parkas, hats, gloves, and snow boots…snow shovels…I'll never buy those again if I can help it…because I never plan to see snow again.”

#8. No big weather traumas. There's no such thing as blizzards and ice storms in Panama. No hurricanes, either. While it's nicely situated at the southern tip of Central America, and between the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean, Panama is well below the hurricane belt. You can live the laidback tropical lifestyle with no need for expensive hurricane insurance.

#7. You can lower your cost of living without giving up those things that are most important to a happy lifestyle. It can be remarkably affordable to live in Panama, with no sacrifices. Expat couples report they live very happily and comfortably on budgets averaging about $2,000 a month.

#6. You'll find top-quality medical care. (Punta Pacifica Hospital is affiliated with Baltimore's renowned Johns Hopkins Medicine.) Many doctors have trained at major universities in the U.S., Europe, and beyond, and they speak English.

You’ll find many healthcare innovations, too—such as stem cell therapies. (Panama is quickly becoming a global leader in non-surgical therapeutic options.)

By the way, the cost of healthcare can be five times less than comparable services in the U.S. That should get your attention.

#5. You have many affordable health plan options, too. You can join a hospital-based plan, get private insurance, use your TRICARE…

Retirees who would be paying $1,250 a month or more—$15,000 a year—in the U.S. for health insurance with a high deductible say that in Panama, they're paying, on average, $3,240 a year for coverage—and that's with a deductible of just $250 a year. That's a savings of nearly $12,000 a year right there.

#4. Plus, Panama offers all retirees—including foreign residents—the option to join its world-class Pensionado (Retirement) Program—the most generous and appealing program of special benefits you'll find anywhere in the world today. I'll explain more about this in a moment…it's important for you to understand its many benefits.

#3. Another thing expats in Panama appreciate is the big tax savings. You'll pay no taxes on your foreign-earned income. In fact, you'll experience far less bureaucracy and government intrusion overall, than you'll find elsewhere in the world.

For instance, a new property tax law went into effect on January 1, 2019, which reduces property taxes in Panama—to an incredibly low .5% of the value of the home. And you can get full tax exemptions on some properties constructed in recent years.

#2. Importantly, it's easy to settle into life in Panama. The government is stable and the economy is robust. Despite the pandemic, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) predicts Panama will be one of the “fastest growing economies in the region” for 2022.

By many accounts, Panama is the most modern and progressive country in Latin America.

All your brand-name products and specialty items are available, high-speed internet is just about everywhere… You can drink the tap water… The U.S. dollar is the official currency…

Americans helped build the Panama Canal, remember, and they've been a steady presence in Panama for generations, so you'll find a big community of English speakers.

But There's Another Compelling Reason—the TOP Reason, in fact, to Choose Panama: Because of the Panamanians Themselves.

#1. You cannot beat the warmth and the welcoming nature of the Panamanian people. They are happy and it's infectious.

I'm Dan Prescher, senior editor for International Living, and I have a story to tell you about the people of Panama…

My wife and I lived in Panama for a time. So did our son. Flash forward more than a decade and I am happy to say I am now father-in-law to a lovely Panameña and a proud “papa” to our Panamanian-American granddaughter.

The extended crew of our daughter-in-law's parents, grandparents, siblings, cousins, nieces and nephews have become…well…family to us…

We typically gather once or twice a year, in Panama or the U.S. And to say that my wife and I have been welcomed into the family fold would be a vast understatement. We don't speak perfect Spanish…not by any means…and not all of them speak English, but we celebrate the achievements of life and commiserate over the downsides.

Our Panama family has so warmly shared their culture…their food and drink, their funny sayings, the card games, music, fireworks and happy chaos…that I sometimes have to stop and think: Are these their customs or mine?

My point with all this: You can choose where to retire for a variety of reasons important to you. And there are places where you can satisfy most anything on your wish list…climate, beautiful scenery, affordability, and so on.

But in Panama, you'll also get a whole lot of heart.

Part of it all is surely the long association Panama has had with the U.S. for 200 years or more. “Zonians,” in fact, is a term used to describe descendants of Americans who were born and/or stayed in Panama after their ancestors came to build and maintain the canal. The late Senator John McCain, the baseball player Rod Carew, and musician Stephen Stills are famous Zonians…

Panamanians understand our culture and our customs. They're happy to share their country with us. And they're unfailingly happy. But why not? They enjoy a high standard of living and a low unemployment rate and low crime rates, but an overall low cost of living. Who couldn't be happy with that?

Not Ready to Retire? Panama Has Opportunities for Entrepreneurs and Remote Workers

Panama offers a new extended-stay visa for digital nomad types that allows you to stay up to nine months....and then extend for an additional nine months. Requirements are simple: you must have medical insurance and an external source of income of at least $3,000 a month.

There’s also the “Foreign Professionals” Visa that allows you to work in Panama with your university degree.

Of course, there are lots of opportunities for entrepreneurs...and starting a business is far easier and more affordable than you might expect.

For all these reasons and more, Panama consistently earns a top spot on International Living's Global Retirement Index.

And in 2022 Panama is #1: the world’s best place to retire.

You owe it to yourself to see what Panama offers you.

The Most Important Person You'll Want on Your Side in Panama…

I'd like to introduce you to another person that's become part of my Panama family. Her name is Jessica Ramesch. For more than 15 years now, she's been International Living's eyes and ears on the ground in Panama.

She's the person you want on your side if you're thinking of making a move to Panama.

Because even though Panama is one of the world's easiest places to settle in, it's still a foreign country with different rules, regulations, options, and procedures than you may be used to.

You'll need to get on the right legal track, for instance, with the resident visa that works best for you… You'll want to be sure you understand your best healthcare options… You'll have to decide where in the country you want to live, and if you'll rent or buy a home or apartment…

You'll want to decide whether or not to ship your household goods… to buy a car or not…what you'll do about insurance and taxes…how you'll manage your banking and financial needs…

You'll want to understand the rules for importing your pets to Panama…what kinds of vaccinations are needed…and on and on…

With something this important, you need reliable, up-to-date information you can count on, from a dependable, well-qualified resource. And that's Jessica.

Jessica was born in Panama but raised and attended university in the U.S. After traveling the world working in the cruise ship industry, she decided there was no place she'd rather live than Panama.

Jessica Ramesch is Your #1
Panama Expert in #1 Ranked Panama

Since 2006, it's been Jessica's job to travel Panama from east to west and north to south on behalf of IL readers, constantly on the lookout for ever-better places in Panama to invest, to live, and to play….

She has contacts in every area of the country and she's on top of all the technical and legal stuff…the processes and requirements for buying, renting, getting visas and residency, building, renovating, furnishing a home, moving your household goods, buying a car, bringing your pets, and so on…

She knows exactly how much it costs to live in the many different communities of Panama.

Jessica recently moved from Panama City to the beach area of Coronado. And based on her own experiences and the experiences of hundreds of other expats she's interviewed over the years, she has a number of insider tips and strategies to help you save both time and money when you visit or live in Panama yourself.

What About Safety?

Most expats who live in Panama will tell you the same…that they feel far safer there than they did when they lived in the U.S. or Canada.

As one expat living in David, Panama's third-largest city reports: "I live alone and have found Panama is extremely safe. I have had nothing but positive experiences here and met many others like me who are going it alone to fulfill their dreams to live abroad. The expat community has supported me, and I continue to make new friends and find new adventures to pursue. I don't think I could find this sense of community in the United States as a single woman."

Most expats who live in Panama will tell you the same…that they feel far safer there than they did when they lived in the U.S. or Canada.

And if you think Panama may be the place for you, Jessica is committed to sharing her real-world, on-the-ground insights with you.

Your very best course of action, of course, would be to go to Panama in person and spend a couple of months kicking around the country with Jessica. (And we recommend that.)

But it would take about that long...months... for her to show you, firsthand, everything she's seen and everything she knows that can help you streamline your own move to Panama.

Spending time one-on-one with Jessica would certainly “fast track” your research, no question about it.

But, of course, that isn't a practical option. It's doubtful you have the time or inclination to spend months on the road right now. And think how much it would cost… Even though Panama is budget-priced, you'd soon rack up thousands of dollars in travel expenses.

So we asked Jessica to take her years and years of intensive research and asked her to create a personalized online virtual “relocation tour” of Panama.

It's a way for you to gain access to Jessica's incredibly comprehensive and truly rich depth of knowledge and get “plugged in” to everything you need to know. A way for you to see for yourself, from the comfort of your own home or office, all that Panama has to offer you.

It's an easy, streamlined, and most reliable way to get you from where you are now—to a better life in the prefect place in Panama that's exactly right for you.

This is Your Invitation to Go “On the Road” With Jessica, Panama's #1 Expert

No matter how many books you've read or online research you've done…and no matter how many times you may have visited…what you don't know about Panama may surprise you.

International Living has been reporting for decades now about the benefits Panama offers retirees—and over the last several years, Jessica has taken on the most in-depth research-gathering project International Living has ever mounted on Panama.

She's been challenged to dig deep…to round up all her insider intelligence and to assemble all this valuable information in one place…

It's a huge project we call Panama 101: Your Blueprint to a High-Quality, Low-Cost Lifestyle.

This has been no small undertaking. Even though Panama is a tiny country, it's big on opportunity.

In effect, Jessica has been working on this project for well more than a dozen years now…ever since she returned to Panama to live in 2006.

And take it from me, no one is better suited for this kind of challenge. Jessica is one of the most diligent and detail-oriented researchers I know. She digs deep. She doesn't take “no” or even “I don't know” for an answer. She answers the questions you don't even know to ask…

Best of all, she makes sure the facts are reliable and verifiable. You can be certain that what Jessica tells you is correct and current…and that's probably the most important element in all this…

Things change. Rules are adjusted. Laws are reformed. New policies are instituted. You can't always rely on what you read online in expat forums or on the internet. You need a trusted resource. And that's Jessica.

What she's put together is not just groundbreaking, it's almost overwhelming in its scope. It's a complete resource reference of everything you need to know about moving to, investing in, living in, and/or starting a business in Panama.

If you can name it, think of it, or wonder about it, Jessica has you covered. Every issue is addressed, every challenge is covered, and every question is answered.

Panama 101: Your Blueprint to a High-Quality, Low-Cost Lifestyle puts a huge amount of information, recommendations, tips, advice, and insights about living, traveling, and investing in Panama—one of the world's top retirement destinations—in one place…in living color…on video. I'll give you all the details of what it includes in just a moment.

It really is the next-best thing to exploring the country with Jessica in person. And it's the best way I know to not just “tell” you about all Panama has to offer, but to “show” you so you can see it with your own eyes…from the comfort of your home.

With Jessica and Panama 101 as Your Guide, See What Panama Offers You…and Watch Your Dollars Go Farther Than You Ever Thought Possible

I've already mentioned the overall low cost of living in Panama. It really is a bargain. When it comes to overall value—everything you get at such a low, low price tag—Panama is hard to beat.

Plus, it's a quality destination. Not to keep beating the drum, but it's a modern, First World environment with all the comforts of home. Still, it remains remarkably affordable. And it's very easy to make the transition to life in Panama.

Low health care and health insurance costs have something to do with that. After all, if you save $10,000 a year…or maybe even more…on your health insurance costs, that money can go far in Panama.

Housing costs, too, are low in Panama. You can buy a modern two-bedroom two-bath condo—in a building with a pool and gym and in a great neighborhood of Panama City—for just $145,000. Or a home in Panama's famous Coronado beach area—on the golf course—with three bedrooms, two-bathrooms, on a third-acre lot with a large sparkling pool, for just $349,000.

In Boquete, a three-bedroom, two-bath mountain home with gorgeous volcano view, is priced at just $145,000.

And rental prices are just as reasonable. In the countryside you might pay as little as $200 a month for a nicely updated home on a quiet acreage. In the city, $650 a month will get you a nice, modern 2-bedroom apartment in one of the city’s nicest neighborhoods.

It's easy to see how you'll get a huge drop in your cost of living when you move to Panama.

How Much Does It Cost to Live in Panama?

As Jessica says, if you focus on what's important you can live very well on a very low budget… She knows what she's talking about. No one knows the money-saving secrets and the low-cost hotspots of Panama like Jessica does.

Besides, she says, your “needs” will become simpler in Panama. And I can tell you from my personal experience how true that is. You can live comfortably with a lot less stuff.

Just to give you an idea of the average cost of living, here's an average monthly budget for a retired couple living in the interior of Panama, outside the more-expensive capital city. (You can expect to spend 20 to 40% more to live in the city):

Rent:	$775
Electricity:	$90
Propane (cooking and hot water):	$6
Water and trash collection:	$13
Maintenance/fuel for one car:	$125
Internet:	$28
Cellphone:	$30
DirecTV (US channels):	$43
Groceries/dining out:	$585
Misc.	$300
TOTAL:	$1,995

As you might understand, your own cost of living will vary. If you buy a home and therefore don't pay rent, or you won't need a car, you can replace those costs with what will surely be lower home maintenance and public transportation costs. You may find a less-costly rental, especially if you look in smaller towns…

You may not spend as much on groceries or dining out…or you might spend more. This discretionary budget item is totally up to you.

And note that the miscellaneous budget item of $300 includes health insurance and more. You may or may not have those costs…again, it's up to you. Some expats spend more than this and some spend less.

But the point is: On this kind of average budget, a couple can live very comfortably in Panama.

The Low Cost of Living is Made Even Better With The World's Best Retirement Program

I mentioned before that one of the most important benefits drawing expats to Panama is the country's world-class Pensionado (retirement) Program. It was created for Panama's own retirees but is generously extended to anyone with a resident visa in Panama, age 55 or older for women and 60 for men.

As a pensionado in Panama, you're entitled to:

50% off entertainment—such as movies, theaters, concerts, and sporting events—anywhere in the country
50% off closing costs for home loans and more…
50% off hotel stays from Monday through Thursday
30% off hotel stays from Friday through Sunday
30% off bus, boat, and train fares
25% off airline tickets
25% off at restaurants
20% off medical consultations
20% off professional and technical services
15% off hospital bills (if no insurance applies)
15% off dental and eye exams
10% off prescription and over-the-counter medicines
And more…

If you move to Panama with a Pensionado residence visa, you're also entitled to a one-time exemption from duties on the importation of your household goods (up to $10,000 value) and tax exemptions on the local purchase of a car.

All these discounts can greatly reduce your overall cost of living in Panama.

To give you an idea of how the discount can help with everyday costs, one expat says, “I can afford to eat out more often in Panama. Sit-down restaurants offer a 25% discount when you purchase a full meal. Fast food restaurants give a 15% discount. And I get hotel discounts of 50% off Monday through Thursday and 30% off for Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. These discounts apply to the rack rate, so ask for them at the time of booking and make your reservations directly with the hotel instead of online.

For instance, she says, “I went for mid-week outing to the beach. I didn't even make a reservation beforehand but asked for my jubilado discount when I arrived at the hotel. I was told the rack rate was $95 so I was charged $47.50 plus tax for an overnight stay. Not bad for an ocean view room.”

Plus, you'll gets discounts on public transport…on domestic flights within the country and on international flights that originate in Panama… You'll get 15% off services in hospitals and private clinics. Medical doctor's fees are reduced by 20%. Dentists give a 15% discount. All doctor's prescriptions get a 10-20% discount, even including aspirin.

As my Panama expat friend says, “The entertainment discounts are great too. You can get 50% off tickets to movies, theaters and all sporting events like baseball games and soccer…so first-run movies that normally cost $6.50 set me back just $3.25. Your utility costs will be lower, too. Thanks to the Pensionado Program you'll get a hefty 25% discount on your monthly electric bill.”

What Can You Expect When It Comes to Panama's Excellent and Inexpensive Healthcare?

One big benefit to living in Panama is its excellent, inexpensive healthcare. The quality, particularly in the private system, is as good as what you'll find back home. And prices are low. They're a quarter to a half of what you'd pay in the U.S. for similar services.

Panama has two healthcare options: a public healthcare system—so-called nationalized health—and private healthcare. And if you're an expat with a valid residence visa for Panama, you can have access to both systems.

Best of all, with that resident visa in hand, you'll have access to affordable, comprehensive health insurance. One expat couple, living in the town of David, in Chiriquí province, say they spend just $145 a month for the two of them, for a worldwide health insurance that covers them in Panama and when they travel to other countries or back to the U.S.

They've only seen a doctor for minor issues, they say, but were impressed with both the quality of care and the costs. Office visits, they report, are just $12 without any insurance. And that's not a copay. It is the actual cost of the doctor's visit.

In Panama 101, Jessica covers all your options in detail, so you'll know which is best for you.

Worried about language issues? As Jessica explains, many doctors have received training in Europe, Canada, or the U.S. and they speak English.

Are You Ready to Discover How Easy, Enjoyable, and Affordable it Can Be To Live in Panama?

There's no better way to put yourself on the fast track to Panama than with Panama 101: Your Blueprint to a High-Quality, Low-Cost Lifestyle.

This comprehensive resource is not like anything else International Living has ever produced on Panama, and as far as we know, there's nothing else like it out there.

As I mentioned, Jessica Ramesch has been working on this for more than 15 years now. She's literally spent tens of thousands of hours on the ground in Panama, doing research, collecting data, conducting interviews, and more…

Not long ago, she went into the studio to assemble a comprehensive series of 13 professional videos to bring her research to life. You can see, feel, and almost touch and smell Panama.

You'll travel along with Jessica as she introduces you to several distinct areas of Panama…and the many communities in each of those that make for easy and affordable expat living.

And yes, you'll discover several little-known areas that Jessica believes are well worth your attention right now—one coastal area in particular.

These are places your fellow expats have yet to discover in large numbers. Prices are low and opportunities are sky high.

To make a point here, this is no static report. It's not a manual…or a website. Think of it more as a high-level “virtual conference,” but much better… You can access the videos online from the comfort of your home any time you like, and you'll get to see and hear directly from Jessica, our dedicated resource on the ground in Panama.

She's the best Panama expert we know and in Panama 101, she takes you by the hand and not only introduces you to “her” Panama, but she gives you the tools to make it “your Panama.”

Along with five in-depth “destination” videos, Jessica has produced eight more “need-to-know” videos with advice about Panama that will save you time, headaches and boatloads of money.

Here's just some of what's covered in Panama 101: Your Blueprint to a High-Quality, Low-Cost Lifestyle:

In Panama 101: Your Blueprint to a High-Quality, Low-Cost Lifestyle, you'll find out what's true and what's not.

The internet offers loads of information about Panama. Websites and chat groups are full of misinformation—so it's important to get the most up-to-date information straight from someone who knows Panama inside and out.

No one knows Panama better than Jessica Ramesch. She offers you experienced perspective, valuable judgment, and on-the-ground guidance that will save you time, money, and frustration when you head to Panama yourself… You can be sure you'll be completely and reliably “in-the-know.”

Your best resident visa options. There are several you might qualify for, but which is the best for your personal circumstances? Video #7 in the series is devoted to this topic and ensures that you don't make any costly mistakes.
Critical “need-to-know” details about the world-class Pensionado Program that will save you thousands of dollars a year.
Your healthcare options. In Video #6, Jessica shares her experiences and gives you the full rundown on the options that make the most sense for you, including how to qualify and what the costs are. (You'll be pleasantly surprised at the low cost of excellent medical and dental care in Panama.)
How to safely purchase real estate in Panama. Legal processes are a bit different in Panama and having the right guide to those rules and procedures is invaluable—and that's exactly what Jessica offers in Video #9.
What about shipping your household goods and your car to Panama? You can do it, but should you? And how to best go about it? This is the kind of insider information you need. Jessica clarifies whether you'll pay import duties… She explains whether or not you'll need a local driver's license… and which communities are walkable or easy to get around without the hassle of owning a car…
How to structure your finances…where to bank, how to pay your bills…
How to get mail delivered… Panama's postal service is a bit quirky, and it pays to understand how it works.
What about communicating? What kind of phone and internet service should you expect in Panama…how to best (and cost-free) communicate with friends and family back home…
All about hospitals and healthcare…where to get the prescriptions you need and how much they might cost…
How to bring your pets to Panama…You may have heard that Panama has a quarantine period, but believe me, it's not at all what you think… I brought my 90-lb. Chocolate lab when I moved to Panama. It was easy…but you do need some professional guidance to streamline it all, and that's exactly what you'll get from Jessica.
What to expect in the way of taxes in Panama (not much at all, thankfully)…and much, much more.

Importantly, you'll discover how to save money when you live in Panama. It's not just about shopping in the local farmer's markets or relying on those amazing Pensionado Program discounts… It has more to do with picking the right place to settle…choosing the right kind of home to live in, and so on…

Jessica offers all her expert tips and insights that will have you on a well-planned, streamlined course…

Best of all, she even provides a step-by-step Action Plan. If you've wondered or worried about how you might ever pull it all off…making a move of this type…worry no more.

If you're thinking of living in Panama…or spending some extended time there…maybe opening a business or just reinventing your life…Panama 101 is your very best resource.

It's the fastest, most efficient, most cost-effective way to get you ramped up so you can get from where you are now to the idyllic spot in Panama that's right for you.

And when you're ready to actually explore Panama firsthand for yourself, you'll be able to use your time wisely—because in essence, you'll have already been there, with Jessica as your guide.

You'll know where to go, who to contact, and the questions you'll need to ask.

When You Order Now, We'll Give You 7 Comprehensive Special Reports and a Complete Panama Resource Contact Rolodex.

These Are Not Available Anywhere Else

As Jessica was taping the videos she created for Panama 101: Your Blueprint to a High-Quality, Low-Cost Lifestyle, she discovered there were a few topics that required some extra lengthy reporting…too much to record on video.

So those have been assembled in a series of special reports—delivered electronically to get them into your hands as quickly as possible. We'll send them to you now, today—for FREE, with our complements—when you order Panama 101 now. Simply click “Add to Cart” to get started.

This is the kind of reliable, actionable information you'll definitely want at your fingertips as you prepare for your move to Panama:

Special Report #1: Panama Scouting Trip itineraries and Travel Guide. If you've got one week, two weeks, a month or more to spend in Panama, you'll want this guide. Jessica and her Panama team have planned all the details for you…from how to travel around to where to stay—hotels, short-term rentals and much more. You'll also discover where to play…dine…and more…even the popular hangouts where you can meet expats who may someday be your neighbors. Live links to websites and contact information is all there for your easy access. Nowhere else can you get this kind of valuable, all-inclusive information.

Special Report #2: How They Did It: Meet Happy Panama Expats. Speaking of expats, sometimes it just takes a little motivation. That's exactly what you'll get in this special report. You'll meet expats in many different areas of Panama, all living their dream lives under the tropical sun. They explain exactly how they did it (and how you can, too) and they share personal details you couldn't get unless you quizzed them yourself… Find out what they do for healthcare, how much they spend on a daily and monthly basis, what they do in their free time, and much, much more.

Special Report #3: Practical Matters: Taxes, Cost of Living, Residence, Moving Your Household Goods and Pets, and Doing Business in Panama. Yes, Jessica covers all this in the video series, but as you can see from the lengthy title, this special report digs deep. You'll get comprehensive sample budgets and money-saving tips, a detailed tax primer, a full explanation of various visa options and a legal resource rolodex. And if you plan to move with pets or children, or you're thinking of starting your dream business in Panama, do not leave home without this special report.

Special Report #4: Spotlight on the High-Quality, Low-Cost Healthcare in Panama. This comprehensive report explains the differences between Panama's excellent public and private healthcare systems and can help you make an educated decision about what to do for your personal healthcare needs when you move there. You'll get all the details, including typical costs. There's also a rundown of the best private hospitals in the country and a list of some of the best local insurance providers—with full contact information. There's even a list of questions to ask about insurance policies you may be considering.

Special Report #5: The Guide to Renting a Home or Buying a Property in Panama. When you move to Panama, you'll need a place to live. And whether you rent or buy, that means contracts. Word to the wise: Do not sign a rental or purchase contract without first reading this crucial information. Everything is covered…from typical costs and how to find a rental to what to look for in a reliable real estate agent, the correct process for registering a deed, and much more.

Special Report #6: Something for Everyone: An In-Depth look at Panama's Regions. If you want insider information about areas of Panama that offer a combination of livability, affordability, beauty, convenience, and affordability—you'll find it within the 30 pages of this special report. All the “personalities” of these locales are sliced and diced for you. You're sure to find a hidden gem that's perfect for you.

AND Special Report #7: Your Panama Rolodex and Resource Guide. This is another document you won't want to leave home without. You'll find 17 pages of resources that you can rely on to help streamline your scouting trip and your move to Panama. Websites, email addresses, phone numbers, costs for services…it's all there…from accommodation and restaurants to airlines and shuttle services…to attorney, healthcare providers, moving/shipping and real estate contacts, language schools and much more, including handy travel apps you can load on your phone or tablet to make navigating your way around Panama as easy and inexpensive as possible.

All You Need to Do Now is Place Your Order—and SAVE

If you wanted to track down all the intelligence we hand over in Panama 101: Your Blueprint to a High-Quality, Low-Cost Lifestyle, you could probably do that.

But it would take an investment of many months…likely a dozen years or more, in fact. That's how long Jessica has been at it.

And you'd have to pull thousands of dollars out of your pocket.

In the many years that Jessica has been traveling the width and length of Panama she's racked up tens of thousands of dollars in expenses for airfares, bus fares, car rentals, gasoline, overnight hotel stays, meals, and more.

She's spent hours upon hours…more than 15 years…interviewing attorneys and healthcare professionals, real estate experts, insurance and shipping experts, and more…including hundreds of expats in every corner of Panama.

To be honest, on your own you'd have a very difficult time tracking down all these people…and accumulating all the intelligence Jessica has amassed.

My point: Panama 101 delivers insider access…

It hands you on-the-ground solutions that would cost you—at a minimum—$10,000 to gather on your own.

Probably more like twice that. (Jessica has spent far more than that on this project already.)

But you don't have to spend that kind of money…no way.

Jessica has done all the work for you, and I am certain it will save you time and a ton of money.

We could reasonably ask $1,500 or more for this program, which reveals expert tips and secrets about Panama you won't find anyplace else.

If we were to offer the 13 videos separately (and for sure, we could—they're that good), they'd retail for $39 each. Some for even more. That's a total value of at least $507.

And remember, for no additional cost, we're giving you seven special reports. Any one of these could retail for at least $49 each. That's another added value of $343 or more.

(The Rolodex and Resource Guide is in itself invaluable. Think how much time and money you'd spend doing online research, making phone calls, and pounding the pavement to find these dependable local contacts on your own. And the Scouting Trip Itineraries and Travel Guide… I assure you this are the easiest, quickest, and most reliable way to plan your own check-out trip to Panama. It's all there for you. No extra work for you to do. No second guessing or costly mistakes.)

Even though the retail value of this program is $850, we won't charge you anywhere near that for access…even though it's worth every penny.

In fact, we'll offer you a special discount right now.

We're pricing this comprehensive program at an already discounted $199.

We know there is lots of interest in top-ranked Panama right now, and we'll make you this special one-time offer.

We'll give you Panama 101: Your Blueprint to a High-Quality, Low-Cost Lifestyle for just $199. That's far less than half the value of the 13 videos alone. And remember, we're throwing in the SEVEN SPECIAL COMPANION REPORTS, that complement the comprehensive videos, for FREE.

Now's the time to take advantage of this special savings deal. Should you decide to ask for a refund, you've got a full 30 days to do it.

As you know, there's only so much you can absorb when you're reading about and researching a place. You do a “Google search” and tens of thousands of links come up. It's so hard to know whose opinion to trust. And the sheer volume of information can be overwhelming.

But that's what makes Panama 101 so special—and so useful. Jessica Ramesch shares her real-world insights directly with you via video. She cuts right to the chase, right there in living color, and she answers every question you have about Panama, the world’s top retirement destination.

I guarantee it.

In fact, place you order now and you'll be in line for…

Another SPECIAL FAST-REPLY BONUS…

Here's how I'm so sure Panama 101 will answer all your questions: We’ve compiled the most commonly asked questions about life in Panama. A couple weeks from now, I’ll send you a special Q&A Session I’ll host with Jessica where she'll answer those questions in detail.

We'll also archive this special “Panama 101 Maestro Session” so you can watch it any time you like.

As Always, Your Satisfaction is Triple Guaranteed—There is No Risk for You

Guarantee # 1—I guarantee this Panama 101 will help you find the perfect Panama lifestyle that's right for you. A place where you can live better than ever… stretch your retirement dollars… and have the time and funds to travel, relax, and enjoy life…

Guarantee # 2—I guarantee it will deliver the real-world solutions you need to get from where you are now to where you want to be…so that in just a handful of months, you could have "boots on the ground" in a part of Panama you love. But if you feel the solutions we offer aren't for you, we'll give you a full refund. In other words, the risk is all ours.

Guarantee # 3—Should you decide to ask for a refund, you've got a full 30 days to do it. If you don't feel that Panama 101: Your Blueprint to a High-Quality, Low-Cost Lifestyle will help you to a new life in Panama, just let us know and we'll refund every penny. That's how confident we are in the depth and breadth of information this mega-resource provides.

The warm, welcome of Panama…the laidback lifestyle, the lower cost of living…but with all the modern pleasures and amenities at hand…

All this makes Panama hard to beat.

The good news, of course, is that it's all within your grasp. You don't need millions in the bank to capitalize on the opportunities in Panama—one of the best-value retirement options you'll find. With so much to offer.

In Panama, you can have the life you've been dreaming of…

If you're looking to be close to home…yet far from the turmoil, stress, and skyrocketing expenses you'll find in the States these days…and instead, live amidst friends and neighbors that will welcome you with open arms…where you can actually afford top-quality healthcare…have access to farm-fresh, healthy food…and a great year-round climate…all with an amazingly low cost of living…

You'll find all that and more in Panama.

And in Panama 101: Your Blueprint to a High-Quality, Low-Cost Lifestyle, Jessica Ramesch shows you exactly how to make it happen…how you can settle into a far better, more affordable, healthier life and do it seamlessly, enjoyably, confidently…

Find out for yourself why Panama is the world’s best retirement destination...

Think about it: A handful of months from now, you could be sitting on your own terrace, a hot cup of rich Panamanian coffee or a frosty, delicious cerveza in hand, watching the sun play against the mountains or set over the gorgeous blue ocean…

I hope you'll let us show you how…just click “Add to Cart” now and we'll get you started.

Sincerely,

Dan Prescher,
Senior Editor, International Living
January 2022

P.S. If you have any doubt that Panama offers a top-quality lifestyle—at a very affordable price—your mind will definitely be changed after you've sifted through the 13 professional videos and the seven comprehensive special reports, including the hefty resource rolodex, that make up Panama 101: Your Blueprint to a High-Quality, Low-Cost Lifestyle.

(And be sure to send us your follow-up questions and be watching your e-mails for details of the special Q&A Session hosted by Jessica Ramesch just a couple weeks from now.)

If you've always loved the idea of retiring in real comfort…where you don't have to worry about rising healthcare costs and crime rates, out-of-control government spending or crazy politics…

Then I encourage you to take a look at Panama 101: Your Blueprint to a High-Quality, Low-Cost Lifestyle. It was created with you in mind.

Follow the blueprint Jessica has created for you. Let her introduce you to the special places she's discovered. Let her share her expert insights with you and help you shave months…even years…off your learning curve.

Panama 101: Your Blueprint to a High-Quality, Low-Cost Lifestyle is like taking a whirlwind investment and lifestyle tour of Panama. Only instead of paying thousands of dollars for the travel fees and expert advice, we hand it all to you right there in the comfort of your own home for just $199 when you take advantage of this first-access offer and order your Panama 101: Your Blueprint to a High-Quality, Low-Cost Lifestyle now.

Remember, there's no risk to you. You have our 30-day 100% Money-Back Guarantee.

But act now. This offer expires soon. Click “Add to Cart” now to get started today.

Panama Itineraries

Wed, 31 May 2023 07:44:24 GMT

Here's How You Do It…Find Out How YOU Can Experience

The Very Best Of Panama On Your Own "Exploratory" Trip.

Order Today for Just $63

Dear Reader,

If you’re excited about the opportunities in Panama today—then you’re going to want to check out your options there for yourself, and we can help.

Whether you have one, two, three weeks or more to explore the opportunities on offer in Panama today—you’ll want to use your time (and travel funds) wisely. Our Panama Scouting Trip Itineraries and Travel Guide will show you the way.

Jessica Ramesch, our IL Panama correspondent, created this guide to give you a framework for a variety of trips—with day-by-day recommendations.

Inside, she shares her most useful tips and insights for planning and enjoying a successful expedition.

Right now, Panama offers just about everything a discerning, budget-minded world travel enthusiast could ever want.

It’s got Panama City…national parks…Pacific Coast surf towns…tropical island archipelagoes…rainforests filled with exotic and rare animals and birds…and countless more lovely “hidden” discoveries in between…

What’s more, in the right places in Panama, a couple can live comfortably – even in Panama City – on as little as $2,000 a month, all in.

So Panama is not just a wonderful place to visit…

It’s also a wonderful place to live…

That's why you should check it out first-hand!

This All-New Panama Resource May Even Help You Meet Your New “Neighbors” In Panama

The Panama Scouting Trip Itineraries and Travel Guide will show you how to travel around from place to place in Panama…where to stay…where to play…and where to dine…

It will also show you where some of the popular local hangouts are…

This way, you'll have an idea where to meet a few folks already living in Panama AND find out what it’s REALLY like to live there.

And who knows?

Some of the locals you meet on your next trip may soon be your new neighbors!

But here’s the thing…

The 1-week, 2-week and month-long Panama travel itineraries you'll get are just part of this special offer.

There’s more…

The Panama Scouting Trip Itineraries and Travel Guide also includes links to trusted websites and contact information you’ll find immensely helpful as you plan your next trip to Panama.

You’ll get a few “insider” tips and advice for traveling in Panama so you can “do as the locals do” as well. And, you’ll even get contact details for some of our “on-the-ground” Panama correspondents!

Plus, you’ll also find out the easiest ways to travel around Panama. You’ll discover…

Why bus is the favorite form of transportation for many locals and visitors…
How to get from each of Panama’s most popular towns, to the next…
Insider tips on what bus system to use, how to pay, and what to bring in order to have the most comfortable journey…
A handy alternative route to David, that bypasses Panama City altogether…
The most convenient location for car rental…
What to expect to pay for domestic flights, and how much luggage you can take with you…
What to ask your taxi driver before getting in the car…
When to tip, and when not to…
And several more “insider” tips on getting around in Panama comfortably and easily…without overspending…

Why Wait To Get In On This?

The Panama Scouting Trip Itineraries and Travel Guide is priced at $63.

Your Satisfaction Is 100% Guaranteed

If you are not completely satisfied with the Panama Scouting Trip Itineraries and Travel Guide for any reason whatsoever, just let us know within 30 days for a full refund.

I hope you'll take me up on this offer to get yourself a copy of the latest digital edition of the one-of-a-kind resource Panama Scouting Trip Itineraries and Travel Guide.

Like I said, you have our no-hassle guarantee if, for any reason, you are not satisfied.

Order the Panama Scouting Trip Itineraries and Travel Guide by hitting "Add to Cart" now.

PANAMA

Escape to Panama

Your Quickest Route to Enjoyingthe Good Life in Panama

Just Like the Country Itself, This In-Depth Look at Panama is Remarkably Affordable

As Always, Your Satisfactionis GUARANTEED

Panama 101

But There's Another Compelling Reason—the TOP Reason, in fact, to Choose Panama: Because of the Panamanians Themselves.

Panama Itineraries

Your Quickest Route to Enjoying
the Good Life in Panama

As Always, Your Satisfaction
is GUARANTEED