10 Tips for Living in Panama

Welcome to the vibrant and diverse nation of Panama, a gem for digital nomads seeking a blend of tropical beauty, modern amenities, and cultural richness. As you embark on your journey or settle into your new lifestyle in this Central American haven, it's essential to navigate the nuances of living here to make the most of your experience. Here are 10 tips that will help you thrive as a digital nomad in Panama, ensuring a smooth transition and an enriching stay.

1. Embrace the Language and Culture

While Panama is quite accommodating to English speakers, especially in Panama City and expat hubs, learning Spanish can greatly enhance your experience. Not only will it help you navigate daily life with ease, but it will also open doors to deeper connections with locals. Dive into the culture by attending festivals, trying traditional Panamanian cuisine, and participating in community events. Remember, a little effort in language goes a long way in building rapport and understanding the local way of life.

2. Understand the Visa Requirements

As a digital nomad, staying on top of visa requirements is crucial. Panama offers various visa options, including the Friendly Nations Visa and the recently introduced Short Stay Visa for Remote Workers. These visas cater to the needs of digital nomads, providing legal ways to live and work in the country. Consult with a local immigration lawyer to find the best option for your situation and ensure you remain compliant with Panamanian laws.

3. Get to Know the Neighborhoods

Choosing the right neighborhood can make all the difference in your Panamanian adventure. For a bustling urban atmosphere, consider areas like Marbella or El Cangrejo in Panama City, known for their lively streets and proximity to amenities. If you prefer a quieter, more scenic environment, the mountain town of Boquete or the beachside community of Coronado might be more your speed. Spend time exploring different areas to find the perfect fit for your lifestyle and work needs.

4. Set Up a Reliable Internet Connection

As a digital nomad, your livelihood depends on a stable internet connection. While Panama offers good connectivity in urban areas, it's wise to have a backup plan. Invest in a mobile hotspot or a data plan with a local provider like Cable & Wireless or Movistar. This ensures you stay connected even when Wi-Fi is down or you're exploring more remote parts of the country.

5. Manage Your Finances Wisely

Understanding the local currency (the Balboa, which is tied to the US dollar) and setting up a local bank account can simplify financial transactions and help you avoid excessive fees. Be mindful of your budget, as certain areas can be as expensive as major US cities. Use apps like Yappy for convenient local payments and keep track of your expenses to maintain a sustainable nomadic lifestyle.

6. Embrace the Local Transport System

Getting around Panama can be an adventure in itself. In cities, the Metro and Metrobus are efficient and affordable options. For longer distances, domestic flights can save time, while comfortable coach buses offer a more economical choice. Ride-sharing apps like Uber work well in Panama City, but in more remote areas, you may need to rely on local taxis or even boats to navigate the archipelagos.

7. Prioritize Your Health and Wellbeing

Adapting to a new environment can take a toll on your health. Make sure to register with a local clinic and understand how healthcare works in Panama. The water is generally safe to drink in Panama City, but it's advisable to stick to bottled or filtered water elsewhere. Also, take advantage of the fresh, local produce at markets to maintain a healthy diet, and don't forget to stay active by enjoying outdoor activities Panama has to offer.

8. Network with Fellow Nomads and Locals

Building a network is key to a fulfilling nomadic life. Join local expat groups, co-working spaces, and attend meetups to connect with like-minded individuals. Platforms like Internations or Facebook groups for digital nomads and expats in Panama can be great resources. Networking can lead to friendships, professional opportunities, and valuable insights into living in Panama.

9. Respect the Environment and Wildlife

Panama's lush landscapes and diverse ecosystems are part of its allure. As a resident, it's important to respect and protect these natural treasures. Practice eco-friendly habits, support conservation efforts, and be mindful of your impact when visiting national parks or beaches. Remember, preserving Panama's beauty is a shared responsibility.

10. Stay Informed and Adaptable

Finally, staying informed about local news, weather, and events will help you navigate life in Panama with ease. The country can experience heavy rains and even occasional power outages, so being prepared and adaptable is essential. Keep an open mind, be ready to adjust your plans, and embrace the spontaneity that comes with living in such a dynamic country.

By following these tips, you'll be well on your way to a successful and enjoyable time as a digital nomad in Panama. Each day presents an opportunity to learn, explore, and grow in this vibrant country. So, pack your bags, set up your workspace, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime!

Digital Nomads and Expats talk about Living in Panama

"I would echo what the person who did the review on Boquete. Embrace the local culture and ways of doing things. Don't come here wanting to change the way folks have done things for a long time or try to make it like the US. At the same time you can teach the locals what you know in a nice way as you make friends with them," said one member living in Bocas del Toro.

"Do not be surprised by the most modern technological society living in a first class environment," wrote a member in Panama City.

"Come and visit! I guarantee it is nothing like where you live. The culture is very different than the US and the systems and structures can sometimes make no sense at all. If you can't roll with things when they go wrong or get frustrating, it may not be for you," commented one member who made the move to Boquete.

"We see service dogs all the time here in Panama City in the malls, restaurants and bars. They accept them inside and some even offer them a water dish," remarked one member living in Panama.

"When I first developed an interest in moving to Panama the possibility of owning beachfront property was the big attraction. After spending a few years looking around I decided that I would rather not live in a beach community, although I love to be near the ocean and, in fact, have spent much of my life at sea. One of the best things about Panama is that you are never far from the sea. In my opinion the Coronado area is overdeveloped and excessively expensive. The area around Pedasi is much cheaper and less crowded. It appeals to surfers for obvious reasons. There are many islands on the Pacific coast, and they are fun to visit, although it would be quite inconvenient to live there. There are also hundreds of miles of unspoiled mainland coastline that are nearly inaccessible by land. You probably want to be somewhere that has a road to it, which further limits your options. Look at a good map and you will see what is accessible. If you don't see a road it's because there isn't one. There probably won't be any utilities either. I found that there are some significant drawbacks to living close to the beach and few native Panamanians choose to do so unless they are in the fishing business. You should look for yourself, though, and after visiting Coronado and Pedasi you might look at Las Lajas, Boca Chica, Puerto Armuelles, and the Boca del Toros archipiélago on the Caribbean coast. They're all beautiful in their own way but don't forget to look at the negative aspects including weather, services, access, and increased maintenance requirements. If you find a place you love you should rent for at least a year before you consider buying anything," wrote one member in Panama.