Immigraion To Panama

About Panama Where to Live in Panama Economy The People

About Panama

More than 15,000 Americans currently live in Panama. This figure is not surprising since the Panama Canal Zone was under U.S. control until the year 2000. When the U.S. bases were operating there were around 60,000Americans living in and around Panama City. During this time the country had strong American presence and became very Americanized. In fact, in some ways the country is more like a U.S. colony than an independent nation. Most of the first-world infrastructure the U.S. put in place is still standing. As a result Panamanians learned to provide many services, which are up to U.S. standards. Even neighboring Costa Rica, with all of its advances, cannot compare to Panama because of the deeply embedded U.S. influence.

Although Panama’s official language is Spanish, English is widely spoken in the Panama City area.

International Living’s annual Quality of Life Index ranks Panama as the 27th best country in the world for living.

Another reason for living in Panama is the country’s near-perfect climate. If you are tired of cold weather you’ll be happy to know Panama is hot and sometimes humid in the lowlands. Cooler year-round spring-like temperatures may be found in mountain areas like Boquete. In 2001 Modern Maturity Magazine (AARP) considered Boquete the fourth most desirable place in the world for retirement living partially due to its great climate.

Panama City is one of the most vibrant modern and prosperous cities in Latin America with over one million people. The city’s array of tall skyscrapers is reminiscent of Miami. It boasts incredible shopping, where almost any product from the U/S. may be easily found. At the same time, Panama has a very low population density with respect to its total area so you never feel crowded.

Panama is considered one of the safest counties in Latin America and has the highest rating for tourist safety from the Pinkerton Intelligence Agency. Because of the Panama Canal the country is still under the real protection and watchful eye of the United States.

The country fits the bill for anyone sick of the hustle and bustle, seeking a more laid-back way of life. It will also appeal to people of all ages seeking to move to a new and exotic land. The energetic entrepreneur, the burned-out baby boomer, those sick of long rush-hour commutes and anyone seeking an alternative way of life, will find Panama the ideal place to live.

Panama’s beautiful, smiling people will make you feel welcome.