Panama Blog

Panama is a very desirable place to retire. The Panamanian government makes it relatively easy to retire in Panama with a retirement visa. You just have to maintain a modest income to support yourself and the rest is easy. You even get a tax break on shipping your household goods to Panama and shipping a car to Panama. If you love saving money, retirees in Panama also enjoy discounts on some meals, services and entertainment. When you make the exciting decision to retire in Panama, IntlMOVE Panama will handle the details to ship your household goods to your new home.

IntlMOVE Panama has put together information on different areas of Panama perfect for retirement.

Panama City

You are moving to Panama to enjoy life, not live out the rest of your life. The hustle and bustle of Panama City will allow you continue to think and act young well into your golden years. If you want to live close to the city, but still enjoy some peace and quiet, check out Ancon, Clayton or Costa del Este. These suburbs are located close enough to the city to enjoy the amenities, but far enough away so you can enjoy some quiet time. Choosing to move to Panama City will allow you to find an apartment in the heart of the city or a single family home. There are ocean views, city views and Panama Canal views, so choose what appeals to you.

Bocas del Toro

Bocas del Toro is a laid-back town with lots of funky little restaurants, bars and plenty of beautiful beaches. It’s located on the Caribbean Coast, so the blue of the ocean is reason enough to check out this amazing little city.

Coronado

Coronado has it all. Enjoy beaches, golf courses, shopping and a variety of outdoor markets. There are beautiful places to take a leisurely walk or ride a bike. It is located about one hour outside of Panama City, so if you want to take a direct flight to the United States, you can do so with ease.

Boquette

Panama is also well-known for its panoramic mountain views. Boquette is a mountain town with a tropical flair. There are rain forests, coffee plantations and tropical foliage that make this a picturesque place to live. It is only a one hour flight from Panama City, so you can still enjoy the big city splendor. There are even some golf courses if you plan on improving your game during your retirement.

Los Santos

Los Santos province has many beaches, parks, museums and culture. You will learn much about the history and culture of Panama living here.

Las Tablas, located in the province of Los Santos, is a lively place known for its carnivals. Some of the festivals include: the National Festival of Pollera, the Festival of the Patron Santa Librada, the Festival Nacional de la Mejorana and many more. Carnival, which takes place in February, is a great time of celebration in Las Tablas. People come from all over Panama for the parties, events, food and performances. The city is also home to Santa Librada, which is a Christian church that is also a national monument.

Moving to Panama to retire is a decision you will be thrilled you made. Living in Panama is like living in Paradise.

When you first start the planning process for moving to Panama, one of the first things you have to think about is finding a place to live. IntlMOVE Panama has put together a short guide on the neighborhoods in Panama City to help you determine a nice and safe place to live.

Amador Causeway

The Amador Causeway is home to many restaurants, bars and other fun activities. It is also a wonderful place to go for a bike ride or enjoy views of the Panama Canal. The Amador Causeway is located on the southern entrance of the Panama Canal and has many luxury residences available for rent.

Area Bancaria

Area Bancaria, or the banking area, is a posh place to live in the center of Panama City with plenty of hotels and restaurants. This area of town is perfect if you love to live a fast-paced lifestyle. However, if you are looking for a relaxing family atmosphere, you might want to look elsewhere.

Obarrio

Obarrio, located close to Area Bancaria, is one of the most luxurious places to live in the heart of the city. In addition to its well-kept trees and green areas, this part of town is also a convenient place to live. You will never run out of things to do with plenty of bars, restaurants, malls and stores located nearby.

El Cangrejo

Also located close Area Bancaria, El Cagrejo is a great and upscale place to live. Your residence will be within walking distance to restaurants, bars, banks and places to shop. El Cangrejo has its own charming qualities that are unparalleled to other neighborhoods in Panama City.

Marbella

Marbella, an upscale area, is located near the center of Panama City, Panama. It is within walking distance to theaters, parks, shopping and restaurants. It is also close to some of Panama City’s hottest clubs if you enjoy an active nightlife.

Costa del Este

Costa del Este is located east of the center of Panama City, close to the airport. It’s a newer area of the city with lots of newly built residential buildings, communities and amenities. Homes with ocean views in this area of town are abundant, but you can expect to pay a pretty penny for them in comparison to other neighborhoods. When you moving to this area of Panama City, you can enjoy convenient shopping, banks, parks and easy access to major highways. Everything is not necessarily in walking distance, but IntlMOVE Panama can ship your car to Panama with your household goods.

Ancon

Ancon is located within Panama City, but it is considered a suburb. This area is safe, close to schools and has many colorful houses. This area of Panama City serves mainly as a residential area, so you may want to have a car if you are thinking about living in this part of town.

Clayton

Clayton is a beautiful area of Panama City that borders a national park and is located in old Canal Zone. Located directly in front of the Miraflores Locks, you will be close to malls, restaurants, schools, the airport and other amenities. The US Embassy headquarters are also located here.

Casco Viejo

Casco Viejo is the historic area of Panama City and is easily accessible by public transportation. However, you may still need a car to get around. In addition to the charming qualities of the city, such as cobblestone plazas and historic architecture, there are many restaurants and bars that make this a very fun place to live. This area of town was recently revamped and it is now a hotspot in Panama City. There are pockets of this area where safety may be a question, so visit the area and talk to locals before deciding on a place without seeing it.

After choosing a new place to live in Panama, contact IntlMOVE Panama when shipping your household goods from the U.S. to Panama.

Moving to Panama takes a lot of planning and research. However, there are at least there are two things that are easy and you don’t need to worry about. IntlMOVE Panama will handle shipping your household goods from the U.S. to Panama, so put your mind at ease. Another thing people are concerned with when moving to Panama is the quality of the healthcare. This is especially a concern to people retiring in Panama or moving to Panama with a family. This is just one more thing you can rest easy about. Healthcare in Panama City is well-known for its quality.

IntlMOVE Panama has put together some information on the quality of healthcare in Panama.

Hospitals in Panama City

There are more than 14 hospitals in Panama City. There are also public and private clinics to service your healthcare needs. The largest, more prestigious, hospitals in Panama City provide top-notch healthcare and the standards are similar to that of the United States. You can be comfortable in knowing you are receiving quality medical care in Panama’s thriving capital city. In fact, Panama City is known for its medical tourism.

The Hospital Punta Pacifica is associated with Johns Hopkins and is a private hospital in Panama City. This is where most foreigners and Panamanians with private insurance go. It is a really nice hospital where most of the practicing doctors speak English. However, it is also the most expensive.

The Clinica Hospital San Fernando has ties to the three prestigious United States medical facilities including: The Miami Children’s Hospital, Miami’s Baptist Health Center and Tulane University. This is also a private hospital. There are also many doctors who speak English here.

The Hospital Nacional welcomes international health insurance, which is beneficial if you are moving to Panama with one of these healthcare plans. This particular hospital has an amazing nurse to patient ratio. There is one nurse for every 10 patients. This particular hospital is also known for its specialists, with over 100 specialists working at this location.

There are many other hospitals, both public and private, that will provide you with care if medial needs arise.

Doctors in Panama

About 45 percent of all doctors in Panama practice in Panama City. Some doctors are trained in foreign schools, but most doctors in Panama receive their medical training and schooling in Panama. When searching for a doctor, ensure you find one who speaks English if you are not fluent in Spanish. This will reduce any frustrations with language barriers and improve your patient-doctor experience.

Public and Private Healthcare in Panama

There is public and private healthcare available in Panama. Public healthcare in Panama is run by the Caja de Seguro Social. Panamanians receive free healthcare from hospitals and clinics within a specified network. Money is deducted from working Panamanians paychecks to pay for this system.

If you are not eligible for the public healthcare in Panama, you will need to get private health insurance in Panama or secure an international healthcare coverage plan. There are English speaking insurance brokers in Panama who can help you secure a plan that is right for you and your family. There are flexible healthcare plans, which are typically significantly less than you would pay in the United States.

Visit the IntlMOVE Panama website for tips on moving to Panama, a free international shipping quote and lots of other great information.

When you are planning on moving to Panama, one of the first considerations is a steady income. There are many options for finding a job in Panama, which can include: teaching English in Panama, finding a professional job with a Panamanian company or securing employment with a multinational company.

Landing a job with a multinational company may be easier than securing a job with a Panamanian company, due to immigration regulations and work permits. When you work for a a multinational company, it can transfer you to Panama if your skills are needed in its Panama office. In addition, transferring to Panama with a multinational company will help make getting a work permit much easier for you.

Here is a list from IntlMOVE Panama of some of the United States-based companies that also have offices in Panama:

Procter & Gamble International Operations

Procter & Gamble produces consumer goods and is the company behind many of the world’s most well-known brands. This company has a presence in over 160 countries. Its regional headquarters are located in Panama, so there are a variety of jobs available to the people with the right qualifications.

Caterpillar

Caterpillar is a manufacturer of mining and construction machinery. The company has been present in Panama since 2006, when they set up regional offices. In 2009, Caterpillar expanded its presence in Panama by setting up a demonstration and training center at the western entrance to the Panama Canal. The company employs hundreds of people in Panama.

Hewlett-Packard

Hewlett-Packard expanded its operations to Panama City in 2007 when it decided to create a presence in Latin America. Panama was chosen as the country for Hewlett-Packard regional offices because of the IT infrastructure, government support and the skilled workers present in Panama City.

Halliburton International, Inc.

Halliburton has a regional offices worldwide, one of which is located in Panama City. This multi-billion dollar company employs more than 60,000 people worldwide. This company provides products and services to the energy industry.

Mars, Inc.

The maker of some of the most delicious candy, such as M & M’s, Snickers, Dove and many more products, is the sixth largest private company in the United States. In 2009, Mars, Inc. opened up regional headquarters in Panama.

3M

3M has a portfolio of many products and services related to technology. The regional headquarters for 3M is also located in Panama.

Other Companies with Regional Headquarters in Panama

Some of the other multinational companies that have located offices to Panama include: Maersk, Sinopec, Western Union, Cemex, Moffatt & Nichol Latin American, Inc., Genzyme, Cargotec and many others.

As you can see, there are many opportunities to secure a job with a multinational company so you can start planning your move to Panama. When you are ready to make your international move from the U.S. to Panama, contact IntlMOVE Panama for all of your international shipping needs.

When you are moving to Panama with IntlMOVE Panama, we will help you with normal customs clearance in Panama with door-to-door international shipping services. IntlMOVE Panama works with reputable professionals all over the world, so we will work with a customs broker in Panama to get your household goods through customs safely and as quickly as possible. If you only need door-to-port services, you can choose to hire your own customs broker for this needed step for your international move.

IntlMOVE Panama has put together some basic information for clearing customs in Panama. Please check with your local embassy or consulate as information can change at any time.

Arriving in Panama

When arriving in Panama, you will have to have some necessary documents. First, you will need to have a residence visa and a work permit. You will also need your original passport, Certificate of Change of Residence, letter confirming employment and a detailed inventory list.

Importing Household Goods and Clearing Customs in Panama

IntlMOVE Panama makes international moves a breeze. You will need to be in Panama when your household goods arrive. IntlMOVE Panama will work with you to put together the needed paperwork for you to clear customs. Some of the forms needed include: imported goods waybills, packing list, invoice and the import goods declaration.

Tariffs and Fees in Panama

Household goods and personal effects are duty free for foreigners with a residence visa and Panamanians who are returning to Panama after two years abroad. Charges will be assessed for new items, alcohol, jewelry and coins.

There may be tariffs assessed when arriving in Panama. IntlMOVE Panama can give you an estimate of the charges, but the customers is responsible for all tariffs incurred.

Most of the time, household goods and personal effects are cleared through customs without issues. However, there may be circumstances where customs must store incoming goods. These instances will result in storage fees assessed by the port.

All customs charges and customs broker charges have to be paid by the customer at the time of clearance in Panama.

Shipping a car to Panama may result in a high duty, payable by customer. The duty is approximately between 27 and 30 percent. If you are retiring in Panama, and moving to Panama with a retirement visa, you may be able to ship a car duty-free. Check with your consulate for restrictions.

Clearing Household Goods through Customs in Panama

When moving to Panama, household goods shipments from the USA to Panama must arrive in Panama within six month of the customer’s arrival. All shipments will be inspected.

There are prohibited items, which you should not pack in your shipment. These items include: firearms, weapons, ammunition, narcotics, drugs, foodstuff and plants. Adding straw or hay in lift-vans is also prohibited.

When moving to Panama, contact IntlMOVE Panama for a trustworthy international shipping company.

*Since such regulations are subject to change without notice, IntlMOVE cannot be held liable for any costs, damage, delays, or other detrimental events resulting from non-compliance. Always double check with your local embassy or consulate.

The beautiful weather in Panama is only one of the many reason moving to Panama City, Panama with IntlMOVE Panama is a great decision. There are not typical seasons, which you might be used to. The tropical climate provides the wet season and the dry season, but the temperature remains comfortable throughout the year. Summer, or the dry season, takes place between the months of December and April. Winter, or the wet season makes up the remaining months.

The warm weather will provide you with an amazing opportunity to participate in outdoor activities near Panama City. IntlMOVE Panama will carefully pack, ship and deliver your golf clubs, surfboards and other outdoor gear along with your household goods to Panama.

Temperature in Panama City

The average temperature in Panama City is 80.6 degrees Fahrenheit (27 degrees Celsius). January and February are the coolest months, but you will still enjoy an average temperature of about 72 degrees.  April and May are the warmest months, with temperatures reaching as high as the mid 90s, but typically staying at a comfortable level in the 80s. The humidity in Panama City can be quite intense, so just make sure to stay hydrated.

Even though the days are warm, make sure you are shipping warm weather clothes to Panama City with IntlMOVE. The evenings can get a little chilly, so you will want to have sweaters, pants and light jackets. If you are visiting the surrounding mountains, you might even want to consider shipping your winter coats to Panama with the rest of your household goods. Temperatures in the mountains have been known to dip below freezing in the evenings.

Precipitation in Panama City

In Panama City, it rains an average of almost 75 inches per year. The rainy season lasts from the end of April to the first part of December. October is the wettest month, so make sure to have your umbrellas and rain coats ready. During the rainy season, it will not rain nonstop. The days are mostly filled with sunshine, but there are quick bursts of heavy downpours, which usually occur in the afternoon. They typically do not last very long, but they can put a damper on outdoor activities.

The dry season in Panama lasts from mid-December to mid-April. Hiking trails just outside of Panama City are beautiful this time of year. This is also the best time to get in a round of golf or go kayaking at one of the many beautiful surrounding areas.  If you are an avid surfer, surfing in Panama is truly exhilarating. There are swells all year, but the dry season is known to have some of the best waves.

When you are ready to move to Panama City to enjoy the awesome weather, contact IntlMOVE Panama for your international shipping needs.

When moving to Panama with IntlMOVE Panama, you will need to obtain a Panamanian visa. For an easy, breezy life in your retirement years, consider moving to Panama with IntlMOVE Panama. The warm weather, beautiful surroundings and friendly people make this the perfect place to spend your golden years.

The standard of living in Panama is the closest you will find to the U.S. in Central America. However, there are some added benefits. Panama is one of the safest countries in the world. You can enjoy a charming small city or the hustle and bustle of city living in Panama City. Panama has it all.

To obtain a retirement visa, you must meet a few simple requirements. IntlMOVE Panama has put together some basic information on the retirement visa for your convenience. These benefits and requirements can be updated at any time, so it’s best always best to check with your local embassy or consulate.

Panama Retirement Visa Benefits

• You will not have to pay property taxes if you only own one piece of property.
• Hotel, restaurant, airline and public transportation and other discounts are available throughout Panama for retirement visa holders.
• You may not have to pay any duties on your household goods when shipping them from the U.S. to Panama. You will have a one-time exemption for up to $10,000.
• You can ship a car to Panama every two years for your own use.
• You will not be charged any income tax on your pension or any money earned outside of Panama.
• Taxes will not be assessed for the interest earned from your fixed term deposit.
• The U.S. dollar is used in Panama, so you will not have to convert your money to a foreign currency.
• A permanent residence permit can be granted, which is a valid status for life.

Requirements

• Applicants must have a valid passport from their home country.
• Acquire a health certificate from a certified medical doctor in Panama.
• An HIV test must be conducted and passed.
• Criminal history records must be presented to prove you are not a threat.
• You must have a minimum monthly income of $750invest in at least $100,000 in property. If you do not want to purchase a home for that much money, you must have a minimum income of $1,000 per month. You must have an additional $250 per month for each dependent.

It’s relatively easy to obtain a retirement visa in Panama in comparison to other country’s requirements. If you are looking for an amazing place to live, Panama will provide you with a wide variety of perks. When you have decided that Panama is the place you want to retire, contact IntlMOVE Panama to ship your household goods and personal effects. 

IntlMOVE Panama is in the business of providing a full range of international shipping services, so our clients are at ease when shipping their household goods to Panama. IntlMOVE Panama offers packing, pick-up, overseas shipping, normal customs clearance and delivery to your new home in Panama.

Some clients are looking for ways to save money when shipping their household goods to Panama, which is why IntlMOVE Panama has put together some tips to save you money.

Packing

Packing your own household goods will save you money. You will save money on materials and labor when preparing your shipment to Panama. IntlMOVE Panama will still load your household goods on the truck, but you can pack and secure all of your household goods in boxes and protective padding. Keep in mind that household goods packed by the owner are not eligible for all-risk marine insurance. To be insured with all-risk insurance, packing needs to be completed by a professional export company, such as IntlMOVE Panama.

Door-to-Port Service

An international moving quote for door-to-port service will be less than a door-to-door quote. When your international shipment arrives in Panama, you will be responsible for clearing customs and picking up your international shipment at the port. Make sure you have a reliable customs broker and a mover to help you pick up and deliver your shipment to your new home. If this is not an option, IntlMOVE Panama can take care of this for you with its door-to-door services.

Off Season Moves

Summertime is the busiest season for international moves. Try moving during the winter months. You may receive better international moving rates.

Eliminating Unwanted Items

One of the easiest ways to save money is to eliminate items you don’t need. The cost of shipping household goods and personal effects to Panama is calculated by volume. If you get rid of unwanted items, you will reduce your shipment volume. For example, if you are moving from a colder climate, you will not need all of your bulky winter clothes when moving to Panama. If you haven’t worn clothing items for over a year, or if you are holding onto smaller sizes for when you lose weight, get rid of the clothing. You can always purchase what you need in Panama at a later date.

If you are moving into a smaller apartment, do not ship the furniture that will not fit into your new home. Determine whether or not appliances and other electrical items will work with Panama’s electrical systems. Eliminate DVD’s by uploading them to an online library. Avoid shipping canned food overseas. Eat these foods before moving to Panama.

Get rid of items that are not allowed to be shipped to Panama, such as plants, flammable items and firearms. If you are packing items such as planters or sandboxes, empty the sand and dirt. You can pack other household goods inside these items to reduce your shipment volume. You can purchase sand and dirt when you arrive in Panama.

Sell Unwanted Items

After you have eliminated the items you no longer need, have a yard sale or try selling them online. The extra cash can be put towards your international moving costs to save some money. Donate the items you cannot sell to local charities, which may help you during tax time.

Whether you need door-to-door or door-to-port shipping to Panama, contact IntlMOVE Panama.

When moving to Panama with IntlMOVE, you may be wondering where your children can attend school. Sending your children to an international school will help them acclimate to their new surroundings in Panama. When moving to Panama, your children will have to learn a new language, deal with culture shock and meet a new set a friends. It’s important to ship your children’s personal belongings and household goods to have in their new Panamanian home. They will feel connected to their family, friends and life back in the United States. Choosing an international school will also help your children adjust to their new surroundings in Panama if the classes are taught in English.

Unlike American schools, the school year in Panama typically runs from the spring to December. Instead of beginning the school break in June, students in Panama typically have vacation time from mid-December to March or April. This is something to keep in mind when moving to Panama with children. Consider moving to Panama at a time when children can start a new school year with other children in their grade. There are a few schools that follow the U.S. school year, so research your children’s school ahead of time.

In Panama City, which is the biggest metropolis in Panama, there are three reputable international schools. Balboa Academy, Oxford International School and the International School of Panama are all accredited by the American School Association. Oxford International School, which should not be confused with Oxford School, has the least expensive tuition of the three accredited schools. It is easily accessible as it is located in downtown Panama City. When children attend this school in Panama, they should already be able to speak Spanish. There is an English and Panamanian curriculum, which can be difficult for children who only speak one of the languages. Students are expected to take 13 subjects in high school, including calculus. It is a very tough school academically, so students should be prepared to work hard.

The Balboa Academy provides education similar to American schools. Children with learning disabilities can attend Balboa Academy with confidence. Special provisions are made for kids with learning problems. This school also offers advanced placement (AP) classes for students who want to get a head start on their college education.

The most expensive, but also the school with the best academics, is the International School of Panama. The school is located outside of the hustle and bustle of Panama City, but your children will have no problem getting to and from the school with the beltway. The school year at the International School of Panama begins in mid-August, but basically keeps the same timeline as American schools. This school also offers AP classes.

There are other options for children in Panama City if the three accredited schools are too expensive or do not meet the needs of your family.

The Episcopal School in El Carmen is an inexpensive bilingual school, which is considered one of the best academic schools. Unless your children are in Kindergarten, they must speak Spanish fluently. It is a traditional school for college bound kids, so this school can be very difficult for some students. Saint Mary’s School in Albrook is an inexpensive Catholic school, although children with other religious beliefs are welcome. Crossroads Christian Academy in Cardenas is open to children of the Christian faith. A Jewish primary school, Colegio Isaac Rabin, is located in Clayton.

When moving to Panama with your family, contact IntlMOVE for a free quote for shipping your household goods from the U.S. to Panama.

When you are shipping your household good to Panama or another country overseas with IntlMOVE Panama, they may travel through the Panama Canal. Before the Panama Canal was constructed, it was an extremely long journey for vessels to get around South America. Instead of passing through Panama, ships had to take route via the Strait of Magellan or Cape Horn. When the canal was completed in 1914, international trade became much easier. In fact, nearly 1 million vessels have traveled through the canal. By passing through the canal, rather than the southernmost tip of South America, ships could shorten their journeys by 8,000 miles of more.

The canal is 48 miles long and connects and the Atlantic Ocean and the Pacific Ocean. After failed attempts by other countries and thousands of deaths, the United States completed the canal and maintained control of the canal until 1977. After a period of joint ownership between Panama and the United States, the Panamanian government took complete control of the canal in 1999. The Panama Canal Authority assumed administration.

The journey through the canal takes between eight and ten hours. The largest vessel that can travel through the Panama Canal is called a Panamax. These ships have a dead weight tonnage (DWT) between 65,000 and 80,000 tons. However the actual cargo cannot exceed 52,000 tons.

The fees to pass through the canal vary depending on the type of ship, size of ship and the type of cargo being transported. Fees for container ships are assessed according to the ship’s capacity. Each ships capacity is configured by the amount of twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) the ship can carry. Ships carrying cargo are charged more than ships that are not carrying cargo.

To accommodate increasingly larger ships, the Panama Canal Authority has invested about $1 billion upgrade the canal. In addition to widening the canal, the money was also used to modernize the operations and efficiency. The goal was to increase capacity by 20 percent.  New equipment was purchased, tug boat fleets were added and parts of the canal were widened and straightened. This should reduce restrictions placed on large ships and make the canal easier to pass through. The lock lighting system was enhanced, an updated scheduling system was updated and navigational channels and entrances were deepened. Overall, a lot of improvements were made to improve the Panama Canal’s capabilities.

There are future plans to continue making improvements as container ships get bigger and the international shipping needs increase. There are many ships that are already too big to pass through the Panama Canal, so to stay relevant, the Panama Canal will need to grow with the shipping industry’s needs.

Moving to from the USA to Panama will allow you the opportunity to visit the canal. Take a ferry up and down the canal to see the magnificent engineering feat. There are also restaurants and other sightseeing tours available at the Panama Canal. Whether or not your shipment travels through the Panama Canal, IntlMOVE Panama will ensure the safest, time efficient and cost effective measures are taken when shipping your household goods to Panama.

When you are moving to Panama, there is one international mover to do the job right – IntlMOVE.

IntlMOVE will ship all of your household goods and furniture to your new home in Panama to help you get settled.

If you are still in the process of making a decision on whether or not to move Panama, IntlMOVE has put together a list of pros and cons to help you decide on your international move.

There are many benefits to making an international move, so get ready for a great experience.

Pros

When you are planning a move to Panama with IntlMOVE, you will likely be moving to a city located near the water.

Moving to Panama for the weather and the beautiful beaches is one reason your decision to move to Panama will be easy.

The weather in Panama rarely varies outside of a 10 degree range, so most days will be 75 – 85 degrees during the day.

Many people moving to Central America are worried about the drinking water.

This is a concern that you do not need to have when moving to Panama.

Most of the water, intended for consumption, is safe to drink.

Make sure you check with the locals before drinking the water, but in most cases, you will be just fine.

If botany or gardening is one of your hobbies, you will love the tropical foliage in Panama.

The warm weather allows for a wide variety of tropical and exotic plants to thrive.

There are a number of beautiful creatures that thrive in this warm weather as well.

There are colorful birds, exotic animals and even some pretty wild looking insects.

Although the cost of living in Panama is probably one of the most expensive in Central America, it is still quite moderate compared to the United States.

Most expats are able to afford very comfortable living accommodations as well as household help.

IntlMOVE can take care of shipping your household goods to Panama, so you don’t have to worry about furnishing your new home in your new country.

Cons

If you have not yet mastered the Spanish language, you will have a problem finding ample reading material if that is a hobby you pursue.

Pack a lot of books along with your household goods and have IntlMOVE ship these with the rest of your personal belongings.

When you have friends or family come down for a visit, ask them to bring along English reading materials.

Keeping in touch with loved ones can be difficult.

International calls can get a little expensive.

However, Skype makes it easy for you to call your loved ones for free.

You can even see each other while making the calls online, so this actually helps with any homesickness you might experience.

If you are used to living in a fast-paced world, be prepared to take it down a notch.

Everything in Panama goes at a slower pace.

Over time, this will be a positive benefit to moving to Panama.

However, many expats find it difficult to deal with the laid back attitude of most Panamanians.

The best advice is to realize this laid back attitude can save you a lot of headaches and a lot of stress, so relax.

If you are shipping your car to Panama with IntlMOVE, be aware of the driving conditions.

They will take some time to get used to!

Traffic can be an issue because of the lack of signs and the erratic ways that Panamanians are used to driving.

However, many people have survived the driving conditions in Panama so don’t let this dissuade you from moving to the tropical paradise.

When you are moving to Panama, log onto the IntlMOVE website for your free international shipping quote.

From: Giampiero Riccio [mailto:giampieroriccio@]
Sent: Tuesday, October 12, 2010 3:21 PM
To: Frank
Subject: Re: Move from Ft. Lauderdale, Fl to Panama City, Panama 10-01-014-18

Hi Frank.
All is fine so far.
I will be referrring you to some friends that are thinking in moving to Panama, if they eventually make up their mind.

Regards,
Giampiero

When you are moving to Panama with IntlMOVE, the Panama Canal and the Amador Causeway should be two of the top things on your to do list.

The Amador Causeway attracts visitors from all over the world and is located at the Southern entrance of the Panama Canal.

If you are moving to Panama, you will be lucky enough to live within close proximity of the Panama Canal and all the attractions that make this unique landmark.

The Amador Causeway is made from rocks excavated from the Panama Canal.

It is lined with palm trees to give it a very tropical feel, which just confirms you have moved to paradise.

The Causeway connects four small islands – Flamenco, Perico, Culebra and Naos.

These islands are filled restaurants, a marina, an aquarium and many more attractions.

At one time the Amador Causeway was part of a military base, but it has since been turned into a tourist haven.

The Causeway could only be visited by U.S. military and civilian personnel of the Panama Canal.

Even though it was located in Panama, people from Panama could not visit this area.

When Panama took back control of the Panama Canal, the people of Panama turned the Amador Causeway into a place that everyone could enjoy.

When you are moving to Panama City, Panama with IntlMOVE, you can visit this area of the city for many different adventures.

When choosing from one of the many restaurants on these four islands, you will likely find a restaurant with a beautiful view.

You can see the ocean, the Panama City skyline or even the Panama Canal.

There are even some restaurants, like Café Barko, where you can see the skyline and the canal.

If you are in the mood for dinner at a restaurant from back home, you can at TGIF’s.

This restaurant has some of the best views of the Panama Canal.

You can also visit the Amador Causeway to go shopping at one of the many available shopping areas.

If you want to get a little exercise, you can go jogging on the paths provided or ride your bike through the small islands.

IntlMOVE will ship your bike and running shoes to Panama with the rest of your household goods.

If you are moving to Panama for a new job, you might visit the Causeway for an event at the convention center.

This location is perfect for tradeshows or conferences.

In the evenings, there are many places to entertain clients and get down to business.

If you have an interest in the marine life that surrounds Panama, there is a great place for you to see.

The Marine Exhibition Center of the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute is a great place to learn and explore.

You can get up close and personal with the tropical marine life and the ecosystems that support these exotic creatures.

When moving to Panama, you will be lucky enough to enjoy many warm sunny days.

The Amador Causeway is home to many locations perfect for catching some rays or taking a dip in the Pacific Ocean to cool down from the tropical Panamanian weather.

The Amador Causeway is still being developed, so you will continually have new adventures when visiting this landmark.

When you are moving to Panama, choose the international movers you can trust.

IntlMOVE will help plan and execute your move to Panama.

When you are moving to Panama with IntlMOVE, you will likely be moving to Panama City.

However, there is a lot more to see in this beautiful country.

The Chiriqui Province is located in western Panama has beaches and highlands, which make it a beautiful place to live.

If you are moving to Panama and do not live close to the Chiriqui Province, it is still very easy to visit.

You will definitely want to make the trek to see the wide variety of natural attractions.

There are also Indian cultures, retirement communities and adventure sports.

Whether you are moving to retire, for a job, to teach English or just to have fun, the Chiriqui Province has it all!

Adventure Sports

IntlMOVE can ship all of your sporting equipment to Panama with your household goods when you are moving to your new country.

If you are living in the Chiriqui Province, you can go white water rafting, kayaking or hiking.

The Chiriqui Province is well-known for its rafting and if you are an experienced rafter, there are even Class 5 rapids for you to experience.

Many people travel to the Chiriqui Province to experience hiking in a cloud forest.

If you are a hiker, make sure IntlMOVE ships all of the gear you will need for these hikes in Panama.

Other Activities

Bird watching is a favorite pastime of Panamanian locals and visitors alike.

Whether you are living in Panama by yourself or with your family, there is a lot to see in the Chiriqui Province.

You can visit the Dracula Orchid Botanical Garden, which is home to more than 1,200 different species of the flower.

Horseback riding is another activity that will allow you to explore this region of Panama.

Canoe trips are also very popular for locals, tourists and expats.

Fishing for rainbow trout is another leisurely activity to enjoy when moving to Panama and the Chiriqui Province.

The Capital City of David

If you are traveling to the Chiriqui Province from Panama City, you can find a great place to spend your vacation in David.

If you are moving to the Chiriqui Province in Panama, this city is also a great place to live.

David is located right off the Panamerican Highway and it is about 45 minutes from the border Costa Rica.

It is just under seven hours away from Panama City, Panama by car and only one hour by plane.

If you are into shopping, you will find the best shopping in David in the Chiriqui Province.

There is a mall, grocery stores, furniture stores and hardware stores.

Boquete

Boquete is a great place in the Chiriqui Province to get in touch with nature.

This valley lies at the foot of an extinct volcano that reaches 10,500 feet.

The small town is filled with flowers and locals who are warm and inviting.

In Boquete, you can enjoy traditional Panamanian food with Costa Rican flair!

There are waterfalls and great hiking areas.

There are also coffee farms, which are very aromatic when the beans are being harvested.

Many magazines have chosen this picturesque city as one of the top places in the world to retire.

Although David and Boquete are the two most popular cities to move to and to visit, there are plenty of small villages for you to see.

Moving to Panama will provide you with an experience to explore another part of the country with unique customs and a unique culture.

When you want to move to Panama and the Chiriqui Province, contact IntlMOVE for your international shipping.

Most people who move to Panama with IntlMOVE end up living in Panama City.

There are unlimited amounts of activities and the excitement never seems to stop.

Panama City is very similar to many big cities in the United States in terms of the restaurants, nightlife and career opportunities.

One thing that makes Panama City very unique is the activities you can do outside of the bustling city.

IntlMOVE has put together a list of some different places to explore and unique things to do outside of Panama City.

Embera Indian Village Tour

When you move to Panama City, Panama, you will not be living too far from a group of people with history deeply embedded in Panama.

The Embera Indian Village will offer you a glimpse into what life was like for the native people of Panama.

The village is located in the rainforest in Panama about 1.5 hours outside of Panama City.

You can see how their homes are still built on stilts from the palms of the jungle.

A visit to the village will also include a chance to participate and witness native dancing, authentic body painting and a meal.

If you want to take home a treasure from this visit, you can purchase one of the many handmade pieces of jewelry or handicrafts.

Monkey Island

When you live in the United States, there are very few places you can see monkeys living in the wild.

When you move to Panama with IntlMOVE, you can visit an island that has so many monkeys that it was named after the mammal.

To get to Monkey Island, you will need to take a boat through the Panama Canal, which will lead you through the Panamanian rainforest.

By the time you reach the island, you will likely have had a monkey visit you in your boat!

Other wildlife you might see while on this excursion includes crocodiles and birds.

Tour groups that take you to the island will also serve you an authentic Panamanian lunch.

Gamboa Rainforest Resort

If you want to get up close and personal with the wildlife and exotic plants in the Panamanian rainforest, take a tour of Gamboa Rainforest Resort.

Gamboa is home to a variety of different ecological experiences.

You can take a ride on the tram that take you through the rainforest or you can even eat a meal outside on a terrace surrounded by the beauty of the rainforest.

There are nature exhibits, learning experiences and exploration opportunities galore!

The Gamboa Rainforest Resort even offers you some fantastic views of the Panama Canal.

Summit Point Golf Club

Have IntlMOVE ship your golf clubs to Panama along with the rest of your household goods.

Summit Golf Club is a stunning golf course surrounded by lush tropical foliage and jungle.

The 18-hole course is located 30 minutes outside of Panama City, so you get the tropical experience that makes you feel like you are on vacation.

There are many international tournaments that take place at Summit Point Golf Club, so it is a world-class course.

Afterwards, if you get hungry, you will want to check out their famous restaurant in the club house.

When you move to Panama City, you will find that that untouched tropical wilderness is a lot closer than you think.

Let IntlMOVE help make your move to Panama easy by letting them handle all of your international shipping needs.