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Coronado Panama: Why It Makes Expat Living Easy

Coronado Panama

Sandra Conoso

Coronado Panama, could be the ideal place for expats who are looking for world-class amenities and natural beauty all wrapped up in one convenient little package. Coronado offers a resort lifestyle comparable to the atmosphere of some of South Florida’s beaches, but without the seven figure price tag.  However, with its nice variety of housing options, it’s also great for the would-be expat who’s looking for a place a little further off the beaten path.

For many years Coronado served as a destination where wealthy Panamanians purchased second homes or where people flocked on weekends and holidays to escape the hubbub of Panama City.  Today it’s become an international tourist and expat hotspot in its own right.  An established destination, it offers many of the same conveniences and attractions as the nearby capital, but in a cleaner, quieter, and less hurried atmosphere.

Here are a few of the reasons Coronado, Panama, is one of the nation’s best places to live as an expat:

1. Coronado offers convenient proximity to Panama City.

Coronado can be reached easily from North America, by way of Panama City’s Tocumen International Airport. It’s also just a short distance off the Pan-American highway, making it very accessible by car or bus from the nation’s capital, although the roads can sometimes be congested (particularly on weekends or around holidays).

While Coronado now has almost everything its foreign residents could ever need, nearby Panama City offers even more. Panama City is quite cosmopolitan, with its 18-screen movie theaters, numerous museums and galleries, high-end boutiques, and vibrant nightlife. So, expats seeking a particular flavor of fusion cuisine or a specific brand name clothing label can likely find it only a short hour’s drive away.

While in Panama City, you can also stock up on things that might be slightly more difficult to find in Coronado, although the beach community’s selection of most items is rapidly growing as more and more businesses open. Those needing a break from the coastal heat can also find relief in the cooler elevations of the nearby Valle de Anton, which is about 50 minutes up the hill.

Coronado also offers excellent routine health care and emergency services at its San Fernando Clinic. However, those who require more specialized care can find it with the local hospital’s affiliate, Clinica Hospital San Fernando, one of Panama City’s best.

Coronado Panama

Matthew Straubmuller

2. Coronado Panama has a well-established expat community.

After many years as a hotspot for wealthy Panamanians, Coronado has recently gained tremendous popularity among expats. In addition to immigrants from the U.S. and Canada, Coronado is also home to expats from the U.K. and places all across South America. In fact, it boasts Panama’s second-largest expat community (after Boquete).

As a result of decades of expat influx, Coronado has become increasingly friendly to North Americans and other foreigners. English is widely spoken, and many North American conveniences have already been established.

However, despite its size and its strong North American influence, residents love Coronado for its strangely small-town feeling. It is a close-knit community, with a lively social scene. A deep camaraderie exists, not only among its expats, but also between them and the native Panamanians who live or vacation in Coronado.

Coronado Panama

Marcio Da Mata

3. Coronado has some of the most beautiful beaches on Panama’s Pacific coast.

Those visiting Coronado might often find themselves having to do a double take to be sure they haven’t mistakenly landed somewhere on an established beach in South Florida. Its black and white sand stretches on for miles and miles, allowing for a beautiful natural setting that’s adjacent to world-class resorts and high-rise condos.

Coronado’s seaside location also makes it a great place to enjoy a variety of water sports, such as surfing or kiteboarding. You can also enjoy activities such as scuba diving, sailing, or deep sea fishing.

And everything is within walking distance. You can spend the morning at the health club, playing tennis. Then you can stroll down the beach to dine with a friend at a seaside cafe. After a dip in the ocean, you can walk back to your condo for a shower before meeting your spouse for a fine dining experience at the neighboring resort’s restaurant, looking out on a spectacular sunset.

4. Coronado offers an abundance of lifestyle and leisure options.

As Coronado’s expat population has grown, so have the number of options available for shopping, recreation, and other professional services. A resort membership provides you access to a professional golf course and tennis courts. You can also enjoy the pool and spa facilities. There’s even an equestrian club available for boarding horses.

Shopping plazas continue to pop up everywhere, and there are three supermarkets that are open round-the-clock. A variety of restaurants offer plenty of cuisine options. There are pharmacies, a private medical clinic, and even a veterinarian. There’s also a popular department store and a popular Panamanian home improvement store.

Other conveniences include a dry cleaner, a Mailboxes Etc., and a new gym. There are also three international schools in Coronado, making it a great option for young expat families with children. Businesses and services grow in response to expat needs, so as more and more foreign residents relocate to Coronado its options are likely to continue to increase.

5. Coronado’s infrastructure is better than that of most other coastal areas.

Great infrastructure is often somewhat of a rarity for beach communities. Not so in Coronado, due in part to its location and its long-standing rank as a top destination for locals and expats. This equates to conveniences like water and electrical service that are widely available and extremely reliable.

Also readily accessible is wireless internet, which is also very affordable. Coronado also has great roads, transportation, and other public services. As a result, it’s one of the country’s most turnkey options for expats who want a move-in ready home, community, and city. Coronado isn’t up-and-coming. It has already arrived.

6. Coronado offers lots of options for staying healthy and fit.

The people of Coronado, Panama, are an extremely health-minded community. Many residents grown their own fruits and vegetables, as well as spices for healthy cooking. Mango, papaya, plantain, and banana trees can be found everywhere. Fresh, locally-grown produce can also be purchased from a number of street vendors.

In addition to healthy eating, many residents of Coronado lead very active lifestyles. In addition to water sports you can find expats playing golf or tennis at the resort or gym. There are also groups and classes where you can participate in yoga or meditation. Many expats also spend their time staying mentally and spiritually fit by volunteering or supporting local causes.

Coronado Panama

Vivi Panama

7. Coronado has community and housing options for every budget and lifestyle.

Coronado’s central neighborhood is a gated community, which is guarded and also situated next to the Coronado Police Department for added security. This upscale area is well secured and has top-notch private facilities.

However, resort-style living isn’t necessarily for everyone.  Coronado has a wide variety of choices to suit any preference. You can choose a Tuscan villa on a secluded lot, an efficiency apartment in a high-rise building, or a beachside bungalow with a view of the sea.

Prices can vary drastically, depending on the property’s location and amenities, but a smaller home can be had for as little as $250,000. Rental rates could range from $700 on up to $3000 or more for some of the most desirable properties.

While slightly more expensive than many areas in Panama, Coronado is still extremely affordable by North American standards. For expats who don’t mind being a bit farther from the action, you can find bargains on real estate in nearby areas such as the hillside town of Las Lajas, where you can find a modest home for under $200,000.

Coronado also has the added benefit of being in Panama, which enjoys an incredibly low cost of living. All this luxury can still be enjoyed for a fraction of the cost for the same lifestyle in North America, including high-speed internet and a full-time maid. Those eligible for the country’s pensionado visa can benefit from even greater savings.

Coronado, Panama, could be the perfect place for you if you’re a would-be expat who doesn’t want to compromise your lifestyle. And why should you?  Here you can enjoy all the amenities of a South Florida retirement on a Latin American budget. Combine that with easy access and first-world infrastructure and you have a recipe for luxury.

Whether or not Coronado ends up being your ideal retirement destination, it certainly isn’t a shabby place to visit. Plan your trip today to find out if Coronado, Panama, is right for you.

Map of Coronado Panama

Use this quick map to see where Coronado fits in Panama and its proximity to the nearest international airport, Tocumen International Airport.

Fast Facts

  • Population: About 20,000.
  • Typical temperature: Ranges mid 80s to upper 90s
  • Nearest airport with U.S. flights: Tocumen Airport, Panama City
  • Nearest U.S. consulate: Panama City

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3 thoughts on “Coronado Panama: Why It Makes Expat Living Easy

  1. 1

    But what about the CRIME !?

    • 2

      Ya not so much, just like any wherein this world, u ask for it and you get it… Be wie and be safe and all is good.

  2. 3

    Is the water potable. Tap,water

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