A “bucket list” is a collection of places to see and things to do before you die. There are so many once-in-a-lifetime activities to engage in and places to visit throughout Central America that could, literally, fill many bucket lists. Yet there are some that are truly must-see locations and unique adventures that make the Central America Bucket List one that everyone should try and check off.
Kenneth Garcia
The Central America Bucket List – a blend of history, culture, nature, wildlife, and adventure
If you’ve ever wanted to explore ancient ruins, immerse yourself in a totally different culture, stand in awe of a natural piece of beauty, get up close and personal with creatures of the jungle or try something new like zip-lining or deep-sea fishing, you have already created your ownCentral American Bucket list.
The places and activities that are listed below are not in any particular order of importance or priority. All should be seen and experienced regardless and truly appreciated for the wonders that they are; they may even inspire you to create your own list as well.
Tikal, Guatemala
Mayan Ruins – Tulum, Mexico and Tikal, Guatemala
The Mayan Civilization has long held a fascination for many people. Viewing the towering pyramids and intricate ruins can make memories that last a lifetime. Two of the best known locations that embody this vanished culture are the ruins in Tikal, Guatemala and Tulum, Mexico. Separated by only 600 kilometers, these two iconic locations symbolized the height and power of the Mayan culture.
Visiting the imposing Temple of the Jaguar in Tikal or the majestic and well preserved “City of the Sun” in Tulum, Mexico can be an awe-inspiring reminder of how important enjoying each day is and that nothing is eternal. With nearby airport access to both sites, such in the Mayan Riveria, the Central American Bucket List items are ones that everyone should see and experience.
Arenal Volcano
The Arenal Volcano in Costa Rica
Of all the volcanoes throughout Central America, none is more majestic than Volcan Arenal in Costa Rica. Still active (although quiet of late), this imposing and beautiful mountain towers over the surrounding region, including Lake Arenal, at a height of 5,437 feet and is easily accessible from nearby San Jose.
Jugrote
Lake Nicaragua
This is the biggest lake in Central America and the 19th largest in the world. Easily reached from Managua, this fresh water wonder boasts something that most fresh-water bodies of water lack: sharks. The bull sharks of Lake Nicaragua can grow up to 11 feet in length; encountering one of these predators certainly falls under the category of “Well, there’s something you don’t see every day”.
Chadica
Whitewater rafting on the Pacuare River, Costa Rica
Ranked as one of the top ten whitewater rafting locations in the world, the Pacuare River can provide the kind of adrenalin-filled adventure that should be a part of everyone’s bucket list. Combining the stunning beauty of the area with the heart-stopping class III and IV rapids, this river adventure is truly a ride for the ages.
Guillén Pérez
Meet a Mayan Shaman
With all of the recent attention paid to the Mayan Calendar and the mysticism surrounding it, the opportunity to meet and interact with a genuine Mayan Shaman could be a life-changing experience. Practitioners of this ancient spiritual craft can be found in Belize, Honduras and Guatemala and are more than ready to share their wisdom and provide a unique insight in the Mayan World.
Jasperdo
Tour the Panama Canal
Since its completion in 1914, the Panama Canal has been the major waterway between the Pacific and the Atlantic Oceans, fulfilling the dream envisioned for centuries. Modern tours through the Canal provide a special opportunity to view this engineering marvel and follow in the footsteps of explorers from the mists of history who had searched for this passage.
Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
The Galapagos Archipelago
Darwin’s visit to this group of islands, part of modern-day Ecuador, and filled with a vast collection of unique and endemic species, led him to develop his theory of evolution and natural selection. Following Darwin’s path will permit visitors the chance to discover penguins, giant tortoises, and many other creatures that cannot be found anywhere else in the world.
Tony Mendez
Whale watching in Costa Rica
The humpback whales migrate along the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica from between August and October every year. Being able to see these leviathans of the deep in their element is a magical and moving sight and should be a part of every bucket list.
Stephen Johnson
Ambergris Caye – home to the second largest coral reef system in the world
The coral reef along Ambergris Caye, Belize, is second in size only to the Great Barrier Reef in Australia. Being much more accessible than the great “Down Under” this unique and fragile ecosystem is worthy of a special place on the list.
Peace Garden Toucan
Have a toucan on your arm – the Peace Garden at La Paz, Costa Rica
Everyone has seen these colorful, comical birds but have you ever had one on your arm? At the Peace Garden, La Paz, Costa Rica, getting up close and personal with these multi-colored creatures is easier than you might imagine and certainly something that is not an everyday occurrence.
Steven Depolo
Rainforest adventures – zip-lining, hiking, waterfalls, and animals
Central America has wonderful opportunities to visit rainforests throughout the region. Zip-lining, hiking to secluded waterfalls, horseback rides through the jungle and seeing exotic birds, monkeys, sloths, and many other creatures in their natural state makes this a true bucket list item to be experienced and treasured.
Johnathan Nightingale
Monteverde Cloud Forest – home of the Resplendent Quetzal
Perhaps the best know cloud forest in the world, the Monteverde Cloud Forest has a charming and rare resident–the Resplendent Quetzal. Discovering this regal bird in the stunning backdrop of a cloud forest is a special treat that should be included in any bucket list. Stand on the Continental Divide with one foot on the Caribbean side and the other on the Pacific-something that can’t be done any place else.
Ari Bronstein
Deep sea fishing
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to have a blue marlin on the end of your line, fighting you every step of the way? Deep Sea Fishing in Costa can fulfill this “bucket list” wish; tuna, wahoo, sailfish and, or course, the mighty Marlin are all there waiting for the right angler and the right moment–a moment that can be yours.
Steven Gerner
A sea turtle haven – Tortugero, Costa Rica
For the nature lover, visiting the spawning and hatching ground for sea turtles can be a special item on a bucket list. Tortugero, on the Caribbean side of Costa Rica is the place where green, leatherback, and the rare hawkbill turtles can be seen nesting and hatching in the cycle of life. The National Park is also home to jaguars, tapirs, macaws, and monkeys.
Elena G.
The haunted island of San Lucas, Costa Rica
If paranormal investigation is part of your bucket list, the former prison island of San Lucas, Costa Rica will fulfill this desire. Long known as a haunted location, San Lucas has been featured on television and on numerous sites about ghost hunting. Bring your recorders and cameras and see if you can capture the spirits said to still remain there.
Lee Shaver
The Central America Bucket List – getting there is easy
Central America is readily accessible from the U.S. and Europe. Regularly scheduled flights to and from major jumping off points such as San Jose, Costa Rica, Panama City, Panama, Managua, Nicaragua, and Guayaquil, Ecuador–to name but a few–make getting to those bucket list locations convenient and affordable.
There are many tours and travel packages that are available that can be tailored to meet every desire and wallet size. Exploring and experiencing the wonders of Central America has never been easier.
The Central America Bucket List – living there is easy as well
As you explore, check off, and add items on your particular “Central America bucket list” you may discover that the best way to do and see everything is to actually live in Central America. With so many options available–from lots, homes, apartments, condos, and even commercial properties–living in Central America can be a desirable alternative to traveling and can place you in the heart of the experiences and adventures of a lifetime.
Good news if you’re an expat living in Latin America or if you’re thinking about making the jump: safety and security is improving in numerous regions, according to several key criteria. A recent Gallup Law and Order Index looked at local perception of crime in each Latin American nation and found several countries had made big jumps in safety.
Irving Martínez
Why is this particular survey significant?
Because it is based on residents’ personal experience with criminal elements and their feelings about how secure they are in engaging in day-to-day activity. Rather than relying on a third-party assessment, this survey used face-to-face and phone interviews to get down to the local level to see what’s really happening.
The Gallup Law and Order Index examined perceptions from 2013 and compared them to data from 2009. Three main points were considered:
- Confidence in the local police force
- Feeling of safety walking alone at night
- Incidents of property or money stolen from the participant or family member within the last 12 months
So, what did the results show?
Panama is tied at the top as the safest country in the region and went up seven points in its score over the last four years. This should come as no surprise to expats who are already enjoying the pristine beaches and undisturbed jungle of Panama’s more rural areas or to those who have flocked to Panama City, making it a premium retirement destination.
Nicaragua tied with Panama as the safest perceived country in Latin America, up nine points from 2009. Both nations have experienced marked economic growth and a decrease in crime and political violence. Rounding out the top four were Chile (up seven points) and Ecuador.
Ecuador is a fantastic study in what can be accomplished in a relatively short time to both decrease actual crime statistics and boost public opinion about security. President Rafael Correa attributes his nation’s 14-point leap in the Gallup rankings to a three-tiered approach to fighting crime:
- Increased emphasis on arms control
- Widespread judiciary reform
- Improved methods for the capturing of criminals
Ecuador’s new ECU-911 system, implemented in 2012, plays a large part in this. The program coordinates national police, firefighters, armed forces, and transit authorities, as well as other government ministries and organizations, in order to respond immediately to emergencies.
Ana Freitas
The implications are important
The implications of the Gallup Law and Order Index are important not just to your personal safety, but to global economics as well.
Let’s get macro here for a second. A country’s annual gross domestic product (GDP) is basically the sum of what everyone in that country earned in the course of a year or what they spent in a year (those two sums should be about equal). GDP is therefore a primary measure of the health of any nation’s economy.
What happens when crime goes up? GDP goes down. Tourism is reduced, police costs rise, and there is a significant loss of income from incarcerated or otherwise non-participating individuals. Gang-related crime preys on this economic vulnerability, and local businesses suffer. Moreover, foreign investors run the other way, as a bad economy is no place to put their money. The cycle continues, and it can be devastating for a country until they figure out how to turn it around, largely by decreasing crime.
Jurgen Proschinger
That’s all well and good, but what does this mean for you?
If you’re going be investing your hard-earned cash in a foreign economy, you want it to be a stable one where crime is on the downturn and GPD is climbing. This is one of the reasons Panama continues to be so popular right now. It’s been steadily raising its GDP over the last decade and is predicted by the IMF to remain solid.
The Gallup Law and Order Index confirms what many people intuitively feel about crime and macroeconomic growth. Furthermore, the survey’s use of direct contact with the participants lends it a high confidence level (95%) that may not be achievable in other less objective studies conducted by local government or police.
It’s important, too, to look at the overall trends in this survey, rather than just pure rankings. Latin America as a region has improved since 2009. And look at the numbers for Colombia and Costa Rica, for example. Colombia is now perceived as being as safe as Costa Rica. Does that make Costa Rica any less safe? No, it simply points to the strides that Colombia has made in improving its safety and security.
While there are still pocket of violence in Honduras, Guatemala, and Mexico (particularly in the U.S. border regions of the latter), overall things are looking promising for Latin America. Knowing how the locals feel about their personal safety is the first step in addressing crime issues that have far-reaching effects on both the macro- and microeconomic level.
Long known for its eco-friendly tourism and as a surfing mecca, Costa Rica is gaining a reputation for undersea adventure as well. Scuba diving Costa Rica is attracting a whole new group of pura vida explorers seeking to experience the treasures of the deep.
Scuba Diving in Costa Rica
Scuba Diving Costa Rica – A New and Thriving Dive Destination
Life in Costa Rica has long been geared toward an eco-friendly and sustainable culture. In 2007, the government declared that it wanted to be carbon-neutral by 2021. This has led to increased interest in ocean life, both above and below the surface.
Scuba enthusiasts have recently discovered the great potential for underwater adventures that exist in Costa Rica. As infrastructure improvements have made access to the Southern Pacific region that much easier, experienced and novice divers are making their way to prime dive locations.
The Best Locations for Scuba Diving in Costa Rica
The Pacific Coast of Costa Rica has become a vibrant and exciting scuba diving playground. From the resort areas of Guanacaste to the rustic and untouched beaches of the Southern Pacific zone, divers are enjoying the sites and adventures that await beneath the surface.
Scuba Diving in Costa Rica
Here, in no particular order, is a list of the best dive spots in the land of Pura Vida:
Playas Del Coco: Home to the first PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) five star location in Costa Rica, this resort community has become a major hub for diving expeditions in the Gulf of Papagayo.
Cabo Blanco/Montezuma: In addition to being the first natural reserve established in Costa Rica, the Cabo Blanco Absolute Natural Reserve includes 18 hectares of ocean. With the abundance and diversity of the marine life in the area, divers will find plenty to see and experience in the course of their diving adventures.
Tortuga Island: A 40 minute boat ride from Herradura Bay will bring divers to this haven of underwater canyons and caves. Average depths of 30-50 feet make this a great location for less experienced individuals who still want to view the unique and diverse underwater habitat.
Bat Islands: During the months of May to November, divers flock to the Bat Islands area to experience some of the most exciting scuba experiences in Costa Rica. In an area known as “Big Scare”, divers can get up close and personal with bull sharks – some as large as six to seven meters long. This is the only spot in Costa Rica to dive with these ocean predators.
Another unique feature of the Bat Islands area are the Giant Pacific Mantas. These ocean-going “bats” and the smaller, devil rays, can provide divers with a once in a lifetime experience.
Catalina Islands: Like the Bat Islands, the Catalina Islands are easily accessible and filled with sea life. Since the dives are non-anchored, they are recommended for more experienced and certified individuals.
Cano Island: Thirteen miles from Drake Bay lies Cano Island. This largely undeveloped location has some of the best diving in the entire country. Being a protected marine park makes for a wonderful opportunity to see reef sharks, eels, and a wide variety of undersea life.
Cocos Island: Believed to be the home of the largest schools of hammerhead sharks on the planet, Cocos Island National Park is one of the premier scuba diving locations in the world. Located 300 miles off the Costa Rican mainland, this remote diver’s paradise is accessible by fully equipped dive boats that schedule week-and-a-half tours.
Aside from the natural treasures lying beneath the waves, legend holds that the island may contain three of the world’s largest caches of riches. The entire horde of Lima’s riches are said to be buried there to escape Bolivar and his men in 1821.
Martin van Gestel
Wreck Diving in Costa Rica
For those divers who like the thrill of exploring the remains of sunken vessels, Costa Rica has a number of wreck diving locations. With dates that range from the 170os through modern times, these wrecks offer a unique undersea experience.
Tortuga Island/Montezuma Wreck Sites: The only location in Costa Rica with three wrecks that are available for diving. The Caroline Star is a great wreck for advanced divers; the Franklin Chan Diaz, a former Costa Rican Coast Guard vessel is 95 feet in length and rests at 75 feet. Another Coast Guard ship, the Coronel Alfonso Monge is in about 50 feet of water.
Cahuita Wrecks: Within the nearly 600 acres in the national park are two shipwrecks. The premier attraction is the Spanish galleon from the 1700s, a scant six meters below the water’s surface. Cahuita is also the location of Costa Rica’s best coral reef.
Limon/Isla Uvita: This is the resting place of the Fenix, a cargo ship that sank off the island. This is one of the few wreck sites on the Caribbean side of Costa Rica.
Playas Del Coco: There are two small wrecks, one a fishing boat, the other a sail boat off the coast from Playas del Coco. The dive sites, known as Meros and Tortuga, are both in fairly shallow (40-60 feet) water.
53Flickr
Scuba Diving in Costa Rica Isn’t Just for Experienced Divers
If you are interested in a scuba diving adventure but have little or no experience, Costa Rica’s growing diving population may be your doorway to adventure. With the number of PADI locations growing throughout the country, finding a beginner’s instruction course is easier than one might think.
Courses can be as basic as a one day, non-certification class that can provide an introduction to the adventurous world of scuba diving. Additionally, most centers offer certification/recertification options for more experienced individuals.
The thrill of seeing life undersea can add a perspective not gained elsewhere. Costa Rica is making the world of scuba diving a true pura vida experience.
You may think that owning island property in the Latin tropics isn’t possible within the budget you’ve set for your expat home abroad.
Prepare to be pleasantly surprised.
It’s true that, due to its high demand, island property may tend to run a little on the pricey side. (After all, there is only a finite amount of it available.) But, depending on the level of development and the number of amenities you’re seeking, it’s entirely possible to find remote real estate to fit any budget.
In fact, check out these 10 places you can own an island, or at least a nice-sized chunk of one, for $500,000 or less.
Alligator Caye, Belize: $99,000
Just reduced from $169,000, this property includes 10.7 acres on the southern end of Alligator Caye. It’s off the coast of Belize, slightly north of the town of Dangriga. The Belize Barrier Reef, the second largest in the world, lies just a few hundred yards in front of the property.
It can be reached by boat in 30 minutes from Dangriga or just 45 minutes from Belize City. A lagoon on the back of the island, to which the property has access, offers sheltered boat mooring.
This completely undeveloped island is a blank canvas in a popular area near the country’s largest tourist attraction, the reef. The area has been designated as a World Heritage Site due to its ecological importance. It’s also a great spot for fishing.
Boca Chica, Panama: $199,000 – $449,000
Video of a Glass House for Sale on Boca Chica Island
Boca Chica Island is a gem of a destination located just off Panama’s Pacific Coast in the Gulf of Chiriqui. Surrounded by over 50 mostly uninhabited islands, as well as some of the world’s best sport fishing, it’s currently one of the hottest places in the country to buy property. And it’s our only island project.
This is due largely in part to the newly expanded international airport in David, a number of other large infrastructure projects, and some really incredible scenery. It’s a beautiful place to call home, and it’s an even better place to invest in real estate.
There aren’t a ton of lots still available in the island’s Adventure Colony development, but what’s left is still a great bargain. You can get three acres full of old growth coconut trees, with a level spot that’s already been cleared for a home site, for only $199,000. It sits at the corner of a sandy beach and offers access to a private dock, as well as its own fresh water well.
Also on the island is a contemporary home with three bedrooms and two baths that comes complete with a fully modern kitchen, a solar power system, premium finishes, custom furniture, and air conditioning throughout. Its private dock is right in front of the home, which sits on .75 acres.
It also has a freshwater spring, a large storage bodega, and mature fruit trees. There’s even a caretaker who can continue to provide service to the property if you so choose. All this can be yours for only $449,000.
Belize Tropical Caye
South Saddle Caye, Belize: $300,000
Located off the southern tip of larger Saddle Caye, this island property offers a whopping 2.3 acres, making it a steal of a deal. The island has tons of coral along its southern and eastern shore lines.
On the eastern side, there’s a steep drop-off to over 50 feet, making it great for snorkeling. The western side has a shallow entrance that slopes quite gradually and is perfect for swimming in the beautiful water that’s characteristic of the area.
The western shore also has a great sandy area that would make a great beach after a bit of much-needed clearing. There are large black mangroves in many spots across the island, indicating a solid footing for building.
View from Cay, Satanoid
Secret Island, Belize: $350,000
Located just seven miles off the coast of Belize, Secret Island is a Caribbean getaway that offers loads of potential. At 2.5 acres, it offers plenty of room to build a few houses. There’s also a great beach and a deep cove to allow for a dock.
You would likely need to sand fill the island, in order to have a solid base for construction. Since it’s close to the mainland (roughly a 20-minute boat ride), the transport of building materials would be relatively simple.
The island’s landscape is remarkable with red and black mangroves surrounding it. The water is shallow, only knee deep at 30 yards out in some places. The island offers views of the mainland, as well as several other islands that are within a mile away, and the entire area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Island in Lake Nicaragua, Kristian Golding
Granada, Nicaragua: $350,000
This small island is located in Lake Nicaragua, the largest freshwater lake in Central America. At just under a quarter of an acre, it has just enough space to hold a large three-bedroom, four-bath home and gardens with mature coconut trees.
The home has several terraces and a system for heating water from the fresh water well. There’s also a caretaker already on staff. The home is just five minutes from the nearest dock and 45 minutes from the capital of Managua.
Turneffe Point Caye, Serge Melki
Turneffe Point Caye, Belize: $350,000
With a whole acre to develop as you choose, this island on the north tip of Turneffe Atoll is a real bargain. It’s protected by the Belize Barrier Reef, which lies just 500 yards away. As a result, the water around the island is calm, even on the windiest of Caribbean days.
For access, the island is 28 miles away from Belize City, making it the perfect secluded destination. In addition to exploring the reef, it’s also a great spot to enjoy flats fishing.
Isla Paloma
Isla Paloma, Panama: $400,000
This .25 acre island is located in the peaceful Isla Paloma off Panama’s Caribbean coast, near Bocas del Toro. It has a white sand beach and too many varieties of fruit trees to name. It’s surrounded by a shallow lagoon and mangroves that help protect the island from erosion.
There’s little tide fluctuation and no history of hurricanes in this area. The island enjoys a mild tropical climate (averaging around 80 degrees). It’s also fully self-powered with its own water source, allowing for the possibility of year-round living or use as an income property.
The home itself has two bedrooms and one bath, plus a loft space. It’s fully furnished and includes all kitchen equipment, electronics, linens, and decor. Outside there’s a beautiful garden, party shack, and swim dock for entertaining.
The boathouse has five boat slips (two covered) and includes a 26′ panga style boat with an 85 hp Yamaha engine. There are also water sport toys and equipment, such as skiis, snorkel gear, ropes, life jackets, and a canoe. The separate workshop also comes with all the hand and power tools you’ll need to keep up the property.
Supplies can be obtained from the local town of Loma Partida, which has groceries, hardware stores, restaurants, and some activities. The nearest regional airport is 25 minutes away.
Roatan, Honduras: $469,000
Located on the popular island of Roatan, this property includes a well-constructed two-bedroom home, plus a separate apartment, that’s the perfect place to launch your very own sport fishing or aquatic excursion company. In fact, the current owners have already laid all the groundwork for a successful tourism operation.
The home includes high end finishes and an updated kitchen with modern appliances. There are two more bedrooms in the lower level apartment that has its own private entrance and patio.
As if this weren’t enough, the home also includes a tricked out boathouse, complete with a full kitchen and barbecue area, four private docks, and plenty of areas for lounging. There are two boat lifts, an overhead deck, and tons of storage.
If a tourism business is in your plans, the owners have their successful charter business for sale. Other income options include rental of one of several boat slips or of the downstairs apartment. The possibilities with this property are literally endless.
Bocas del Toro, Jacob Kirkland
Isle of Navarro, Panama: $500,000
This island is located out from Dolphin Bay near beautiful Bocas del Toro. In addition to the generous nine acres of dry island, there’s also a 2800 square foot house that’s built out over the water in the popular style of the area. There’s also a separate residence that can be used for guests or a caretaker.
The island is covered in lush vegetation, which includes pineapple plants, coconut palms, orchids, and banana and papaya trees. It also comes with a 26′ boat with 40 hp motor as well as two generators for power.
Among its other amenities include the island’s proximity (only five minutes by boat) from Bocas del Toro, the country’s top tourist destination.
Nicaragua Island, Steve Summers
Pink Pearl Island, Nicaragua: $500,000
One of the Pearl Cays, this two acre island is only three miles off Nicaragua’s Caribbean coast. Although it could also work as a private personal retreat, the property is currently being used as a tourist business, making it the perfect turnkey property for the entrepreneurial expat.
The options are endless, as the area is great for both sport fishing and scuba diving. It’s a beautiful piece of property with turquoise waters and white sand beaches. It’s protected by the surrounding reefs and other islands and covered in lush flora and fauna.
Structures on the island include three cabanas, each with two double beds and a private bath, an eight-person bunk house with shower room, and a circular main house with a downstairs kitchen and living area and an upstairs master suite with a balcony that offers 360 degree views of the island. There’s also a restaurant/bar with bamboo tables and chairs and a workers’ cabin with kitchen and bedroom space.
The island is easily accessible by boat, but you can also charter a helicopter from Managua or the nearby Bluefields or Corn Islands. There’s a pier on the front of the island, and the purchase includes a 25′, 150 hp speedboat, “The Black Pearl.”
Other features include a heart-shaped swimming pool and a small bamboo beach shower. The property is powered by a 5500-watt generator and is wired for cable and phone service.
So, don’t give upon your dream of owning an island just yet. Check out our island real estate listings to see what’s available, or ask us how we can help.
M+M Photographers
If the country’s crime rate is the thing that’s keeping Honduras real estate off the list of properties you’re considering abroad, then I have some good news for you.
It’s not that the Honduras crime rate is lower than what you’ve heard. (If anything the situation is probably way worse.) But fortunately, the problem areas are all a considerable distance from where you’ll find the most desirable Honduras real estate.
So just how bad is crime in Honduras?
I’m not going to sugarcoat or gloss over the statistics. Honduras has a very real crime problem. In fact, it has the highest rate of intentional homicide in the entire world, at 82 out of every 100,000 people. That number is even drastically higher than neighboring El Salvador which, as the second highest homicide rate, only experiences 66 homicides per 100,000 deaths.
There are a number of factors that contribute to these high rates of crime and murder.
For starters, the country is extremely poor. Its education system is only so-so, and it experiences a high rate of unemployment. Gangs are common, particularly among youth, and the apprehension and conviction rates of offenders is low.
One of the largest contributors to the country’s crime problem is its role as a major drug route to the U.S. The illegal drug trade in Honduras is prevalent and has gained steam in recent years following the 2009 coup d’état of then president Manuel Zelaya, at which point the U.S. suspended anti-drug support.
What are the areas to avoid?
Despite the crime problems that do exist, potential expats and visitors to Honduras will be happy to know that these conditions are not homogenous throughout the country as a whole. In fact, there’s a stark difference between mainland Honduras and the Caribbean islands, which are the areas most frequented by travelers.
That’s not to say that crime can’t happen anywhere. It can, and it does. No place in the world is exempt. But in general, there are two major areas to steer clear of when traveling in the country or shopping for Honduras real estate.
San Pedro Sula
With the highest murder rate on earth, as of 2014, San Pedro Sula is the country’s second largest city. Located near the country’s Caribbean coast, its homicides recently topped that of Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, another city that’s plagued with crime related to drug and gang activity.
It’s home to Ramón Villeda Morales International Airport, so visitors flying into the country’s mainland are advised to use caution when traveling. Busloads of tourists have been known to fall victim to robberies, sometimes by armed hijackers.
Francisco Morazan Department
Home to Tegucigalpa, the nation’s capital, this department (similar to a U.S. county) is another place to avoid in Honduras. Located in the central part of the nation, it’s considered to be the most violent department overall.
Thankfully the area, which is quite mountainous, has little to offer tourists. Some of the highest peaks house cloud forests, such as Cerro Uyuca or La Tigra National Park. The northern portion of the department is home to the Jicaque people.
Now for the good news
It doesn’t sound much like I’m trying to convince you to consider making a home in Honduras, does it? In fact, if anything, I’ve probably only confirmed your reservations about the Central American nation and its increasing crime problem. But here’s the good news.
John Colby
A completely different world awaits you out on the Caribbean islands of Honduras.
There you’ll find pristine beaches, a stunning tropical landscape with exotic flora and fauna, the world’s second largest reef system, a well-developed tourist infrastructure, a vibrant expat community, and almost any modern convenience you can think of, and virtually no violent crime to speak of.
Are the Bay Islands, including Roatan, crime-free?
Like I said, there’s no place on earth that’s a complete paradise, free of any crime. However, the difference between the crime rates on Honduras’ mainland and its Caribbean islands, such as the increasingly-popular Roatan, is extremely refreshing. Here are a few key reasons for the contrast.
- Access to the islands is limited. People who visit Roatan and the other islands can only arrive through a limited number of controlled access points: the airport, the cruise docks, or the ferry from the mainland (whose passengers must pass through a metal detector). However, it should be noted that Roatan can also be reached fairly easily from the mainland by small, private watercraft.
- Numerous steps have been taken to prevent crime on Roatan and the other islands. Police stops on Roatan are common, as the island only has one main road. There’s also a naval base on the island of Guanaja, which the U.S. constructed to help combat drug trafficking. Two more are also under construction on the mainland’s Caribbean coast.
- A special police force exists specifically to protect the safety of tourists. They’re mostly on foot, but as a result of their presence most tourist areas tend to be safe, even after dark.
- Private guards can be hired for reasonable prices. Most people who own expensive homes, especially if they’re remote or only used seasonally, hire guards to watch their property while they’re away.
- A little common sense goes a long way. Any crime that does occur in Honduras’ more heavily touristed areas typically involves minor crimes like pickpocketing or petty theft. Much of this can be avoided by walking in well-lit areas, keeping valuables out of sight, sticking together with a group, relying on native guides who know the area, and avoiding remote beaches or slums at night.
Roatan and the other islands do have their occasional issues, but they’re few and far between. For example, home invasions by armed intruders have occurred in some remote homes. Travelers on the unpaved road from Punta Gorda have fallen victim to robbers. Paya Bay, on the eastern side of the island has seen its share of thefts as well.
In general, the island’s western end is much more developed and, consequently, safer than the more isolated eastern end. Coxen Hole, the island’s largest city, has a low-lying area called “the swamp” that’s littered with slums and is unsafe at night.
Roger Wollstadt
Why you’ll never have to worry about leaving the islands for the mainland
So, it sounds like the islands are about as safe as you can get for a developing nation. But, how can you be sure you’ll never find yourself having to travel to the mainland where the more serious crime problem exists? Here’s your answer.
Roatan is accessible by direct flight from the U.S.
Roatan’s Juan Manuel Galvez International Airport is nice, modern, and receives direct flights from the U.S. (as well as a number of other nations) via several major airlines such as American, Continental, Delta, Taca, and Iberia. Because of its close Caribbean location, you can even be there in a few short hours from cities like Miami or Houston.
There are also regional flights from the mainland, as well as a ferry. But, with such readily available air access from abroad, you likely won’t ever need to use either.
Once you arrive you probably won’t ever have to leave
When visiting or even living on Roatan or one of the other Bay Islands, you’ll likely find everything you need in the way of consumer goods and services. On Roatan, the cities of Coxen Hole and French Harbour, the two main commercial towns, have all the basic establishments you could expect.
There are supermarkets, banks, hardware stores, and more. There are public and private hospitals and even a decompression chamber for divers. Among the franchises represented on the islands are Subway, Ace Hardware, Wendy’s, and Applebee’s.
If you can’t find what you need on the islands, there are also a number of shipping centers where you can have goods shipped over from the U.S.
There are also options for those seeking a bit of solitude amidst all of this tourist development. Though it has plenty of modern amenities and conveniences, there are parts of Roatan that are still relatively untouched. You can find quaint little fishing villages and even miles-long stretches of deserted beaches. There are even a few villages that still don’t have electricity.
And I can guarantee you certainly won’t WANT to leave
For starters there are the spectacular scenic views and abundance of nature that are sure to hold your attention. Roatan’s varied topography includes sandy white beaches, jungle-covered mountains, and shadowy mangroves. And it’s all surrounded by the second largest reef system in the world.
Due to the prevalent reefs, many of which stretch almost to the shore, Roatan is a world-class diving and snorkeling destination. Around it lie some of the most species-rich waters in the entire Caribbean, much of which are protected by the Honduran government. There you can swim through caverns and canyons or just hang out closer to the surface and still enjoy incredible visibility in the clear waters.
You’ll also find tropical forests full of fruit trees, ferns, orchids, and palms. The islands are home to 12 species of mammal, including white-tailed deer. You can also find 40 species of reptiles, including lizards, frogs, and endangered sea turtles, but only one species of poisonous snake. Add to that around 120 species of birds, including hummingbirds, woodpeckers, ibis, pelicans, and the yellow-nape parrot, and Roatan is a nature lover’s paradise.
The temps hover around 80 degrees, with constant trade winds that make it feel slightly cooler. The rainfall totals are manageable, with most falling between December and February, and what the islands do get helps keep everything lush and green.
There’s even plenty to entertain the adrenaline junkie
I talked about the diving, but that’s by far not the only reason people come to live or play on Roatan. Adventure loving expats can also go kayaking or even sailing. The sport fishing is top notch, with anglers reeling in tuna, marlin, and tarpon. The more laid-back fisherman can even go fly fishing in the mangroves and sand flats.
On land, there are dozens of places to go hiking or exploring. Tour companies offer zip-line canopy tours, horseback riding, and other guided tours of the island. There are also mangrove tours and glass-bottom boats. You can swim with dolphins, dive with whale sharks, or hop aboard a submarine that dives to depths of 2,000 feet.
For more easy-going family-friendly outings, there are botanical gardens, a hydroponics farm, and an iguana farm. You can also travel to Punta Gorda to spend time with the Garifuna people, an indigenous tribe of Afro-Caribbean descent. And don’t forget about one of the most popular hobbies of all…relaxing on the beach.
Adalberto.H.Vega
Honduras real estate that’s currently available
Here are a few examples of what you can get if you don’t shy away from Honduras real estate and the magnificent Bay Islands just because of the horrible (but true) things you’ve heard about the crime problem on the mainland:
- For $184,000, you can buy a 3 bedroom home in the development of Green Bamboo in West End. It comes fully furnished and includes outdoor living space, a pool, and a short walk to the beach.
- Your $219,000 gets you a 3 bedroom, 3 bath home overlooking Anthony’s Key, complete with furnishings, numerous upgrades, and even an SUV for traveling around the island. This gated oceanfront property has been recently renovated, with 2 tiled decks, an alarm system, and beautiful landscaping.
- With $579,000 you can own two homes on 1.8 acres of seaside property inside the Sandy bay marine reserve. It boasts panoramic ocean views, 130 feet of beachfront, and a short drive to all the popular tourist hotspots.
Aren’t you glad you didn’t dismiss Honduras real estate too hastily?
Does all of this sound starkly different than the mainland I described earlier in the article? It should. Because it is.
Mainland Honduras is a poverty-stricken, crime-laden third-world nation. Its Bay Islands are a well-developed tourist mecca with all the modern conveniences and a refreshingly laid-back Caribbean beach town vibe.
Don’t let the former steer you away from the latter. Learn more about Roatan and the surrounding islands, or I’m afraid you might be sorry you missed out on a great opportunity.
Map of Roatan, Honduras
Roatan, Honduras Fast Facts
- Population: 50,000
- Typical temperature: From 80 to 88 degrees Fahrenheit
- Nearest airport with U.S. flights: Juan Manuel Gálvez International Airport
- Nearest U.S. consulate: Tegucigalpa, Honduras
Ecuador stands out as one of the leading Latin American countries in terms of health care opportunities. Though there is occasionally a rift between regulations and reality, the country constantly seeks to improve its current policies; the constitution itself guarantees the right to health care! Several different options for coverage are available to expats relocating to Ecuador.
DIBP images
Option 1: Go Public
For four decades, Ecuador’s public health care options received generally critical reviews from its constituents. However, in 2008, the government decided to give the system a makeover and between 2000 and 2014 the country jumped from 111th on the world’s list of “countries with most efficient health care” to 20th. Meanwhile, the US currently sits at the 46th spot on the list. Public insurance is handled through the Social Security Administration (IESS).
How Does It Work?
Those that participate in the public health care system will enjoy all medical procedures, screenings, and medications completely free of charge. Clinics require that affiliates schedule routine visits by phone, and emergency needs will be fulfilled by the nearest hospital. When a hospital is unable to perform the procedure required, the state will transfer the patient to a capable private hospital, and cover all charges.
IESS-Yes: Becoming a Member
No one is automatically enrolled in the program; they must physically visit the office and register to become a member. As long as payments are met, members will remain in good status until the end of their lives. Applicants that are older than 65 will not be considered for acceptance. The monthly cost is adjusted as needed so that it reflects 21.5% of the average wage, which right now sits at about $60/month.
The Downside
Though virtually unlimited free health care sounds great at first, a large number of residents have taken advantage of it, resulting in very long lines and scaled-back service. In addition, public facilities often do not receive enough funds and have to redirect patients requiring more expensive treatments. Finally, since health care professionals’ salaries are regulated by the government and not dependent upon their patient base, some have neglected to improve their practice or become specialists.
Municipio Pinas Ecuador
Option 2: Private Insurance
While Ecuador has a multitude of private carriers that currently operate in it, such as Confiamed, Salud, and Años Dorados, they are less often used than the public system. Still, shoppers have a little more customizability with these options. For example, Salud offers tiers of plans: level 1 has the most basic form of coverage with a low monthly fee and higher deductibles.
The coverage options extend all the way up to level 7, which includes private hospital rooms, a life insurance policy, and a cancer rider. Cuenca News conducted a survey of Ecuadorians regarding their insurance coverage that contains a wealth of testimonials useful in distinguishing among plans.
How Much Will I Pay?
Of course, premiums will vary a great deal depending on what the plan covers. On the low end, a company called Coopera offers a monthly fee under $3.00, but all medical purchases will have some amount covered by the purchaser. Salud, Latin America’s largest insurance company that was mentioned earlier, gives us a more representative example. The average 60-year-old man may expect to pay between $70 and $100 for a middle-grade plan. A comparable plan in the United States would cost over 10 times that amount!
Is Coverage Guaranteed?
In Ecuador pre-existing conditions are considered just as they are in the United States, and private insurers reserve the right to deny coverage based on them. In addition, most require applicants to be under 70 years of age. However, there are still more companies that will cover expenses resulting from pre-existing conditions!
Option 3: Who Needs Insurance?
Many local Ecuadorians choose not to enroll in any insurance programs. They pay out-of-pocket for all required procedures and are content doing so. As is always the case, patients must demonstrate the ability to cover their charges before admission; for non-subscribers, this basically means handing them a credit card or cash instead of an insurance card.
Self-insurance might be a good idea, and can be done by allocating a bit of money each month to cover any health expenses. It is safe to say that most expats in Ecuador choose not to have either health insurance option simply because the costs are so much lower. In many larger cities, alternative health care options, such as homeopathic and naturopathic medicine, are also in place.
Present, But Not Prolific
Ecuador has quality health care, but remember that it does not exist everywhere. Smaller areas may have a limited scope of capabilities or minimal stock of fairly simple items like crutches. Still, they should be able to handle regular care and minor issues. Larger cities, on the other hand, will have exponentially more traffic traveling through their doors and may not be able to see you unless it is an emergency. The benefit of those areas is their more modern facilities and training. Potential expats should self-assess their current medical state to determine which region of the country, if any, is right for them.
Potential Regional Medical Issues
Immunizations play a major role in ensuring a family’s health as they travel to Ecuador. The most important are for tetanus, hepatitis A and B, typhus, yellow fever, diphtheria, rabies, and pertussis. Insects present the most danger to those that have not developed any resistances to their diseases.
But don’t worry too much; despite the fact that most regions have year-round malaria risks, there are only 686 cases per 100,000 residents. Dengue, also carried by mosquitos, is a concern as well. The main defense against these pests is a combination of well-covering, bright attire and copious amounts of repellant on exposed skin.
What Have We Learned?
Ecuador makes for a great place to retire, in large part thanks to its stellar health care system. All coverage options are equally viable for expats, and should be determined on a case-by-case basis for each person depending on his or her needs and budget. Tell us which one you would pick in the comments section below!
Samoano
So why haven’t you already settled on your expat destination in Central America? What’s keeping you from pulling the trigger and beginning your official house hunt in your own tropical paradise?
Maybe you’ve fallen in love with a place you recently vacationed, but just aren’t sure you can see yourself living there full time. Perhaps you’re settled on a remote island destination, while your spouse wants something a little closer to civilization.
It could even be that you’re having trouble finding a place that meets all your “must-haves,” or at least one that does so without totally breaking the bank.
Have you tried Roatan, Honduras?
Let me introduce you to the quaint Caribbean island that literally checks off every box on the list of most potential expats. It’s Roatan, Honduras.
This established expat destination, named the #1 island to retire to in 2011 by Island Magazine, excels in pretty much every way possible and represents the perfect balance in so many important categories.
Note I didn’t say that Roatan “offers something for everybody.” A lot of destinations make that claim, and it’s often a good indicator that they dabble a little bit in all the things important to tourists and expats, without really doing any of them all that well.
By contrast, Roatan meets or exceeds even the highest expectations in every classification, no matter what your preference. Often the yin to its own yang, there are few expats who won’t find what they (or the rest of their families) are looking for somewhere on this 30-mile long island paradise.
Kayla Sawyer
Roatan, Honduras, is easy to get to, but still feels worlds away.
Many would-be expats want an island home, but not the hassle of taking a plane, a bus, and a boat to get there and back every time they go back to visit family or just need a new washing machine or some more of their favorite brand of breakfast cereal.
That isn’t a problem in Roatan. It has its own international airport right there on the island, with direct flights to the U.S. via several major airlines. You can get from from Houston to Honduras in a mere 2.5 hours, without ever even having to set foot on the mainland.
If you do need to venture over for one of the few consumer items you can’t find on the island, there’s a reliable, safe, and inexpensive ferry that can take you to the mainland port of La Ceiba in just an hour.
However, despite its accessibility, Roatan is an island destination through and through. It offers amazing scenery, a slower pace of life, and a shirt-and-shoes-optional tropical culture that quickly makes you forget how easy it is to get back to the hustle and bustle of the rest of the world.
Marc AuMarc
You can do as much or as little as you want with your time.
Although not totally overrun by tourists, the island of Roatan has a thriving tourism industry. Largely due to the wealth of natural attractions that both cover and surround the island, the abundant opportunities for adventure ensure that you’re never bored.
Just off the island’s shores lies the world’s second largest barrier reef, the largest in the Western Hemisphere. It offers over 130 easily accessible snorkeling and dive sites, including shipwrecks and Mayan artifacts, and the chance to see numerous species of tropical marine life.
You can also go kayaking or hop to one of the other Bay Islands. There are sport fishing charters, mangroves to explore, and many other aquatic adventures.
The land loving adventurer can enjoy zip lining through the canopy, visiting a wildlife refuge, riding ATVs through the jungle, or even visiting a local Garifuna village to see how these natives live. There are also plenty of dining, nightlife, and shopping options.
For the expat who’s looking to slow down and spend more of their time relaxing, maybe even in solitude, that’s also entirely possible in Roatan. This may seem next to impossible on a small island frequented by a number of tourists and cruise ships. However, the island as a whole is not densely populated.
While the West End is hopping with activity, there are many areas of the island, such as the northern shores, where you can find a long stretch of isolated beach that you can enjoy all to yourself.
There are villages that still don’t have electricity and roadside markets and shops that are more in keeping with the authentic experience you’d find on the mainland. To many expats, this is a nice contrast from the souvenir vendors and thatched roof bars in the more heavily-touristed areas.
Timothy Wildey
Roatan offers authentic culture, with enough familiarity to make you feel immediately at home.
Finding a place with the right amount of North American influence is one area where many expats struggle to achieve the right balance. The equilibrium in Roatan is a good one.
While not completely overrun with tourists and other expats, there is certainly a well-established expat community in Roatan. There are also plenty of individuals of Caribbean, European, and African descent, which makes for a refreshing blend of diverse cultures. And they’re all quite friendly.
In terms of languages, you’ll hear a lot of English, as well as Spanish and even the traditional Garifuna language. And while you won’t see a Walmart or any of the universal golden arches, there are plenty of businesses and services to meet your consumer needs, such as an Ace Hardware and several excellent local supermarkets.
Whether you’re after the active lifestyle of an established island destination, the tranquility of a remote tropical setting, or the absolute best of both of those worlds, don’t settle for less until you give Roatan a try.
Perhaps Lonely Planet said it best when they called the beaches of Roatan “pitch perfect.” Neither too much nor too little, this island destination is just right.
Map of Roatan
Roatan Fast Facts
- Population: 50,000
- Typical temperature: From 80 to 88 degrees Fahrenheit
- Nearest airport with U.S. flights: Juan Manuel Gálvez International Airport
- Nearest U.S. consulate: Tegucigalpa, Honduras
Viva Tropical Radio
Everything you need to know about Panama residency, visas, and beyond. Ricardo Faraudo, an attorney from the DENFAB firm, joins the show.
Ricardo specializes in expat immigration and gives details on all the visa options you have when moving to Panama.
There is even one visa which comes with a Panamanian passport, so find out what option is best for you or if you even need to apply for residency.
In this episode, you will learn:
- Do you even need to get residency?
- How to get a Panamanian passport in under 6 months.
- How much does it cost to get residency?
- Which residency option gives you huge discounts on almost everything you buy?
And much more.
Listen to the show
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The Show Notes
- Ricardo’s firm DENFAB
- Contact Ricardo directly: [email protected]
- Or contact the firm: [email protected]
Everyone who has ever dreamed about owning property has, at one point in time, dreamed of owning their own island. Who wouldn’t want to be a Richard Branson, David Copperfield, or Larry Ellison, king or queen of their own domain?
We are here to dispel the myth that you must be a billionaire or world-famous magician to own your own island, or a piece of one. You, too, can own a piece of paradise. Let’s take a look at some amazing island options, right here in Central America.
Joy Drive
Bocas del Toro, Panama
You can own a piece of Isla Popa in the Bocas del Toro island chain off the Atlantic shore of Panama. Discovered by Christopher Columbus in 1502, this chain of islands features plenty of ecotourism opportunities, including Parque Internacional Amistad, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Whether you enjoy diving, surfing, or a beachside piña colada, Bocas del Toro has you covered.
What you can buy
A piece in Isla Popa will set you back $220,000, but that includes 9.1 hectares of land, a 30 ft. deep natural harbor, a two-story, two-bedroom wooden home, and a natural spring with swimming hole.
Gaspar Serrano
Pearl Islands, Panama
Shifting to the Pacific coast of Panama, we find the Pearl Islands. Only thirty miles off the coast of Ciudad de Panama, the most famous and most populated of these islands is Isla Contadora, which features white sand beaches, several bars and restaurants, and a great diving scene.
Want to Move to Paradise?
Think about Isla Del Rey in the Pearl Islands, which offers 130 acres of beachfront land, and can be yours for $4,500,000.
Belizian Way
Stann Creek, Belize
Located in the southeast of Belize, the Stann Creek District features many beautiful parks and reserves, including the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary and Victoria Peak, the second highest mountain in Belize.
Go for the Whole Island
Little Coco Caye in Belize is for sale. This is a five acre island with great diving and fishing. The offer range for your own island is between $365,000 and $395,000.
Bluefield Nicaragua
Bluefields, Nicaragua
The actual town of Bluefields is very developed, with about 50,000 English-speaking citizens within its borders. It is located about 50 minutes by air from Managua, the capital of Nicaragua.
Rustic Island Living
Go rustic in Bluefields where you can purchase a two-bedroom home with generator, septic system, and water, as well as an infinity pool, small caretaker home, cement pier and white-sand beach. This island located an hour by boat from the town of Bluefields, Nicaragua offers up a fully-developed 2.5 acres for $560,000.
Gonzlaught
Pink Pearl Island, Nicaragua
Again located off the Caribbean coast of Nicaragua, Pink Pearl Island features reefs, palm trees, and quite an impressive amount of infrastructure. It’s a great island retreat for a week, month, or as long as you like.
A Vacation Villa Like No Other
Three cabanas on the island can be used for tourism, a ‘shack’ with four bunk beds and a shower room, and a main house with one bedroom, living area, full kitchen, and wraparound balcony. There is also a bar and restaurant on the island. All of this can be yours for $500,000!
knotinvein
Diamond Caye, Honduras
Shifting to the country of Honduras, Diamond Caye is located off the western end of Utila Island, and is non-developed. Like a clean island slate where your imagination can run wild. With 1.43 acres in the Bay Islands, the reef around Diamond Caye is some of the best diving in the Caribbean,
No Rules Apply
This island is only 20 minutes from East Harbour on Utila where you can stock up on necessities and take a moment to embrace society before heading back out to paradise. This tropical dream could be yours for $650,000.
Gregorio
Isla Golfito, Costa Rica
Departing from the white-sanded coasts of the other islands we’ve covered in this article, the Island Golfito is a jungled barrier island, located right in front of the town of Golfito.
Close, Yet Far Enough Away from Civilization
Over two miles long and one mile wild, the island listing offers 34.5 acres of decidedly off-grid living, with the island hosting ‘more monkeys than humans.’ Close enough to the mainland to require only a kayak or rowboat to shore, Island Golfito would be a perfect option for those wanting to get away from it all. And, at a $130,000, the patch of land is quite a steal!
So, What Next?
I’m sure many of you are much more interested in owning a swatch of your own island now that you’ve seen some of the options available all across Central America. Where do you begin?
Start by looking at some islands for sale! And if you just aren’t ready to think about buying an island, here are a whole bunch more properties around Central America.
It is no small wonder that Ecuador was recently named the second most retirement-friendly country on the planet.
With top of the line medical facilities, low procedure costs (only 7-10% of the cost of similar procedures in the U.S. and Europe according to Ecuador’s Investment Corporation), and a Ministry of Public Health avidly focused on continually improving the quality of public and private medical care within its borders: Ecuador has become one of the most well-praised medical tourism destinations for retirees and visitors alike.
But before you book your medical visit abroad, start buying property, or get your Ecuador visa, it’s a good idea to take a deeper glimpse at the medical system you’re about to jump into, and what your expat or visitor status means in a country with a well-rounded national health system, a myriad of admired private and specialist hospitals, and a widespread network of local rural clinics.
The most important thing to consider is location. The majority of significant facilities are located in the three largest cities in Ecuador: Guayaquil, Quito, and Cuenca.
If you suspect you’ll be needing high-tech treatment frequently you might want to stay close to these centers. The rural clinics, though well-lauded for their well-trained staff and the pleasantness of the visit, often have less equipment and fewer staff fluent in English.
Mount Sinai
But that doesn’t mean the urban centers will be any less personal than a local clinic—Ecuador’s hospitals are known as bastions of personalized and amiable care at more than reasonable costs.
In fact, on an international scale, the Ecuador health system was ranked in the top 20 of efficient healthcare systems by the most recent Bloomberg analysis of World Health Organization (WHO) information—a rapid rise up, given that in 2011 Ecuador only ranked 111th on similar scales.
Here’s a quick guide to some of the most well-noted hospitals in Ecuador to expand on the basic information the U.S. Embassy doles out regarding your expat and tourist healthcare choices in Ecuador.
Construdipro
Hospital Alcivar, Guayaquil, Ecuador
Up first is the Hospital Alcivar. The most well-respected and oldest continual hospital in Ecuador, it was founded in 1937 and has continued operating since its inception.
Located in Ecuador’s largest city, Guayaquil, the once small clinic morphed over the past century from being a small specialized orthopedics service to one of the largest and most modern facilities in the country, focusing on a wide array of medical treatments.
Though the hospital has expanded significantly, its orthopedic services remain as one of the best regarded in all of South America.
With the most developed post-graduate medical training program in Ecuador, the hospital Alcivar is also the home of Ecuador’s internationally respected premiere medical journal Actas Médicas, which was founded by its former director Dr. Eduardo Alcívar Andretta.
It has 140 prestigious doctors, a staff of 700+, its own theme song (the aptly named Hymn to Hospital Alcivar), and handles everything from trauma to rehabilitative services, including Neurosurgery, Cardiology, Pediatrics, and Obstetrics. Hospital Alcivar is located close to the commercial center of the city and is within ten minutes of the city’s airports.
Dario
Hospital Metropolitano de Ecuador, Quito, Ecuador
Hospital Metropolitano is the most famous hospital in Ecuador. Located in the capital city of Quito, it was founded in 1985 with support from American Medical International (AMI). It is arguably the most technologically and procedurally progressive hospital in the country.
In addition to its bevy of cutting-edge equipment for medical visualization, intensive procedures, and patient monitoring, it is well-known for performing the most difficult types of surgeries (open heart, spine, brain surgery, etc.) and frequently collaborates with well-recognized American medical institutions like the Mayo Clinic and Mount Sinai Hospital.
Hospital Metropolitano is a teaching hospital which trains a huge majority of the doctors of Ecuador as well as international students. It has one of the largest and most well-run emergency rooms in the city.
And in conjunction with the Metrofraternidad Foundation, Hospital Metropolitano is noted for its social work and has special programs which provide its already reasonably priced services as no-cost medical care for the city’s poor.
Hospitalario Kennedy
Grupo Hospitalario Kennedy Hospital/Clinica Kennedy, Guayaquil, Ecuador
Back in Guayaquil, you also have the choice of visiting the smaller Clinica Kennedy, one of the Grupo Hospitalario Kennedy’s many hospitals.
Founded in 1978, Clinica Kennedy is a university hospital with a special emphasis on medical visualization technologies and integrated digital medical record services, in addition to programs devoted to in-vitro fertilization, stem cell research, and molecular biology.
With a staff of over 250 staff medical specialists and only 125 hospital beds, the care offered in its emergency and trauma units, clinical laboratory, diagnostic center, intensive care unit, neonatal intensive care, and cardiopulmonary unit is personal and devoted.
Junta de Beneficencia de Guayaquil
Hospital de Niños Dr. Roberto Gilbert Elizalde, Guayaquil, Ecuador
The fourth highest ranked on our list is Ecuador’s premiere children’s hospital: the Hospital de Niños Roberto Gilbert Elizalde. Also a teaching hospital, it focuses in-depth on all aspects of pediatrics.
It provides medical care at several levels and possesses both regular facilities and specialized private facilities for the children of wealthier clients. The hospital uses the cost of their fancier areas to offset the cost of the cheaper but still nice general facilities.
With historic claims back to a nineteenth century clinic at a different site, the Hospital de Niños Roberto Gilbert Elizalde is arguably the oldest hospital on our list. However its current building was finished in 1999 and opened in 2000 to much acclaim.
salud de Ecuador
Hospital Eugenio Espejo, Quito, Ecuador
With the best google reviews (all of our entries have over 4 stars, but at 4.5 this hospital has the populist vote), the fifth entry on our list is back in the capital of Quito.
Built in 1912 at the behest of the national government, Hospital Eugenio Espejo is the premiere national hospital of Ecuador and is the epicenter for the Ecuadorian national health policy and medical education. It features the most comprehensive array of general medical practices, including:
- Transplant services
- Service of infectious diseases
- Orthotic and prosthetic workshops
- A service unit of comprehensive care for the elderly
- Rheumatology
- Imaging services
- Clinical neurology
- Internal medicine
- Physical medicine and rehabilitation
- Clinical laboratory and pathology
- Immunology
- Hematology services
- Emergency services
- Epidemiology services
- Coloproctology services
Don’t Worry, Ecuador Has Quality Dental Care Too
Unlike the other entries on the list, Hospital Eugenio Espejo should be especially noted for offering dental services.
Contrary to conceptions of concern regarding dental service outside the United States, Ecuador is particularly well noted for its excellent dental services. Featuring highly trained dentists and dental hygienists, dental clinics in Ecuador are well reviewed for utilizing the most cutting edge dental technologies and their exceptional performance of procedures at a fraction of the cost of similar work in the United States.
Voz Andes
There Are Many Hospitals to Choose from, Even If They Didn’t Make Our List
Also in Quito is the missionary general Hospital Voz Andes. A cozy 104-bed hospital, it was founded in 1955 by the Catholic Ecuadorian-founded enterprise HCJB Global Hands.
With a well-equipped twenty-four hour emergency room, it handles trauma cases, but it is particularly noted for the rehabilitative care of its physical, occupation, and speech therapy programs and its mental health counseling services.
Though none of Ecuador’s third largest city, Cuenca, made the top five list, there are several well deserved honorable mentions. And as medical tourism rises in the region, it is very likely that these already fine establishments will only continue to accrue further and further medical accolades and reviews.
Hospital Universitario del Rio
This hospital is Cuenca’s newest and fanciest hospital. Opened in 2009, it is a mixture of state-of-the-art technology, spacious rooms, and customer service. Located on the edge of Cuenca, it too, is a teaching hospital whose academic profile is rapidly climbing the ranks of the international medical community.
It features a clinical laboratory, microbiology laboratory, retail pharmacy, as well as units devoted to gastroenterology, adult intensive care, surgery, neonatal intensive care, and pediatric intensive care, among others.
Hospital Santa Inés
In the center of Cuenca is the Hospital Santa Inés (or St. Agnes). The Hospital of Santa Inés is a smaller hospital than the Hospital Universitario del Rio, but as it is located proximally to the University of Cuenca and the parts of town where the majority of expats live—it is much closer and easier to get to its emergency room.
Though smaller, Hospital Santa Inés still features seven floors filled with state-of-the-art medical equipment, well-trained staff, and a well-organized ambulance service.
Hospital Mt. Sinai
The oldest Cuenca hospital, the Hospital Mt. Sinai falls between its two sister medical facilities in the city—like the Hosptal Universitario del Rio it is large. In fact, it is based in several buildings, including several modern ones. But its emergency service department is smaller than that at Hospital Santa Inés.
Udri
Medical Tourism in Ecuador
In addition to Ecuador’s well reputed and affordable hospital services, the reasonably priced retirement facilities, rehabilitative training programs, and homeopathic medical communities contribute to Ecuador’s status as a medical tourism destination.
The Ecuadorian government seems committed to providing national healthcare at international standards to citizens and visitors alike, going so far as to recently raise its government health budget and to favorably handle recent debts incurred by private hospitals in the nation.
And with such an emphasis, it seems likely that Ecuador’s health system will only thrive further, extending its top-notch urban care out further into the countryside.
Before you settle down in Ecuador, research your current and speculative health needs thoroughly and make sure you are near to the kind of medical service you might require.
Editor’s Note: The rankings are determined by the Cybermetrics lab of the National Research Council in Spain (Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC) which is devoted to identifying the best international digital presences of world hospitals and augmented by expat opinions and reviews.
If you are in Ecuador, reading this, and currently experiencing a medical emergency, you can call an ambulance at 911, the Red Cross at 131, the local police at 101, and if in Quito, the Quito Fire Department at 102.
Mario Arias
Does your idea of owning property in the tropics involve a panoramic view of your own private beach, the presence of abundant exotic plants and animals, and the absence of annoyances like noisy neighbors, motorized vehicles, and tourist traps?
If so, then perhaps you should expand your real estate search parameters to include island properties or even entire islands for sale in Latin America. And, for some really great island options, might we also suggest narrowing your search to Panama.
Off its Pacific and Caribbean coasts lie a number of spectacular, often uninhabited, islands whose ecosystems include rainforests, coral reefs, mangroves, cloud forests, and sandy beaches. And these are home to tropical flowers, shady palms, ancient trees, and animals you’ve never seen in any textbook.
Once relatively unknown, Panama’s islands have been gaining popularity as the country’s government has taken a number of drastic measures to encourage both tourism and investment in the country and its many archipelagos.
Today there are a number of private islands for sale, including some that are going for rock-bottom prices, making them primed for impressive appreciation as improvements to the country’s already good infrastructure continue to cause property values to climb.
While there are a few restrictions, it’s entirely possible for foreigners to own islands or waterfront island lots in Panama. In fact, the entire buying process in Panama is relatively simple compared to many of its Central American neighbors.
We’ve written more extensively about the steps in our Panama real estate guide. Here’s a quick recap, along with a few stipulations that apply specifically to island property.
Rights of Possession vs. Titled Property
In Panama, there are two types of property available for purchase. The first is titled property which, once purchased, belongs to you and is titled in your name in the public registry. You pay taxes on it and can do with it as you wish.
With Rights of Possession (ROP) property, the title is owned by the Panamanian government. You can still use it however you’d like. You just don’t hold the title and, consequently, you don’t pay property taxes.
Sound kind of cool, yet a little bit scary at the same time? Yeah, you’re right on both counts. ROP property can be a great investment. It’s also one of the best, if not only, ways to get your hands on some really desirable real estate in Panama, as most (but not all) islands and beachfront properties are ROP land.
The way to eliminate any risks associated with this type of real estate purchase is to do your due diligence to research the ownership rights. There may be conflicting claims to the property, involving multiple parties or even several generations of family members. There can also be squatters who might make a claim for the land.
Resolving any of these potential issues on the front end is absolutely essential to purchasing ROP property and being able to walk away from the transaction with peace of mind, knowing no one else can come back and try to take it for themselves.
Don’t Even Start the Process Without Consulting an Attorney
At this point, it may go without saying (but we’re going to say it anyway)…you absolutely need to hire a qualified attorney who has experience with all types of real estate transactions in Panama, including island real estate and ROP property.
And, by experience, we mean someone who has verifiable references or who comes highly recommended by another friend or professional whom you know and trust. Not just the one with the best website or the neatly bundled real estate buying package with the price tag that ends in $???.99.
Even if your real estate transaction seems straightforward enough, we strongly suggest hiring a qualified attorney, realtor, and any other professional(s) you need to handle the entire process and save you a lot of headaches. Having a team of professionals you can trust is the most important piece of the puzzle that comes together into a picture of you lying in that hammock without a care in the world.
The Buying Process
At the end of the day, the process of buying an island in Panama looks a lot like buying real estate pretty much anywhere in North America. You’ll search online or with a realtor and look at places you’re considering. Note: There’s no MLS in Panama, so you do have to get a bit more creative in order to find available properties. Our Panama Real Estate site is a good place to start.
Once you find the right one, you’ll sign a contract and pay a deposit, like earnest money. Once the title or ownership rights have been researched (this is generally the longest part of the process and may also include a survey), you’ll complete a bill of sale and have it notarized. Then a new title or certificate will be created and approved.
When all is in order, and not a minute before, then you’ll actually transfer the money to the seller from the bank or escrow company who’s been holding it in trust. You’ll also pay any other applicable commissions or service charges, like closing costs. If your property is titled, it can then be recorded in the public registry.
A Note About Waterfront Property
There is a specific restriction regarding beachfront property, which also affects island owners. The first 20 meters from the high tide mark on all Panama beaches is public access. So if you plan to build anything within this area, you’ll need to obtain a concession. This applies to anything from a pier to entire home on stilts over the water.
This process can take a while, and unfortunately you’ll need the concession in order to get a building permit. The good news is that this only applies to the public access area. All that means is that you’ll need to build your house first, while your request is awaiting approval, and then the dock or waterfront gazebo can come later.
Panama’s Most Attractive Archipelagos
So, now that you know how, all that’s really left is WHERE you should search for your island home in Panama. Here are a few of the most beautiful and popular choices.
VivaTropical
Boca Chica
When we mentioned those areas where island real estate can be had for a bargain with some incredible investment potential to boot, this is the main place we had in mind. Boca Chica, on Panama’s Pacific coast, is a true hidden gem that is just beginning to come into its own as a destination for island lovers, fishing enthusiasts, and investors.
With over 50 islands, boasting all kinds of ecosystems, this archipelago is absolutely breathtaking. There’s currently little in the way of tourist infrastructure, which offers a practically blank slate for entrepreneuring expats.
And tourists are definitely anticipated, as the nearby (less than an hour away) Enrique Malek International Airport in David will soon be receiving flights from the U.S. and other destinations for the first time ever. These along with several other infrastructure improvements will mean big things for the Boca Chica area.
The islands themselves, including Boca Chica Island, a 400-acre private development and the home of our latest Adventure Colony, are wild and untouched. Although only a few minutes from the mainland by boat, you’ll feel like you’re a million miles and several centuries away from civilization.
Gaspar Serrano
Pearl Islands
Located near the capital of Panama City, the Pearl Islands can be reached in 15 minutes by plane or 2 hours by ferry. Once there, you’ll feel immediately a part of the rich history of pirates and treasures that gave the archipelago its name.
On the islands you’ll find secluded beaches, bird sanctuaries, coral reefs, and only a few small settlements, although tourism has been increasing as of late. The islands’ beautiful beaches have formed the backdrop for the filming of several seasons of the hit series “Survivor.”
The calm waters surrounding the islands are ideal for fishing, snorkeling, and sailing. The enhanced focus on tourism makes these islands another great investment opportunity.
The most visited of the Pearl Islands, Contadora (so named because it was the location where the pirates counted their pearls), is a resort island where many wealthy Panamanians and foreigners own second homes. There are also a number of luxury tourist accommodations.
Panapro
Bocas del Toro
On Panama’s Caribbean coast, is the archipelago of Bocas del Toro, Panama’s most visited tourist destination. The epitome of the laid-back Caribbean lifestyle, its postcard-worthy skyline includes a number of dwellings and other tourist attractions built out on stilts atop the water.
This archipelago is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving, as well as surfing. It has also hosted episodes of the “Survivor” series and as a result has been gaining even more popularity among tourists worldwide.
The six large and numerous small islands offer spectacular beaches that stand out against the thick rainforests, making it an ideal place for ecotourism. However, it also has its share of development, particularly on Isla Colon, which has a fair share of tourist accommodations and a small airport that offers daily flights to Panama City and David.
Although it’s the most developed of Panama’s archipelagos, there are still remote lots that can be found for a reasonable deal if you’re willing to venture away from the tourist areas.
Seibert
Veraguas Islands
If you’re looking to get out…way out…then Veraguas Island and its surrounding area might be a good place to check out. This remote group of islands is covered in lush jungles and offers proximity to Coiba National Park, which includes the largest uninhabited, forested island in the Americas.
The islands also boast a varied assortment of marine life, some white sand beaches, and a number of possibilities for their use. They would make a great setting for a remote residence, an ecotourism outfit, or a private resort in an untouched natural setting.
These ideas should give you a great start, but there are plenty of other islands to choose from in Panama and beyond. Check back frequently to our listings of islands for sale throughout Latin America.
Everyone wants their own island. It’s a scientific fact. And, studies have shown that if you own one, you are cool. The very fact that you are an owner means you join an elite group of people. We don’t want to come off as overly snobbish, but the idea is that islands are cool and so are island owners. And, more importantly, it’s not as hard as you think it is to own one.
Photo by Mor
Why Buy Your Own Private Island
There are many reasons why someone would want their own island. One type of person would want the seclusion necessary to build a secret villain lair (only kidding). But, the privacy that you receive as a result of owning a private island is unparalleled. You are the master of your domain!
Another reason to buy your own island is the fact that it may be cheaper to own than waterfront property in the States. In Central America, there are several listing sites you can check out that have affordable properties, like our listing site!
It’s not about being listed among Ellison, Gates, or Jay-Z, either. While looking at their million-dollar islands is really fun, many islands in the Caribbean can be had for less than $1,000,000.
Boris G.
What Sorts of Factors Should Play into Buying Your Own Island?
First and foremost, the most important factor is (say it with me) location, location, location. If your island is out in the middle of the Pacific, hours by private plane from anywhere, the expenses will add up. But, then again, that may be the style of island you’re looking for! For most, you’ll want an island no more than an hour away by boat from a town of importance for provisioning purposes.
The amount of privacy that your island affords you may also be important to you. For one, an island in the middle of nowhere will give you a lot of privacy. Other islands for sale, especially the more affordable ones, may be a part of a larger archipelago and be relatively close to other islands. Who knows… your neighbors might be nice!
Water
Yet another factor you’ll want to consider is water: both fresh and saltwater. Does your island have a freshwater spring? That would be very important, or you’re going to run into headaches down the line. I hear that desalination facilities are quite expensive these days!
Utilities
Other islands closer to the mainland may have utilities provided by the shore. Even more amazing, ones in tropical locations may be able to subsist on rainwater alone. It’s all about understanding the ecosystem where your island lives.
How are you going to turn the lights on? Many islands have generators, and with the rapid drop in price of solar panels, islands are becoming more and more equipped with power day-by-day. An internet connection seems necessary these days, and can be provided by satellite, though that is still costly.
You’ll also want to know about the water around your island. Is it full of reefs, making it hard to land ships? Is it good for diving?
Titles
A major issue is ownership rights of the islands. Hiring a local expert is key for this matter, as the local government may have special rules about resource ownership, beach ownership, or what improvements you may make to your new land. And, you’ll want to make sure there are no indigenous land rights issues involved, as those can play a role in the purchasing predicament.
Caretakers
Many island owners have bought these pieces of paradise to retire, and so they choose to higher a local employee to live on the island and care after it, especially if they are not living on the island full-time.
Living Quarters
Finally, and most importantly, does your island already have a house on it? Many islands come ‘unimproved,’ which means the burden is on you to construct a home, utilities, septic system, and dock. This is a major undertaking, and could skyrocket the final price of your paradise. And, if there is a house already on the island, is it up to your standards of building? Many homes may not be hurricane or weather-ready.
Cool Islands to Aspire to Buy
Everyone needs a goal in life, right? Well, if your goal is to own the largest private island, you’re in for some stiff competition. Let’s take a look at some heavy-hitter island owners.
Larry Ellison
Larry Ellison bought Lanai. Like, the Hawaiian island. Well, 98% of the island, which includes 88,000 acres of pineapple plantations and fifty miles of beaches. The price was undisclosed, but rest assured it was in the hundreds of millions, if not billions.
Richard Branson
One of the more famous private island owners, you can actually stay on Branson’s Necker Island, in the British Virgin Islands. But, it will cost you. The $293 million dollar, 74-acre island hosts celebrity getaways and weddings all the time, and you can bet the price tag matches the cache.
David Copperfield
Magic pays off, apparently. David Copperfield purchased Musha Cay in the Bahamas, which is really 11 separate islands transformed into a resort paradise. The price for landlubbers to come ashore? Just $265,000 a week.
Mel Gibson
If there’s someone that needs a private island with lots of privacy, it’s Mel Gibson. He bought an island in Fiji, Mago Island, in 2005. At 8.5 square miles, and 166 miles by sea away from the capital of Fiji, Suva, I’m guessing that he’ll have plenty there.
Louis Moore Bacon
Mr. Bacon wins the prize for buying a non-tropical island. His $11 million dollar island off the shores of New York isn’t his private paradise. He’s made it a point to restore the island to its former glory, ravaged by logging and deforestation. The island has some of the best turtle populations in New York. And, for fun, Bacon leads his friends on hunts of the invasive deer population on occasion. It’s fun, and good for the environment!
Sergio Quesada
So, you’ve seen your competition, and you’ve seen what it takes to own an island. Do you still want to own one? As mentioned above, it’s not as expensive as you think to own your own paradise. If you are still interested, definitely check out our listing page here, and see if any of the islands match your dreams.