Marissa Strniste
Costa Rica has been an increasingly popular destination among tourists and expats for several decades. And, while it stands out heads above the rest for its abundance of untamed nature and the healthy lifestyle it offers, cost of living in Costa Rica is not among its biggest selling points.
While still considerably cheaper than the cost to live a vacation-worthy lifestyle in a comparable North American city (as if there were any that could hold a candle to Costa Rica), the cost of living in Costa Rica is actually among the highest in Latin America. It’s also THE highest in Central America.
Yet the number of tourists it draws each year and the hordes of expats who’ve chosen to call it home have hardly dwindled despite the rising costs. Let’s dig a little bit deeper into what’s really driving the cost of living in Costa Rica and why so many North Americans still think it’s totally worth it.
So, just how much higher is the cost of living in Costa Rica?
Like any other factor, the cost of living in Costa Rica can vary drastically from one area to the next. It also depends entirely on your lifestyle.
Live in some relatively unknown place that’s off the beaten path with few amenities and poor infrastructure and you can get by on $1500 or less per month for a family of two.
On the other hand, if you decide to make your home in a newly renovated high-rise condo in the Central Valley where you dine out every night and shop to your heart’s content, you could easily need double or even triple that amount of money to live.
But let’s talk in generalities for a moment.
The Economist publishes a study called The Big Mac Index, named for McDonald’s large greasy burger. It compares the purchasing power of different currencies by comparing the cost of like items (i.e. the Big Mac) among countries to see how over- or under-valued their money is.
In January 2014, the average price of a U.S. Big Mac was $4.62. In Costa Rica it was $4.28. To reference a few other Latin American nations, Mexico was $2.78, Colombia $4.34, Peru $3.56, and Venezuela a whopping $7.15. (No other Central American countries made the study.)
Not everything is more expensive in Costa Rica.
While this index gives a decent baseline for comparing prices, it’s far from being the definitive word on the cost of living in third-world countries. Sure, a Big Mac might rival U.S. prices, but there are a number of things that still cost considerably less in Costa Rica.
For example, due to the inexpensive cost of labor, many services can be had for a very reasonable price tag. Domestic help, like a maid or cook, can start as low as $3 per hour. A haircut will only set you back $3 or $4. Even the labor for auto repairs comes at an inexpensive rate. It’s the parts that will set you back a pretty penny.
Education in Costa Rica is affordable as is the country’s health care (even at private facilities), which is of the highest quality. Property taxes are also low.
There are also a number of things that generally run about the same as their North American counterparts. Expenses in this category include utilities and services such as internet, cable, cell phone plans, water, and electricity. You can expect to pay about the same for these as you would in the U.S. although, depending on your location, you may have no need for heating and/or air conditioning expenses.
Housing is also relatively inexpensive, with nice-size well-appointed accommodations ranging from $500 to $1500 per month. However, as with all the above, it’s important to consider what you’re comparing these costs to.
While much less on average than in the U.S., Canada, or Europe, individual budget items in Costa Rica can run significantly higher than in the rest of Central America.
What are Costa Rica’s big budget busters?
To answer this question, it’s important to consider a few important factors about the country. First of all, Costa Rica is a small country that must import a large number of the items people use for daily living. Add up the cost to get the items brought over plus the hefty import taxes the government loves to tack on, and things like automobiles and appliances can become incredibly expensive.
On a smaller scale, the same is true for everyday items like imported wines or brand name peanut butter. So, to save considerably on your household expenditures, avoid anything imported.
The country’s relatively high utility costs are another big contributor to the higher cost of living in Costa Rica. They’re due to the monopoly held by government-run ICE (Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad, or the Costa Rican Institute of Electricity). Phone charges are based on usage, so you’ll pay depending on the amount of talking you do.
Any vehicles brought into the country carry an extremely high import tax. Car tags are quite pricey as well. Gas in Costa Rica is also expensive, generally $1 to $2 more per gallon than in the U.S., which adds even more to the cost of owning a vehicle in Costa Rica.
The poor driving conditions on Costa Rica’s subpar roads create additional wear and tear on vehicles, which creates the need for frequent mechanical work. In short, if you’re budget-conscious, don’t try to own a vehicle in Costa Rica. Public transportation is a much more affordable option.
Ever Jean
What about food costs in Costa Rica?
This category also varies quite a bit depending on what and where you eat. Dining out, as evidenced by the Big Mac study, can get expensive fast. That is, unless you dine at “sodas,” which are small, locally-run eating establishments. You can eat at local restaurants for $2 to $4 per person instead of the $15 to $20 you could expect to pay for a nice restaurant or chain franchise.
If you like to cook, your best bet is to shop at local markets or do business with street vendors. You can choose from a great variety of locally-grown produce, beans, rice, and meat for a fraction of what you’d pay at the big box supermarkets, which closely resemble and even trace their roots back to some well-known U.S. chains.
At the local street fairs you can buy big bunches of bananas for $.40 and large pineapples for only $1. You can also get freshly baked bread much cheaper (around $1.25 for a large loaf) from the local bakeries. On average, you can save about 30% on your grocery bill by avoiding the supermarkets.
You might expect great deals on fish and other seafood, but even these can get a little pricey, especially the further you get from the coast. Your best bet here is to make the occasional trip to the coastal areas to stock up at lower prices.
Why pay more to live in Costa Rica?
That’s an easy question to answer. And, no, we’re not going to say that you get what you pay for. Although you do.
The fact is that putting the cost of living in Costa Rica up against other Central American countries is hardly an apples to apples comparison. Sure you can find cheaper places to live, some even awfully close by. But Costa Rica offers so much more.
In Costa Rica, you get a well-educated strong middle class population who are friendly and welcoming to outsiders. You get low crime and political stability. And, dare we forget to mention, you get one of the most amazingly beautiful settings on the entire planet.
Most importantly, though, you get choices. With so many options available, in terms of housing, consumer goods, and services and amenities, you can pick and choose what’s important to you in Costa Rica.
If you want to live, eat, and dress like a local so you can save up most of your dollars for travel throughout the region, you can totally do that. If you’d rather live like a king in the big city so that you never have any desire to go anywhere else, then that’s also an option.
So if this top expat destination is on your short list of countries you’re considering, don’t let the marginally higher cost of living in Costa Rica dissuade you.
To figure out what Costa Rican lifestyle best matches your interests and passions, check out more of our articles about this fantastic destination.
Not every tropical island looks like something you’d see on a postcard. But if you’re looking for a destination that’s both picturesque and serene, then these five Panama islands are your hands-down best options.
San Blas Islands
Ben Kucinski
Although they’ve suffered a bit of an identity crisis (with the name being changed to Kuna Yala and then finally Guna Yala in 2011, although San Blas is still the moniker by which they’re best known), this archipelago is one of Panama’s most visually and culturally stunning destinations.
Made up of a total of 378 islands, of which only 49 are inhabited, the islands are almost entirely occupied by the Guna (or Kuna) Indians. The hundreds of white sand islands, spread out across the turquoise water, are dotted with palm trees and the thatched huts of the local inhabitants.
The Guna people are welcoming to visitors, yet not to big business, which allows for an authentic cultural experience with no tourist traps or ugly hotels to spoil the vibe. The islands have been featured numerous times in National Geographic for their perfect marriage of tropical beauty and bona fide culture.
Rated the #3 tropical paradise in the world by Lonely Planet in 2011, the San Blas Islands offer opportunities for snorkeling, diving, sailing, and kayak tours of the islands. On land, you can also explore the dense rainforests or visit one of the Guna Indian villages.
Bocas del Toro
Marc Wisniak
The number one tourist destination in Panama, the islands of Bocas del Toro perfectly fit the bill of what most people are looking for in a Caribbean getaway. They offer white sand beaches, towering palms, aquatic adventures, and the most adorable little clusters of cabins built on stilts right out in the water.
Bocas Town, on Isla Colon, is a city of about 13,000 and boasts plenty of restaurants, hotels, bars, and other tourist attractions. However, if you’re looking for a bit more solitude, there are plenty of places where you can find a practically deserted stretch of beach or hike through thick rainforests with nothing but a few rare birds to keep you company.
The islands also claim some of Panama’s best surfing, with a wide variety of surf breaks for all skill levels. Catamaran tours are a great way to see the islands, as well as the mangroves, dolphins, manatees, and the red dart frogs that live exclusively on one of the islands.
Make sure you don’t miss the gorgeous Zapatilla Keys Beach where a whopping 18 different countries have come to film their “Survivor” series. There are also a number of great spots for snorkeling and diving, as well as river tours that lead to an authentic Ngobe Bugle Indian village.
Pearl Islands
Gaspar Serrano
Located in the Gulf of Panama about 30 miles from Panama City, the Pearl Islands archipelago includes about 100 islands, many of which are uninhabited. Also home to three seasons of CBS’s “Survivor,” the islands offer some of the country’s most beautiful scenery.
The most popular of the islands is Contadora Island. Its small airport makes it easily accessible. And its luxury hotels, restaurants, and 9-hole golf course are conveniently tucked in among the island’s 13 beautiful beaches.
The island’s name means “counter” in Spanish, aptly named since the island served as a spot where Spanish conquistadors would go to tally their pearl harvest. Thousands were found during the 16th century, including a 400-year-old, 31 carat pearl now owned by Elizabeth Taylor.
You can still buy pearls on the islands today, but their biggest attractions are their sparsely-populated, postcard-worthy beaches.
Isla Grande
2 BP
Just a few miles off the coast of Portobelo, a picturesque town with rich Spanish history, lies Isla Grande. Home to the popular Bananas resort, it’s a top destination among Panama City residents who want to get away from the hubbub of the city and relax on the island’s palm-lined beaches.
The quaint little island is home to only a few hundred people who mostly earn their living off fishing and coconuts, trends that are evident in the island’s cuisine. It boasts a relaxed vibe and a considerable amount of rainfall due to its location on the country’s northern Caribbean coast.
Isla Grande also offers some excellent snorkeling and scuba diving. The waters between it and Portobelo claim a number of shipwrecks and coral reefs.
Boca Chica
VivaTropical
Located in the Gulf of Chiriqui, Boca Chica boasts over 50 islands scattered throughout the gulf off the coast of the town of Boca Chica. The islands are easily accessible thanks to a newly widened highway to the city of David, where the large international airport will soon be receiving flights from the U.S. and other destinations.
Newly emerging as an up-and-coming tourist destination, the area has a few lodging options, including a fishing lodge and an eco-boutique hotel. But what it currently lacks in tourist infrastructure, it easily makes up for in impressive scenery and uninhabited islands waiting to be explored.
There are ghostly mangroves, otherworldly ancient rainforests, white sand beaches, and a myriad of flora and fauna. On Boca Chica Island itself is Monte Vida Park, a 50-acre crowd-funded park that’s the first of its kind.
Also nearby are Coiba Island and Hannibal Bank, which are home to some of the best fishing in the entire world, as evidenced by the astounding number of world record catches that occurred in their waters. Popular species include yellowfin tuna, blue and black marlin, sailfish, and dorado.
See our Panama articles for more information on these and other popular destinations. You can also check out our listings of islands for sale if you’re interested in making your tropical paradise experience a little more long term.
When looking at lists published by international living gurus citing the best places to live in and retire to overseas, the nations of Ecuador and Panama consistently appear among the places with the highest rankings.
As beautiful, affordable tropical destinations go, they’re among the best of the best. And, while they’re both excellent overall as places to retire, raise a family, start a business, or just live for a short time, each has certain areas where it shines brighter than the other.
We’d be hard-pressed to say which country is the best or, even more specifically, which one is the best for YOU and your particular situation. That decision is best left up to your family, based on your individual needs and priorities.
What we can do is highlight a few categories that are important to expat families and tell you which country excels in that area.
D. Bmcnicol
Round #1 – Lifestyle Hacks
Winner: It’s a Tie
One of the coolest things about living abroad is the ability to enlist help for tasks that you might be fed up with doing yourself, but would’ve never had the means to hire out in North America. Some examples are maids, gardeners, drivers, tutors, and nannies.
And domestic help is abundant and affordable in both Panama and Ecuador. We’d be tempted to give this category to Ecuador for its lower cost (around $10 per day for the services of a maid vs. $15 for the same work in Panama).
However, as is often true, you tend to get what you pay for. So some might argue that the quality of service you receive from domestic helpers is superior in Panama.
Eddie Codel
Round #2 – Connectivity
Outcome: Panama By a Nose
This is another area where both countries excel far beyond the reach of most of their Latin American neighbors. And, up until recently, this category would have gone to Panama by a landslide.
However, Ecuador is aggressively working to improve its internet coverage. As a result, the country’s connectivity is increasing by leaps and bounds with a goal of access in 50% of households by 2015. (It’s currently closer to 35%.) Free public access centers are also widely available across the country.
While Ecuador’s connectivity is great, Panama’s is excellent due in part to a long-standing U.S. military presence. In fact, it ranks #2 in all of Latin America for technology and internet penetration and #1 for wireless availability.
Most Panamanian cities offer affordable broadband service, and there are free wi-fi hotspots nationwide. Because of its technological advances, companies such as Dell, 3M, and Philips have chosen it for their regional headquarters and customer service centers.
Pavel Kirillov
Round #3 – Living Options
Slight Edge: Panama
Both Ecuador and Panama have a lot to offer in terms of variety of living options. When it comes to mountain towns, Cuenca, Ecuador, and Boquete, Panama, are among some of the top expat destinations in Latin America. There are others as well, such as Loja, Quito, and Vilcabamba in Ecuador and Volcan, El Valle, and Santa Fe in Panama.
There are also popular beach towns in both countries. Salinas, Ecuador, has been compared to Miami’s South Beach. There’s also Montanita and Manta. Panama has Bocas del Toro, the quintessential Caribbean beach town, as well as Coronado and Pedasi.
Panama City trumps places like Ecuador’s Quito and Guayaquil if you’re looking for something that more closely resembles a first-world city. The other place where Panama takes the cake is with its options for island living. Ecuador has the Galapagos Islands, a great place for tourists to visit or explore but not necessarily live.
However, Panama offers options like Boca Chica Island, which offer nature-loving expats the opportunity to own their very own piece of a private island that’s only a hour away from the country’s second-largest city and an international airport.
Wogo 24220
Round #4 – Green Living
Winner: Ecuador
While Panama has long had its sights on continuing to improve its infrastructure and commerce, it lags a bit behind in its sustainability initiatives. However, it is making some strides in the right direction. Take for instance the village of Kalu Yala, a development that has a goal of becoming the world’s most sustainable residential community.
Most green efforts in Panama are more grass roots and less government-driven. On the other hand, Ecuador has the unique distinction of being the only country in the world where the rights of the natural environment are protected by the nation’s constitution.
Sustainability issues are on the government’s radar in Ecuador as it battles issues like the threat of drilling in its Yasuni National Park, the most biodiverse place on earth.
Vilseskogen
Round #5 – Cost of Living
Clear Winner: Ecuador
Ecuador and Panama both offer the ability to live satisfying lifestyles for a fraction of the North American budget. As you can imagine, prices vary greatly from one city to the next, with some of the more developed areas running much closer to U.S. prices.
However, overall the cost of living is considerably less in Ecuador. In fact, it’s often one of the country’s biggest selling points, with many expat couples claiming to live just fine on a mere $1200 per month including rent, which averages around $450. This includes luxuries like high speed internet and once-a-week maid service.
Both countries have great discount programs for their senior adults, with Panama’s pensionado program being one of its most attractive benefits for retirees. However for most expats, particularly young families, it’s cheaper to live in Ecuador.
Rivera Notario
Round #6 – Ease of Access
Advantage: Panama
This was an easy one. Mainly because the majority of Ecuador’s incoming flights have layovers in places like Panama City (as well as Miami, Bogota, and places in the Caribbean). As a result, travel to Ecuador is longer and a bit more expensive.
It does have great public transportation once you fly in to Quito or Guayaquil, as well as connecting flights to a number of regional airports.
By contrast, Panama’s recently expanded Tocumen International Airport receives direct incoming flights from multiple U.S. cities, as well as various points in South America. David’s Enrique Malek International Airport will also soon begin welcoming international flights, opening up the western regions of Panama to expats and tourists from all over the world.
Matthew Straubmuller
Round #7 – Business Climate
Champion: Panama, Hands Down
To decide this category, you only need to look at the stats. The International Finance Corporation ranks Panama 55th in the world for ease of doing business, compared to Ecuador’s rank of 135th. This survey is based on factors that affect one’s ability to start and operate a local business.
This comes as no surprise, as Panama’s government has historically been extremely pro-business and pro-investor. It’s also somewhat of a tax haven and an increasingly popular place to open an offshore bank account. Panama also offers a whole host of visa options, with the number of choices increasing frequently.
Ecuador, on the other hand, has a reputation of being a bit unstable and unpredictable. It struggles with issues such as high government turnover rates and an economy that is based a bit too heavily on petroleum.
However, Ecuador’s economy is growing. The country is also taking steps to reduce the government’s influence in certain business sectors.
Gaspar Serrano
Round #8 – Banking
Advantage: Panama
Both Ecuador and Panama benefit from having a dollarized economy. However, both have seen requirements tightening in recent years due to laws like FATCA and other U.S. tax evasion agreements. As a result, it’s becoming increasingly difficult for foreigners to open an account.
That being said, the banking process is far more friendly to foreigners in Panama. It’s home to a number of international banks and is emerging as a major player on the global banking scene.
Ecuador, on the other hand, suffers from inconsistent regulations and subpar accounting standards, although its banks’ performance has improved in recent years. Due to the inconsistencies, however, the process of opening an account can be a bit long and tedious.
thinkpanama
Round #9 – Investment Opportunities
Our Pick: Panama
When you look at the ingredients for a savvy investment, they include factors like low costs, massive infrastructure projects, a focus on tourism, and government incentives. Both Ecuador and Panama have all of these. And lots of them.
Panama just has more. Its real estate is still affordable. The government has recently invested $15 billion in projects like airport expansions, new roads, and a metro system. There are tax breaks on everything from the importation of building materials to build a hotel to income tax on land purchased for reforestation.
Ecuador offers many of those same advantages, and often at a lower cost. So you could argue that in Ecuador there’s a bit more room for appreciation. However, the benefits of investing in Panama are just still too good to award this category to anyone else.
Presidencia de Republic de Ecuador
Round #10 – Health Care
Outcome: Another Tie
Ecuador and Panama both benefit from having excellent health care systems, with skilled medical staff and modern facilities. English is widely spoken by doctors in both countries, many of whom trained in the U.S, and hospitals offer the latest in technological advancements.
The low cost of care is also a big plus, with procedures generally running about ¼ of the price for the same service in North America. Health insurance is also affordable and widely available.
Both countries suffer from the same main drawback in this category: availability in rural areas. While they both have state-of-the-art hospitals, they’re found only in the largest cities. Clinics in more remote locations may be limited to basic services or even first aid only.
ThinkPanama
Round #11 – Consumer Goods
Winner: Panama
Both Ecuador and Panama have a surprisingly good selection of consumer goods. As a result, you usually need only drive to the nearest city to find exactly what you’re looking for, or at least a comparable replacement.
Where Ecuador suffers in this arena is due to its ever-increasing taxes. Many items have become more difficult to find, or at least more expensive, in recent years. Consequently, fewer and fewer items (like vehicles and cell phones) are being imported.
Panama, on the other hand, has become quite the shopping hub for folks all across Latin America. This is due in part to its low value-added tax of 7% (vs. 12% in Ecuador). We’ve even seen people who traveled from Ecuador to Panama City to buy several flat-screen TV’s due to the better prices and availability.
D. Rorfold
Round #12 – Foreign Land Ownership
Victor: Panama
In both Ecuador and Panama, foreigners who buy property have their rights protected by the constitution just the same as nationals of that country. There are also few restrictions on what land they can buy. Well, there’s only one really, and it’s in Panama where foreigners can’t own land within 10 kilometers of the border.
Both countries offer an abundance of land available at, in some cases, rock-bottom prices. However due diligence is absolutely necessary before buying land in either country.
Purchasing real estate as a foreigner can be a challenge, but the whole process is a bit easier in Panama. A good attorney is a must, so choose one who’s experienced in land transactions and can handle things like researching the title, drafting contracts, and registering the deed.
D Rorfold
And the Grand Champion Is…
Nah. We didn’t keep score. There’s just too much to love about both of these countries for us to try to give the trophy to one or the other.
What’s more important than our opinion is your own experience with each of these fine countries. So, if Ecuador and Panama are on your short list of potential expat destinations, then we suggest you open a new tab and start looking for flights. There’s no better way to pick a winner than to just let the two duke it out firsthand.
Map of Panama
Panama Fast Facts
- Population: 3.8 million
- Typical temperature: Temperature typically varies from 72°F to 91°F
- Nearest airport with U.S. flights: U.S. bound flights leave daily from Tocumen International Airport
- Nearest U.S. consulate: Panama City
Map of Ecuador
Ecuador Fast Facts
- Population: About 15.49 million
- Typical temperature: Ecuador is known for its micro climates.
- Major airports with U.S. flights: Quito, Cuenca and Guayaquil. Complete list of airports in Ecuador.
- Nearest U.S. consulate: Quito and Guayaquil
A R Vindgrove
There are so many good reasons to live in Panama. Some make the move for the climate, the friendliness of the Panamanian people, and of course because it is home to one of the best retiree discount programs in the world.
So it’s easy to see why Americans are choosing this country as their retirement haven.
But sometimes the best advice and position on life in the tropics comes from those who are living the expat lifestyle every day. Today, in our Expat Interview series we focus on three expats in Panama who share their living experiences and reasoning behind their decision to pick up their lives and move them to the tropics.
Expat Interview #1: Kris C.
Kris C.
Why did you choose to move to Panama? And how long have you lived there?
We were nearing retirement age and realized we didn’t have enough money to retire comfortably where we were, and that was if we worked until we were 70. We needed something more affordable.
We made a checklist of what we wanted – close enough to the US for visits to family, warm climate, stable government, crime under control, decent infrastructure…. and Panama just rose to the top of the list. We visited Panama City first and loved the country, but not the hectic pace of the city. Next we looked at David and knew it would work for us. We have been here 1-1/2 years and are very happy!
Where were you living previously?
Sarasota, Florida for 17 years.
What do you do with your time?
I don’t know how I stay so busy every day! There are still the usual daily chores, and I tend to cook from scratch more with all the great produce available here. I have more time for my photography hobby. I write a blog which is growing, and more and more people contact me through the blog. I’ve been riding my bicycle almost every day which is good exercise, and I’m also getting to know the city better and meeting new people.
I enjoy spending time with my friends. I try to study Spanish a bit every day. I like to work in the yard. I like to sew. Well looking at that list, it’s no wonder I stay busy. We are also traveling more both in and out of Panama.
What surprised you when you first came to Panama?
It is SO beautiful here. I think I loved it from the moment I saw those lush green mountains from the airplane window. I expected it to be really hot but it’s actually more comfortable than Florida in the summer. We hardly ever see mosquitoes and rarely get bitten or stung by anything even though we are outdoors a lot. The people are so friendly and welcoming, and adjusting to life here has been much easier than I expected. We have been made to feel like a part of the community, and members of a number of families.
If given a chance, which other South American country would you want to live in, and why?
When we decided that Panama was good for us, we really didn’t research other options. Something would have to change a lot before we’d consider moving. If it came to that, maybe Mexico, or Nicaragua? I hope to travel through Central America so when we get a chance to visit these other countries we should have a better idea of where else might work for us.
Expat Interview #2: Christopher Powers, Panama for Real
Chris Powers
Why did you choose to move to Panama? And how long have you lived there?
I chose to move to Panama because my wife, Marlene, is Panamanian, we lived 8 years together in the U.S., and we just decided we wanted a fresh, new start. Since she’d given my country a try for so long, it just made sense to try hers. Plus, I’d constantly moved our family from one place to the next in the U.S., at the whim of my employer, and it got to where my family was alone all the time.
For holidays, birthday, and any other significant event, it was only us. We’d just had twin boys, making it 4 kids total, and we wanted our kids to be surrounded by family and a warmer atmosphere. Panama is very family-oriented. Now, my kids have more of a life than we do. It seems they’re always at a cousin’s birthday party or a family get-together. We’ve lived in Panama going on 5 years.
Where were you living previously?
Prior to moving to Panama, we were living in Columbus, Ohio.
We’ve lived all over the place though. We started our family in Anchorage, Alaska, when I was stationed there while in the U.S. Air Force. From there we moved to South Florida (Boca Raton and Palm Beach Gardens) and then on to Chicago, Illinois before finally landing in Ohio.
What do you do with your time?
I spend most of my time working on my website, which is a site dedicated to helping people understand everything about Panama before they make the decision to move here. We (my family and I) travel all over this country. I write detailed reports and put together videos about each province, town, and neighborhood in Panama.
I tell you all about the cost of living, entertainment, utilities and infrastructure, medical care, and everything else you need to know. Plus, I write a lot of blog posts and articles giving people tips and pointers about living in or visiting Panama.
For example, I just wrote this post about the new Metro train system in Panama or my newest, probably most popular post yet on dating in Panama and if you just want to learn about one of the neighborhoods, here’s a video on the most popular beach town in Panama.
When I’m not working on Panama For Real, I’m busy punching out my next novel. If you happen to like dark urban fantasy (very action-packed and violent) check out my first novel, Mirror Images Book 1: The Darkness of Man. It’s only $.99 right now on Amazon (for Kindle).
What surprised you when you first came to Panama?
What surprised me most about Panama is how easy it actually is to live here. You spend so much time contemplating and trying to make sense of everything involved in a move overseas.
Then, when you finally do it, you realize it’s not all that difficult. You just have to adapt to your new lifestyle. The two most difficult things are learning Spanish (something I’m still struggling with all these years) and learning to truly relax.
Most people move to Panama because they want a slower pace, but they don’t realize what that actually means. Yes, it’s much more chill here in Panama. Everything slows down, but you have to realize that means EVERYTHING, to include anything involving the government. Don’t expect to get any paperwork filed easily. It takes forever here.
If given a chance, which other South American country would you want to live in, and why?
This is a tough one. Which country other than Panama would I like to try? If I could afford it, I think I’d have to say Argentina. Have you ever seen the photos and videos of the Argentina vineyards? I’m not even a wine drinker (I like my beer), but I think owning a vineyard would be awesome. And Argentina just looks so stunning. Yes, I’ll go with Argentina.
Expat Interview #3: Elizabeth Vance
Elizabeth Vance
Why did you choose to move to Panama? And how long have you lived there?
My former executive position brought me to Panama six years ago. We’ve lived since then – almost six and a half years.
Where were you living previously?
In the Chicago, Illinois area.
What do you do with your time?
I’m a writer and the bestselling author of two books about Panama. They include The Gringo Guide to Panama: What to Know Before You Go, and The Gringo Guide to Panama II: More to Know Before You Go. Both launched in the last 18 months, and have hit #1 and #2 for books about Panama on Amazon during that time.
In addition to writing, I run our household (which is more than it sounds like, but this is a developing nation, so everything takes longer than expected), and I consult part-time with companies considering moving to Panama and setting up business in Latin America.
What surprised you when you first came to Panama?
Ha! Almost everything. Probably the biggest thing that surprised me was that the city of Panama appears so glamorous with all the skyscrapers and glitzy night clubs and gorgeous hotels, but when you get down to conducting business and day to day life, the inefficiency and processes of getting anything accomplished can be exhausting.
Things here generally take three times longer to get done than they might in the U.S. I talk a lot about this and the realities of acclimating to life as an expat coming from North America to Panama in my first book.
If given a chance, which other South American country would you want to live in, and why?
I adore Colombia for the people and the culture. Bogotá is my favorite place, and my husband loves Medellín. The people are welcoming and warm. The food is delicious, and the shopping (especially for silver and leather goods) is fantastic.
Add that to the stunning mountain backdrop of either city and you have a winning combination. The ability to travel easily from Panama to every other capital in Central and South America is another reason why we chose to relocate here. That’s also a topic I cover in the second Gringo Guide book.
You can read more about me and my stories about Panama here.
Laughing Bird Stock
When looking for a tropical destination that scores big on many levels, more and more expats are considering purchasing Belize real estate as the backdrop for their next adventure.
The tiny country (it’s barely bigger than New Jersey) is the northernmost of Central America, tucked neatly under Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. It’s also the only one that borders only the Caribbean Sea, which is a factor that heavily influences its real estate offerings.
With just over 320,000 inhabitants in the entire country (about as many as St. Louis, Missouri), it has a laid-back small-town feel. Even the capital of Belize City, which has only 70,000 residents.
There’s also a very youthful vibe, with 40% of the country being age 15 and under. And, although the country encompasses only 8,800 square miles, it claims a whopping 149 miles of Caribbean coastline. What’s more, it’s all protected by the world’s second largest barrier reef.
Expats are drawn to Belize real estate for its affordability, as well as the natural beauty that abounds throughout much of the country. They love the climate, the friendly locals, and the familiarness of the ways of doing things.
Belize Has Always Been a Refuge
Belize, unlike any other country in Central America, was originally founded as a British (not Spanish) colony. In fact, until 1973 it was still known as British Honduras. It only gained independence from Great Britain somewhat recently, in 1981.
It’s long served as a refuge of sorts, beginning with pirates looking for a place to trade their treasures. Other immigrants included Mennonite farmers who fled their homes in Germany and the Netherlands seeking religious freedom.
The British were next, establishing colonies in Belize where they could do their banking in private. Immigrants from neighboring Mexico and Guatemala also flocked to this peaceful country to escape turmoil and caste wars in their own nations.
Today, it’s expats from all over the globe who are drawn to Belize. This history of refuge-seeking immigrants has resulted in a fantastic cultural fusion that is evident throughout the country. From the languages to the cuisine, there are so many ethnicities reflected in every region and in every aspect of life in Belize.
Anoldent
The Unique Appeal of Belize Real Estate
What makes Belize real estate such a hot commodity is the fact that much of what it offers literally cannot be found anywhere else. That’s not an exaggeration or a marketing strategy. It’s the God’s honest truth. Here are a few of the factors that have made this haven so popular among expats.
It’s Close to North America in More Ways than One
Due to its physical location, Belize is one of the easiest places to get to in Latin America. And while expats obviously desire to get away when they relocate overseas, it’s not uncommon to want to find that home away from home as close to your original home as possible.
You can find direct flights to Belize from a number of U.S. cities, such as Dallas, Houston, Miami, and Atlanta. Even better, it’s three hours tops.
Not only is Belize physically close to the U.S., it’s also similar in a number of other ways. Due to its origins as a British colony, Belize is English-speaking. There’s a lot of Spanish floating through the streets, but the important stuff (i.e. street signs, legal documents, menus, newspapers, and television stations) is all in English.
The court system is based on British common law, which is familiar to U.S. residents. The education system is also all done in English and is well-regarded, which is important for families with children.
There’s no metric system, so it’s all inches, feet, miles, and acres. And while there is an official form of currency, the Belize dollar, it’s permanently tied to the U.S. dollar at a rate of two to one. So there are no conversion issues. Not to mention, the U.S. dollar is accepted practically everywhere (except government offices).
Belize Is an Ocean Lover’s Dream
Due to its geographical location, much of Belize’s population (and most of its desirable real estate) lies along and near the coast. What’s inland is overwhelmingly undeveloped (Read: There’s little to no infrastructure.).
In fact, an estimated 80% of the country is not being used by humans. That’s not to say it’s wasteland. Belize’s inland areas are packed with jungles, waterfalls, ancient ruins, and thousands of species of flora and fauna. So one could argue that it’s also a land lover’s paradise. But that’s not why most people come here.
What they do come for is the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the longest in the western hemisphere and the second largest in the world (after Australia’s Great Barrier Reef). It’s the country’s top tourist attraction and offers some of the world’s best fishing, scuba diving, and sailing.
If you’re not into all of those active aquatic adventures, there’s also the fact that it’s just gorgeous. In fact, the Great Blue Hole is one of the most spectacular sights on earth.
Not only does Belize offer an extensive amount of coastline, off its shores lie roughly 450 islands. Some are among the world’s most popular tourist destinations. Others are sparsely populated. A few are completely uninhabited and available for purchase. Not many tropical destinations can make such an offering.
Anoldent
It’s an Easy Place to Buy and Own Property
Not only does the end result of owning a piece of Belize real estate sound pretty appealing, but the process itself is a relatively simple one as Latin American transactions go. For starters, Belize places no restrictions on foreigners buying property, even beachfront real estate. That’s unheard of in many countries that are popular with expats.
There are also no capital gains taxes. You will have to pay a transfer (or stamp) tax, but even that is low, usually around 5% of the value of the property. Even annual property taxes are low, with even the priciest lots accruing no more than $200 or $300.
Many other transactions are also easy in Belize, making it an ideal destination for those who wish to invest or operate a business. In fact, it’s a popular offshore banking center and a great place to set up a corporation or trust. Opening a bank account is a relatively simple process, and interest rates are quite favorable (as high as 6% on deposit accounts).
The country is also politically stable. It’s a fairly young nation with a small population. Politics are a matter of great concern for most residents, and they’ve been known to show up at rates as high as 75% for national elections. While politically interested, however, everyone remains peaceable and good-natured with their political opinions.
Belize Real Estate Outlook
Belize is a great example of a tropical place whose property values have seen tremendous increase in recent years. However, there’s no indication that this trend appears to be slowing. Growth in Belize has been steady, stable, and consistent. The stable government deserves some of the credit for this.
Future growth projections are promising, particularly with the prospect of direct flights from Europe on the horizon. Tourism is on the rise, and the government is actively taking steps to ensure that popular attractions, like the rainforests and natural coastline, remain intact as development continues.
Current property values are often as low as half of that of similar lots in the nearby Bahamas. However, with the influx of new visitors from Europe, prices can be expected to rise drastically as the market is opened up to a whole new set of buyers. This could be great news for current Belizean property owners or those looking to invest in land in the immediate future.
P Shoun
Popular Places to Own Real Estate in Belize
As mentioned, much of the available (and desirable) real estate in Belize is located near the coast. However, even more specifically, there are several key areas that are the most popular among expats.
Ambergris Caye
Belize’s largest island, Ambergris Caye has become increasingly popular among scuba divers and fishermen, thanks to its proximity to the Belize Barrier Reef. Because of its popularity and numerous amenities, it is one of the pricier places to own Belize real estate. However, there are still bargains to be had if you don’t mind a bit of a walk to the beach.
Caye Caulker
Even though Ambergris Caye has a distinctly small-town feel, the atmosphere of Caye Caulker is even more laid-back. It has only about 1,500 residents and no motorized vehicles. Prices are lower than its larger island neighbor, but that gap is likely to close as Caye Caulker increases in popularity.
Stann Creek District
While the first two hotspots are island destinations in northern Belize, there are also a lot of expats buying homes in the Stann Creek area to the south. One of the most popular spots is Placencia, which sits on a peninsula.
Some claim that it has a more authentic Caribbean feel than the luxurious island developments. It also has wider beaches with whiter sand that are often virtually empty of other people in some spots. This area can also be pricey, but good value can be found just a little further outside of town.
Belize Cove
What Your Money Will Currently Buy in Belize
Here are a few properties listed for sale in Belize at the time this article was written.
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A mere $75,000 will get you a 1 bedroom, 1 bath cottage on over an acre in Esperanza Village, near the Guatemalan border.
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The same $75,000 buys you a 2.89 acre lot with around 75 feet of beachfront on Cross Caye in the Stann Creek District.
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For $431,000 you can own a 2 bedroom, 3 bathroom beachfront home on Maya Beach in the same area, complete with a pool, high end finishes, and lots of great outdoor space.
These are just a few of the great opportunities available in Belize. Depending on your individual preferences there are tons of other options that could make for the perfect setting for you to begin your expat life overseas.
Due to the inefficiencies of the real estate market, prices can often range all over the board for properties with similar features. So plan to set aside plenty of time to perform your search. Most importantly, you’ll want to plan a trip soon to see for yourself what this beautiful country has to offer. The pictures don’t do it justice.
Map of Belize
Belize Fast Facts
- Population: About 324,000
- Typical temperature: 84 degrees
- Nearest airport with U.S. flights: Belize City, Belize
- Nearest U.S. Consulate: Belmopan, Cayo, Belize
OliverH
There’s a lot of buzz about Ecuador as an expat haven that’s among the world’s best places to retire or live in Latin America. But not a lot of people know much about it.
Like, for starters, where is Ecuador? I mean, it’s on the equator, right? Hence the name. But doesn’t that mean it’s unbearably hot?
And is it a long way away? How do I get there and how long is the flight?
We’ll answer these and other questions you may have about this popular destination. But let’s start with the most important one.
Where Is Ecuador on a Map?
There it is! Right there on the west coast of northern South America. Between Colombia to the north and Peru to the south. The equator does pass through it, roughy ¼ of the way down, near Quito.
Andrew Turner
How Do I Get There?
Ecuador has two main airports. There’s Mariscal Sucre in Quito and Simon Bolivar in Guayaquil. Quito’s airport is new and modern. It even has an on-site hotel that’s currently being built. However, both are a bit of a hike from the city. The old airport, which was more centrally located, is now closed and is being transformed into a park.
Some travelers also fly into Guayaquil on the coast. It also has a modern international airport with all the amenities you’d expect, like restaurants and duty-free shopping. It’s only a few minutes north of the downtown area.
Once in the country, buses are plentiful and affordable. There are also a number of regional airports, including two in the Galapagos Islands, which can only be accessed via mainland Ecuador.
What Airlines Fly into Ecuador?
U.S. Airlines that offer flights to Ecuador include Delta, United, and American Airlines. TAME, an Ecuador-based airline, flies into New York City. LAN Ecuador also flies there, as well as Miami.
From the U.K., you can fly American Airlines from Heathrow to Quito. KLM will also get you to Quito from Heathrow, by way of Amsterdam.
Other airlines that fly into Ecuador from destinations throughout Latin America are Copa, Avianca, Aeromexico, Iberia, and TACA.
Morpholux
Do I Need a Visa to Go There?
Not unless you want to stay for more than three months. By presidential decree, citizens of any country may visit Ecuador and stay for a period of 90 days. You won’t need a visa. However, you’ll want to check with your embassy to see what other paperwork might be required. For North Americans and most European travelers, it’s usually just a passport and a copy of your return ticket.
Sara Y Tzunky
When Is the Best Time to Go?
Because Ecuador is located on the equator, it has roughly the same weather year-round. So there’s really no bad time to visit. However, depending on the region, some seasons are a little better than others, as Ecuador’s climate varies greatly among its four distinct areas.
The coastal lowlands stay between 80 and 90 degrees. During the rainy season (December to April), you can expect a torrential downpour pretty much every day.
The Andean highlands are much cooler with daytime highs in the mid 70s. Nights can get pretty cool with lows around 50 degrees. The rainy season is the same, with April generally being the wettest month and June to September representing the driest period.
The Amazon region is probably much closer to what most people picture when they try to imagine a climate along the equator. Predominantly tropical lowland rainforest, it’s hot and humid with temps in the 80s and 90s and steady rainfall throughout the year.
It’s still popular among adventure travelers despite its challenging climate. The frequent showers make for excellent whitewater rafting and kayaking.
Despite being situated almost directly along the equator, the Galapagos Islands get some relief from the heat thanks to the cool Pacific waters. As result, they enjoy temps between the mid 60s and upper 80s with surprisingly little rainfall.
What Places in Ecuador Should I Visit?
Ecuador is jam-packed with natural wonders and cultural attractions. Here are some of the most popular spots that you won’t want to miss.
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Banos is the adventure capital of Ecuador. It sits at the foot of the active Volcano Tungurahua. It’s also surrounded by a number of hot spring mineral baths.
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Canoa is a beach town that hasn’t lost its appeal as primarily a laid-back fishing village.
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Cotacachi is a small village that’s only 90 minutes from the capital city of Quito. It enjoys a rich cultural heritage.
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Cuenca is a beautiful colonial city in the mountains that’s quickly becoming one of the most popular expat destinations in Latin America.
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Esmeraldas is a cozy beach town that’s a little more laid-back but still one of the country’s most popular.
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The Galapagos Islands are an archipelago scattered far off the country’s coast. Made famous by Charles Darwin, they’re visited by scientists and nature lovers from all over the world.
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Guayaquil is the largest city in Ecuador. A bustling coastal town, it’s a functioning port city with a relaxed Caribbean feel.
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Loja is another mountain town that’s growing in popularity. Smaller and more affordable, it’s known for its cultural importance and musical roots.
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Manta is a beach town that offers coastal living combined with all the big city amenities of a modern industrial city.
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Montanita is another popular beach town. Known for its surfing and nightlife, it attracts a whole host of colorful characters from all walks of life.
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Otavalo is another mountain town that has retained its quaint, authentic appeal. It’s most famous for its popular textile market.
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Quito is Ecuador’s capital city. Located in the mountains, it has a well-preserved historic district and a monument situated on the equator marking the “middle of the world.”
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Riobamba is the gateway to Mount Chimborazo, Ecuador’s highest peak. It’s also the starting point of the famous train ride down the Nariz del Diablo.
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Salinas is a crowded beach town that’s often dubbed the Miami of Latin America. It’s popular among locals and boasts a number of water sports.
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Vilcabamba is located high in the mountains. Its water comes from melting glacier pools and is among the purest on earth, possibly contributing to the good health and longevity of its residents.
As you can tell, there’s a lot to see and do in Ecuador. It’s also one of the least expensive destinations of its kind. Now that you know how to get there, consider taking a trip to experience the sights of Ecuador firsthand.
Ecuador Fast Facts
- Population: About 15.49 million
- Typical temperature: Ecuador is known for its micro climates, learn more here.
- Major airports with U.S. flights: Quito, Cuenca and Guayaquil. Complete list of airports in Ecuador.
- Nearest U.S. consulate: Quito and Guayaquil
Anoldent
The beautiful island of Ambergris Caye, Belize, was recently named the best island in the world by the readers of TripAvisor. The island takes top billing for the second year in a row, knocking out favorites like Bora Bora and Chile’s Easter Island.
When choosing it as their top pick, voters cited its beautiful natural environment, its perfect balance of quaint-meets-contemporary, and the myriad of activities the island offers. Here are a few of the things that make Ambergris Caye such a great choice for tourists and expats.
It has a relaxing laid-back feel.
Despite being popular enough to rank tops with TripAdvisor travelers, Ambergris Caye has retained its quaint island atmosphere. There are no high-rise buildings, no traffic lights, and nothing but palm trees lining the long stretches of beautiful beach.
Most everything is within walking distance, and most inhabitants do their walking in bare feet. Beyond that, golf carts are about the most sophisticated vehicles you’ll see on the sandy roads.
The people are an eclectic mix of locals as well as expats from all over the globe. Many residents come over from mainland Belize, but there are also immigrants from other Latin American countries, the U.S., and elsewhere. They’re all helpful, super friendly, and eager to share their love for the island with other newcomers.
Yet it’s far from sleepy.
Even though Ambergris Caye can be peaceful and quiet, there’s no shortage of things to do, thanks to its well-developed tourist culture. There are a variety of restaurants, due largely to its diverse blend of cultures.
You can visit a hot dog or burrito stand for lunch, snack on ceviche or stuffed jalapenos from a street vendor, and enjoy dinner at an elegant restaurant serving authentic Belizean cuisine. The island also has a happening evening scene, with plenty of bars, beach parties, and more.
It offers some of the world’s best scuba diving.
Ambergris Caye is less than a mile from the Belize Barrier Reef, the largest in the Western Hemisphere and the second largest in the world. It’s also a short distance from the Great Blue Hole, one of the world’s top diving sites.
The waters around the island are also great for snorkeling. The fishing is great, and you can also sail to the nearby cayes, like Caye Caulker which is another popular Belize vacation spot.
Not to mention, the amazing scenery.
Ambergris Caye is much more than the sand and sea of your average beach town. It does have some great sand beaches that have been cleared for the enjoyment of sunbathing tourists. But what’s even more interesting are the other ecosystems on and around the island.
From the mangrove swamp that occupies the center of the island to the jungles on the surrounding cayes to the reef itself, there’s so much to observe in Ambergris Caye. If you’re only looking for the white sand beaches with shady palms, you can definitely find them. But don’t miss the other opportunities the island offers.
If you like Ambergris Caye, you’ll love these options…
James Willamore
Roatan, Honduras
Located just off the country’s northern coast, Roatan is also only a short hop from the reef. As a result, it offers the same opportunities to explore seawalls and shipwrecks while swimming with dolphins and sea turtles in the warm waters of the Caribbean.
Except when there are cruise ships docked offshore, Roatan is pleasantly uncrowded compared to some of its Central American competitors. Yet it also enjoys all of the same amenities tourists and locals seek, like great bars and restaurants.
It has equally friendly locals, many of whom speak English, and plenty of expats. Prices there are also still relatively affordable.
Roman Königshofer
Bocas del Toro, Panama
Also located in the Caribbean is the archipelago of Bocas del Toro, Panama. The country’s vacation destination, it’s popular among travelers from all over the world.
With its network of buildings built on stilts out in the water, it’s everything you picture when dreaming about a Caribbean vacation. It also enjoys the same easygoing vibe as the other destinations.
Visitors to Bocas del Toro can participate in diving, snorkeling, world-class surfing, jungle hiking, or just relaxing on the beautiful beaches.
Jackiemora01
Nosara, Costa Rica
A longtime popular choice among expats, Nosara is a great mainland beach option. It’s known for its fantastic surfing and healthy, active culture. It’s also gaining popularity among young expat families.
It’s a safe community that lacks the drug problem that plagues many other destinations. Its longstanding status as an expat haven has resulted in the addition of many amenities families seek, such as quality schools.
It also has some of the country’s most beautiful beaches, which are protected from the scars of any large-scale developments. They offer nothing but shady palms, rocky cliffs, and long expanses of sand.
VivaTropical
Boca Chica Island, Panama
Located in an archipelago in the Gulf of Chiriqui, off Panama’s Pacific Coast, Boca Chica Island is one of the country’s final frontiers. Its sandy beaches give way to lush virgin rainforests, making it the perfect place to relax in a tranquil setting away from the crowds and noise.
From Boca Chica, you can hop to one of the over 50 surrounding islands and explore deserted beaches, eerie mangroves, and ancient jungles. The area also offers some of the world’s best sport fishing.
While it sounds remote (and it certainly feels that way), Boca Chica Island is only a 10 minute boat ride from the town of Boca Chica on the mainland, and then it’s less than an hour to the city of David (Panama’s 3rd largest).
Because of its excellent location, plus the massive renovation of David’s airport that now allows for international flights from the U.S., property on Boca Chica Island is also a fantastic investment. It’s the perfect place to enjoy an active tropical lifestyle without giving up any modern conveniences.
And thanks to our newest Adventure Colony development, you can still buy oceanfront lots in this up-and-coming area at unbelievable prices. For more information on the Adventure Colony experience and its investment potential, here are some helpful insights and cool video of the area.
Map of Ambergris Caye, Belize
Belize Fast Facts
- Population: 324,060
- Typical temperature: mid-80s
- Nearest airport with U.S. flights: Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport, Belize City
- Nearest U.S. consulate: Belmopan, Belize
Burica Panama Coastline
Burica, Panama, is one of the country’s best kept real estate secrets. But you needn’t take our word for it. One visit to this remote paradise is enough to make any traveler or would-be expat feel like a pioneering explorer.
It’s as pristinely beautiful as it is mysterious and secluded. And both nature and adventure abound in Burica.
However, before you categorize it as a place meant only for those who want to live out their childhood Swiss Family Robinson dreams, there’s a lot more to this place than just its raw, undisturbed natural beauty.
Despite its remote feel, Burica is surprisingly close to civilization. And not just any old town either. It’s less than a 2 hour drive from David, Panama’s second largest metropolis.
And the wheels are currently turning on several large-scale infrastructure and private development projects that have Burica, Panama, primed for a tremendous boom and accompanying increase in property value.
However, for now, it’s still relatively off the radar of most buyers. That’s why we think Burica is one of Panama’s last remaining secret investment opportunities.
But, for those hoping to score a killer bargain on a property in a place with exploding investment potential, we recommend you act fast. The best deals could soon be gone.
Here are a few of the things that make real estate in Burica, Panama, such a great investment.
Accessing Burica, Panama is an adventure in itself.
Nothing says “remote destination” like having to go off-road to get there. Burica is located on Panama’s Pacific coast on a peninsula the country shares with Costa Rica. And up until about three years ago, there wasn’t even a road to get you to the end of the Burica peninsula. The landscape is made up of dense jungles that just don’t lend themselves well to vehicle travel.
Viva Tropical
In fact, the end of the peninsula was once only accessible during low tide, when residents were able to drive directly on the beach. Otherwise, it was a no go. So, here you had this stunning tropical paradise that virtually no one in the world even knew about or could get to. Talk about exclusive!
Well a few years ago, the government finally put in a road that created access to the entire peninsula. It’s still a rough ride, but the views at the end are totally worth it for those who don’t mind being bounced around in a jeep for the last few miles.
The Burica landscape is otherworldly.
What awaits you at the end of the road to the Burica peninsula is a lush tropical paradise situated on a volcanic reef that juts out over 200 meters in some places. This makes for some amazing waves that serve as an impressive view and calming background noise as you relax in your hammock beneath the coconut palms.
During low tide, the underwater reef is exposed, creating a completely different silhouette that literally makes the shore look like a completely different place. It also makes for an amazing moonscape.
Viva Tropical
There’s also no shortage of wildlife, as Burica is home to a number of exotic species. Among the most prevalent are monkeys. Howler monkeys and capuchins, with their white faces, are all over the place. You can also see the endangered red-backed squirrel monkeys, which are unique to the region and can’t be seen anywhere else.
Burica is an ocean lover’s paradise.
Whatever your choice of aquatic thrill, you can find it in Burica, Panama. If enjoying the coastal breeze while you watch the waves roll in is as adventurous as you get, then you can while your days away in solitude on the beaches of Burica. If that’s merely where your adventure begins, then Burica makes the perfect jumping off point for a long list of aquatic activities.
For starters, it’s full of incredible surf spots that are mostly only known by the locals, who guard these secrets with their life. The great surfing conditions are made possible by the peninsula’s exposure to southern swells, combined with the reef, which drops to depths as low as 300 feet and makes for some amazing waves.
Burica is also home to world-class deep sea fishing. Nearby Islas Ladrones and Isla Montuosa formed the backdrop for many a world record tuna, black marlin, wahoo, and dorado. So far, Burica has one great fishing lodge called Hooked on Panama. And many more are sure to follow as the area develops.
Viva Tropical
Burica, Panama, is home to the first-ever Adventure Colony.
After reading the above, you can probably imagine why we saw such potential in the Burica area when choosing the location for our first Adventure Colony, Playa Burica. Not only did it have the atmosphere and great natural resources that we value, but we also realized what a great investment opportunity it was due to several proposed improvements (like the road we mentioned, which was only a rumor when we first discovered the area).
Our Adventure Colonies are developments for people like us who value wild and beautiful places and want to live in harmony with their natural environment, while also taking advantage of all of the opportunities it offers for adventure. However, even we couldn’t have imagined the success Playa Burica would have.
We’ve sold lots to retired doctors from the midwest U.S., young entrepreneurs from Poland and the U.K., restaurant owners from the Caribbean, and many more individuals who now make up a diverse population that shares our vision and is committed to our dream of maintaining the pristine natural beauty of Burica, Panama.
Viva Tropical
There’s never been a better time to invest in Burica, Panama, real estate.
Over our years of experience in the Central American real estate market, we’ve identified the various stages every area goes through on its way to becoming an established expat community. We’ve also pinpointed the exact step in that process where maximum return on investment is achieved.
In Burica, Panama, it’s about to happen.
Burica is currently in market stage 2 of our development model. Pretty much the only people who’ve been buying land there are pioneers like us who’ve been able to purchase large tracts of land at rock bottom prices based solely on its agricultural use to the locals who owned it.
It required a lot of work and due diligence, but the end result is that we’re now able to offer the land in manageable plots to end users who otherwise wouldn’t have been able to enter such a market on their own.
Well, when large land investors and pioneering developers start buying up land in an area, people start to talk. Interest is generated in the area and even more investors start to show up and begin developing the area.
That’s already happening around Playa Burica. Our scouts tell us that two large pieces of property have been purchased at prices that quite honestly shocked us. This is good news for Playa Burica owners and buyers.
Not only are their property values automatically going to increase, but those nearby developments will have to include more and better amenities in order to be financially feasible in this market. So, Playa Burica owners will also benefit from the businesses and services being offered in the surrounding areas.
That’s why it’s important to act fast if you’re considering investing in the Burica, Panama area. It’s too late to be the first on the scene. But it isn’t too late to profit from the improvements that are coming.
Thomas Richman
Two ongoing projects that will have a major impact on Playa Burica
We’ve already seen the effects that the new road has had on property values in Burica. It’s part of the reason we saw such great potential in the area. Well, it doesn’t stop there. Panama’s government is currently in the process of completing two huge infrastructure projects that will have an even bigger impact on the area.
New Access Via Air
The first is the airport in nearby David. The city’s Enrique Malek International Airport is undergoing a massive expansion and renovation, which will ultimately open its runways to flights from the U.S. and many other nations for the first time ever. That means that people from all over the world will soon have access to Playa Burica via a world-class airport that’s a mere two hour drive away. For now, that is.
Improved Ground Transportation
Why’s that? You guessed it. Construction has just begun on a new 4-lane road from Paso Canoas (at the Costa Rican border) to Puerto Armuelles, the last stop before you begin the trek across the Burica Peninsula. Not only is that good news in terms of access, it’s also a good indication that the government plans to continue to invest in Puerto Armuelles.
And, while the city itself isn’t the type of place that caters to people who enjoy the Adventure Colony lifestyle, it’s the closest place for those in Burica to stock up on supplies. So any growth in Puerto Armuelles is a tremendous benefit to Playa Burica owners and residents.
Bonus offer for Viva Tropical readers!
We realize that, as much as we love Playa Burica, it isn’t for everyone. Namely those who need to be within walking distance to shopping malls and movie theaters. But if you love the idea of getting back to nature on your own private piece of tropical paradise, just a short drive from those other conveniences, then Playa Burica could be right for you.
If so, you should check out our free Adventure Colony book, which explains a little bit more about the concept and what it means to live the Adventure Colony lifestyle, something that’s only available in places like Burica, Panama. The book also contains over $20,000 in exclusive real estate discounts, so download it today!
Map of Burica
Burica Fast Facts
- Population: About 1,360 (Numbers are hard to nail down, but this is a good guestimate)
- Typical temperature: Low 90s
- Nearest airport with U.S. flights: Tocumen Airport. Domestic flights to Panama City, Panama and international flights to Costa Rica depart from Enrique Malek International Airport in David
- Nearest U.S. consulate: Panama City
Saroy
There are a few things you should consider when planning a trip to explore the beautiful Belize beaches on your next vacation.
With almost 240 miles of coastline and hundreds of offshore islands and cayes, you might expect the nation to be home to dozens of the world’s most pristine sandy beaches. Well, that’s not exactly the case.
While there are a number of gorgeous stretches of coastline, among which we’re going to share with you some of our favorites, much of Belize’s coast is occupied by mangrove forests.
These important eco-systems house many species of birds, fish, reptiles, amphibians, and even mammals. They also protect the shores from erosion and damage from hurricanes.
However, they don’t necessarily provide the best conditions for swimming or sunbathing. As a result it’s important to thoroughly research any areas you plan to visit to make sure that each offers the types of activities and atmosphere you’re seeking.
Whether you’re looking to spend your days relaxing in the sand, enjoying some of the world’s best scuba diving in Belize, or soaking up the local culture, Belize has a beach that’s sure to suit your tastes.
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1. Ambergris Caye: Best for Aquatic Adventures
Ambergris Caye is a 36-mile long island off the northernmost coast of Belize. In fact, it’s believed that it was once part of the Yucatan Peninsula before the Mayans dug a narrow channel to separate it from Mexico.
One of the largest islands, it’s also the country’s most popular tourist destination due to its beautiful scenery, friendly locals, and great access to a number of water sports.
The island has a great tourist infrastructure, with plenty of hotels, bars, restaurants, and shopping. San Pedro Town, the only city on the island, has all the amenities visitors need.
However, despite its popularity, the island still enjoys a relaxed, laid-back feel. This is largely due to the lack of high-rise hotels and other large developments.
Most of the beaches in the tourist areas have been cleared, and some have even had sand brought in to further enhance guests’ enjoyment of the shoreline. However the real star of the show in Ambergris Caye is the wealth of activities that are available just short distance from the coast.
A mere half mile off the coast of the island lies the Belize coral reef system, the second largest in the world. In just a few minutes you can access dive sights like Mexico Rocks and the world-famous Great Blue Hole.
For those who don’t dive, you can also snorkel in 3 feet of water with brightly-colored parrot fish in spots like Shark Ray Alley and the Hol Chan Reserve.
Other popular aquatic activities include deep sea fishing and sailing the cayes. The shore is dotted with piers where you can rent a boat for diving, fishing, or exploring. Diving schools and equipment rentals are also widely available.
Unquencahble Fire
2. Caye Caulker: Best Laid-Back Atmosphere
Just a short distance from Ambergris Caye is Caye Caulker, one of the most easy-going of all the Belize beaches. It also has a number of cleared sections of beach, as well as an area called the Split on the southern tip of the island which is one of the area’s best swimming spots.
The island’s motto is “Go Slow”, and this sentiment is echoed throughout the attitudes of the locals, as well as their methods of transportation.
Cars aren’t allowed on the island, with the exception of a few delivery trucks, so folks get around via golf carts, one-speed bikes, and their own two–usually bare–feet.
Much like the disposition of its residents, the island itself is also fairly unassuming. Businesses are locally owned. Tourist accommodations are small-scale and affordable. The island also remains true to its distinct cultural flavor, without seeming too overly touristy.
Much smaller (only four miles long) than nearby Ambergris Caye, Caye Caulker also enjoys the same close proximity to the Belize Barrier Reef, just a mile away. As a result, it’s also a popular destination for those interested in diving, sailing, and fishing.
Among its other offerings are manatee tours. You can swim alongside these friendly sea cows or just watch as they swim right up to the edge of your boat.
Caye Caulker also enjoys a strong eastward wind throughout most of the year, making it a great place for wind surfing.
Land loving adventurers can explore the jungles and mangrove forests, which are home to over 190 species of birds. Several areas of the island are designated as protected reserves.
Walter Rodriguez
3. Placencia: Best of the Mainland Belize Beaches
If you’re still looking for that pristine stretch of sandy coastline that goes on for miles, you’ll find it in Placencia. In fact, there are 12 miles of it.
The beaches here are wide and welcoming, with fantastic views of the nearby cayes. Of all the Belize beaches, it’s undeniably one of the most postcard-worthy.
But just because it’s on the mainland, that doesn’t mean it lags behind its island neighbors in the adventure category. Placencia lies only a short boat ride from the Belize barrier reef so, like several on our list, it also offers some amazing diving and snorkeling opportunities.
It’s also a good place for fly fishing and trolling, as well as spotting the area’s famous whale sharks. However, in Placencia, the story doesn’t end with the aquatic adventures.
Just inland from Placencia lies the majestic Maya Mountains, which are packed with culture, history, rushing rivers, and cascading waterfalls. These attractions are so close, you can even experience the thrill of the beach and the mountains in the same day.
Placencia is also a cultural and culinary hub. The abundance of fresh seafood lends itself to a wide variety of local ethnic preparations, as well as international cuisines. There’s also a Lobsterfest each year in June. The Placencia Sidewalk Arts and Music Festival in February is another popular event.
Placencia also boasts a vibrant nightlife, with many local bars and nightclubs where patrons can dance to local rhythms ’til the wee hours of the morning.
However, due to its beautiful beaches, festivals, and abundance of tourist attractions, Placencia has a tendency to become a bit crowded.
Joshua Skaroff
4. Hopkins: Best for Authentic Culture
Hopkins is the least known of all the Belize beaches on our list. As a result, it’s a great option for those who hope to avoid the crowds.
It’s also jam-packed with culture, as it’s considered by some to be the cultural center of Belize’s Garifuna population, a people of African, Carib, and Arawak descent. The town hosts Hopkins Day, as well as Garifuna Independence Day, with drum ceremonies and other festivities.
Though it’s gaining popularity, Hopkins is home to only about 1,500 residents, most of whom make a living by farming or fishing. Due to its growth, more and more are finding work in the tourism industry.
The locals are welcoming to visitors, and the area was even recently voted “The Friendliest Village in Belize” by Belize First Magazine.
The town’s shoreline boasts a long stretch of sand that’s perfect for walking or jogging. While tourist attractions are still few, there are a number of restaurants, gift shops, and small bars. Hopkins is also a short 20 minute boat ride from the reef, making it likely to continue to grow in popularity as an up-and-coming dive destination.
Due to their fishing background, the Garifuna people are excellent navigators and tour guides. They can also lead you to some of the area’s best fishing. Some also offer lessons on how to play the Garifuna Drums, a unique instrument of African and Amerindian design played to authentic Caribbean beats.
Hopkins also offers a number of inland attractions to explore, such as Mayan temples, caves, waterfalls, and a dense rainforest. Another site unique to Hopkins is the nearby Cockscomb Basin, a jaguar preserve that offers hiking, camping, and jaguar sightings among fantastic mountain and rainforest views.
Which Beach is Right For You?
Whether your ideal vacation involves long walks on white stretches of sand, world-class fishing and diving, or even both you’re sure to find what you’re looking for somewhere on these beautiful Belize beaches.
You can choose a long span of beach on the mainland, an island getaway, or–better yet–a combination of the two. Just pack your laid-back attitude and your casual attire (shoes optional) and head on down.
Map of Best Beaches in Belize
Belize Fast Facts
- Population: About 324,000
- Typical temperature: 84 degrees
- Nearest airport with U.S. flights: Belize City, Belize
- Nearest U.S. Consulate: Belmopan, Cayo, Belize
Alex E. Proimos
The nation of Panama has touted itself as “The Way.” The way to adventure, the way to realizing your dreams, the way to a dream vacation, or the way to whatever it is you may be looking for.
And it’s true.
Every year thousands of expats are finding exactly what they’re seeking in Panama. Whether it’s an opportunity to start their own business, the ability to experience new adventures with their family, or just a quiet place to settle down and enjoy the fruits of their labors.
So, what is the secret to Panama’s appeal? There are actually too many to name. But here are just a few facts about Panama and why expats continue to pick it as their destination of choice.
1. Panama has unmatched natural beauty and biodiversity.
Christoffer Undisclosed
Almost half of Panama’s land mass consists of rainforests, mountain cloud forests, and mangrove wetlands. And they’re all teeming with an abundance of flora and fauna. Not to mention all the aquatic species in the surrounding seas and coral reefs.
Much of the country’s biodiversity is due to its strategic position as a “biological corridor” connecting the Americas. Its Darien province, which is almost impenetrable and lacks much infrastructure, is considered by some as one of the most biodiverse areas in the entire world.
It’s home to jaguars, harpy eagles, American crocodiles, giant anteaters, and more. Among the country’s other species are over 10,000 types of plants (including 1,200 varieties of orchids and 1,500 types of trees) and over 250 types of mammals, several of which can be found nowhere else in the world.
2. Turtles and whales and birds…Oh, my!
Of all the animals to see in Panama, few are as prevalent and as fascinating as these. Five of the eight species of sea turtles in the entire world swim ashore to nest on Panama’s beaches. Several national parks encompass havens for these turtles that swim in by the thousands to lay their eggs in the sand.
Panama is also home to a whopping 972 species of birds, more than the U.S. and Canada combined. You can observe them in the mountains or in the mangroves. One of the best places is in Baru Volcano National Park, where you can spot the Resplendent Quetzal along with many other species.
Every year from June to November, humpback and sperm whales migrate to Panama’s Pacific Coast to mate. The sight of them leaping out of the water in areas like Coiba, the Gulf of Chiriqui, and the Pearl Islands is quite a sight to behold.
3. Finding the right climate in Panama is almost as easy as adjusting your thermostat.
In general, Panama has a warm, tropical climate with very little seasonal variation. Coastal areas are much more hot and humid, and the mountain towns are more temperate with less rainfall. The year is essentially divided into a rainy season (roughly April to December, give or take a month or two depending on location) and a much drier rest of the year.
Finding the right climate for you basically involves testing out spots on a sliding scale from Caribbean to Pacific and from lower to higher elevations. The Pacific coast is a bit cooler and drier, with a nice evening breeze. The Caribbean side, by contrast, gets significantly more rainfall and is a few degrees warmer.
Likewise, you can also adjust your temperature and humidity by moving further up into the mountains. It gets cooler and cooler (maybe even too cool for some), with areas like the Cordillera de Talamanca in western Panama even seeing a little bit of frost.
With such great weather year-round, Panama’s residents can enjoy its beauty and opportunities for adventure in every season! In other great news, while parts of Panama do see the occasional strong thunderstorm, it’s outside the hurricane belt.
4. Panama is an ocean lover’s paradise.
Diesel Demon
Panama is a narrow isthmus that connects Costa Rica in Central America with Colombia in South America. It’s lined by miles and miles of coastline on both the Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea. Its coastal ecosystems consist of gorgeous beaches, rocky cliffs, mangrove forests, and coral reefs.
As a result, Panama’s coasts offer opportunities for every water sport and activity imaginable. Coiba National Park contains the longest reef on Central America’s Pacific coast. Both it and Chiriqui Gulf National Marine Park are great places to go diving or snorkeling or watch whales and dolphins.
The name “Panama,” in the Indian language, means “abundance of fish.” It’s a great place for sport fishing, as a number of world record fish were caught of its shores. Surfing is also popular in Panama, particularly in world-famous Santa Catalina. Other available water sports include paddle boarding, kayaking, and kite surfing.
5. Panama’s fun doesn’t stop at the shore.
Panama’s interior offers a wealth of other options for adventure. Many hiking trails wind through the country’s jungles and rainforests, including several that run through Metropolitan Natural Park in Panama City, the only protected forest in Central America that’s located within the city limits.
A hike to the summit of Volcan Baru, the country’s highest point, affords visitors the opportunity to simultaneously take in views of both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. The most intrepid adventurers often start this hike at midnight in order to reach the peak by sunrise.
Not far from Volcan Baru, also in the Chiriqui province, is the mountain town of Boquete which offers some of the world’s best zip lining tours through the canopy of the cloud forest. The area also has some first-rate places for kayaking and whitewater rafting, with rapids ranging from Class III to Class V, depending on the season.
6. Panama’s capital city is truly cosmopolitan.
Jasperdo
Much of Panama enjoys great infrastructure for a developing country. In Panama City, it’s top-notch. There’s world-class shopping, fine dining, museums, modern medical facilities, and much more. And recent urban development has attracted even more residents to this thriving hub.
But it’s not all concrete and skyscrapers. As mentioned, Panama City has a 655-acre rain forest within its limits. There you can find a variety of birds and mammals, including toucans, parrots, and sloths.
There’s also a coastal strip with lots of green space that leads to the Old Town, Casco Viejo. This area, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a unique blend of ancient and modern. With its boutique hotels, located in historic buildings, and open-air cafes it’s an eclectic mix of people and cultures.
7. Panama is a unique and diverse blend of people and customs.
Speaking of culture, Panama is a great place to go if you want to experience the real, authentic customs and traditions of a nation’s people. Panama is still home to 7 different indigenous tribes, although they represent only 6% of the country’s total population. They live in groups called comarcas, which are self-contained sovereignties, with many being very welcoming to visitors who want to observe how they live.
Among the cultural heritage of these ethnic groups are indigenous dances, like the tamborito and congo. They also produce a variety of handmade arts and crafts. These include molas (patchwork pictures that can be sewn to garments or used as pillow covers or wall hangings), jute bags, wood carvings, beaded jewelry, and woven baskets. (However, one of the most commonly mistaken facts about Panama is the origin of the Panama hat. It actually hails from Ecuador.)
Locals also celebrate a number of festivals, most notably Carnival which takes place four days before Ash Wednesday. Towns elect two queens to represent separate sections of the city. For five nights, the queens and their troupes entertain the crowds with parades, dancing, and fireworks.
8. The Panama Canal is an amazing piece of living history.
The largest contributor (directly and indirectly) to the nation’s GDP, the Panama Canal is such an integral part of the story of the country’s progress. And it’s currently undergoing a massive expansion.
The 90-year old waterway, which is already operating at almost 100% of its ability, will have doubled its capacity by the time its over $5 billion expansion project is completed in 2015. A new Observation Center gives visitors the opportunity to watch the construction, as well as take in views of Gatun Lake. Also available are full and partial tours through the canal, where visitors can experience the journey for themselves.
9. Panama enjoys a pleasantly low cost of living.
While it’s true that the cost of living is low throughout most of Latin America, it’s difficult to find a much better bang for your buck than in Panama. Costs vary, of course, from one area to the next (with larger cities requiring much more money to live on than more rural areas).
However, it’s within reason that a couple could enjoy a nice standard of living for $1,500 or less, including rent, in most parts of Panama. And that includes such luxuries as the services of a maid and gardener.
Other services that are quite reasonable in Panama include reliable high-speed internet, public transportation, and excellent health care.
10. Panama is an excellent place to invest or do business.
Not only is Panama a great place to visit or live, it’s very friendly to investors or those who want to open a business, particularly in the tourism industry. Its tax laws are favorable, and setting up a Panamanian corporation is relatively simple.
The government has also recently signed into legislation a number of incentives that make it even more attractive to invest in Panama.
Whether you want to start up an outfit that offers ATV jungle tours, or you just want to buy a piece of land and build your own little piece of island paradise, Panama is a great place to make that happen.
Bonus Facts About Panama…#11. Panama is home to two Adventure Colonies.
I know what you’re thinking. What’s an Adventure Colony, right?
Adventure Colonies are our one-of-a-kind developments that are specially tailored towards would-be expats like you who share our love for the natural environment and a life lived a bit more simply. After reading these facts about Panama, I’m sure you can see why we chose it for our first two projects.
Playa Burica is located on Panama’s Pacific coast on a peninsula the country shares with Costa Rica. Its oceanside lots are covered with untouched jungle, making it great for adventure lovers. It’s also a savvy investment choice, as several factors make the area prime for a boom in the coming years.
Our newest development, Boca Chica Island, is a 400 acre private island covered in jungle and rainforest. It lies 10 minutes off of Panama’s Pacific coast and is surrounded by about 50 other mostly uninhabited islands. We think Robinson Crusoe would approve.
If your idea of a dream destination abroad involves something more–or in this case, less–than a string of high-rise condos and all-inclusive resorts, then maybe an Adventure Colony could be right for you.
Map of Panama
Panama Fast Facts
- Population: 3.8 million
- Typical temperature: Temperature typically varies from 72°F to 91°F
- Nearest airport with U.S. flights: U.S. Bound flights leave daily from Tocumen International Airport
- Nearest U.S. consulate: Panama City
For decades, expatriates from Canada and the U.S. have been crossing the border into Mexico looking for something better. Their reasons vary, but among them are less taxation, more personal freedoms, a lower cost of living, a higher quality of life, warmer weather, and a slower pace.
In fact, there are more U.S. residents living abroad in Mexico than in any other country in the world. Recent estimates by the U.S. State Department have the total number of U.S. expats living in Mexico nearing 1 million. That’s up from only about 200,000 just a decade ago. However, this number could be even higher.
U.S. illegals in Mexico are just as common.
Just as many Mexicans cross over into the U.S. illegally, likewise there are many U.S. citizens who overstay the time allotted on their tourist visa. Others go back and forth like nomads, without ever establishing formal residency.
As a result, it’s difficult to say exactly how many U.S. citizens are living in Mexico, or–for that matter–exactly where they are living. However, recently released data shows the 20 cities with the highest number of residents who register themselves as U.S. citizens. These locations account for 46.8% of all U.S. expats over the age of 50.
U.S. expats in Mexico graph by Yucatan Times
Say ‘hello’ to the new kid on the block.
While many of the cities that made the list should come as no surprise, one up-and-comer that’s worth noting is the town of Merida on the Yucatan Peninsula. As the data shows, 1.1% of all U.S. citizens over the age of 50 have established their permanent residency in Merida.
What’s even more remarkable is the rate at which the area’s foreign population is growing.
In 2012, 476 foreigners received their permanent residence cards in the Yucatan. In the early part of 2013, that number has seen a 30% increase. That kind of growth could bump the Yucatan up into 8th place out of all expat destinations in Mexico.
Why the influx of foreigners to the Yucatan?
Well, for one thing it’s beautiful. Once covered in cattle ranches, fishing villages, and logging outfits, parts of the area were targeted years ago by the Mexican government as an ideal spot for a world-class leisure destination.
Today it boasts beautiful sand beaches, turquoise waters, ancient Mayan ruins, mangrove forests, lush jungles, first-rate resorts, low-key island getaways, happening nightlife, aquatic life, and a wealth of adventures to experience on both land and sea.
Not to mention, the Yucatan has quite a few specialized housing areas that are designed to attract foreign retirees. Altogether, there are 36 of these developments throughout the country, and you can find at least one in all three states in the Yucatan region: Quintana Roo, Yucatan, and Campeche.
So, where else are the expats going?
Expats can be found all over Mexico. In big cities, tiny villages, beach hotspots, and mountain towns. Here are a few of the major areas where you’ll find expats in Mexico, along with some details about some of the top cities that made the list in each category.
Border Towns
Not surprisingly, a number of U.S. citizens choose to live in places that are in close proximity to the border of their home country. These areas are popular places for multinational companies to establish their facilities. They’re also quite convenient for quick trips back to wherever “home” is, or even just to one of the large U.S. cities that is usually situated just across the border. Here are a few of the most popular ones:
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Tijuana – The largest city on the Baja peninsula (and the 7th largest in Mexico), Tijuana is an important manufacturing center that’s home to a number of multinational conglomerates. A growing cultural center, it’s home to a rapidly growing number of U.S. citizens, many of whom still work in Southern California but prefer the lower cost of living south of the border.
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Mexicali – With a highly educated population, Mexicali boasts one of the highest standards of living in Mexico. It’s a cosmopolitan city with a large middle class. It’s also home to Silicon Border, a large industrial park that hopes to become a global hub for semiconductor manufacturing. Mexicali is also known as an important sports town.
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Juarez – Located on the Rio Grande, Juarez has been dubbed “The City of the Future” for its rapidly growing industrial sector.
Jeremy Andrews
Beach Towns
Mexico is unique in that it offers options for beach towns on a number of coasts. There’s the Baja Peninsula which is bordered by both the Pacific Ocean and the Gulf of California. On the eastern side of the country is the Gulf of Mexico and, on the southern side of the Yucatan Peninsula, the Caribbean Sea. Among all those shores are sand beaches, rocky cliffs, and shores that give way to lush mountains or even deserts.
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Ensenada – Dubbed the “Cinderella of the Pacific,” this city is a popular cruise ship destination, a wine-growing region, and a haven for a variety of exotic flora and fauna. It’s home to the great white shark, Guadalupe fur seal, puma, ocelot, roadrunner, and more. It’s also popular among North American snowbirds, as well as young Californians who want to work in California but enjoy a lower cost of living.
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Playas de Rosarito – Located on the Baja Peninsula, this area has always had a largely tourist-based economy. During prohibition when many U.S. residents began to cross the border into the speakeasies of Tijuana, Rosarito became a popular getaway among the more affluent clientele and the Hollywood crowd.
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Puerto Vallarta – Puerto Vallarta is one of Mexico’s most highly developed tourist destinations. It caters to a large number of tourists and expats, including cruise ships and a growing LGBT population. It’s been called the “San Francisco of Mexico.”
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Los Cabos – Composed of the twin cities of Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo, this area was once a fishing community. Today its economy is geared towards tourism, although sport fishing is one of its largest draws, as is golf. It’s also one of the top spots in the country for whale watching.
Interior Cities
From bustling cosmopolitan cities to quiet mountain towns, Mexico’s interior also houses a large number of U.S. expats. Many of these places offer top-notch infrastructure, quality medical facilities, and great scenery.
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Chapala – This popular city is located on the north shore of Lake Chapala, the largest freshwater lake in Mexico. Famous for its mariachi music, this area is home to one of the country’s largest expat populations, many of which live in the village of Ajijic, a town of roughly 5,000 inhabitants.
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San Miguel de Allende – Home to a growing number of U.S. expats, this city has seen its economy shift from agriculture and industry to commerce centered around tourists and foreign residents. San Miguel has a well-preserved historic center, a mild climate, rich culture, and low crime.
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Guadalajara – When considering the fact that the city’s suburb of Zapopan also made the top 20, this area contains a very large number of foreign residents. There’s a historic city center with ancient buildings, public parks, and beautiful squares. Guadalajara also has a thriving manufacturing industry and serves as one of Mexico’s important cultural centers.
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Monterrey – This area has the highest per capita income in Mexico and is one of its most developed cities. It’s been heavily influenced by decades of U.S. immigrants, resembling its North American neighbors even more than cities located along the border. An important industrial and business center, Monterrey ranked 5th in all of Latin America for Quality of Life in a survey by Mercer Human Resource Consulting.
Jack Newton
What the numbers don’t show…
It’s important to note that, while statistically accurate, the numbers don’t necessarily paint a perfect picture of what the expat population in those cities actually looks like. The list merely shows the top places where expats are actually registered.
What the data doesn’t take into account is those who don’t register or those who are only in Mexico for part of the year (i.e. snowbirds). Since places like Quintana Roo, Cancun, and Playa del Carmen contain the seasonal homes of many from the U.S., a visit to one of those places would have you wondering why every city on the entire Yucatan Peninsula didn’t make the list.
Someone who’s spent some time on the Yucatan would easily argue that it’s home to as many expats as places like San Miguel, Chapala, and Rosarito. The likely explanation is that the expats in those areas have made those cities their more permanent home.
Another thing to consider is that some of the cities on the list have high populations in general, such as Guadalajara (3rd highest in the nation), Leon (5th), Juarez (6th), Tijuana (7th), Zapopan (8th), and Monterrey (9th). So it’s entirely possible that you could arrive and still find yourself wondering where on earth all the gringos are.
Not to mention, just because these areas are popular among the majority of U.S. expats, it doesn’t mean they’re the best destinations for you. They could be, if you are looking for a large city or a place with a high concentration of expats. But if you want to branch out and integrate yourself into the local community, your ideal destination probably isn’t on this list.
Come check it out for yourself!
The best solution if you’re searching for a place to become an expat in Latin America is to take a trip down and see things for yourself. While there’s nothing data-oriented or official about just laying eyes on a place, there’s no substitute for getting your feet on the ground and experiencing a city firsthand. So, narrow down your search. Then book your flight.
Map of Yucatan, Mexico
Mexico Fast Facts
- Population: 120.8 million
- Typical temperature: temperatures reach 90 to 92 degrees in the Yucatan.
- Nearest airport with U.S. flights: Merida International Airport
- Nearest U.S. consulate: Merida, Mexico
For would-be expats looking to relocate to Central America, Costa Rica and Panama are natural front runners.
And for good reason.
Located adjacent to one another at the southernmost end of Central America, the two are quite similar in many ways. Both consistently top the lists of best places to retire in Latin America, and the world for that matter.
They both boast amazing vistas, near-perfect climates, modern amenities with a low cost of living, excellent health care, and some really great options for how you can spend your free time. However, there are a few areas where one nation has a slight advantage over its neighbor.
While many areas of consideration depend largely on personal preference, we lined up Panama vs. Costa Rica in a head-to-head cage match to see which one comes out on top.
Use the Infographic on Your Own Site
Round #1: Lifestyle Hacks
Advantage: Costa Rica
Both Panama and Costa Rica offer the opportunity to simplify your life by hiring out a number of services that, quite frankly, you’d just rather not have to do on your own. You can easily enlist the help of a gardener, a driver, a tutor for your children, or even a full-time maid who cleans your house, buys your groceries, does your laundry, and prepares your meals six days a week (for less than $15 per day).
While the costs are fairly close, domestic help can be a bit more expensive in Costa Rica. Why’d we pick it as the winner if it’s the more expensive of the two? Easy.
When comparing Panama vs. Costa Rica, Costa Rica has a much more customer-oriented service culture. So, while you may pay a few more dollars per day for domestic help in Costa Rica, the extra money is totally worth it in terms of the quality of personal service you’ll receive.
Round #2 – Connectivity
Winner: Panama by a Landslide
Due in part to a long-standing U.S. military presence, Panama is one of the most connected countries in Latin America. Broadband internet service is available in most cities and is very affordable. There are also numerous free wi-fi hotspots nationwide.
In fact, Panama was recently named #2 in all of Latin America for technology and internet penetration. It also earned the #1 spot for wireless availability. That’s why so many multinational companies like Dell, 3M, and Philips are choosing to establish regional headquarters there.
By contrast, Costa Rica is light years behind its Central American neighbors in terms of internet speed. Although its average connection speed has increased 43% percent in the past year, it’s still only 2.1 megabytes per second. (Streaming a movie requires 1.5 Mbps, or 4 Mbps in high definition.)
Brian Gratwicke
Round #3 – Living Options
Outcome: Varies by Region
This category is a hard one to call. Both Costa Rica and Panama have such varied topography and eco-climates. Not to mention all the other factors that can vary greatly from one region to the next, such as climate, infrastructure, and proximity to attractions.
For comparison’s sake, we’ll compare Panama vs. Costa Rica in four subcategories and examine the top cities expats are choosing for each type of area.
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Mountain towns…Winner: Panama A popular mountain destination for North American expats in Costa Rica is Atenas. Located in the Central Valley, it enjoys mild weather year-round, great views of the surrounding mountains, proximity to San Jose, and an established expat community. Boquete, Panama, offers all those things plus cooler temps, better roads and infrastructure, and a million things to do nearby, from ziplining through cloud forests to climbing volcanoes to sport fishing off the coast.
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City living…Champion: Panama Again Panama City, the nation’s capital, is a vibrant cosmopolitan city that caters to residents and travelers looking for both business and adventure. It offers world-class shopping and dining, as well as a 655-acre rain forest that’s within its city limits. On the other hand, San Jose, Costa Rica, is much smaller, much less attractive, and much more limited in terms of anything interesting to do.
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Beach communities…Advantage: Costa Rica Beach living is right in Costa Rica’s wheelhouse. Towns like Nosara and many, many more have been drawing nomads and expats for decades, and the country caters very well to this genre. Costa Rica’s beach towns have everything you need, from aquatic adventures to quaint accommodations. Panama has a few good options, such as Coronado near the capital, but none can hold a candle to the laid-back coastal cities of Costa Rica.
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Island retreats…No Contest: Panama Costa Rica was almost a no-show for this match. There just simply aren’t many island living options available for comparison. Cano Island offers a serene natural setting among the reefs, but with such slim pickings island ownership is pretty much out of the question. However, in Panama, you can own your own piece of paradise on our own Boca Chica Island, a 400-acre private island offering lots ranging from 5 to 50 acres. It’s just off the coast in an area that’s surrounded by a multitude of land and sea adventures.
Round #4 – Green Living
Winner: Costa Rica, Hands Down
Both Panama and Costa Rica have great options for living in harmony with nature. However, Costa Rica is committed to protecting its natural environment, due largely to its importance in the country’s eco-tourism industry. Almost ¼ of its total area is dedicated to parkland.
Over 90% of the country’s electricity comes from renewable energy sources, with a plan to increase this to 95% by 2014. It’s also on its way to becoming the first carbon-free economy in the world.
Both countries have tons of options for eco-tourism, from jungle tours to mangrove exploration to scuba diving.
Smilla4
Round #5 – Cost of Living
Slight Edge: Panama
Panama and Costa Rica both boast a cost of living that is a fraction of that of the U.S. or Canada. However, from the cost of property to the cost of a bunch of bananas, prices are a bit lower in Panama on average.
It’s true that in both countries there are certain regions or cities (typically the most developed or heavily-touristed areas) where everything from rent to a three-course meal runs close to North American prices, but in general you can find more places in Panama where those expenses are considerably less.
One of the largest contributing factors to Panama’s affordability for many expats is its Pensionado Program. Available to “retirees” of any age, those who meet the income requirements can qualify for discounts ranging from 15-50% on everything from health care to entertainment.
Round #6 – Ease of Access
Verdict: It’s a Tie
Panama and Costa Rica are fairly neck and neck in this category, each for their own reason. Panama takes the prize for international arrivals and departures. Its Tocumen International Airport has flights to several North American cities, as well as various points in South America, making Panama a great destination for those who want easy access to faraway places.
Costa Rica wins for being a great jumping-off point for other adventures throughout Central America, due to its more central location and affordable travel options.
Round #7 – Business Climate
Advantage: Panama
The International Finance Corporation ranked Panama 55th in the world for ease of doing business, compared to a rank of 102 for Costa Rica. Their findings are based on an examination of 10 factors to determine which countries are most conducive to the startup and operation of a local business.
And the difference is obvious if you’ve experienced the business climate of the two nations. Panama’s government is extremely pro-business and pro-investor. It’s also something of a tax haven. Costa Rica on the other hand is much more bureaucratic, with slower processes and higher taxes and fees.
Arturo Sotillo
Round #8 – Banking
Winner: Costa Rica (For Now)
With changing regulations, in both the U.S. as well as Costa Rica and Panama, this category tends to fluctuate greatly over time. However, for the past few years at least, banking for North Americans has typically been easier in Costa Rica.
This is mainly in terms of opening and holding a bank account. Both countries share many of the same requirements (identification, proof of residence and income, etc.). However, Costa Rica only requires a $25 minimum deposit (vs. Panama’s $1,000). Panamanian banks may also ask for additional documents such as proof of employment or reference letters from one or more North American banks.
One difference worth noting is that Panama’s official currency is the dollar, while Costa Rica uses the colon. Because it’s so thinly traded, the colon generally follows the dollar. However, in the event of a financial crisis, this could mean problems for Costa Rica.
Round #9 – Investment Opportunities
Our Pick: Panama
To put this showdown into perspective, let’s use the analogy that Panama is basically the Costa Rica of twenty years ago. When North American retirees began to get tired of the overcrowded expat communities and rising costs of Mexico, they turned to Costa Rica. Now that Costa Rica has reached mega-expat status, people are looking to Panama.
Costs are still lower and, as a result, there is much more capacity for growth. In addition to those factors, the Panamanian government is and has been placing heavy emphasis on tourism investment, largely in the form of tax incentives. It’s also possible for foreign residents to obtain financing in Panama, something they can’t get in Costa Rica.
Round #10 – Healthcare
Outcome: Too Close to Call
Healthcare is excellent in both Costa Rica and Panama. The two countries both have inexpensive public health care, with Costa Rica’s being touted as one of the world’s best low-cost medical programs. In fact, the quality of its health care system is ranked 36th in the world by the WHO, with the U.S. in 37th place.
Both countries also have private hospitals available, where many of the doctors speak English and trained in the U.S. Panama has several state-of-the-art hospitals that are affiliated with world-renowned facilities in the U.S., such as Johns Hopkins.
Panama’s only drawback is the accessibility of its modern private medical facilities. They’re often found only in the largest cities, specifically Panama City and David. Those in rural areas may have trouble finding the care they need, as often only first aid is available in the most remote areas.
World Bank
Round #11 – Consumer Goods
Winner: Panama
We mentioned that the cost of living is slightly higher in Costa Rica. This is especially true when it comes to consumer goods, like groceries–for instance–which generally run about 15-20% higher than in Panama. Exports are also taxed more heavily in Costa Rica, so as a result a lot of products are much harder to find.
Costa Rica also has a higher value added tax (VAT), 14% vs. 7% in Panama. It also has a lot more taxes on luxury items like cars, electronics, and appliances. Compare this with Panama which has lower taxes and even a number of duty-free zones.
These factors have made Panama quite the shopping hub for folks in Latin America. In fact, on one of our last trips to Ecuador we met some people who were on their way back from Panama City where they’d gone specifically to buy several flat screen TVs, due to the country’s lower prices and better selection.
Round #12 – Foreign Land Ownership
Undisputed Champ: Panama
Panama has virtually no restrictions on the ownership of property by foreigners. In fact, there’s only one, and here it is. Foreigners, or foreign owners of Panamanian corporations, can’t own property within 10 kilometers of the country’s borders. That’s it. Also, under Panamanian law, foreigners have all the same protections as citizens.
By contrast, Costa Rica’s land ownership laws are not as liberally applied to foreigners. Land considered restricted or concession areas, including 95% of all beachfront property, is not eligible to be owned by foreign residents (unless they’ve lived in Costa Rica for at least 5 years). The only option for use of this kind of property is through 49% ownership in a corporation with a native Costa Rican.
The buying process is also much easier in Panama, where a good attorney can help to simplify things like title searches, purchase agreements, and the registering of the deed.
Coco Lime Monkey
Panama vs. Costa Rica…Which is the Grand Champion?
Were you keeping score during that match-up of Panama vs. Costa Rica? If so, we would advise you to take our recommendations with a grain of salt. Panama and Costa Rica both offer a host of great places to live as an expat. And determining which one is right for you depends 100% on your values and what you want out of your life in a new location.
Want to Learn about Residency Options?
Each one of these countries has different strengths, but you can listen to our interviews with the experts and find out what it takes to become a resident or if you need to do it at all. The Costa Rica residency interview is here and the Panama residency discussion can be found here.
Our best advice? Plan a trip down to Central America. Check out both of these amazing expat destinations and choose for yourself which one is right for your family.