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 Stable and Growing Economy
Panama’s economy is stable and growing at a very healthy pace – 4.5% in 2004, 6.4% in 2005 and a projected 7.9% for 2006. According to Reuters, Panama is one of Latin America’s fastest-growing economies, spurred by increased canal traffic, a booming construction sector, buoyant banks and increased exports of tropical fruit. On October 22, 2006, an approximate 77% of Panamanian voters approved the expansion of the canal during a nation wide referendum. This USD$5.25 billion project is aimed at doubling the capacity of the canal and attracting an incredible 40,000 jobs during the estimated timeline of seven to eight years. With the U.S. dollar circulating as legal tender since 1904, Panama’s economic stability provides very low inflation rates and virtually no currency fluctuations.
Safety and Security
Panama is considered one of the safest countries in all of South and Central America. Panamanians are extremely friendly and welcoming people, and foreigners who live in Panama, will tell you that they feel very safe and that street crimes are uncommon.
 Diverse Ecosystem
Panama is home to an astonishing number of plant, bird and animal species. More species of birds live in Panama than in all of North America combined! Panama is also home to an abundance of mammals, reptiles, amphibians and marine species, resulting in one of the most unique ecosystems in the world.
Truly Affordable Real Estate
Many 1,000 square foot condominium units featuring 2 bedrooms with maid quarters cost well under $100,000. At the other end, there are abundant spectacular 5,000 square foot and up units to choose from. In addition, a great selection of master-planned beachfront, island and mountain communities are available that present excellent lifestyle opportunities.
World-Class Golfing, Sailing, Diving, Rafting and Fishing
Panama is home to some of the world’s best golf courses designed by the likes of Jack Nicklaus and Arnold Palmer. Panama is also known for its excellent fishing and is host to many international fishing competitions.
Low Cost of Living
Even though Panama boasts a standard of living that is comparable to North America and Europe, the cost is significantly lower. For example, a full-time live-in maid would run approximately $150 monthly; a taxi will charge $2 to virtually any destination within city limits; a movie in a North American style cinema will cost under $4; an afternoon at a beauty salon is $8; a gardener will roughly cost $10 a day; and a luxurious restaurant meal (including appetizers, sides, drinks, and tips) will cost no more than $50 per couple.
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 Government Incentives
The Panamanian government encourages foreigners to live and invest in Panama by offering various incentive programs such as property tax exonerations on new construction from 10 to 20 years. Some other notable incentives for foreign investors include: foreign and local investors are guaranteed equal rights; foreign investors do not require special authorizations, permits or prior registration; one of the lowest tariffs in the region; special tax, import, and operational incentives in the construction, infrastructure, tourism, reforestation, mining, insurance and petroleum free zones sectors; no tax or government reporting requirements on any foreign earned income as-well-as many incentive programs that offer immediate residency, visas and passports.
 First Class Healthcare
Panama’s advanced healthcare system prides itself in offering the highest quality of medical care in its region. The newly built Hospital of Punta Pacifica – in Affiliation with John Hopkins Medicine International offers “a First Rate Digital Hospital of the highest quality, standard of care, security and technology; together with a system supported by one of the best hospital in the world, John Hopkins Medicine International. Along with providing a state-of-the-art diagnostic and clinical care facility, Panama’s physicians are almost all U.S. trained and are fully bi-lingual. Medical insurance is available for approximately $600-$800 a year per person (depending on individual characteristics and needs), and the average costs of common treatments are nearly 50% cheaper than in the U.S.
World-Class Modern Infrastructure
Panama features one of the world’s most sophisticated telecommunications networks and first-world countrywide road infrastructure. The country’s modern shopping malls, banking center and hospitals will easily rival any of those in North America. With a purified tap water system, high-speed Internet access, cable TV, international restaurants, clubs, casinos and much more, you’ll find that making the transition to Panama is easy when all the luxuries of back home are within arm’s reach.
Great Climate All Year Round
Panama offers tropical weather conditions all year round, with temperatures fluctuating between 22 and 30 degrees Celsius. Due to its proximity to the equator, Panama does not suffer from the frequent hurricanes that hit the Caribbean and southern US coast.
A Great Retirement Destination
Panama has been ranked by numerous sources as one of the best places in the world to retire. In September of this year, it has been recently announced that “For the sixth consecutive year, the same country has come out on top of the IL Global Retirement Index. After closely reviewing eight key factors: Real Estate Prices, Special Benefits for Retirees, Cost of Living, Safety and Stability, Health Care, Climate, Culture & Entertainment, and Infrastructure, Panama came out the top destination”. This is not surprising considering the attractive incentive program retirees receive (discounts of up to 50% off on entertainment, transportation, accommodations, restaurants, hospital bills, prescription medicines, medical consultation and exams, utility bills, and much more).
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