The Pacific Pioneers of 2006

Dear International Living Reader,

Like the pioneers crossing the American west back in the 1800s, our caravan set out in search of opportunity in a new land.

We weren't in covered wagons, though. Nor were we headed anywhere dangerous, undiscovered, or lacking modern amenities.

We traveled in style...in two comfortable, air-conditioned coaches, and we were off to tour real estate for sale along Panama's beautiful Pacific Coast.

At our resort-and-spa hotel, just 25 minutes west of Panama City, we were treated to an exquisite breakfast in the air-conditioned clubhouse overlooking the emerald ocean and a spectacular stretch of powdery beach.

"Wow," is the only word to describe this luxury resort. The 300-room hotel, with its restaurants, bars, swimming pools, and beach club, has just opened for business and its owners wanted to give us a first look at the facility. A residential village is planned--details are still in the works--and our group enthusiastically signed up to be among the first to receive word when plans are finalized.

This was just the start of two full days of real estate fever.

Our mid-morning stop was an excellent early-in condo opportunity high on a ledge with expansive views of the ocean. Located on a beach, a popular weekend getaway for Panama City residents, this project is a little over an hour from the city. Here, two-bedroom condos start at $132,000, and will offer ocean views from balconies and floor-to-ceiling windows.

At our next stop, lunch was prepared by the resident French chef. We toured the condos and model homes perched on terraces overlooking the ocean and we saw the layout of the 18-hole golf course being built here. When it was time to leave, at least one couple stayed behind to sign sales agreements.

Our overnight stop was where things really heated up. As we stepped off the buses, we were greeted by the Panamanian dance troupe that performs nightly in the amphitheater here. They shook, we shimmied; but all too soon, it was back to business, to see the models of new condos being built here.

Our host was a very popular man when he offered to cut prices on remaining units by $5,000. Prices started at less than $95,000 for a two-bedroom condo. That night, after cocktails, dinner, and fire twirlers on the beach, more than a few of our group drifted off to get down to deal making.

As one IL reader from Memphis said, "This is a no-brainer."

The next morning, after a good night's sleep and a plentiful breakfast, we were on the road again.

This second day of touring was devoted, for the most part, to resale opportunities. We saw at least 10 properties...from condos to houses to raw land...priced from $95,000. No one was disappointed.

Besides the incredible prices and the stunningly beautiful beaches, extra excitement was in the air...

Cause for Excitement: Money-Saving Discounts on Panama Real Estate Via
the World's Premiere Retirement Package

Everyone who was part of our little road trip was made a charter member of International Living's newly launched Club Panama. That means they received a 1.5% discount (on top of all other discounts) on real estate purchases at some of Panama's best residential projects--city apartments, golf course condos and villas, mountain and beach properties...you name it.

Think about it: If you buy a condo for $100,000, you immediately save $1,500. You'll save $3,000 on a $200,000 condo. But only if you're a member of Club Panama.

Club Panama provides considerable discounts at some of Panama's best restaurants, hotels, spas, tour operators, and more.

I told you about Club Panama last month, during my live reporting from the Live and Prosper in Panama Conference, when I offered you the opportunity to become a member at a significant discount.

To be honest, we weren't expecting such a huge response. Interest in Panama--and especially in real estate in Panama--is sizzling hot right now, it seems. So, I'd like to extend that same special offer to you now.

If you are interested in exploring Panama as a retirement, relocation or second home destination, a Club Panama membership could save you many thousands of dollars...on everything from travel to real estate--to save over 50% on your membership, you can use this online enrollment page.

Suzan Haskins
International Living's Conference Insider

P.S. The dates have been finalized for our next Live and Prosper in Panama Conference: July 20-22, 2006. If you're considering relocating, retiring, or buying real estate in Panama, get the full detailshere.