This Popular Beach Town Will Soon Explode

Aug. 27, 2008
Panama City, Panama

Dear Panama Enthusiast,

It's the middle of the rainy season and this beach town swells as weekenders arrive in hopes of a sunny weekend. A few clouds threaten, but the coral sands glitter under mostly clear skies. "Nice day," says a woman behind me—she is talking to a man in a white linen shirt and khakis; they both have unmistakable New England accents.

This area is becoming increasingly international. What continues to draw so many people here?

1. The micro-climate: Here you get less rain than in other areas of Panama; locals say "if you don’t like the weather, wait five minutes." In general, it rains for only an hour or so on most days of the rainy season. On any given day, chances are you'll see the sun.

2. The growing community: The expat community here has been growing for over five years, and it's striking just how much it has developed. You'll hear many varied accents on the beach, in the big supermarket, and at restaurants. Expat groups come together for community service, group dinners, Mahjong and more.

3. The business opportunities: Where there is a growing expat community there are opportunities for business. Starr McCamant, a seasoned expat who left California for France and Guadeloupe before coming to Panama, took advantage of this to create her business in an area nearby. At Finca La Maya Center for the Arts, she provides a lush tropical environment where professionals of any kind can hold events, workshops, courses…really any gathering you can imagine.

4. The low cost of living: Despite the growth, cost of living remains low. At little beach shacks like La Posada you can still have a meal for $5… camarones al ajillo is a shrimp dish with buttery garlic sauce, it's served with a side of fried plantains (or French fries or salad) for $4.95. A hamburger is $1, a large steaming bowl of the ultra-popular sancocho or chunky chicken soup with root vegetables is $2.

5. The infrastructure improvements: The infrastructure here has always been good, from the roads to the many shops to the clinics and dentists. However, a new project that's already under construction will make this town even more popular. Add to that rumors of a massive infrastructure project for this area and it's clear property value is poised to rise.

Thanks for reading,

Jessica Ramesch
Editor, Panama Insider

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