Getting to Panama?
Panama has become an international hub for ground, ocean and air transportation. The easiest and fastest way to get to and from Panama is by air. There are several first-class airlines offering direct and indirect flights to Panama from Houston, TX. Los Angeles, CA. Miami, FL. New York, NY. New Jersey, PA. Atlanta, GA. and other US and European international airports.
A direct flight from Miami to Panama, for example, takes less than three hours."
How do I get to "Costa Pedasi"?
Costa Pedasi is approximately 3.5 hours from Panama City by car. It is a beautiful drive over very good roads. Air Panama offers commercial flights between Panama city and Pedasi on Sundays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Pedasi airport is located less than 5 minutes drive from "Costa Pedasi"
Can quality healthcare be obtained in Panama?
Panama provides the very best healthcare services and attention in the region. Panama City has several world-class hospitals, and many of their doctors have been trained in the US and are bilingual. Hospitals such as the Punta Pacífica hospital, affiliated with Johns Hopkins Medicine International; the Paitilla Medical Center hospital, affiliated with the Cleveland Clinic; and the San Fernando and Nacional hospitals, feature state-of-the-art technology and equipment, and their doctors, nurses and technologists are highly trained. Consequently, they are able to provide excellent attention in a very broad variety of specialties to meet everyone's needs.
One important aspect is the fact that all the procedures, services and attention can be obtained at much lower costs than in the US and other areas. These cost savings have contributed to Panama becoming a health tourism destination as people needing medical attention can obtain medical and dental services at substantially lower costs while enjoying a vacation in the country.
What about immediate medical needs at Costa Pedasi?
For immediate needs, there is a clinic with English speaking doctors that have been trained in the US in the town of Pedasi, three minutes from "Costa Pedasi". The regional hospital is approximately 20 minutes drive from the site in Las Tablas.
Who will build my house in Costa Pedasi?
You are welcome to chose one of our preferred constructions companies, or use your own one. In each way you will chose, we will work closely and assist you with all phases of their home construction including contract signing with the builder, on going quality inspection, finishes selection and furnishings.
Can I design my own house?
Buyers are free to chose from our state of the art, Mallol & Mallol's model houses and from our preferred builders. Otherwise, they are free to hire their own architects/builders, yet all plans must meet "Costa Pedasi's" guidelines to ensure an overall high-quality look and feel of the property, keep the high level and protect the investment other buyers in the community. For more detailed regulations for designing your own home in Costa Pedasi, click here.
Is Panama a safe place?
Yes, it is. Panama is considered as one of the safest countries around the world, and has the highest rating from the prestigious Pinkerton Intelligence Agency for tourist safety. The Azueros peninsula is in particular safe , much like small farming communities in the US were in the 50’s or before. We feel it may be one of the safest places left on earth.
What currency is used in Panama?
The US Dollar has been the legal currency in Panama since 1904 and, consequently, there are no currency exchange problems to deal with. Additionally, its use has allowed Panama to have an inflation rate of less than 2.5%, with no fears of devaluation, and contributes to having the most stable economy in the region. In fact, Panama's economy is growing at the rate of approximately 7% per year.
What about electricity and Panama's infrastructure?
As in the US, Panama's electricity is the same at 110 volts/60 cycles, which means that all the electrical appliances that you bring to Panama can be used as is. Panama also has one of the world's most developed state-of-the-art fiber optics communications system; cable TV; telephones, both fixed and cellular, and high-speed Internet service. International long-distance calls are at very economical rates, and connections are instant every time, all the time.
What kind of visa do I need to reside in Panama?
If after visiting you decide to move to Panama, the simplest types of visa is the 'Pensionado' or Retiree Visa that can be obtained by proving that you have a minimum monthly income of US$600.00. There are also other.
As a foreigner purchasing property, am I protected under Panama's laws?
Absolutely! Unlike other countries, foreigners who buy property in Panama have all the very same rights and protection as Panamanians as established in the Investment Stability Law No. 54 of July 22, 1998, guaranteeing equal protection for national and foreign investors.
What incentives do retirees have?
Panama offers several advantages in its special laws created for the benefit of retirees, among which are a series of discounts as shown below:
A one-time import duty exemption on household or personal goods up to US$10,000.
Import duty exemption every two years on vehicles for personal use.
50% discount on fares for theaters, sporting events and concerts.
25% discount on the value of food at restaurants, not including liquor.
15% discount on the value of food at fast-food establishments.
10% discount on the value of medications.
25% discount on the monthly energy bill.
25% discount on the monthly phone bill.
20% discount on medical consultations and surgery.
15% discount on dental services.
15% discount on optometry services.
50% discount on hotel bills, Monday through Thursday, and 30% on weekends.
25% discount on airfares, and 30% discount on other transportation.
Property tax exemption if it is the retiree's sole residence.
What is Panama's and the Azueros climate like?
Panamas enjoys a warm weather all year round, and has two seasons: the rainy season and the dry season. The rainy season runs from May through November. The dry season is from December through April. The average temperature on the Azueros peninsula for every month of the year is 78F to 82F. Total precipitation is 65.8 inches with almost half of that coming September through October.
What are the natural disasters risks?
Panama is blessed in that respect as it is free from major natural disasters, including earthquakes, hurricanes, tornadoes and other destructive phenomena.
How does the cost of living in Panama compare with other countries?
Panama's cost of living is much lower than in the US, Canada or Europe. Many foreigners residing in Panama are enjoying the lifestyle they want at much lower prices than in their countries of origin. In Panama, they can afford to have a full-time live-in maid for approximately $200 - $250 per month, enjoy fine dining at first-class restaurants and entertainment, all at a fraction of what they would cost in other countries.
What about Panama's banking system?
Panama has one of the most recognized and respected banking systems in the region, with over 80 international banks providing multiple services, and the use of the US Dollar makes transactions convenient and simple as there are no currency exchange problems or devaluation fears to deal with.
What type of government does Panama have?
Panama has a democratically elected government, and maintains political and social stability to ensure that the country progresses and meets its goals. With this stability in place, investors are protected under the Investment Stability Law No. 54 of July 22, 1998, that guarantees equal rights for national and foreign investors alike.
Is the army a source of potential instability?
The Panamanian military no longer exists as it was abolished by constitutional amendment in 1994. Due to the Neutrality Treaty of the Panama Canal the country has a fantastic security arrangement with the United States.
Should I decide to move to Panama, what about my car and household goods?
Among the advantages that Panama offers for retirees is a one-time import duty exemption on household or personal goods up to US$10,000.00. The car will be subject to import duties but, as a retiree, you will also benefit from tax exemption every two years on vehicles for personal use.
Are golf courses available in Panama?
Panama has some of the best professional golf courses available. The closest Golf course to "Costa Pedasi" is one hour away.
