Best Places to See While on a Look-See Trip to Panama (Plus, Itineraries)

Embarking on a Look-See trip to Panama is an essential step for anyone considering relocation. This exploratory journey offers a firsthand experience of the country's diverse lifestyle options, allowing potential expats, retirees, and digital nomads to immerse themselves in the local culture, assess the cost of living, and determine the suitability of various cities and towns for their individual needs. By visiting a range of locations, one can make an informed decision about where to settle down and start a new chapter in life.

Recommended Itineraries

For a 10-day trip, consider starting in Panama City for urban life exposure, then head to the highlands of Boquete for a cooler climate and expat community. Next, explore the beaches of Coronado or Pedasí for a coastal living experience. If extending to a 20-day trip, add visits to the historic town of Casco Viejo, the Caribbean vibe of Bocas del Toro, and the serene mountain town of El Valle de Antón. This itinerary provides a balanced view of Panama's diverse regions, catering to expats and digital nomads with varied preferences.

Panama City

Panama City is the vibrant capital and the economic hub of the country, boasting a population of over a million. It offers a cosmopolitan lifestyle with a skyline that rivals Miami, complete with modern amenities, shopping malls, and a variety of international restaurants. Expats and digital nomads are drawn to areas like Punta Pacifica and El Cangrejo for their convenience and high-quality living standards. The cost of living can be higher here, but the abundance of opportunities and services compensates for it.

Travel Tip: While in Panama City, visit the Miraflores Locks at the Panama Canal, and dine at the Mercado de Mariscos for the freshest seafood experience.

Boquete

Boquete is a small town nestled in the Chiriquí Highlands, known for its eternal spring-like climate and lush green landscapes. It's a haven for retirees and expats seeking a peaceful, slower-paced life. With a population of around 25,000, Boquete offers a tight-knit community feel and is popular for its outdoor activities like hiking, bird watching, and coffee plantation tours. The cost of living is moderate, and the natural beauty is a significant draw for those looking to escape the hustle of city life.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the chance to tour a local coffee farm, such as Finca Lerida or Café Ruiz, to learn about coffee production and sample some of the world's best coffee.

Coronado

Coronado is a coastal town about an hour from Panama City, known for its expat-friendly atmosphere and beautiful beaches. It's a popular destination for those seeking a beach lifestyle with the convenience of nearby city amenities. The town has a growing population of around 5,000, with a mix of locals and international residents. Coronado offers a range of housing options, from beachfront condos to gated communities, and the cost of living is reasonable compared to Panama City.

Travel Tip: Enjoy a meal at Luna Rossa, a favorite Italian restaurant among locals and expats, and take a stroll along Playa Coronado for a relaxing beach day.

Pedasí

Pedasí is a charming small town on the Azuero Peninsula, attracting those who are looking for a tranquil rural setting close to the ocean. With a population of around 2,500, Pedasí is known for its friendly locals, traditional Panamanian culture, and access to some of the best surfing beaches in the country. The cost of living is lower here, making it an attractive option for retirees and digital nomads on a budget who still want to enjoy a high quality of life.

Travel Tip: Visit Playa Venao, a world-renowned surf spot, and dine at Smiley's Restaurant to enjoy live music and a mix of Panamanian and international cuisine.

Bocas del Toro

Bocas del Toro is an archipelago off the Caribbean coast of Panama, offering a laid-back island lifestyle with a vibrant expat community. The main island, Isla Colón, has a population of around 10,000 and is known for its colorful Caribbean architecture, diverse wildlife, and pristine beaches. The cost of living is generally affordable, and the area is popular among younger expats and digital nomads looking for adventure and a tropical climate.

Travel Tip: Explore the Starfish Beach, known for its clear waters and abundant starfish, and enjoy a meal at El Ultimo Refugio for fresh, locally sourced dishes with a Caribbean twist.

El Valle de Antón

El Valle de Antón is a picturesque mountain town located in the crater of an extinct volcano. With a population of around 7,000, it's known for its cooler climate, rich biodiversity, and outdoor activities such as hiking, bird watching, and visiting hot springs. The cost of living is moderate, and the town attracts expats who appreciate nature and a quieter lifestyle away from the city buzz.

Travel Tip: Visit the local artisan market for unique crafts and souvenirs, and take a hike to the Chorro El Macho waterfall for a refreshing swim in the natural pool.