Mobility - February 2021 - 55

Panama City, Panama
there's no quick math to do in the

large international community

temporary lifestyle combine with

head. The cost of living is relatively

collaborates on business, academic,

tropical warmth and beauty to make

reasonable, at about 57 on a 100 basis.

scientific, and humanistic ventures.

Panama City a popular posting for

That three-bedroom apartment in

Visitors can pop in to shop for

expats. Foreign investment lured by

center city could run about US$1,500,

handcrafts and fresh foods, attend a

the Panamanian government has

while finding a place in the suburbs can

concert, dine, or join a sports league.

transformed the expat population

shave off about US$500 a month.

The Panamanian people are

In downtown Panama City, El

renowned for their hospitality.

from mostly pension-stretching
retirees to dynamic businesspeople

Cangrejo offers affordable living

Businesses and government ser-

and entrepreneurs.

for expats. The translation of Casco

vices close for lunch and at unpre-

Viejo-Spanish for Old Quarter-

dictable times, so expats from

ple boasts the usual urban chains-

defines its appeal. Though costlier,

faster-paced cultures should plan

Starbucks or Hard Rock Hotel-while

this UNESCO World Heritage site is

ahead, take a breath, and enjoy the

offering its own unique personality,

also a community offering upcycled

modern living at a slower pace that

with jazz festivals, a beer fest, and

chic, with historical Spanish-style

Panama City offers.

international cuisine.

buildings converted to housing amid

The city of about 1.5 million peo-

Spanish is the official language,
but English is widely spoken. The

culinary, arts, and cultural draws.

M. Diane McCormick is a freelance

A former Panama City military

journalist and writer in Harrisburg,

Panamanian balboa is pegged to the

base has been transformed into

Pennsylvania, and a longtime

U.S. dollar, so for American expats,

the City of Knowledge, where a

contributor to Mobility.

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Stewart Relocation Services ...................................................................................................................................................................... Inside Front Cover

55
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Mobility - February 2021

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Mobility - February 2021