Panama has a lot going for it, whether you’re looking for a place to live, a place to visit, or a place to invest.

Life on the Isthmus

This small Central American country puts Caribbean islands, cool mountain towns, rural escapes, and beach communities all within easy reach. A few favorites:

• San Blas Islands: An archipelago of more than 300 islands in the Caribbean.
• Bocas del Toro: An island getaway with everything from hip hostels to high-end boutique resorts.
• Boquete: A highland town near the Costa Rican border, known for some of the world’s most prized coffee.
• El Valle: A mountain town built inside the crater of a dormant volcano, with waterfalls all around.
• Venao: A vibrant Pacific beach community with consistent surf, yoga retreats, and great food.

Panama City has a skyline that looks a bit like Miami’s, with high-end shopping, fine dining, and plenty of nightlife. For history, visit Casco Viejo, a UNESCO World Heritage site that is home to the Presidential Palace and the National Theatre.

A Smart Place to Invest

Panama has used the U.S. dollar since its early days as a republic and has no central bank. That stability has helped it avoid the runaway inflation that affects much of Latin America.

Other strengths:

• One of the highest GDPs per capita in Central and South America
• A robust banking system with relatively easy access to credit
• Reliable internet infrastructure and electric grid
• A leading logistics hub for the Americas, making importing and distributing goods simple

Safe, Convenient, and Green

Like any big city, Panama City has neighborhoods to avoid, but the country is generally considered one of the safest in Central America. Residents enjoy top international schools, large public parks, and a major international airport close to the city.

Panama is also one of only three carbon-negative countries, thanks to its large tracts of primary forest and a power grid that runs over 60% on hydroelectric energy.

A Regional Home for Global Companies

It’s no surprise that multinationals like Procter & Gamble, Samsung, Adidas, Maersk, and Caterpillar have made Panama their regional base.