How Much Does It Cost To Build A House in Panama?

yellow image with text about cost of building a house in Panama

Jan 1, 2017 I get asked that question all the time.  Or more specifically, “How much does it cost/square foot to build a house in Puerto Armuelles?” I always feel reluctant.  I want to give a definitive answer, but it is complicated. “What will it cost to build”, is a hard question to answer anywhere, not … Read more

Relaxing With A Baby Monkey at Mono Feliz

I discovered a video (below) I took of my family in 2007.   It gives a glimpse at an enjoyable lazy hammock day near our home in Panama.  A day that could easily be replicated today – except maybe for the baby monkey. If you are interested in visiting Mono Feliz, visit their facebook page for more information. … Read more

Check Out A House Remodel in Puerto Armuelles

close up of man on roof remodeling house with text

This post is about a remodel of an existing house in Puerto Armuelles, Panama. It is part of our ongoing series on “What it’s like to build a home in Panama” The Original House The house is nick-named “Casa Sombrero” because of its big sheltering roof. It is on a corner lot in the Corazon … Read more

Internet Access & Providers in Panama

I don’t know about you, but one of the first things I think of when I get to a new place is internet access. Overall, Panama has pretty good internet access.   It doesn’t compare to the US or Canada, but for Central America it is excellent. One reason for this is that Panama, specifically … Read more

Puerto Armuelles – A Good Choice For Builders

We first arrived in Panama in the Fall of 2006. I felt a huge sense of relief at having taken a “side exit” out of the fast paced life of being a designer/builder in Seattle. Boy, was it a welcome change to settle into the life of a family of tourists in the tropics. Given … Read more

Take Advantage of Sale on Pimsleur Spanish

A heads up – Pimsleur language is having a 4 day sale.     – 40% off, which is a pretty substantial savings.   The sale runs from 10/27 – 10/31/2016 You must use the code word TREATS to get the discount.   You have 30 days to return the course for a full refund.   The … Read more

US Embassy’s Traveling Show Visits Chiriqui Province

Updated Dec 13, 2019 You don’t have to travel all the way to Panama City to get something done at the US Embassy. Every 3-4 months the Embassy’s American Citizens Services (ACS) Unit visits David and/or Boquete. You can accomplish many tasks at one of these ACS travelling shows. Passport renewals Absentee voting Notarization SSA proof of life … Read more

Send Your Vote To USA – Free – At US Consulate

graphic about US Citizens registering to vote in Panama

This year, 2016, you can mail your voter registration and your ballot — postage free — from the US Consulate in Panama City.   There are several websites that will help you both register to vote and vote. In many cases you can do these online. Some states allow voting by email or fax. For resources on … Read more

New Video – $29K Beach Front Lot – Beautiful!

Hi all,  If you are interested in an affordable beach front lot, you should take a look at this video.   It is a very sweet deal.   The video also includes Google Earth and Map images.  This should give you a good context on the lot’s location. There is a link below the video if you … Read more

Volunteer English Program – 1st Month Report & Requests

young Panamanian man

As you may remember, last month we asked if you were interested in volunteering to teach English here in Puerto Armuelles. Happily, we received several responses. Our First Student In fact, soon after our announcement our very first student began receiving one-on-one English conversation practice. He appears to be advancing in his English speaking and listening proficiency at a very … Read more

Build a $5,000 House Using Old Chiquita Buildings

30 years ago, when I was in college, one of my best friends, Paul, had a unique solution to the problem of high housing costs. “When I grow up,” Paul proclaimed,  “I  am going to build myself a house out of trash”. Of course, none of us took a Paul seriously at the time.  (FYI – He … Read more

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