By Anne-marie Bergeron, admin of Live like a Local in Panama and owner of El Litoral B&B in Coronado

What’s changed the most in Panama over the past few years, in your opinion?

After more than 20 years living here… I can tell you, it’s not just one thing.

It’s a feeling.

Panama used to feel like a hidden secret.
A place people discovered almost by accident… and quietly kept to themselves.

Today, that’s changed.

 More people are coming—but differently.
Not just retirees looking for a lower cost of living…
But people searching for a better way of living.

Slower mornings.
More nature.
More meaning.

 Things are more structured now.
There are more rules, more regulations… especially around rentals and business.
Less “figure it out as you go” energy than before.

And honestly? That’s not a bad thing.
It brings a sense of stability—but also means it’s important to understand the reality before making a move.

 It’s no longer “cheap Panama.”
Prices have gone up in many areas.
But what you gain in lifestyle, climate, and freedom… still holds incredible value.

 And maybe the biggest shift of all…

People are more intentional.

They don’t just come here to escape something.
They come here to create something—
a new rhythm, a new chapter, a different way of living.

That’s the Panama I see today.

Not perfect.
Not always easy.
But real, evolving… and full of possibility for the right people.

If you’ve been thinking about Panama, take the time to understand it first, It will make all the difference 

“It’s not cheaper. It’s better.”

“Panama has changed… but the feeling is still here.”

“People come here for something deeper.”