As shown by International Living's recognition of Panama for six straight years as the top location in the world for retirees, many have come to view Panama as the perfect location to relocate. This is not only true for retirees but for families and investors looking for the best place to spend their money. Panama has many of the same features as the US and Europe but without the political problems and stressful lifestyle. In addition, Panama's weather and wildlife are absolutely incredible, and the cost of ownership for Panamanian real estate is far below anything found in North America.

Panama is geographically superior to most of its Central American neighbors. Below the hurricane belt, Panama is not affected by the annual hurricane season. Panama is bounded on south by the Pacific Ocean, the north by the Caribbean Sea, the east by Columbia and the west by Costa Rica. The country has 1,600 miles of ocean coastline, a ridge of extinct volcanic mountains that make up its backbone. The weather varies depending on where you are in the country and this diversity only enhances the variety offerings in Panama's real estate.

Connecting Central America to South America, Panama is very unique, both in Latin America and the world as well. Panama possesses many of the same benefits as the United States and Europe without the pressures of the western world lifestyle. Panama has many similarities such as a democratically elected government, freedom of speech and religion and even the same currency as the US.

In addition, it is estimated that 14% of Panamanians speak English which makes the transition from the US, Canada or Europe much easier. The big differences between Panama and these other countries, however, are in real estate. Panama real estate is much more affordable than that in North America or most other places in the world.

Panama real estate offers a wide range of living and investment options. Panama City is alive with real estate opportunities; houses, condos, townhouses and apartments are being built so rapidly that the skyline of the city seems to change almost daily. Throughout the country's nine provinces you can find great real estate possibilities. From the Darien province on the Columbian border to the Chiriquí province on the Costa Rican border, Panama real estate is home to many great deals with prices being well below the rates in Europe or the US.

Where are you comfortable; at the beach, in the mountains or in the city? Do you enjoy the adventure of learning a new location or prefer the comfort of familiar surroundings? Regardless of your tastes, Panama has it all. There has been a surge in residential building yet investment opportunities still abound. From north to south, east to west, Panama real estate continues to be one of the best values in the world. With all of this value and limitless possibilities, don't you think now is the time to make your plans to come to the tropical paradise of Panama?