Bocas del Toro was the first community in Panama to welcome retirees from Canada, Europe and the USA. They caused a mini real estate boom, along with an increased number of restaurants and hotels. The unspoiled charm of the archipelago appealed to many retirees and holiday homeowners seeking an idyllic spot for their new home. Due to this large ex-pat population, English is widely spoken here.
Once a profitable banana growing area, Bocas is now better known for its tourism and for
The Smithsonian Research Center situated here.
The Town of Bocas can supply most general weekly needs, and several companies provide regular deliveries from Panama City to the Islands of food stuffs, building supplies, books, furniture etc. There are always local children ready and willing to help carry your bags for a small tip.
Water taxis and private boats are used to link the various outlying islands, where there is still plenty of unspoiled lots available at modest prices. $200,000 will give you a choice of newly built homes. These are generally built of wood in a chalet-style with one or more bedrooms, a bathroom, modern fitted kitchen and a large shaded outdoor area for eating and relaxing. Electricity and the Internet is available, however the water here is generally considered unsafe to drink The fresh air and unspoiled views of the surrounding islands is hard to beat anywhere. Robinson Crusoe, eat your heart out!
July 16th, 2008 at 6:27 pm
Looking for possibilities.. I am planning to retire in Bocas del toro and I want know more information about the place. I want a place near to resorts and want to buy a property to get busy with. Also i want the medical pace near the area and accessible. I want the place safe and not very expensive. thanks