Life’s Luxuries Cost Less in Panama

Indulge yourself without breaking the bank

You are receiving this e-mail because you subscribed to International Living Postcards.  To change your email settings, view the information at the bottom of this email. Jan. 7, 2026  Dear International Living Postcards Reader,   For many, moving to Panama is a chance to hit the "refresh" button in life.   It's a chance to do those things you always meant to do but never found the time for.  The world isn't in a rush in Panama. Things move at a slower pace and you have more time to relax, enjoy life, and best of all...to treat yourself well. You see... In Panama, you can enjoy luxuries you thought you could never afford. What sets Panama apart is the astounding quality of life you can afford on relatively little money… (WITHOUT having to deal with exchange rates because they use the US dollar!)  You'll find you can "indulge and enjoy" often, without breaking the bank. And you'll likely have more time too. "Whatever your dollar gets you in the US, you've always been able to get more bang for that same buck in Panama" says Jess Ramesch, IL's Panama correspondent, who has spent the past 18 years in Panama. (Read more about Jess, here.) Just some of the kinds of luxuries you can have in Panama: A housekeeper for cleaning your house, doing your laundry, getting your groceries, even cooking your meals... They typically charge just $6 an hour or less. A gardener costs about the same. In Coronado, where Jess lives, you could pay as little as $350 a month for a golf and country club membership that includes pickleball, tennis, workout rooms, yoga classes, and more. "And here you can play year-round—try doing that in New England!"  In Boquete, expat Louise O lives on around $2,800 a month—which includes the cost of a gardener and cleaner. "You could live here on less, but I am used to a certain lifestyle," she explains. "I like to dine out and entertain, so I keep the bar stocked." Want to pamper yourself at the spa? You'll likely pay just $29 for a blow-out and mani-pedi.  Want to never ever lift a finger cleaning again? You have that luxury here. Expat Christine spends $40 a week on house cleaning and gardening. "I also have a dog, and vet charges are about 25% of what I paid in California…plus my guy here is really, really good," she says.   Jess adds, "Here I'm able to live a life that feels luxurious. I'm talking subscriptions to publications and streaming services…spa days…shopping trips to the city…Navarro Correas wine from Argentina, and plenty of local seafood." You can meet Jess—and a host of other Panama expats—in person, when you join us for our 2026 Fast Track Panama Conference, in Panama City March 20-22. They'll share their insights and advice and show you exactly how far your own budget can take you there. As one expat is fond of saying, "Life in Panama is like being on a never-ending summer vacation." And not just that, it's like being on a never-ending luxury vacation. It's easy to see how good life in Panama can be. If you're looking to stretch your dollars, this conference is a great investment of your time. And your time is valuable, I know—you'll leave this conference feeling it was well spent. We have some discounted seats left—but they're going fast. All the details—and your discounts—are here. Discover how great life in Panama can be. Sincerely, Jennifer Stevens Executive Editor, International Living P.S. Certainly, this Fast Track Panama Conference will give you a taste for what life in Panama can be for you. So we're holding it at one of Panama's most luxurious and well-located hotels. We've negotiated a special low rate for you that includes your internet and big buffet breakfast. We'll treat you to morning and afternoon networking breaks where you'll enjoy delicious treats, and evening cocktail parties, too, with the best local Panama delicacies. You won't go hungry, I promise. Seats are going fast, so claim yours now while you can get a guaranteed place in the room. As of today, you are eligible for a hefty $200 discount per person, and your guest gets an even bigger discount. This is on top of any other discounts you may be eligible for. But once the discount expires the price of each seat will go up. It's all spelled out here. If you've already reviewed the details and you are ready to register, go ahead and do that now, here. P.P.S. Prefer to register by phone or have some questions? We're happy to help. Submit your request here or  call 1-866- 381-8446 and one of our team members will help you. See what's on the schedule here. Inbox too crowded? Don't worry—if you can't keep up with our International Living Postcards every day, you can unsubscribe at any time. If you no longer wish to receive IL Postcards, click here to unsubscribe. 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