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Each year, as winter blankets much of North America in snow and ice, retirees and seasonal travelers known as snowbirds turn their gaze south. Places like Mexico, Florida, and Arizona have long been favorites, but in recent years, Panama has increasingly emerged as a top choice, offering more than just heat, but adventure, low cost of living, and great healthcare, too. 

Panama welcomed almost 20 million international visitors last year, and the growth of its tourism sector is not by accident. ”We are increasingly promoting Panama during the wintertime, particularly to capture the snowbird market,” Jan Edward Woolford Carles, General Consul of Panama, told Travel Market Report Canada. The country is actively improving tourism infrastructure, putting on more events, and offering unique travel experiences to pull in more visitors.

Climate

One of the biggest factors luring snowbirds to Panama is its year-round warm climate and natural beauty. The country lies between the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, meaning snowbirds can swap freezing temperatures for tropical breezes, sunny beaches, and lush rainforests. Visitors can relax on the beach in popular destinations like Coronado and Bocas del Toro, while the mountain town of Boquete provides a cooler, more temperate escape with coffee plantations and scenic hiking trails. 

Cost of living

Affordability is another major factor. The cost of living in Panama is significantly lower than in most of Europe and parts of the US. Everyday expenses like eating out and transportation are affordable, and so is accommodation. 

Healthcare

Healthcare is another consideration, especially for retirees. Panama boasts quality medical facilities with private and public hospitals in major urban areas, and most healthcare professionals speak English, adding a level of comfort.

Community

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Panama also has a friendly and growing expat community, making new arrivals feel welcome and helping them integrate smoothly, especially in regions like Coronado and Boquete. 

Snowbirds add to Panama's local economy by frequenting restaurants, supporting small businesses, and contributing to tourism growth. As a result, locals are generally extremely welcoming and appreciative.

Ease of access

Panama’s location also makes it surprisingly easy to reach. It has well-connected international airports with direct flights to and from major cities in Canada and the US. Once there, the country's stable, modern infrastructure, updated amenities, and range of lifestyle offerings make it easy to enjoy and high quality of life with a good mix of both comfort and excitement. 

Visa options

What's more, Panama has favourable visa options and ease of access for North Americans. Many visitors can stay for up to 90 days on a simple passport, and Panama’s renowned Pensionado visa offers retirees generous benefits, including discounts on entertainment, healthcare, travel, and utilities, making long-term stays even more cost-effective.

Panama’s combination of climate, cost, community, healthcare, and accessibility has transformed it into one of the most appealing winter destinations for modern snowbirds. So, if you're a snowbird who's seen enough of Cancun or Florida, why not set your sights a little further south and make Panama your rich, fulfilling, seasonal home?