Essentials
| 🏙️ City | David is the capital city of Chiriquí Province, located in western Panama, known for its lush landscapes and multicultural atmosphere. |
| 👥 Population | approximately 100,000 |
| 💻 Internet Speed | Average of 20-30 Mbps |
| 💸 Currency & Banking | 1 USD ≈ 1 USD (Panama uses the US dollar as its currency) |
| 🚰 Tap Water | Drinkable in urban areas, but bottled water is recommended in rural areas. |
| 🔌 Power | 120V, 60Hz, 🔌 Type A/B sockets |
| 📶 SIM Card | Movistar and Claro are the popular mobile providers offering coverage and data plans. |
| 💳 Banking for Expats | Local banks like Banco Nacional de Panamá and international options like HSBC are available. |
| 🛌 Accommodation | Options include apartments for rent, Airbnbs, and hostels in the city. |
| 💳 Cashless Friendly | Yes, cards are accepted widely in most establishments. |
| 🏠 Short Term Rentals | Airbnb and Vrbo are common platforms for short-term housing. |
| 🛏️ Budget Accommodation | Hostel La Casa de La Abuela offers dormitory beds starting at $15 a night. |
| 🏙️ Best Area to Stay for Tourists | Areas near Parque Cervantes and the downtown area are popular among tourists. |
| 🏙️ Best Area to Stay for Digital Nomads | Aldea del Rio and areas near the city center provide good amenities and connectivity. |
Working and Networking
| 🏢 Best Coworking Space | Las Olas Coworking located in the city center. |
| ☕ Best Cafe for Work | Cafe de la Plaza is known for its good coffee and Wi-Fi. |
| 💼 Networking Events | Monthly meetups are organized by the Panamanian Chamber of Commerce. |
| 🥂 Social Events for Expats | Facebook group 'Expats in Chiriquí' organizes regular meetups. |
Transportation
| 🚕 Best Taxi/Ride App | Uber operates in David for convenient transportation. |
| 🚲 Bike/Scooter Rental | Bike rentals are available at local shops near the park. |
| 🏖️ Best Beach Nearby | Playa La Barqueta, only 30 minutes away. |
| ✈️ Top Regional Airline | Air Panama |
| ✈️ Top International Airline | Copa Airlines offers flights to major international destinations. |
| 🛣️ Highway Access | Interamerican Highway (Pan-American Highway) provides extensive road connectivity. |
| 🚉 Main Train/Transit Hub | The main bus terminal serves as a hub for regional travel. |
| 🚍 Public Transport Passes | Buses are accessed via cash fares. |
| ✈️ Regional Travel | Bus services operate to major cities including Boquete and Bocas del Toro. |
Health and Wellness
| 🏥 Best Hospital | Hospital Chiriquí, known for good medical services. |
| 🧘 Yoga & Wellness Centers | Yoga David offers classes for various skill levels. |
| 🏋️ Gyms & Fitness Centers | Basic-Fit is a popular option for fitness enthusiasts. |
| 🧺 Laundry Services | Lavandería La 24 offers affordable laundry services in town. |
Food and Drink
| 📱 Best Food Delivery App | Rappi and Uber Eats operate in the city. |
| 🍽️ Best Local Dish to Try | Sancocho is a traditional chicken soup worth trying. |
| 🍱 Vegan/Vegetarian Options | El Vegetariano is a great choice for plant-based meals. |
| 🍫 Best Dessert Spots | Panaderia El Buen Sabor offers a variety of local pastries. |
| 🛒 Affordable Shopping Spots | Local markets like Feria de David are excellent for fresh produce. |
| 🛒 E-commerce/Online Store | Amazon and MercadoLibre deliver to David. |
| 🛒 Grocery Delivery | Super 99 and Riba Smith offer delivery services. |
| 🍸 Bar/Nightlife Area | Ave. 2a is known for its nightlife and bars. |
| 🍻 Local Brewery | Cerveza Artesanal La Chiru is a local favorite. |
| 🍷 Wine Bars | Vinoteca offers a good selection of wines. |
| 🍲 Street Food Stalls | Street vendors along the main square serve delicious local snacks. |
| 🍕 Popular International Cuisine | La Fogata serves authentic Mexican cuisine. |
Culture and Attractions
| 🎟️ Must-See Landmarks | Parque Cervantes and the Cathedral of David. |
| 🏛️ Museums & Art Venues | Museo de Historia y Cultura de David. |
| 🏰 Historical Sites | The historic ruins at Volcan. |
| 🕍 Religious Sites | Iglesia San José is a notable church in the area. |
| 🎉 Annual Events | David Carnival, celebrated every February, is a major festival. |
| 🎨 Cultural Districts | The city center features many cultural landmarks. |
| 🎭 Theater Venues | Teatro Nacional is a hub for performing arts. |
| 🛍️ Local Markets | Feria de David is a vibrant local market. |
| 🎼 Music Scene | Local bars often host live music events. |
| 🎨 Street Art | Various murals can be found in the downtown area. |
| 🧑🍳 Cooking Classes | Cooking classes are offered at local culinary schools. |
| 👩🎨 Art Galleries | Galleria de Arte is home to local artists' works. |
| 🕰️ Historic Buildings | The Old Train Station is a significant landmark. |
| 🏴 Local Heritage | David is known for its rich cultural blend of indigenous, Spanish, and Afro-Panamanian heritage. |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
| 🌅 Nearby Nature Escapes | Cerro Punta and the surrounding mountains offer beautiful hikes. |
| 🏞️ National Parks Nearby | La Amistad International Park is accessible and packed with biodiversity. |
| 🚲 Cycling/Walking Paths | El río David trail is great for walking and cycling. |
| 🌄 Scenic Viewpoints | Mirador de Los Quetzales offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. |
| 🦉 Birdwatching Locations | Cerro Punta is known for its rich birdwatching opportunities. |
| 🔥 Bonfire-Friendly Spots | There are designated areas in parks for bonfires, particularly at scenic viewpoints. |
Other Services and Amenities
| 📦 Parcel Delivery Service | DHL and local courier services operate in the area. |
| 🛠️ Tech Repair Services | Local electronic shops offer repair services. |
| 🏓 Table Tennis Spots | Public parks often have table tennis tables available. |
| 🧑🏫 Language Classes | Language schools offer Spanish language courses tailored for expats. |
| 📚 Libraries & Study Spots | Biblioteca Nacional located near the city center. |
| 🏘️ Community Centers | Centro Cultural La Estrella offers various community programs. |
| 🕹️ Gaming Lounges | Gaming centers are becoming popular among the youth. |
| 🎰 Casino & Gaming Halls | Casino de David is a popular spot for gaming. |
Business
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $1,200 per m² (e.g., 40 m² = $48,000) |
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $900 per m² (e.g., 40 m² = $36,000) |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $1,100 per m² (e.g., 60 m² = $66,000) |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $850 per m² (e.g., 60 m² = $51,000) |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $1,000 per m² (e.g., 80 m² = $80,000) |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $750 per m² (e.g., 80 m² = $60,000) |
| 💼 Corporate Tax | 25% |
| 💵 Dividend Withholding Tax | 10% |
| 🏦 Tax System | Panama has a territorial tax system, taxing only income generated in Panama. |
| 📈 Highest Income Tax Bracket | 25% |
| 🧾 VAT | 7% |
| 🌐 Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | Yes, there are rules but they are generally favorable for expats. |
| 🏠 Property Tax | Annual property tax is approximately 2% of property value. |
| 🏠 Property Transaction Tax | 2% on property sales. |
| 💻 Attractive Tax System for Digital Nomads | Panama is known for its favorable tax regime for foreign income. |