Santiago de Veraguas, Panama π΅π¦
#1571
,
Nomad Score:
60%
Essentials
ποΈ City | Santiago de Veraguas is the capital city of the Veraguas Province, known for its rural ambiance and local culture. |
π₯ Population | Approximately 40,000 residents. |
π» Internet Speed | Average internet speed is around 20-50 Mbps. |
πΈ Currency & Banking | 1 USD = 1 USD, local currency is the Panamanian Balboa. Major banks include Banco Nacional de PanamΓ‘ and Banistmo. |
π° Tap Water | Generally safe to drink, but it's advisable to use filtered water. |
π Power | Electricity is 110V, 60Hz with Type A and B sockets. |
πΆ SIM Card | Providers include Claro, Movistar, and Digicel, with competitive prepaid plans. |
π³ Banking for Expats | Common payment types include Visa and Mastercard; ATMs are widely available. |
π Accommodation | Options range from local guesthouses to Airbnb and long-term rentals. |
π³ Cashless Friendly | Partially cashless; cards accepted in many businesses, but cash is still commonly used. |
π Short Term Rentals | Platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo are available for short-term stays. |
ποΈ Budget Accommodation | Hostel La Chorrera offers dormitory beds from $10 per night. |
ποΈ Best Area to Stay for Tourists | The city center is ideal for tourists, providing easy access to shops and restaurants. |
ποΈ Best Area to Stay for Digital Nomads | Areas near Parque Libertador offer cafes and coworking spaces with good connectivity. |
Working and Networking
π’ Best Coworking Space | Work Hub Santiago offers a conducive coworking environment with high-speed internet. |
β Best Cafe for Work | CafΓ© del Parque is popular among remote workers, providing Wi-Fi and a comfortable atmosphere. |
πΌ Networking Events | Local meetup groups and expat forums are active on social media platforms. |
π₯ Social Events for Expats | The Santiago Expat Group on Facebook regularly organizes meetups. |
Transportation
π Best Taxi/Ride App | Uber operates in the area, providing reliable transportation. |
π² Bike/Scooter Rental | Local rental shops offer bikes for $10-$15 per day. |
ποΈ Best Beach Nearby | Playa El Cacao is approximately 30 minutes away and offers beautiful sea views. |
βοΈ Top Regional Airline | Air PanamΓ‘ provides regional flights to various destinations. |
βοΈ Top International Airline | Copa Airlines offers international flights from nearby airports. |
π£οΈ Highway Access | Pan-American Highway runs close to the city, facilitating travel to other regions. |
π Main Train/Transit Hub | There is no train service; buses are the primary form of public transport. |
π Public Transport Passes | Bus fares range from $0.25 to $1.00 depending on the destination. |
βοΈ Regional Travel | Buses connect Santiago to other cities like David and Panama City. |
Health and Wellness
π₯ Best Hospital | Hospital Regional Dr. Luis 'Chicho' Fabrega is the main healthcare facility. |
π§ Yoga & Wellness Centers | Local wellness centers offer yoga classes; check with La Casa del Yogui. |
ποΈ Gyms & Fitness Centers | Fitness centers like No Limits Gym provide various workout facilities. |
π§Ί Laundry Services | LavanderΓa Express offers washing and drying services conveniently located in town. |
Food and Drink
π± Best Food Delivery App | Rappi and Glovo are popular food delivery services in the city. |
π½οΈ Best Local Dish to Try | Sancocho, a traditional chicken soup, is a must-try. |
π± Vegan/Vegetarian Options | Pura Vida offers an array of vegan dishes and smoothies. |
π« Best Dessert Spots | HeladerΓa La Michoacana has delicious ice creams and paletas. |
π Affordable Shopping Spots | Mercado Municipal provides fresh local produce and food. |
π E-commerce/Online Store | Local businesses often sell through Facebook Marketplace and Instagram. |
π Grocery Delivery | Tienda 360 offers online grocery shopping and delivery services. |
πΈ Bar/Nightlife Area | Calle 3A is known for its lively bars and nightlife. |
π» Local Brewery | CervecerΓa La Ronda crafts traditional Panamanian beers. |
π· Wine Bars | Vinoteca PanamΓ‘ offers a selection of fine wines and tasting events. |
π² Street Food Stalls | La Calle del Sabor is famous for its vibrant street food scene. |
π Popular International Cuisine | Restaurants like Pizzeria Rocco serve great Italian dishes. |
Culture and Attractions
ποΈ Must-See Landmarks | Visit the Santiago Apostol Cathedral, a significant historical site. |
ποΈ Museums & Art Venues | Museo de la Cultura offers insights into the history and traditions of Veraguas. |
π° Historical Sites | The picturesque Parque de Santiago is a notable historical site. |
π Religious Sites | Γglise de Santiago is a prominent church reflecting local heritage. |
π Annual Events | Festival de Santiago is celebrated in January with music and dances. |
π¨ Cultural Districts | The city center showcases local culture and commerce. |
π Theater Venues | Local theaters occasionally host performances and cultural events. |
ποΈ Local Markets | Mercado de Santiago is a vibrant market for local goods and crafts. |
πΌ Music Scene | Various local bars feature live music and showcases for Panamanian artists. |
π¨ Street Art | Explore colorful murals around the city that depict local culture. |
π§βπ³ Cooking Classes | Cooking classes at local homes give insights into traditional Panamanian cuisine. |
π©βπ¨ Art Galleries | GalerΓa de Arte Veraguas promotes local artists and exhibitions. |
π°οΈ Historic Buildings | The old town is filled with Colonial-style architecture. |
π΄ Local Heritage | Santiago celebrates its indigenous roots, particularly through festivals. |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
π Nearby Nature Escapes | Explore La Yeguada Natural Park, known for its stunning landscapes and trails. |
ποΈ National Parks Nearby | Parque Nacional Coiba offers pristine beaches and diving opportunities. |
π² Cycling/Walking Paths | Paths around Parque Libertador are ideal for running and cycling. |
π Scenic Viewpoints | Mirador La PeΓ±a provides breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. |
π¦ Birdwatching Locations | Los Santos Province is a renowned birdwatching destination nearby. |
π₯ Bonfire-Friendly Spots | Designated areas at La Yeguada Natural Park allow for bonfires. |
Other Services and Amenities
π¦ Parcel Delivery Service | Services like DHL and local couriers are available for shipping needs. |
π οΈ Tech Repair Services | Local shops offer mobile and computer repair services at reasonable rates. |
π Table Tennis Spots | Local community centers often have tables available for public use. |
π§βπ« Language Classes | Instituto Cultural PanameΓ±o offers Spanish language courses for expats. |
π Libraries & Study Spots | Biblioteca Municipal is a quiet place for reading and studying. |
ποΈ Community Centers | Centro de Desarrollo Integral offers various cultural and community activities. |
πΉοΈ Gaming Lounges | Locally themed gaming cafes host tournaments and gaming sessions. |
π° Casino & Gaming Halls | The nearby Gran Casino offers various gaming options for entertainment. |
Business
π’ Studio Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $1,500 per mΒ² (e.g., 40 mΒ² = $60,000) |
π’ Studio Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $1,200 per mΒ² (e.g., 40 mΒ² = $48,000) |
π 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $1,800 per mΒ² (e.g., 60 mΒ² = $108,000) |
π 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $1,400 per mΒ² (e.g., 60 mΒ² = $84,000) |
π‘ 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $1,900 per mΒ² (e.g., 80 mΒ² = $152,000) |
π‘ 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $1,700 per mΒ² (e.g., 80 mΒ² = $136,000) |
πΌ Corporate Tax | 25% corporate tax rate. |
π΅ Dividend Withholding Tax | 15% withholding tax on dividends. |
π¦ Tax System | Panama has a territorial tax system; only income generated within Panama is taxed. |
π Highest Income Tax Bracket | Annual income above $1,000,000 is taxed at 25%. |
π§Ύ VAT | Standard VAT is 7%. |
π Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | Panama does not have CFC rules. |
π Property Tax | Annual property tax is based on declared value, generally low around 0.5%. |
π Property Transaction Tax | 3% tax on property transactions. |
π» Attractive Tax System for Digital Nomads | No tax on foreign income, making it attractive for digital nomads. |