Brand New Duplex in Tropical Village, Punta Barco for Sale

Tropical Village possesses an array of amenties, including parking spaces, swimming pool, social area and 24/7 security.

Tropical Village, Beach House in Punta Barco

The beach house is 105 square meters (1,140 square feet), possessing 78 square meters (839 square feet) of interior space and 27 square meters (290 square meters) of exterior covered space.

The house includes two full bedrooms and bathrooms, built in closets, a spacious and open kitchen, an open dining and living room area, as well as a terrace. The property also includes a front and back yard (ideal for a beautiful garden or mango tree!).

The project is located amongst million dollars homes and just next to the prestigious Punta Barco Village resort, by far Panama's most exclusive beach resort.

Maldives Dive Travel

I know it's been a while, but I'm back baby, yeah!

I'm still in Panama and enjoying it immensely. However, next stop is undoubtedly the Maldives.

The Maldives, or Maldive Islands, officially the Republic of Maldives, is an island country consisting of a group of atolls stretching south of India's Lakshadweep islands between Minicoy Island and the Chagos Archipelago, and about seven hundred kilometres (435 mi) south-west of Sri Lanka in the Laccadive Sea of Indian Ocean. The twenty-six atolls of Maldives encompass a territory featuring 1,192 islets, of which two hundred islands are inhabited.

If you like scuba diving, then you've probably already heard of this majestic island nation. The Maldives offers some of the world's best scuba diving, and the absolute optimal way to take advantage of the beauty that lies beneath the ocean's surface is to stay on a liveaboard.

A safari ship will take you to the most diverse dive spots, islands and atolls. You conveniently live on board while you sail across the country and dive the best dive spots in the Maldives.

Check out Maldives Dive Travel, an amazing site that not only offers scuba diving safaris, but also has a frequently updated blog, photos, and other great information about the Maldives.

ABP: Banking controls worked with Urrego

The Banking Association of Panama (ABP), in light of the most recent money laundering case, disagrees that the banking system should take responsibility for failed controls.

The alleged drug dealer Jose Nelson Urrego was captured Saturday in Panama City, and investigations have revealed that he managed to lauder close to 13 million dollars in local banks.

“The bank received a client that had legalized his status in Panama, in a record time,” according to reports, “And once the transactions were detected as suspicious, the accounts were closed and the proper authorities notified,” commented the ABP’s President Alexis Arjona.

The banker maintains that it was not the banking system that failed, but rather that they gave him a license. “The bank did meet its responsibilities and followed all that was required by law,” he pointed out.

Although the ABP’s president believes that it is not the law that are failing, she informed that this profession, as it often does, works in junction with the Bank Superintendent in the updating and strengthening of banking laws and Law 42, that dictates the laws about money laundering.

“The Banking Association of Panama is committed to fighting against money laundering, and that can be seen in all congresses and forums that we give annually to update ourselves about the latest tendencies of this crime,” commented the director of the banking profession.

Inaguration of Lafise Bank

The Lafise Group, a multinational financial entity with headquarters in Miami and offices in Central America, Mexico, the Dominican Republic, Venezuela and now Panama, opened offices on the 37th floor of the Global Bank Tower, said a bank official. Its president, Roberto Zamora Llanes, and the principal managers at the regional level will be meeting for a couple of days in Panama.

Banking Reforms in Panama are on their Way

Bank Superintendent proposes to strengthen and revise current banking legislation.

The market continues to be attractive for big corporations, such as the French Calyon Bank.

Olegario Barrelier, Panama’s Bank Superintendent, recognized that money laundering takes place in the country, as occurs in other countries that attempt to be models to follow in the fight against this affliction.

“It affects and embarrasses us that this occurs in our country,” said Barrelier when advocating for immediate reforms to the existing legislation. Barrelier proposes making legislation more robust and more adequate in light of the new trends that arise when fighting against money laundering, adding that they are already working on this.

“We should modernize our laws, not because somebody is forcing us to, but because it is in the best interests of Panama to not leave the country in the hands of delinquents,” the superintendent responded to the representatives’ questions, taking advantage of his appearance before the Budget Commission.

He insisted that it should not be a consolation for the Panamanians in New York, Marseilles, Antwerp, Naples and the Mexican-American border, among others, where more money in laundered than in Panama.

In order to modernize legislation, Law 9 of 1998 must be modified, which regulates banking activity, in the chapter that outlines the amount of reserves that should be maintained.

Furthermore, Law 42 of October 2000 must be modified, which establishes the means to prevent money laundering, in order to include new methods and professions, such as lawyers and accounts.

Calyon Bank may come

Barrelier emphasized the importance of continuing to work on strengthening the image of Panama’s banking center, in order to continue maintaining its relevance and attractiveness to big entities such as Calyon, France’s largest private bank, which is exploring the possibility of setting up operations in Panama.

“They have approached the Superintendent to learn more about the system,” mentioned an official, adding that they have received 16 applications this year from banks from diverse nationalities interested in operating in the Panamanian market.

Isla Grande

I have know about Isla Grande for a while now, but last Saturday was the first time I had ever been to the island.

Isla Grande is located within the Portobelo National park. The only means to reach the island is a 5-minute boat ride from the small town of La Guaira, located approximately 20 kilometers from Portobelo and whose main form of sustenance is fishing and tourism.

The population of Isla Grande is approximately 300 inhabitants, though the island receives many tourists on weekends and holidays, who enjoy the island's beaches, trails, and excellent scuba diving and snorkeling (coral reefs surround the island). Isla Grande is especially peaceful since there are no cars or motor bikes on the island.

The people of Isla Grande are incredibly friendly and willing to do what they can in order to make one's stay as enjoyable as possible. We ate a fabulous dinner at Restaurant Congo, where we engorged ourselves on a huge crab, lobster, and an excellent fillet of Corvina.

I can't wait to go back!

Useful Tips on Buying Property in Panama

Are you interested in purchasing real estate in Panama? Visit Land in Panama and get useful tips on buying property in Panama.

Proposed Avenida Balboa

Anyone that has recently traveled to Panama City, Panama knows that Avenida Balboa is not living up to its full potential. Traffic jams, insufficient walkways, and an often times stinky bay hold it back from being the pristine promenade it should be. Numerous companies identified this opportunity...

Luxury Real Estate in Bocas del Toro, Panama

Get more info now! Limited time pre-construction offers!

Commercial Real Estate in Panama

Panama has an array of great commerical real estate. Whether you are looking for a secure property investment, a practical office space, or a funky, new age building for your ultra modern entrepreneurial endeavor, you are bound to find something here!

REVOLUTION TOWER

LOCATION: 50th and 56th Street, Panama City

AREA: 145,00m² / 1.560,77 ft²
PRICE: FROM US$383,760.00

***The Revolution Tower project has placed Panama at the forefront of the region's architectural design, utilizing the latest technology and security measures for "smart" office buildings.***

Click here to request more information about the Revolution Tower in Panama. Click on City Homes and then on Contact Us, and we'll respond to your request ASAP!

SAN FERNANDO PROFESSIONAL CENTER

LOCATION: Via España

AREA: 45,00m² / 484,38 ft²
PRICE: FROM US$71,400.00

***Property Management is Available for this Project***

Click here to request more information about the San Fernando Professional Center in Panama. Click on City Homes and then on Contact Us, and we'll respond to your request ASAP!

10 Tallest Structures in Panama

10 Tallest Structures in Panama. Courtesy of SkyScraper Page.

Affordable Luxury Condos in Bocas del Toro, Panama

Bocas Point Condominiums -- Get in touch for more info!

Asking Price: $79,950 USD

Bocas Point condominium is a luxury, first class project of 44 apartments, 36 are one (1) bedroom units and 8 are a two (2) bedroom units.

One bedroom units range from 277 to 751 sq. ft. ( 26 to 70 M2) & two bedroom units range from 774 to 911 sq. ft. (72 to 85 M2).

The project is one, 4-story building, with each level possessing 11 apartments.

The condominium has a social/common area of 1,614 sq. ft. (150 M2), which includes a nice swimming pool, a bohio, area to take the sun and a BBQ facility.

The condos on the 3rd and 4rd levels will have an ocean view. The ocean is 1 block away from the apartments facing the main street and a couple of hundred yards away from the ones facing the opposite direction. The 1st level apartments in the back will have a nice, private patio.

There will a parking lot with 22 spaces for owner and visitor use. The condominium will have a waste water treatment plant and a water reserve tank, enough to last a few days.

Location:

Bocas Point condominium will be located on the corner between Ave. G (main street) and Calle 8th on a lot of 950 M2 or 10,222 sq. ft., located just blocks from downtown Bocas del Toro Cand one (1) block away from the ocean. It is a fully titled property.

This project has all the advantages of being within the city, with regards to city utilities, infrastructure and amenities. Bocas Point Condo is located in walking distance from restaurants, bars, grocery stores, boat tours, public offices and hotels.

Visit the Bocas Point website for more information!

The Real Estate of Casco Viejo in Panama City, Panama

One of my favorite places in Panama! Be careful...The real estate is so hot there you might get burnt! Okay, that was cheesey, but it's true. Real estate in Casco Viejo is booming right now. Click here to watch a program about the architectural beauty of Panama.

Romantic, bohemian and cozy, Panama’s Casco Viejo offers the charm of another era for visitors as well as its residents. Founded in 1673, Casco Viejo is the second Panama City, built after the famous pirate Henry Morgan attacked and destroyed the first city center, Panama La Vieja, forcing its inhabitants to move to a new location 2 kilometers west-southeast of the original city.

Casco Viejo, located in the San Felipe neighborhood, was declared a World Heritage Center by UNESCO in 1997. Strolling along the narrow streets and alleyways of Casco Viejo, one can admire an architectural legacy and mix of colonial, European and Neoclassical art, above all from Spain and France.

Furthermore, Casco Viejo is a fantastic place to invest. For example, the Panamanian government passed legislation that provides incentives for the purchase, restoration and commercialization of properties in Casco Viejo, to encourage the area’s resurrection to its original splendor. Thanks to this legislation, Casco Viejo has been able to restore a large part of the historic properties, many that date back more than a century, which further increases the value of real estate in Casco Viejo.

Individuals that are looking for a vibrant lifestyle, and a panache property to match, will surely find it amongst Casco Viejo’s narrow streets of brick and its facades with large, beautifully forged balconies and generous spaces, which overlook the area’s rich nightlife and ample cultural variety.

The price per square meter oscillates around $2,000, depending on the characteristics of the property, many of which possess a privileged ocean view, twos-stories, walls of original stone, niches and other beautiful characteristics of colonial architecture, which today are combined with the facilities of modern life, such as Internet access and cable television.

The restored homes of Casco Viejo provide the perfect balance of history and modernism, possessing an authentic flavor and unique atmosphere that is difficult to imitate. Casco Viejo is definitely a place to live or invest.

Happy Memorial Day

“True heroism is remarkably sober, very undramatic. It is not the urge to surpass all others at whatever cost, but the urge to serve others at whatever cost.”
-Arthur Ashe

Happy Memorial Day | Real Estate in Panama

Happy Memorial day everyone!!! After paying tribute to our troops, check out some real estate in Panama ;-D



LOCATION: Punta Pacifica, Panama City
BEDROOMS: 1
BATHROOMS: 1
AREA: 72,00m² / 775,00 ft²

PRICE: FROM US$400,000.00

Click here to request more information about the Trump Ocean Club in Panama. Click on New Projects and then on Contact Us, and we'll respond to your request ASAP!


LOCATION: Coronado Beach
BEDROOMS: 3
BATHROOMS: 3
AREA: 170,00m² / 1.829,86 ft²

PRICE: FROM US$329,000.00

Click here to request more information about the Coronado Country Club in Panama. Click on Beach Condos and then on Contact Us, and we'll respond to your request ASAP!



LOCATION: Costa Sur
BEDROOMS: 3
BATHROOMS: 4
AREA: 282,00m² / 3.035,42 ft²

PRICE: FROM US$312,480.00

Click here to request more information about the Costa Sur Pijao in Panama. Click on City Homes and then on Contact Us, and we'll respond to your request ASAP!



LOCATION: Obarrio
BEDROOMS: 1
BATHROOMS: 2
AREA: 90,00m² / 968,75 ft²

PRICE: FROM US$245,000.00

Click here to request more information about the De Novo in Panama. Click on New Projects and then on Contact Us, and we'll respond to your request ASAP!

Big Names in Panama Real Estate

Check out more real estate in Panama now!

Few cities in the world live a moment as important as the growth of Panama’s real estate industry . Distinguished representatives from important disciplines related to the real estate sector find themselves developing projects of international caliber on the Isthmus of Panama. Such is the case for Donald Trump, Philippe Starck and Frank O. Gehry, three protagonists and three different projects united by a single thread: They all share the same backdrop for their masterpieces, Panama City.

Frank O. Gehry: Architect of a Dream
And it really is “a dream come true” for Panama. Soon, Panama will become one of the few cities in the world to possess a masterpiece by Frank O. Gehry, an architect that has created such important emblems as the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, Spain and the Walt Disney Concert Hall.



Gehry is the designer of the plans for the Biodiversity Museum, located on the Amador Causeway. The museum’s expositions, designed by the Canadian firm Bruce Mau Design, one of the most important in the world, narrate the history of life and of Panama as a biological crossroads. Without a doubt, it will be an obligatory stop for tourists and Panamanians that continue to traverse this natural “Bride of the Americas,” since it is sure to be a monumental work in Panama. For more information, visit: http://www.biomuseopanama.org/

Donald Trump: The Real Estate Tycoon
One of the richest and most powerful men in the world, having built his fortune two times thanks to real estate, has set his sights on Panama, a country that he fell in love with during a Miss Universe pageant, according to his own accounts.



Trump’s real estate project in Panama, the Trump Ocean Club, will be a residential, hotel and office complex possessing 68-stories in Punta Pacific. The influential Trump name combined with its impressive architecture of 2.6 million square feet (252,000 square meters) will surely lead it to become an architectural icon of Panama. For more information, visit: http://www.trumpoceanclub.com/

Philippe Starck: Intelligent and Interesting Design
Alongside the world’s great cities, such as New York and Paris, a building is being designed in Panama by the famous French designer Philippe Starck, under the firm Yoo, a real estate firm that strongly emphasizes design.

The concept of Yoo is to create personalized spaces according to the necessities of the inhabitants. Societies are changing, and people want to live, work and have fun in one place or in close proximity to their home. To be on the cutting edge of this trend, Yoo’s projects plan to convert themselves into “vertical villas.”



With his unique vision of design and esthetics, Philippe Starck will apply his personal touch to Yoo’s building located on Panama’s Balboa Avenue, Sales will begin in the next couple of months, and its promoters have announced that it will completely sell out the day it is launched. So, if you are an admirer of Starck’s design, get yourself an invitation and reserve one now! http://www.yoopanama.com

Panama Real Estate in Highland Areas

Think Panama is nothing but fun in the sun?!? Check out these highland properties and why so many retirees are moving to Boquete!

LOCATION: Cerro Azul, Panama
BEDROOMS: 2
BATHROOMS: 2
AREA: 2.000,00m² / 21.527,82 ft²
PRICE: FROM US$95,000.00


Click here to request more information about this highland property in Panama. Click on Highland Properties and then on Contact Us, and we'll respond to your request ASAP!


LOCATION: Chame
AREA: 350.000,00m² / 3.767.368,70 ft²
PRICE: FROM US$2,800,000.00

Click here to request more information about this highland property in Panama. Click on Highland Properties and then on Contact Us, and we'll respond to your request ASAP!

City Condos for Sale in the Republic of Panama

Check out Real Estate in Panama!



LOCATION: Punta Pacífica, Panama City
BEDROOMS: 4
BATHROOMS: 4
AREA: 645,00m² / 6.942,72 ft²

PRICE: FROM US$1,200,000.00

Click here for more information about Bellagio in Panama City, Panama!



LOCATION: Punta Pacifica
BEDROOMS: 3
BATHROOMS: 3
AREA: 287,00m² / 3.089,24 ft²

PRICE: FROM US$500,000.00

Click here for more information about Blue Bahia in Panama City, Panama!



LOCATION: Avenida Balboa
BEDROOMS: 1
BATHROOMS: 1
AREA: 96,00m² / 1.033,34 ft²

PRICE: FROM US$193,000.00

Click here for more information about Bayfront Tower in Panama City, Panama!

Panama Canal Should Favor the Panamanian Economy

Expansion of the Panama Canal will benefit Panama's economy, if it favors all its sectors.

The expansion of the Panama Canal will benefit Panama's economy only if, through its investments, it nourishes all sectors, commmented Juan Carlos Mastellari, president elect of the Panamamanian Association of Business Executives.

All activities related to the Canal's expansion must be done with the utmost transparency and offer equal opportunities to all businesses to participate, he added.

"One of the things that we must guarantee is that the purchasing of the supplies for the Canal project's contracts is done in Panama and not abroad," Mastellari said.

The contracts to expand the Panama Canal, costing from 5 thousand to 250 million dollars, should commencce in the last trimester of 2007, after appropriating the first bidding for its excavation.





Photos courtesy of the Panama Canal Authority

Panama Real Estate | Beach Homes in Panama

Panama's beaches are one of the country's most spectacular attributes. With coasts on the Atlantic and Pacific, one is sure to find the right beach to suit their needs!



LOCATION: Panama
AREA: 112.00m² / 1,205.56 ft²
PRICE: FROM US$145,000.00

Malibu Beach Park & Resort, just 45 minutes from Panama city. A life refuge with all the natural attributes of Eden: River, Beach, Mountain, Ocean.

Click here for more information about this Malibu Beach Park and Resort.



LOCATION: Punta Barco
BEDROOMS: 3
BATHROOMS: 2
AREA: 25,000.00m² / 269,097.76 ft²

Magnificent beachfront house in the exclusive beach of PUNTA BARCO, surrounded by gorgeous mansions with private beach. Incredible views of the beach, the ocean and natural surroundings.

Click here for more information about this beach house.



LOCATION: Coronado Beach
BEDROOMS: 4
BATHROOMS: 7
AREA: 4.100,00m² / 44.132,03 ft²
PRICE: FROM US$1,250,000.00

Magnificent beach house, located at “Coronado” beach on the Pacific Ocean of Panama, Republic of Panama. One hour by car from Panama City.

Click here for more information about this beach house.