The Caribbean Coast of Panama is notoriously underdeveloped—a pro or a con depending
on what kind of lifestyle you’re looking for. This side of the country’s infrastructure is basic at
best, and, as a result, fewer foreigners have settled on Panama’s northern side. English is less
generally spoken than on the Pacific side, though the touristy Bocas del Toro is an exception—
here the high volume of visitors means most working in the service industry speak English, and
many businesses are American or Canadian owned.
From the rugged but expat-popular Bocas del Toro islands in the far west to the colonial cities of
Colón and Portobelo, the Caribbean options are few but varied. Read on for details on Panama’s
best options on the Caribbean…
