A promising new permanent residency visa for foreigners has come into effect in Panama, which may ease restrictions for the many expats who live in Panama on a full or part-time basis. Previously, foreigners staying in Panama could qualify for residency under the pensionado (retiree) program, or through various investment programs – all of which required substantial (and often long-term) financial investment. If a foreigner did not qualify (or wish to apply) for those visas, the alternative was to enter the country on a tourist visa, valid for up to 90 days and renewable in-country for another 30 days. For Keep Reading…

The Panama Canal expansion is on track for a 2014 completion, confirmed authorities, putting to rest speculation that the project was facing substantial delays. Maria Eugenia de Sanchez, the authority’s senior specialist on traffic projections told the Wall Street Journal that despite a few delays, the $5.2 billion project, led by an international consortium, will be completed in the next two and half years. In addition to the economic benefits of the added traffic expected from the expansion, it pays to stay on schedule: penalties for delays are in excess of $50 million, with the same in bonuses for timely Keep Reading…

Team Hawaii has conquered the 2012 ISA World Junior Surfing Championship, in a thrilling final day of competition at Playa Venao, Panama, after winning two of three individual Gold Medals. Two of the youngest Hawaiians on the team, 14-year-old Dax McGill (competing in Girls Under-18) and 14-year-old Kalani David (Boys Under-16) carried the Aloha State flag proudly as they were chaired up the beach by teammates after winning their respective divisions. Brazil’s Matheus Navarro, one of the most dynamic, entertaining and innovative surfers of the event, won the Gold Medal in Boys Under-18. The entire podium in this division spoke Keep Reading…