When the weekend is just around the corner and you're looking for something uplifting, a walk along the Amador Causeway with a stop at the Biodiversity museum may be exactly what you need. This is where tropical nature, world-class architecture, and curiosity come together. In our Plans for the Weekend series, we regularly explore places that allow you to see Panama in a new light. This one reveals the spirit of the city through color, space, and thought. Along the Pacific shoreline, a bold and colorful building rises like a geometric sculpture made of origami. Its vibrant forms and shifting angles belong to a master of unconventional design. This remarkable work was created by Frank Gehry. The Biodiversity museum is his only completed project in Latin America, and it has become one of the city’s most distinctive symbols. The name Frank Gehry is synonymous with innovation, and his work reshaped the skyline of the late 20th century, infusing each creation with motion and emotion. His ideas speak through angles and curves. Frank Gehry projects include the Guggenheim Museum, in Bilbao, the Walt Disney Concert Hall, in Los Angeles, and the Foundation Louis Vuitton, in Paris. Each building reveals a dialogue between architecture and its environment. This is why Frank Gehry architecture style never imitates; it always transforms. This is the kind of destination that fits naturally into a weekend plan. We feature places that leave an impression and the Biomuseo Panama-City is truly unforgettable. The museum’s exhibitions tell the story of Panama, the narrow strip of land that changed the history of the world’s flora and fauna. Through immersive sound, light, and interactive installations, you are drawn into the worlds of animals, forests, and the deep ocean. Unlike many cultural institutions, the museums in Panama are known for their accessibility and creativity. The Biodiversity museum blends education with wonder. Here, multilingual displays, projection rooms, gardens, and shaded courtyards create a space that welcomes both children and adults. In this environment, visitors don’t just observe nature; they become a part of it. Just steps from the museum, a new residential development is set to rise — one that offers panoramic views of the Biomuseo, in Panama-City. Construction begins in December 2025, and the project is designed to unite architecture, natural beauty, and modern coastal living. With this opportunity, you could welcome 2026 with a perspective of a space shaped by light, air, and vision. Created for those who value meaning in every detail, the project includes a beach club, panoramic rooftop pool, oceanfront restaurant, and fitness center. The sight of the Biodiversity museum, Panama, greeting you each morning brings a quiet sense of wonder that lingers throughout the day. If you can already picture yourself sipping coffee on a terrace with views of the Pacific, there’s good news: you can reserve a unit today with just $5,000. After signing, only 10% of the total price is required. Moreover, flexible payment options are available. When ecosystems, heritage, and human creativity meet in one place, the result is never ordinary. The Frank Gehry Panama masterpiece has become a living symbol of the country’s identity.

At what age should we start thinking about retirement planning? It's important to start from an early age, as the sooner we start, the higher the chances of making smart decisions. Moreover, in Panama, retirement may be closer than you think through the Pensionado Visa. Today we explore this status, whom it can help, and why it could represent an optimal use of retiree savings through visa discounts. The retirement visa in Panama is called the Pensionado Visa, which means “visa for pensioners” in Spanish. This is exactly what it offers: all applicants need to do is prove they have a lifetime pension of only $1000 a month, something not that hard to achieve for European or US citizens. Thus, the applicant has the right to permanent residency with the opportunity of adding a spouse and dependent children. The latter can be included in the application and residency until they turn 25, but only if they are full-time students at a university. After the said period, the applicants will lose the visa and will have to apply through any other process as any foreigner would do. Under certain conditions, the minimum monthly income can be less than $1000. If you're applying with your spouse, the one thousand dollars can be combined, which means $500 each, or 600 and 400, as long as it's a lifetime pension. Application is also possible with a combined income of $750 if you purchase real estate for USD100,000. This sum is not at all bad for real estate, especially in Panama, where you can acquire high-end properties at surprisingly convenient prices. With an outstanding lifestyle at the same level as you can find in any high-class capital in the world, Panama has lower prices. When compared to Paris, New York, Miami, or Sydney, the living costs are considerably lower. After years of hard work, it will be nice to live in a place where your retiree savings have higher yields than in your home country. To be fair, the only drawback that you may have in Panama is a serious traffic issue during peak hours. Even though there are several new infrastructure works in progress to solve this, the basic structure of the city is very old, and it doesn't have a grid layout, or much space for expansions. So far, the projects are focused on creating better passages to and from the outskirts of the city through the fourth line of the metro, a fourth bridge over the Pacific, and enhancing the Panamericana in Panama Pacifico. There are a few exceptions, like Costa del Este, a modern neighborhood, or Casco Viejo, which is the colonial city built after the very first settlement was destroyed. This second city was built on the Spanish crown's new urbanization rules at the time; hence, it shows well-defined squares with clearly delineated sidewalks for pedestrians to enjoy. Next to the colonial houses and churches, there are several modern complexes available for rent or sale. On top of this, retirees have access to special discounts, and some of them are exclusive to Pensionado Visa holders. When it comes to healthcare, they enjoy 20% off medical consultations, and 10% off prescriptions. 

There’s a certain magic about the weekend, a time when the pace of the city slows down, and you get to choose: stay home or head out and feel the pulse of evening life in Panama. This article from our “Plans for the Weekend” series offers three carefully chosen routes for a memorable evening. Whether you're walking along the vibrant Cinta Costera, Panama, exploring the charm of Casco Viejo, or seeking indoor comfort at Multiplaza, Panama, each route offers its own unique atmosphere for a perfect experience. Each of the routes described below can become your plan for a single weekend night. You can pick the one that fits your mood best, or try all three on different weekends. There’s a place where the sea meets the sky and the city opens up to the breeze of the bay. That place is Cinta Costera, Panama, a perfect space for an evening stroll. As you walk along the coast, you feel the gentle ocean breeze and watch the sun drop behind the horizon. You’ll see locals and visitors cycle, jog, or relax on benches in an ideal place to breathe clean air and reflect. When you're ready to extend the evening, just around the bend lies Calle Uruguay. In Calle Uruguay, Panama becomes vibrant, and the city’s nightlife truly comes alive. The street is lined with charming wine bars, softly lit terraces, and restaurants offering modern Latin American cuisine—grilled octopus, citrusy ceviche, and tropically inspired tapas. It's the perfect way to end your evening with flavor and rhythm. As night falls, the city begins to glow. In Calle Uruguay, Panama boasts one of those streets that awakens after dark. Behind each window, there’s laughter, music, clinking glasses, and conversation. Just steps away from all this, Mundo presents a refined residential project designed to match the pulse of the neighborhood. It’s a two-tower complex tailored for different lifestyles. One tower is perfect for short-term rental seekers, while the other offers long-term comfort and a true sense of home. To sum up, this is the ideal choice for those who want to stay close to the city's energy while enjoying a sense of peace and privacy. Casco Viejo is a district where every cobblestone has a story. Colonial balconies and arches blend with glowing windows of studios and restaurants. If you're looking for a place that inspires and connects you to both past and present, this is it. For more details on evening strolls and the best restaurants in Panama City, Panama, we’ve covered this neighborhood in a dedicated article on our website. As lights begin to twinkle in Casco Viejo, the streets reveal another layer of charm. Not far from the main plazas lies a boutique residential development seamlessly woven into the neighborhood's rhythm. With flexible layouts and terraces overlooking the city, it's a place for both work and rest. Just steps away, you’ll find the best restaurants in Panama City, Panama, as well as winding streets that feel like a journey through time.

At Mundo, when we present a service, we like to show you its environment and everything that's special about it. Today is Saint Lucia's turn. This is the Helen of the West, the home of the Pitons, a business hub where to open a bank account or get citizenship, and now a nation that cares about education in the Caribbean. We celebrate how St Lucian students graduated from the prestigious Monroe University in New York, and how these young talents are enjoying the results of their hard work and the benefits of scholarships. The story of Monroe University is interesting, and it was signed by initiative from day one. It was a group of women led by Mildred King who started this wonderful adventure in 1933. The institution that receives students from St Lucia and different parts of the world was, back then only a secretary school with a class of seven students. Now, Monroe University continues to be managed by King's descendants, having obtained the status of university quite recently. One of our favorite countries is committed to improving education in the Caribbean and offers scholarships in Monrow University to its citizens. According to the government’s official webpage, Saint Lucia is offering 50 scholarships in Monroe University covering tuition fees and books. The invitation is open for the year 2025 and requires certain conditions like proving that you are a St. Lucia citizen, being the 1st generation to receive a university education in your family, and being in financial need. As the world is becoming more shaken by war, inflation and several other negative news, we want to celebrate life and the commitment towards self-development. If you're looking for a second or third citizenship, and you haven't decided on which program yet, why not choose a country that supports the youngest generations? Education in St Lucia is becoming better as its people become smarter and better prepared, and the government agreement within Monroe University, in New York, surely plays an important role in all this. There are many reasons why a person will choose one country over another for a second citizenship. If you're interested in long-term reputation, you may choose St Kitts because it has the first CBI to ever be created. On the other hand, if you have plans to do business in the US, Grenada has an E2 agreement with said country. If you have a large family and you want to include everyone in your application, Antigua and Barbuda is probably the best option. Furthermore, it has an interesting approach towards education as well. Here, one of the investment pathways to apply for citizenship is through investing in a University of the West Indies fund. These funds will be used to finance a new campus for the institution, and the program grants a scholarship for one member of the applicant's family. 

At Mundo, we introduce an array of services and opportunities across different countries, and what sets us apart is that we love to talk about those places. If we discuss citizenship by investment or residency in any given country, we also like to show you a picture of what your life would be like there when living or visiting. Today, we explore what living in Riga, Latvia, means, the secrets of this Baltic country that's home to a unique blend of Western and Eastern European traditions. Here you can find a number of special places, for example, the historic district, which is a world heritage site designated by UNESCO. The people here are closely connected to nature; they love buying at farmers' markets or going into the wilderness to collect mushrooms. The Latvian people are known for their loyalty, sincerity, and commitment to their loved ones, however, living in Latvia as a foreigner might require some getting used to, especially when the first cultural barriers appear. Living in Riga, or any other Latvian city, you need to understand how locals think. As a writer from LATAM who has lived in Russia, I can say from firsthand experience that the differences in communication are significant and may lead to misunderstandings. Nonetheless, these can be avoided if we go to Eastern countries, already grasping their sense of politeness. If you come from the west, living in Riga, Latvia, can feel uncomfortable at first because people will not be nice to you from the beginning. If you approach someone on the street and say hello, they will probably ask why you are addressing them if you are not acquaintances. For an American, this might seem impolite, but this isn’t so: they're simply not used to talking to strangers. While Latvians are very reserved, they are also welcoming and loyal to their friends. This means that, when they start considering you a friend, they will stop at nothing to help you, and they will be there for you no matter what. In the West, we're used to being chatty and making small talk. But living in Riga, Latvia, you shouldn't be surprised to climb into a bus and find it completely silent: they simply don't chat if they don't need to. I experienced something similar when I first climbed down the plane in Moscow for the first time. So, if you call a Latvian friend and ask them how they're doing, be ready to hear the real answer. For Americans, it's important to understand that they're not being rude, they're just being who they are: Latvians simply don't see the need for long introductions before getting to the point. In Latvia, people love natural products, which is why they like to shop in Riga’s Central Market. Living in Riga, you can expect to have a diet based on meat and potatoes, and often mushrooms. Don't expect to find any spicy food, but you will find dill in abundance. 

The world is vast and full of wonders. Some places dazzle with breathtaking scenery, others captivate with cultural depth, and many become sanctuaries for those seeking a new beginning. In this article, we will not debate the best country in the world. Every destination offers something unique. Instead, let’s explore the globe by theme, from ancient mysteries to modern havens for expatriates. Get ready to uncover the best countries to travel to for every kind of journey. When it comes to ancient enigmas, Egypt holds a special allure. The majestic pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, and the temples of Luxor stand as monuments echoing across millennia. Egypt opens a gateway into the world of pharaohs, priests, and eternal secrets. For those drawn to heritage, Egypt is undeniably among the most cultural places in the world. While Egypt preserves the East’s legacy, Mexico immerses travelers in the mystique of the Americas. The ruins of Chichen Itza and Palenque, the pyramids of Teotihuacan, and the lush Yucatán jungles reveal a vivid past. Anyone fascinated by Mayan culture and ancient spirituality will recognize Mexico as one of the most cultural places in the world and a destination full of wonder. Panama is considered one of the best countries to travel to, particularly for those planning to relocate. Its tropical weather, stable economy, attractive tax framework, high-quality healthcare, and luxury real estate continue to draw expatriates from all over the globe. Panama offers a balanced lifestyle where urban energy meets serene nature. Therefore, anyone looking for the best country in the world to live comfortably should consider Panama as a top contender. Portugal steadily earns its place as one of the best countries to travel to, especially for those starting a new chapter. It offers pleasant weather, safety, developed infrastructure, and a welcoming spirit across its cities. Those who dream of blending European quality with peaceful rhythms will find Portugal a compelling option when searching for the best country in the world for a tranquil life. While Portugal has a residency by investment program, Mundo recommends Panama because it offers the same lifestyle, more opportunities, and lower costs. For travelers in search of cultural richness, Russia is one of the most cultural places in the world. In nearly every big city, you’ll find philharmonic orchestras, drama theaters, opera houses, ballet, and even puppet theaters. The depth and accessibility of cultural institutions are deeply rooted in the national identity, which makes Russia a must-visit for those who seek artistic inspiration and generational heritage. The United States offers an extraordinary range of cultural experiences. Broadway theaters in New York create a landscape full of creative expression.

Sun-drenched Panama draws in dreamers, investors, and those seeking a new beginning between lush hills and the ocean breeze. But with a move to a Spanish-speaking country comes an obvious question: how can you learn Spanish effectively and is it really necessary for a fulfilling life here? Do you need the language to feel confident, connect with locals, and, most importantly, manage documents for residency or citizenship? That’s what we explore in this article. Let’s uncover why learning a second language becomes a priority even for those who didn’t plan on it initially. In Panama, language is woven into the country’s rhythm and daily moments. Locals speak Spanish, signs are in Spanish, and interactions rely on it. That’s why many quickly realize the value of learning Spanish as a second language within just a few weeks of arrival. Speaking and understanding the language helps newcomers prevent that feeling of isolation and foster friendships. Even a basic trip to the pharmacy or market feels easier when you’re not struggling to find the words. Panama creates an ideal backdrop for those eager to learn Spanish naturally. You hear the language on the streets, you read it on shop signs, you listen to it while ordering coffee or waiting for an Uber; thus, gradually, you begin to understand. Mobile apps, online programs, and language schools are useful tools, but the real progress happens when engaging in conversation. Slowly but steadily, the process of learning a second language starts to feel like part of your daily life rather than a chore. Furthermore, regular interaction with locals accelerates fluency more than any textbook ever could. There’s no universal timeline to learn Spanish, but dedication makes all the difference. Many people reach a conversational level in just a few months. With consistent effort, fluency often comes within half a year. Watching Spanish-language movies, joining conversation groups, and enrolling in Spanish lessons are approaches that accelerate the process. The more immersed you are, the more natural learning a second language becomes. Living in Panama creates daily opportunities to practice Spanish as a second language, helping you improve not only your vocabulary but also your confidence in real conversations. Getting residency in Panama does not require any proof that you’ve started to learn Spanish. There are no early-stage interviews or exams in the local language, which makes this step welcoming for those still in the process of learning a second language. Whether you choose a visa tied to real estate investment or the Pensionado visa, which is available to anyone with a lifetime income of at least $1,000 USD.

Weekends in Panama can surprise even those familiar with its charm and rhythm. One route offers more than just a walk or a guided tour: it takes you along the Panama Canal timeline, where history, motion, and a sense of global scale come together in an unforgettable way. This article is part of our “Plan for the Weekend” series, where we help you discover unforgettable weekend experiences in Panama. Panama’s climate is pleasant year-round, but your experience depends on the season. The dry season from December to April is ideal, with clear skies and warm temperatures. This is when the best way to visit Panama Canal unfolds in full view, as vessels move steadily through the locks. This is also peak tourist season. May and June offer quieter moments, vivid greenery, and light rainfall. Crowds thin out, and weekday afternoons are especially calm. If you prefer a more personal experience, that’s the best time of day to visit Panama Canal. Thus, you’ll get a closer sense of how this historic route pulses with purpose. There’s a unique moment at the viewing platforms when you see a ship glide from one horizon to another. You’re standing at a crossroads of continents. The Pacific Ocean lies on one side, the Caribbean Sea on the other, and the canal itself acts as a grand link. Through places like the Miraflores or Agua Clara locks, you see engineering and nature woven together. When you pause to take in the scene, you can almost retrace the Panama Canal timeline, from its inauguration in 1914, to the 100th anniversary in 2014, and the opening of the expanded locks in 2016. It's not loud or rushed, yet it carries the power to captivate completely. The canal is a place where ambition, cooperation and struggle have left their marks. The path where ships glide today was once dense jungle, cleared by thousands of laborers. You can learn more about each milestone at the Panama Canal museum, but even without the details, the energy is undeniable. We have already talked about this in more detail in a separate article, which contains key milestones and eras. Watching the gates open and closely connects you to Panama’s journey, where the entire Panama Canal timeline comes alive in every movement and every structure. Each day, dozens of ships make their way across the canal. Their size depends on the locks.

You're standing in the airport, your bags are packed, and you're full of excitement. Your boarding pass reads “Panama City,” and you’re confident that you're headed toward warm beaches, tropical breezes, and a vibrant Latin culture. But shortly after takeoff, you realize something's off. You’re not flying to the financial capital of Central America. Instead, you're headed to a quiet seaside town in the southern United States. Yes, you’ve chosen Panama City, FL instead of Panama City, Panama. This kind of mistake might seem unusual, but it’s more common than you'd expect. Where is Panama City exactly? It depends on what you’re looking for. One is a tranquil coastal town in the US, the other is a global gateway with powerful potential. Panama City, FL is a small American resort town with long stretches of sand, charming family vacations, and a laid-back Southern spirit. It’s clean, safe, and peaceful, but what you won’t find here are views of the Panama Canal or the historic alleys of Casco Viejo. While Panama City, FL offers local charm and a relaxed pace, it’s probably not your dream destination if you’re aiming to transform your lifestyle or explore international investment opportunities. When people ask where is Panama City, the answer can shape their journey. In Central America lies Panama City, Panama, a vibrant capital that connects two continents and two oceans. It is a place with a stable dollar economy, a respected legal system, and appealing options for those seeking international opportunities. This is the Panama City we often write about. It’s a city of real prospects, offering everything from beachfront living to strong asset protection systems and reliable legal frameworks. For many, it’s the start of something new and promising. Why do such different cities share the same name? The story dates back to the 18th and 19th centuries when settlers in what is now Florida were inspired by faraway lands. They named their new towns after exotic locations, perhaps hoping to bring a little of that magic into their daily lives. Also, at the beginning of the 20th century, the heads of the Florida town wanted to draw interest, so they changed its name to “Panama” because everyone was talking about the construction of the Panama Canal. That’s how Panama City, US, got its name, yet the similarities end there.

One of the main topics at Mundo is relocation through second citizenship or residency. On our expat living section, we talk about what life is like in the jurisdictions where you might get residency or citizenship, and we introduce you to the place's history, landscapes, and favorite landmarks. Today, we will explore the Brimstone Hill Fortress history on the beautiful island of Saint Kitts. Today, we launch this special series of articles in which we show you what you might be doing during the weekend in St Kitts, Panama, Grenada, Antigua, Vanuatu, Latvia, or any other place where you can get residency. Today, the adventure is in the Caribbean, a rich land that was coveted by the main European powers after the discovery of America. Welcome to Brimstone Hill Fortress, St Kitts. A nice place to visit in Saint Kitts, where you can have a great time during the weekend and learn some history, is the Brimstone Hill Fortress. Although it may sound surprising, the Caribbean and Florida are full of these constructions. This is because in the era of European expansion, that is, the 17th and 18th centuries, this was seen as a strategic area and an entrance to the New World. Those who controlled the Caribbean controlled the ports, and the goods and trades that came from faraway lands. These fortresses were built with two main purposes: defense from intruders and protection for the locals. This is why height was important, so that they could see the enemy ships coming from afar. The Brimstone Hill Fortress was built on a 230-meter hill characterized by steep slopes and double-peaked terrain. With the main structures built at different levels, the sentinels had an ample extension to see what was coming, and modern tourists, in our days, can enjoy incredible ocean views. The construction materials were stone blocks with a rubble core and local limestone, particularly for decoration. The Brimstone Hill Fortress history is a testimony to the Caribbean's rich past. Many see these regions purely as leisure destinations where one doesn't think but sips a few margaritas while lying on the beach. Nonetheless, the Caribbean has so much more than light entertainment: it holds the secrets of an intricate past and the events that helped shape the continent as we know it.