Over the past 30 years, we’ve compiled hundreds of charts, lists, and indices (like the Quality of Life Index and the Retirement Index), seeking to rank the world’s best destinations. We’ve dedicated scores of editors, researchers, and statisticians to the task. Probably spent hundreds of thousands of dollars…maybe more…teasing out the secret of the numbers. Each time, without fail, we’re surprised…by a new entry…a surprise winner…or a falling favorite.

But there is one constant—one country which dominates the "retiree benefits" category every time: Panama.

While the health care reform debate rages in the States right now, the expats in Panama City are quietly getting on with enjoying their excellent and inexpensive health care. The top-notch hospitals here include the brand new state-of-the-art Punta Pacifica Hospital, affiliated with the U.S.’s well-respected Johns Hopkins Hospital. The latest technology is there (even more than in many hospitals in the U.S.), and most of the doctors speak fluent English. In fact, some procedures (especially anti-aging and preventative treatments) are available in Panama that you won’t find in the States or Canada.

And the pensionado program of special benefits for foreign retirees is the best on offer anywhere. Panama has a low cost of living. But when you start taking advantage of the pensionado discounts, that low cost drops even further. Half-price movies and hotels. You get 25% off utility and phone bills. Discounts on visits to the doctor, dentist, and optometrist. Lower airfares—the roundtrip pensionado airfare from Panama City to Miami is $185.

You don’t even have to wait in line—banks and shops have special pensionado sections so that you get served as soon as you walk in the door.

Over the next few days, you’ll hear from some of the people who have made Panama their home…and how they’re getting the most out of the pensionado program.

If at any time you decide you’d like to join them…do this: Sign up for the Ultimate Overseas Retirement Plan. It’s the complete package for anyone interested in Panama, including the brand new edition of the Panama Owner’s Manual…a special report detailing a step-by-step guide to The World’s Best Retirement Program…and a collection of recordings from the Live and Invest in Panama Seminar held last week.

The recordings are a real bonus—they include presentations from expats, experts, doctors, and retirees about living in Panama.

I conservatively estimate this entire package is worth about $160…but you can get it for just $69 if you sign up with this link before Wednesday.

Len Galvin
Managing Editor, IL Postcards