The Central American country is an attractive retirement option for Americans who are looking to stretch their dollar abroad. For starters, we have the same currency. Many Panama residents also speak English.

Toni Jones and her husband want to spend their golden years in what many call the gold standard of retirement countries.

“It’s so lush," she said. "There’s great weather year round. It’s a safe environment…rainbows every day!"

The Safety Harbor resident has countless reasons to love Panama.

"Your dollar goes so very far," she said. "It’s amazing what you can do with your money."

The couple spent two weeks last summer exploring retirement options in the rural town of Boquete. It’s a six-hour drive from Panama City and a favorite destination for Americans moving abroad.

“Outgoing, lovely people, very welcoming," Jones said. "We felt right at home."

The Joneses are part of a growing wave of Americans considering a move to the Central American country.

“To our website, on a monthly basis we get about 30,000 unique visitors of which I’d say about 60 percent do come from the United States,” said Panama Realtor Lucia Haines.

Haines, who’s also an alumnus of the University of Central Florida, says American interest in buying real estate in Panama has grown in the past 10 years. The country’s “pensionado,” or retiree program, is a major draw.

“You get discounts on utilities, discounts at hotels, airfare…restaurants," she said. "You get a special shorter line at banks and other service providers."

While it sounds nice, Haines warns against jumping into anything too quickly.

It’s a major decision Toni Jones doesn’t take lightly.

“It’s still a Third World country,” Jones said.

But for many retiring there, Panama is the new American dream.

“Who doesn't want to retire in a tropical paradise?” said Haines.

To learn more about moving to Panama or the “pensionado” visa requirements contact Panama Realtor Lucia Haines.