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ARCA VILLAGE FAQ
When will the first homes be built?
We plan to move into our own home at ARCA Village in approximately nine months. At the same time, construction of the first guest accommodations is expected to begin.
Once we are living on-site full-time, we will be able to move the next stages of ARCA Village forward much more quickly.
What types of homes will be available?
We are planning several home designs in different sizes — Type A, B, and C.
Our goal is to allow room for individual preferences while maintaining a shared architectural vision that gives ARCA Village a harmonious, beautiful, and high-quality character.
How self-sufficient will the homes be?
Our goal is for each home to be as self-sufficient as reasonably possible.
Plans include individual solar power systems, battery storage, and smart energy management. Because of our mountain climate, heating is not necessary. The homes will be designed to take advantage of natural ventilation and the breezes across the property.
For additional comfort, a small air-conditioning unit can be included, particularly in the bedroom.
How will electricity, water, and hot water be provided?
Electricity is planned to be generated and stored primarily at each individual home through solar power and battery systems. Hot water will also be produced individually.
Water will be supplied from ARCA Village’s central well and water storage system. The well water is currently being professionally tested and will be treated and certified.
Can I have my own garden?
Absolutely. The ARCA VILLAGE FAQ and regulations advocate that residents are welcome to create and maintain their own gardens around their homes.
Panama’s tropical climate, with abundant sunshine and rainfall, makes it possible to grow a remarkable variety of fruits, vegetables, herbs, and flowers — with multiple harvests each year for many crops.
In addition, ARCA Village will include shared agricultural and growing areas for the community.
Do I need to speak Spanish?
No. You do not need to speak Spanish to live at ARCA Village.
Of course, learning some Spanish makes everyday life easier and helps you feel more connected to Panama and its people. In our experience, Panamanians are wonderfully patient and helpful with those who are still learning the language.
English is also widely used in many professional settings, particularly in private healthcare and other services catering to international residents.
Do I need my own car?
Having your own car is convenient, but according to our current plans, it should not be essential.
For guests, the ARCA Village shuttle will provide regular transportation to selected shopping areas, activities, and local destinations. Permanent residents will be able to park their vehicles within the community.
Where can I shop?
A small local supermarket is approximately five minutes away by car.
Larger shopping areas with supermarkets, pharmacies, electronics stores, home improvement stores, and other everyday services can be reached in approximately 17–20 minutes.
Online shopping and deliveries from the United States are also increasingly accessible in Panama.
What about internet access?
We already have internet service on the property through two different providers.
Reliable connectivity is an important part of our planning, particularly for residents who work remotely or want to stay connected with family, friends, and businesses abroad.
Are family and friends welcome to visit?
Yes. Family and friends are welcome to visit.
We want ARCA Village to feel like home — and part of that means being able to share it with the people who matter to you.
What is healthcare like in Panama?
Our personal experience with Panama’s private healthcare system has been very positive.
For more specialized medical care, Panama City offers modern private hospitals, specialist clinics, and English-speaking physicians.
Because healthcare needs and insurance options vary considerably from person to person, we will provide separate information about health insurance and healthcare options for international residents living in Panama.
Will there be a restaurant?
Yes. ARCA Village will have its own restaurant.
Our current concept includes two main meals each day, served at approximately 10:00 AM and 5:00 PM, with a small selection of snacks available in between.
Whenever possible, ingredients will come directly from our own gardens and growing areas at ARCA Village — bringing fresh, locally grown food from our land to the table.
What about residency, banking, health insurance, and owning property in Panama?
We will provide separate information covering residency options, banking, health insurance, property ownership, and other practical aspects of living in Panama.
Because individual circumstances and legal requirements can vary, we believe these topics are best addressed separately from the general information about life at ARCA Village.
ARCA Village does not provide legal, immigration, tax, financial, or investment advice. We are, however, happy to help residents and prospective residents connect with appropriate independent professionals in Panama.
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