It's only natural to wonder how you'll fill your hours here in Panama. If you come on a scouting trip, you'll hear certain things over and over, from different expats. Most of them find that their lives are more fun. It's easier to make new friends in expat communities, and people tend to have more time to socialize.
“For the longest time, I considered myself a nomad; a self-proclaimed gypsy roaming the world,” says Joe Yaker. “Eventually I ended up in Panama, after quite a few years living in New Orleans, where I did film work.”
Talk to any expat in Panama and you're likely to find that, despite any negative experiences, the good outweighs the bad. That's why so much of the literature about expats seems so rose-tinted. They tend to be a grateful bunch, deriving immense satisfaction from a) being a part of a close-knit expat community, and b) learning about, befriending, and giving back to locals.
Most first-time visitors to Panama head for the Panama Canal and Casco Viejo, two of our showiest destinations. But to get a real sense of the country, you'll want to set aside some time to explore the countryside and the comarcas.
Once in Panama, we quickly found ourselves embracing the slower pace of life, the Spanish language, and the interesting people that we met from all over the world.
If you think that Chiriquí might be right for your next adventure, I recommend spending six months here initially—to see if it's a place you'd feel comfortable putting down roots. While you're here, be sure to take some time to just relax—but also be diligent about setting aside days to go out and gather information. The more you explore and learn, the easier it will be to decide whether you want to make this your new home.
This couple ended up on the beautiful island of Isla Colón in the Bocas del Toro province of Panama. Although small, this island has a lot of personality, great weather, and plenty more to offer expats. Are you ready to trade frigid winters for sunny, Caribbean beaches?
With our Panama residency requirements fulfilled, and our 5,000-square-foot Nevada home downsized to a partial container of “should we keep that?” possessions, my partner and sweetheart, Will, and I took a one-way flight toward a new life.
A hot cup of coffee and a good chat with friends is one of life's best pleasures—and so is a hearty breakfast. In Pedasí, we are fortunate to have several places that serve good coffee and a great "first meal of the day."
As I write, I'm visiting with expats in a neighborhood called Majagual. They have invited me to see their homes and to hear their reasons for choosing a region of Panama that's somewhat "off the beaten path"—at least, insofar as retirement destinations are concerned.