16 Years as an Expat In Panama: Richard Detrich

Richard Detrich and Nikki Steele have lived in Panama for 16 years. Watch this video to learn why they decided to retire in Panama. See their beautiful Tuscan style home on a 4-acre coffee farm in Palmira which is about 10 minutes from downtown Boquete.
Richard also shares his best and worst experiences in Panama and his biggest fears/frustrations about living in Panama. Be sure to watch to the end of the video when Richard shares his recommendation for anyone considering relocating to Panama.
You can get Richard's "The New Escape to Paradise" book at www.amazon.com/New-Escape-Par...
Richard's House is for Sale - see details at richarddetrich.files.wordpres...
Are you thinking of retiring in Panama? Get our free guide & discover what life in Panama could be like for you!
panamarelocationtours.com/ret...
Since 2010, Panama Relocation Tours has been offering monthly 6-day 7-night all-inclusive relocation tours of Panama. We've completed over 112 tours! During a tour you'll see a variety of different areas, meet ex-pats, and learn all the things you need to know to make a super easy transition to living in Panama.
We now offer the ONLINE Complete Panama Relocation Guide to help you learn all the things you need to know to have a smooth and easy transition when relocating to Panama. You'll be able to avoid costly mistakes when you get access to our reliable immigration lawyers, honest real estate agents/property managers, where to buy health insurance, how to get your pets into Panama, and much more.
panamarelocationtours.com/guide

[@richarddetrich124]

Thank you all for watching and for the nice comments about the video and our house. You can find out more about the house on my RichardDetrich.com Web site as well as lots of information about our experiences living in Panama.

[@ronmcdonald2842]

One of the most informative - no frills - YT videos I've ever watched!

[@chrisbullock6477]

Good interview and thanks for not having the typical recolonization metality.

[@bryanbowlby8006]

I bought your book, which came yesterday. I am only about 40 pages in, but I appreciate how candid you are about the pros and cons about living there. It's on myself and the wife's short list. Thanks!

[@neemaborji9993]

@Richard Detrich You mention the legal system multiple times but you didn't elaborate. Can you elaborate on the legal system and trusting lawyers?

[@TheDixiechick12]

Thank you Sir, very interesting and very sincere.God Bless from Vietnam

[@TerenceBiggs]

Thank you, Richard. When you shared your stories about your warm experiences in Panama your non-verbal language lit up. I appreciate your candor and transparency. Best wishes with retirement 2.0, and I'll see you in Panama as my wife and I embark on our retirement 1.0.

[@richarddetrich124]

Thanks, Welcome to Paradise!

[@bullfrogger1208]

I moved from central California to the border region between Argentina and Bolivia . My wife had cats and we had no luck finding cat food . I found some small cans the same size as cat food but it turned out to be liver Pate' . It was cheaper than any cat food we ever bought at home and the cats just loved it .Make all the lists you want but it is the people who make a place special in your mind .

[@losriosprofundos2113]

So refreshing to hear someone who knows what they’re talking about.

[@MrJsv650]

I like this guy, he is legit. Nice to listen to, good info.

[@richarddetrich124]

Thanks!

[@clarabaules]

I am Panamenian and I have to make a correction ,people in Panama city and Boquete speaks the same Spanish and not a different Spanish as Mr. Richard said. Thank you for de video and for loving my Country 💖

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

I also live in Boquete and visit Panama City several times a month. The different is that Panama City Spanish is more formal and Boquete Spanish is more slang or abbreviated words. They are both Spanish but different sometimes.

[@richarddetrich124]

Spanish is Spanish just like English is English. But we do have words that nobody from Panama City knows. It's kind of farm/country/frontera/informal version of Spanish vs. proper, correct, business Spanish of the Capital.

[@mikedavies3592]

Yes its the slang and or accent as in all languages.

[@thegeminiguy1065]

YOUR BEAUTIFUL!!

[@paulsdancing5429]

@@PanamaRelocationToursyes Spanish is Spanish. But there are accents. I am Canadian. In the south of Chile I had no problem to communicate in the office, with English speaking engineers. But when I went out to the construction site, I did not understand what the welders and millwrights were saying. People in Boquete, do they speak the Spanish that the Madrid educated engineers spoke to me, or the 'Spanish' I heard from construction tradesmen in Chile?

[@AzerPaul]

This is such a good video, very informative. This is a real regular, articulate, intelligent guy.

[@richarddetrich124]

Hey thanks! Hope to see you in Panama!

[@8675-__]

Your home is absolutely stunning! Absolutely gorgeous decor and thank you for your encouragement.

[@richarddetrich124]

Thank you!

[@KenJamesJr]

Freakin Gorgeous!

[@richarddetrich124]

@@KenJamesJr Thanks! We designed and built it, It's Panama so we wanted it open to the outside, light and airy.

[@richarddetrich124]

Thank you!

[@1954steve]

I watched your video for the first time today and I must say it brought a tear to my eye when you describe your experience in the canoe. I would love to visit.

[@richarddetrich124]

Please do visit! Panama Relocation Tours gives you a good overview. I'd suggest spending some time in Panama, and in Panama City, before or after your tour ... and while you're in Panama City visit the Embera Puru village - details on my Web site. It's an all-day trip, but well, well worth it!

[@recoveryrider6183]

Spent some time in Panama City during Christmas want to go back and see Bouquette area next time. Met a gentleman who was Chirique Indian from that area, who spoke Spanish and 3 dialects from native tribes.

[@richardfrost4936]

I went to jr high in Panama in the 1960’s. I was a Air Force brat. I have pleasant memories of Panama. Albrook

[@richarddetrich124]

The airstrip is now the domestic airport but will soon be closed and that operation will be moved to the old Fort Howard, no Panama Pacifica, a planned urban development and free port. Most of what was Albrook is now a giant mall. There is a big US expat population in Panama City, folks that either worked for the US Canal or were stationed here, found paradise, and when they retired came back.

[@theseniorthrifter9994]

Best video yet! Loved this guy's sense of humor, insight and intelligence. Definitely going to buy his book!

[@richarddetrich124]

Thank you! Hope to see you in Panama.

[@LianeSpicer]

Wonderful interview! Thank you so much.

[@mr-vet]

I absolutely loved my two year Army tour in Panama (1990s). I married my Ecuadorian-born wife in Panama and my now, 25 year-old daughter was born at Gorgas Hospital.

[@Etatdesiege1979]

Cedula 8. 👍🏻

[@claudettewarner6151]

I was born in Gorgas! My mother was a nurse there for 20 years until moved to California.

[@kevinkenefick8642]

I was born at Gorgas Hospital in 1950. I want to retire to Panama.

[@colliecoform4854]

I also do not have an ear/brain to do languages. I studied Spanish for three years and got pretty good, for me, at reading Spanish but lost my memory when it came time to speaking it. My three kids all have the ear and speak other languages fluently. They must have inherited that from my husband. I have hesitated to even consider moving to a non English speaking place because of this. It is nice to know it is possible without being taken advantage of.

[@TheMarPacifico]

Very touching story during the power outage, the town ladies bringing food to you and your wife ready to share yours before it would go bad. That's real friendship 🙂👍🏼

[@richarddetrich124]

Touching and funny.

[@MsLisaPires]

Thanks for your video, we had been on the tour with Jackie on Aug 2019. Myself, my husband and two kids 8 and 10 years old. We applied for residency right away and yesterday I got an email from our lawyers office saying the process is complete... on the same day that we got a offer on our place, so we should be in boquete pretty soon and we are so excited to start quality of life with our kids and have time to spend with them .... your video made my day just as we are longing to be there as soon as possible... God bless your abundantly Thanks again and again....

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

HI Lisa, CONGRATULATIONS on the good news that your Visa is ready and that you sold your house. Panama is ready for you to come back!

[@richarddetrich124]

We are anxious to welcome you to your new home!

[@richarddetrich124]

@Gazpacho Suave Yes, but it's a little different. For one thing you only need actual prescriptions for antibiotics and opiates. Most regular things you just tell them what you need, show them the bottle or a box. Some medications I get 90 day supplies when I'm in the States through my insurance, but other medications are half what I would pay as a co-pay in the US. Same stuff, it's just that the US prescription charges are crazy. Except for hospitals you are not going to find a registered pharamacist who can cocmpound or discuss in depth drug interactions. For that you really need to depend on your doctor.

[@waynewicklund7758]

I am really enjoying your video. You have given a lot of good information. Thank you.

[@astralcat4880]

Excellent video. We really appreciate these videos. I love hearing from expats who have lived in Panama for many years. Panama is high on our list on where we will retire in about 3 years.

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Glad you are enjoying the videos! Most coming soon!

[@bartonofarrell3920]

Thanks for sharing such a great story about your life. You and your lady are fantastic.

[@chuckwavra8832]

What a great story & beautiful home - thank you for sharing them.

[@richarddetrich124]

Thank you Chuck! Stay safe!

[@candypapa51]

Tender stories and as a fellow diabetic wonderful.

[@kenallensworth5408]

Beautiful home, excellent taste! Thank you for your great video😁

[@HumidorVault]

Thank you Richard. Recently retired, grew up in Ventura until I left for college. Great video, thanks for the encouraging information.

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Thanks for watching the video!

[@pjinpa]

SUCH a cool guy! I feel like I've lived a little piece of his life, and better for it. My partner and I are ready to retire, and had considered Costa Rica (friends there)... but the latter seems to be becoming a bit overwhelmed with expats from the US, where we're trying to get away from! Perhaps the same will happen in concentrated areas like Boquete, but we'll be ready for the "2.0 version" by then... so who cares - at least it seems perfect, for NOW! WOO HOOOOOOOO!!!

[@pelican1238]

I knew these people and they are truly wonderful.

[@waschell1]

this was very helpful, thanks

[@mac2658]

Thanks for your lovely story

[@charlesdavis7461]

Hugely informative along with a charming well spoken person. Thank you for sharing, I could not afford to live there, but have dreams.

[@richarddetrich124]

Before you abadon your dreams carefully check things out. I don't know where you live now, but you can find some remarkably inexpensive places to live ... granted not the big cities, or the popular expat places, but nice and inexpensive. Sometimes I'm amazed at what some people are able to do with very limited US Social Security income.

[@georgepetrin1334]

If you thinking of moving to Panama watch this video. Richard makes you feel like your sitting opposite him in his home and he is talking only to you.

[@richarddetrich124]

George, That's one of the things people have said about my book. Thanks!

[@EricaNernie]

Great information, and your personal insights made it so rewarding to watch.

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Glad you enjoyed the video!

[@richarddetrich124]

Thanks! Hope to see you in Panama!

[@richardmccombs617]

One of your better videos. We haven't moved yet but language does not concern me. Being a new Englander we went to Louisiana and we couldn't understand a word of the English they were speaking. Having broken Spanish would be no worse. Going to travel and find where is best for us.

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Richard. So glad you enjoyed the video. Panamanians who speak some English have a hard time understanding some English speakers,. depending on where they are from.

[@1sdubois]

😹😹😹😹😹

[@cajunjamis9001]

R Mc Gotta love dem "Cajuns" !

[@richardmccombs617]

If anyone reading my comment took it wrong against people from the south, that was not the intent. My point was that within my own language and country I have trouble understanding and communication. Going to another country and knowing little of the language should not be a scary thing , a challenge yes , but it should be fun. It’s all in the adventure.

[@claygreen4723]

Don't feel bad about not being able to understand what people from the South are saying. As a native of South Carolina I can tell you that you wouldn't like it if you knew what we said.

[@jhors7777]

Very nicely presented and very informative and interesting. Thank-you for posting this.

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Glad it was helpful!

[@albapugh8837]

Wow what a Beautiful experience!

[@JLU55]

Very nice, it appears that you are much better off than 99% of the people who are really struggling to find a place to retire such as myself. Most Americans looking to retire will not live on an old coffee plantation and can only like myself afford to live on... maybe $2000 a month. Small house or 1 or 2 bedroom apartment is what most would be interested in and what the cost would be.

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Most of the people who retire in Panama spend LESS than $2000 a month including rent. Check out some of the other videos of people who are living in $1000 to $1500 a month total expenses.. There's something for everyone in every budget Panama!

[@fanfare100]

OMG! Did you say ... $2,000/month?? You're in luck! You'd be surprised how far $2,000 / month goes in Panama. When my sister graduated as a technician she lived on $970/month. Today she lives on $1,200/month and she owns her own car and is definitely not dying of hunger. lol You'll be more than alright! Thank goodness.

[@thomasmagnum3588]

2022. Single man. Fully furnished 1 bedroom apartment $750 month. April 2023 I am moving to a nicer loft style apartment in the El Cangrejo neighborhood, with more amenities (gym, pool, etc.) for $1000 a month. Panamá is definitely affordable on your $2000 a month budget…..even comfortably so !

[@mrhowardmb]

Thank you for sharing your experiences, there is a chord of sincerity that rings through indeed. Your honesty, that it's not perfect but, there's a ton of upside...... A ton it appears...

[@ronaaserude8225]

awesome video, my compliments on your beautiful home-love the books!

[@richarddetrich124]

Thanks Ron!

[@steveclarke7959]

Very nice interview. I'm amazed at the parallels between yours and your wife's lives to my wife and me. We also retired to Boquete and live in the Volcancito area about 1,000 ft. above the pueblo. Same education levels, extensive travels and the same search for Cascade powdered dishwasher soap. We were going to retire to Flagstaff, then the Olympic peninsula of Washington but finally decided to return to Panama after we sold our company. The only difference is I was born and raised in Panama (a Zonian) and coming back has been like returning home. It is not for everyone but you've explained well the things to expect. There are certainly some harsh differences but if one can roll with it, there just isn't a more relaxing place to spend a retirement. I have Panamanian citizenship by virtue of having been born in Panama but my wife has since also gotten her Panamanian citizenship and loves it here. We also built our home and have been back for about 8 years. Wouldn't return to life in the States for anything.

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

The "P" in panama stands for patience. If you have patience, you can learn to "roll with it"

[@richarddetrich124]

Thanks Steve! You're lucky to have been born here and have Panamanian citizenship. We'e thought about that and having been here this long we certainly could get citizenship, but, for me having dual citizenship seems a lot like having two wives .. two sets of responsibilities! We've had a great adventure in Panama which I wouldn''t trade for anything.

[@coocoocachooglin]

@@richarddetrich124 I read that Panama does not allow dual citizenship, but it’s not enforced or the required US renounce is not valid because it wasn’t done on US soil or something like that, I don’t understand the intricacies of it, kind of a grey area I guess. One reason people go to other countries is to get another citizenship for the “Plan B”, not sure how that works there.

[@CLIFFRBELL]

@@coocoocachooglin by

[@catherineboddie9338]

Thank you for such helpful information

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Glad it was helpful!

[@noratown]

Thank you so much for making this video! My boyfriend and I are considering moving to Panama as we really don't see the US being sustainable long-term. We want a higher quality of life. I've only started researching, but the Boquete area is high on my list already.

[@richarddetrich124]

The difference in the way the US & Panama have responded to the coronavirus pandemic are very interesting, both in terms of official, Presidential decrees and the willingness of most of the people to cooperate and follow the program. In my blog richarddetrich.com/2020/04/16/how-has-panama-responded-to-covid-19/ there is a chart which compares the nation of Panama to Maryland and New Orleans - comparison cities chosen because relatively the same size populations, and the virus hit about the same time. It is very interesting comparison! Panama isn't "cheap" as some folks are led to believe, BUT you can still enjoy a better quality of life for less than in most places in the US.

[@albapugh8837]

What a Beautiful EXPERIENCE!

[@bambinobala7713]

It's a wonderful life. Continued blessings to you and your wife.

[@richarddetrich124]

Yes it is a wonderful life and we are blessed to have this adventure in Paradise.

[@jamescook4u]

Richard, very good, informative video. I hope your book reads just like you speak, because I just ordered it after hearing you. I look forward to meeting you someday in Boquete.

[@richarddetrich124]

I'll look forward to seeing you in Boquete! Yes, I do write like I talk ... for better or worse. Years ago I discovered a book THE ART OF READABLE WRITING by Rudolph Fleish. He said just write like you talk.

[@geraldbutler7124]

What an amazing video... I felt the emotion in your voice and felt the concern and the blessings you felt from your neighborhood and friends. Those are true stories of love community family and real living. Sorely Missing in this place called the United States of America and getting worse. I need some of your coffee please don't move yet.. lol

[@richarddetrich124]

Thanks! Panama isn't perfect, but the people where we live are open and welcoming. When we first came here I kept thinking it was like going back to life as I remember as a kid, back in the 50s in the US. Maybe it's that things are more laid back, and family is still important.

[@notthesamecc1927]

most excellent video. clear and informative.

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@Pinchshot39]

cool video. thanks for sharing.

[@scot909]

Very informative thank you

[@Tamar-sz8ox]

That is awesome - the coffee hobby farm ! 👍

[@mbtadhl]

Very well done..thanks .

[@richarddetrich124]

Thank you!

[@CarlHanlon]

Awesome insights..

[@ravicasi]

Love his story about the Emberas ❤️❤️❤️. What a great story.

[@richarddetrich124]

For more info and how to visit the Embera check out my web site richarddetrich.com/panama-the-canal-2/embera/

[@garlandetheridge9902]

Nice Digs Richard. From a 1954 a 1954 Ventura Hi grad. Also, an ex-pat.

[@amazing-osky2052]

Great video.

[@loubakker5000]

Loved watching.

[@richarddetrich124]

Thanks! Come on down! If you're not looking to move to Panama at least come down and visit this amazing squiggle of a country that links the continents and brings the world together with the Panama Canal!

[@tarynnicosie846]

Thank you Richard great interview and video.I leave for Panama in December to see if Boquete is going to be my next home....

[@richarddetrich124]

Taryn, Lers hope and pray the airport is open by then and things are returning to some degree of "normal," Look forward to seeing you in Panama!

[@trutherror]

Thanks for the inspiration you really do seem like a genuine person! Will do my own research but seriously looks as thou you have it made sir!

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Richard loves living in Panama!

[@richarddetrich124]

Hey thanks Crystal! I'm working on "making it" as you put it, but we are all working and struggling to become the people we want to be in Panama or anywhere else in the world. Do your research and you will figure out if Panama is right for you. It has been a wonderful adventure for us.

[@eiragimenez6200]

Nice video Sound honest in your thoughts Wish you happiness to yout family

[@richarddetrich124]

Thanks Eira and I wish the same for you through this difficult time. We are fortunate to have a beautiful place in which to hopefully ride out this pandemic. Stay safe!

[@sheauva3603]

I lived in Ventura, now I live in Santa Clarita. Someday I would like to live abroad

[@mustafabaris9681]

It will be the BEST experience of your life .. I hope you get to do it ..

[@ibenfarting3365]

My mother was born in Colon in 1930. My grandfather was one of the Canal builders and later became the pilot boat captain on the east coast. My grandmother was a Panamanian and her father was an engineer on the trans-isthmus railroad. They wanted to stay in panama after he retired, but the treaty at the time with the US made it impossible to reside or own land in Panama. I will be retiring from the Federal Government in a few years and have thought about a long visit to Panama to see if I might want to live there.

[@richarddetrich124]

You can own land anywhere you want in Panama except along the borders.

[@fanfare100]

I don't understand. I believe the way that the treaty read was that one could not yet own land or reside within the Panama Canal Area in the area where it was once colonized. But one could actually reside in the rest of the republic and even own land just like anyone else. That's what some members of my family once the canal area was reverted back to the panamanians. It was not a problem. Today, though, it is possible to own land in parts of the former the Panama Canal "Zone", but don't forget that most of the rest of the republic is also available to you.

[@joemama6906]

fanfare100 I am relying on what my mother told me and not on any research. A lot of countries restrict land ownership to citizens only, but there are plenty of loopholes. With COVID-19 restrictions, traveling there is out for this year but I certainly will try next year.

[@fanfare100]

@@joemama6906 Ah, not to worry. It was likely a misunderstanding. Nobody who lived in the Canal Zone actually owned any property. Everybody either rented from the Panama Canal Commission or were afforded base housing and segregated in accordance with their military or civilian rank, and for the longest time also on race. Jim Crow was alive and well in the American Occupied Canal Zone. But to those who would venture outside of the confines of the Canal Zone, they could actually own property pretty much in the same way as the rest of the residents there. It was kind of ironic as inside of the Canal Zone that was occupied by the United States things were run pretty much like a communist state. No land ownership. Company store "The commisary". Subsidized Theatre and Cafeteria Style dining facilities "The Clubhouse". And then of course you had trhe "O" Club for the officers. And the NCO clubs. And the mess halls and chow halls. And the government hospitals. The Government subsidized and price-regulated gas stations. But outside of the Canal Zone a "Zonian" would enter the realm of a more free-market economy where one could actually own real-estate and be more able to start an actual business. It was the tale of 2 worlds. There had been several generations of Canal Zone born Americans who'd never experienced private property and who had never worked for anyone else but the U.S. Government. Owning a business and having private property was foreign to them. Some had also never set foot on the continental United States. These were "the Zonians", a truly and literally gated community; some of which never ventured to go outside the confines of the territory that marked the Canal Zone. To some, but not to all, the rest of the Panamanian republic was also "foreign". Panamanians were also not allowed inside unless they had a reason for being there for work or for business, and they needed to either be on the visitor access list or hold an I.D. card issued by either an U.S. military installation or the Panama Canal Commission. This is all the past though. When you come to visit this will be for some a distant memory and for the new generation it may not even be part of their consciousness.

[@robertburnett5561]

Same problem with Spanish. Many classes but not fluent. I think Panama is my next visit.

[@fanfare100]

Don't worry, the best part is actually learning from people than through formal lessons. Watch the news. Read the funnies. Learn some nursery rhymes and ballads. That's the natural way and you'll see it comes naturally.

[@nikkipogorzelski3046]

I can tell by the drawers in your library that you areselling or have sold your house. It is beautiful!

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Richard sold his house and downsized in 2021.

[@piaapoop2797]

Me encanta escuchar a este señor.

[@garytherrien1675]

beautiful house

[@jdk5379]

Hi, I'm in Southern Oregon having moved from Ventura, Ca - Small World! I was in Boquete in 2009 and vowed to return - have some parental responsibilities wrapping up and then will venture back to Panama. Great video, Thanks !

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Sounds great!

[@allanaitch204]

thanks

[@tessjones5987]

It is hard to give up California. Family lived here 95 years. Will see. Thak you for your interview. Good information.

[@richarddetrich124]

But understand, once you leave California, you can never afford to go back.

[@TheDude-yw4kn]

Tess Jones You must enjoy homelessness, drugs everywhere, high taxes, liberals, illegals, poop on sidewalks, did I mention high taxes, wildfires, power outages, TDS and high taxes! I lived in Cali back in 81’. It’s a cesspool now due to liberal laws and policies. MAGA 2020

[@TheDude-yw4kn]

Mario707 In Maryland. Another solid blue shithole state. Progressive policies are making certain states crumble!Will be moving to a red state soon.

[@willgaukler8979]

...still fun to think about...Happy New Year to you...follow your heart before you can’t...I say..be safe...

[@veger5872]

@@TheDude-yw4kn Liberal Governors are competing to see who can keep their people locked down the longest--so glad I don't live in a blue state! Freedom is everything!

[@samuelbloom2520]

Both Relaxing and Enjoyable.T.V. currently on the 'blink' just as well I say.U.K.

[@arielmarin6968]

Cool my friend I know why you love Panama . Because you you are free true freedom is life

[@allenmapes8723]

I loved your video. I could listen to you speak all day. Such a good job! Maybe one day will be neighbors!!!

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

That would be cool!

[@dennishassler605]

Excellent presentation and fine perspective - love you are keen and connected. Very well said! We are selling in Az. and moving abroad - probably to Mex. where we enjoy summers.

[@richarddetrich124]

Thanks! Come down and visit ... there is so much to see and do, and we have a famous Canal.

[@dennishassler605]

@@richarddetrich124 - Thanks Richard - My wife is Brazilian and we'd planned to live in Brazil, but Brazil is a messier place these days. Mexico is closer. I have a background in marketing and international business and I always enjoy being abroad more than being home. I've studied Panama, Ecuador, Mexico and other locations. My brother lives in the Philippines and I have a close friend in Spain to visit, too. I sort of like having an infrastructure and things to do, so Puerto Vallarta would be a good choice for us given we go there each year and sometimes tour from there, too. I do LOVE seeing you so vibrant and involved - that's my goal, too. I've been doing huge projects on my 7K sq ft home, here, and finally the projects are smaller and we are ready to list the property - most of our net worth is in this home, but it's in an excellent location here in AZ. so it should sell. I love coffee and favor Central & S. Am. grown coffee.

[@fanfare100]

@@dennishassler605 When talking about international business, Panama is the pace to be. A true crossroads to the world. And flights to and from Panama to anywhere around the world are a lot cheaper than many of the other places, because of that and how it is a point of convergence for many routes. Why, flights to and from Panama are cheaper than to and from parts of the U.S to other places in the U.S. I hear you about Brazil. I LOVE Brazil but now is not a good time, especially under the current administration.

[@mode247]

Saw you have a piano! Is it hard to maintain or to find a good acoustic instrument?

[@ShaglusZ]

super nice man

[@stevenweiss3432]

Excellent work and I am not an easy critic of Expat Abroad videos..

[@richarddetrich124]

Thanks! Good videographer.

[@bonniejoffindumbe4084]

Wow dady that's nice to here

[@clarisd]

Very wonderful testimony. Thank you so very much for your sharing the story of how you came to live in Panama! My husband and I are wondering if you bt chance rent at all or know of a rental for a 3 month exploration of your area? I find this so very interesting the varity of persons and their stories of how they have come to retire there! I am joyed to have found this channel!

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

airbnb is your best bet for short term rentals.

[@ompaloompa4970]

Sounds like a lovely life.

[@miar.4507]

I live in the US for more than 30years. I do not use my dishwasher. Is not bcause I wanted safe electricity or nothing like that. Is just that I preffer to wash my dishes!

[@urracabolivar1374]

I could not agree with you more.

[@fanfare100]

same here. My dishwasher now serves as shelving space. lol

[@anamaria2053]

Richard, Thank you for sharing your experience. I am taking a look at your book too. I’ve been researching moving to Mexico or Panama for 10 years. I’m still not ready to retire, but I hope to in 5 years. I’m self-employed and transitioning some of my work to online consulting and coaching. I am single, educated, and speak Spanish fluently, plus my heritage is Spanish + Caribbean. I would prefer a milder climate, yet I would like to be driving distance from the beach. I also appreciate a community centered life, access to nature and cultural activities. Would you recommend Boquete? Any other areas I should take a look at? Thanks so much! I wish you all the best!

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Boquete has what you are looking for and it's a 1 hour drive to the beach

[@Sophesi]

Thank you, for sharing your cultural experience, and perspective. My friends reside in Lima, Peru, and they have a caretaker for their home, that lives in a separate home on their property. Basically a caretaker, and someone to always watch over their home and keeps the grounds up. I'm wondering if expats in Panama have the same type of live in caretaker?

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

HI Sophie, some people have a live in caretaker in Panama but most people do not. Instead, you just hire a maid to come once a week and a gardener to come 1-2 times a week as needed.

[@chickenandwaffles09]

Very informational Richard. Thx for the info. If you have a room for rent I’ll bring the dish soap 😉.

[@1sdubois]

Such a great video! Interesting you worked on cruise ships, cause you look just like Captain Stubing (is it?) from The Love Boat!!!

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Richard did the port lectures on cruise ships.

[@richarddetrich124]

In my business that's a great compliment especially since I've spent a lot of time on Princess ships. Thanks!

[@philipsmith6424]

Ventura to Panama ? I guess you can enjoy the good life !!!

[@christineknapp-phillips7308]

Where can I learn more about touring Panama? I’m widowed, but am looking for a simpler life with moderate weather.

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

HI Christine, We offer a 6-day 7-night all-inclusive tour of Panama while also teaching you all the things you need to know to relocate to Panama. see details at panamarelocationtours.com/tours

[@islandaerial3414]

Great insights. Hey, whats it like right now with the 'virus'? Thanx

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

This article talks about what life has been like living in Panama during the pandemic. On June 1st our quarantine is lifted so we will have more freedoms but still have a curfew from 7pm to 5am. Life it good! I'm actually enjoying the time off. panamarelocationtours.com/living-in-panama-during-the-covid-19-pandemic

[@richarddetrich124]

This is a challenging time for everyone, but I am thankful to be able, hopefully, to ride out this storm in such a beautiful and peaceful environment. Yes, there are things that I miss as we and the rest of the world try to adjust to the "new normal" but I'm thankful to be where we are. Most of the folks in our area are trying thier best to cooperate and take care of themselves and each other looking out for everyone's health and well-being.

[@winkhvac62]

stunning

[@richarddetrich124]

Elving, I think that every morning when I step out and watch the sun come up and listen to all the birds singing!

[@winkhvac62]

@@richarddetrich124 hope to move there in 2 year and retire .

[@coco1739cocotalca]

Thank you for your video. I was wondering if you know of a care takers position in Panama? we have experience and I would love to be there. We are in Occidental, ca

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Tourists can only stay in Panama 6 months. If you're driving, you can only stay 90 days. To live in Panama, immigration requires you to get a residency Visa.

[@onedirection3510]

What are some of the other sought after expat locations other that Boquete?

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

beach lovers like the Coronado area. Another popular mountain town is Volcan.

[@onedirection3510]

Panama Relocation Tours Thanks. Just throwing this out there. Does anyone happen to have any personal experience between ex-pat life in Panama and Mexico? Pros cons?

[@Worldstreetphotos]

How much is health insurance? How much is visa? How good is hospitals?

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Get answers to that and many other topics in our blog at panamarelocationtours.com/blog

[@mikedavies3592]

t The most important thing to do is learn the language. Through out this video you were always eluding to being played a lot. I have experienced much of the same in Mexico. It is important to keep in mind the history between the countries There is a justifying moral behavior system because of history and or current events within all these countries witch has been my principle complaint. This is why the need to understand the language to have the same ability as in english to talk about any subject. Also keep in mind look at how much we get played by are own, do you really think they will not do the same especially when the leverage is all on their side they are in the know and your a stranger. Richard and I could share a lot of experiences , having said that Richard you are right liquidate down size. There is a lot of pump and dump that goes on . Look at how the elderly get abused manipulated in north America. Then your in a country that has a huge moral behavior justification system. This is not to negate the positive aspects of panama its just helpful to keep things in perspective. Also what I have noticed with a lot of expats is their eating a lot in restaurants three times the grease three times the salt three times the sugar they also use a lot of lard and low end oils. Be wise people are world is morally deprived no matter what country your in and you being the stranger you have less leverage so do everything you can to increase your leverage. There are people everywhere that really try to treat others as they would like to be treated search out these people. . I hope this is helpful .

[@bizzbuilder]

Hands❗️hands and more Hands 🙌

[@gilb3rt0f3derico4]

Love the you tube video

[@jamie49868]

My parents retired to Guadalajara back in the 80's before the drug trade destroyed it. My goodness was it beautiful. Full of wonderful people and lots of interesting things to do. They probably saw more friends and family than if they stayed...everybody wanted to visit. I only bring this up because there are lots of wonderful and inexpensive places to retire to that your money will go far. I was thinking New Zealand, but that seems too far away. Panama is worth me checking out. Peace and good fortune.

[@mizzbella9324]

jamie t are your parents still alive? If so do they still live in Guadalajara?

[@jamie49868]

@@mizzbella9324 Unfortunately they are no longer with us. Thanks for asking. They were down there from about 84-89, before coming back and bouncing around the states. Having visited many times, I know they loved it....I did as well.

[@mizzbella9324]

jamie t sorry for your loss, my family is from Guadalajara and you are right very colonial city very traditional too, but now there’s a drug cartel that decided to establish themselves there sadly, with that being said it is no longer affordable there to be able to live in the nice side of town, it is more for upper to wealthy people unfortunately, there are better options elsewhere I hope you find your peaceful place 😃

[@jamie49868]

@@mizzbella9324 They lived over by Plaza Del Sol. It sure was nice back then. They lived in an amazingly beautiful private home. Walled grounds, swimming pool, servant quarters, marble, terraces, orange and lemon trees, giant fire place...it had everything. If I remember correctly, it was close to the Hilton where we spent many nights dancing. It is sad to think Guadalajara is no longer a great city. It had such wonderful people and beautiful women, great restaurants and clubs, Lake Chapala and the Tlaquepaque were a blast. And the churches were amazing. They had some friends that had a ranch about 30 miles out, can't remember where but it was past the refinery where we would ride horses, that was just beautiful. It was a great place to be then. What about Zacatecas? I met a guy who winters there. I remember passing through it on a drive down from Texas. I remember it having a European feel, though we only spent a night, but I could be thinking of Aguascalientes? Do you have any recommendations? Peace.

[@mizzbella9324]

jamie t Zacatecas is very green, I visited twice if you like more of a country feel I think it’s beautiful has lots of natural springs, mountains, rivers I was in fresnillo Zacatecas as a teenager in 98, aguas calientes is nice too, more of a small town feeling very charming, neighboring Guanajuato which is also very colonial town, I have some friends that moved to Merida Yucatán, they tell me life is very inexpensive and the quality is 👌 people can walk at night with no problem, the only thing is the humidity might not work for some, I personally am going to check it out maybe for an investment property. hope that helps 😃

[@mannys3678]

Lucky you. Things are worse evereday here in LA.

[@richarddetrich124]

While I don't like all the restrictions on travel the pandemic has created, we actually have a pretty good place to try and ride out the storm. It's beautiful and peaceful and the government response, while not perfect, has been strong and continues to be strong. Panama City, like all big cities with big international airports, has been the hardest hit with Covid.

[@abdonrodriguez3586]

every latin American country including the Caribbean speak the same basic spanish language.. if you go to school you learn the basic castillian with out the accent ..now every country has a sub language which is normally called a Dialect.. Which basically is that locals have other names for certain objects nor things.. and when telling jokes some phrases are funny to one culture and insulting to others.. but if you learn basic spanish and master it you can use it anywhere the language is spoken

[@richarddetrich124]

Thank you. Like in the US people speak the same language but how it comes out on the streets of the Bronx and some country town in Alabama is different. Same thing with rural Spanish and proper business Spanish in Panama City.

[@abdonrodriguez3586]

Si 😀

[@sts1541]

Beautiful house and place. How do you and wife deal with being away from your kids and grand kids, that would be #1 issue moving anywhere far away from family. You can have friends and good neighbors but family visiting you say few times a year, that would not be enough for my wife to move. Glad for you tat you made it work for you.

[@richarddetrich124]

We actually visit more "as a family" using Whatsap! We all get on the call and share ... and it has been great during the pandemic lockdown.

[@zuutlmna]

Books! Coffee!

[@richarddetrich124]

And during the rainy season it almost always starts raining by 3 pm .... so on the porch, in the hammock with a good book and a coffee! Life is good!

[@geoffamdrews9264]

Thank you for sharing - I am an expat from the UK who has lived in South Africa and Australia - I am fit and healthy and 70 years old - - for - me Panama sounds like my next challenge and to finally settle down - I have one question - do you think I’m too old to do the move ? - for me I would relish the experience

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

you are definitely not too old. But I would recommend that you rent instead of buying.

[@samuelwilliams7331]

Is there any access to solar?

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Sure some houses have solar. But when your electric bill is $25 a month or less (like mine), solar is not very cost effective. You see solar more in on the islands around Panama. And Panama has solar farms throughout the country to supplement the hydro and wind power generators.

[@samuelwilliams7331]

@@PanamaRelocationTours So a battery system to ride out outages seems like a better use of funds if you wanted continuous power.

[@ken1769]

I used to have a friend from david

[@mike6572693]

Panama is the most Americanized Latin American country I have visited. Boqutte is nice but I prefer countries with the native and Spanish culture intact. I'm also fluent in Spanish.

[@richarddetrich124]

Just get 15 minutes outside of Boquete town.

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Mike, there are plenty of places to live in Panama where you'll only see Panamanians. There is something for everyone in Panama. If you want an expat community, Panama has it. If you want to a Panamanian community, Panama has even more places like that.

[@fanfare100]

Mike, it all depends on where you go. There are many places from which to pick where you might never see an American. You have lots of options.