Expat Living in Panama and Giving Back to the Community

One of the many joys of moving to Panama is finally having the time to do the things you want to do, when you want to do them. People who move to Panama bring with them years of experience in business, teaching, photography, and other endeavors. They love giving back to the community by sharing their experiences.
Teri Novak is the perfect example. She comes from a background as a business owner which requires organizational skills. She puts her knowledge to work by volunteering with the Boquete ROTARY.
The Rotary has many different programs to help Panamanians including helping children learn, build houses, provide food for the needy, and more. By the Way, Teri wanted to add that Adriel did 700 minutes of studying in Khan Academy to feel comfortable with math!
Watch this video to learn why Teri and her husband moved to Panama, what she thinks about living in Boquete and how they are giving back to the community.
Subscribe here rotariodeboque... to learn more about what the Rotary does. And consider making a donation too!
The Rotary is always looking for new volunteers who can share their skills and make life better for all Panamanians. Contact the Rotary at rotariodeboque...
Are you thinking of moving to Panama? Get our free guide & discover what life in Panama could be like for you!
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Since 2010, Panama Relocation Tours has been offering monthly 6-day 7-night all-inclusive relocation tours of Panama. We've completed over 120 tours and helped thousands of people relocate to Panama! 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.
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[@valeriefullilove1031]

Great information!..well done.

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@MrKnifeart]

awesome,, Taiwan, Oregon Panama,, I grew up in Gold Hill OR.

[@bartonofarrell3920]

Your fellow is blessed to be with you. You are absolutely gorgeous and amazing .I agree Panama 🇵🇦is fantastic. People have something to say about everything ,but Panama is amazing.

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Yes they are

[@cesardavis4270]

Lovely introduction, thanks for sharing. Love to see people of all walks relocating to Panama. Will be retiring back to our lovely country Panama in December, Panama motto always being "Pro Mundi Beneficio"For the benefit of world" Panama welcome all with open arms, we love the delightful contributions, experiences and diverse culture the international community brings to Panama, it is the base of our happiness and humbleness.

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Our pleasure!

[@AntonyReed]

I failed pre-algebra twice from math anxiety. I'm not a mathlete now, but I'm not afraid of it anymore and I've been learning on my own from Khan Academy and other places.

[@victoriaallen8271]

I'm so glad to see that Rotary realizes the absolute importance of clean water and sanitation.

[@nichtsisttieferalsunserstaat]

i have retired 1 year ago. Now me and my indonesian wife want to move from germany to grow chilis for her self produced chilipaste and jam. Are there shools for a clever 12y.o. boy ?

[@joeyburrell3207]

Teri, do think it’s best for one to visit first or just get the online tour relocation kit if one is confident enough? Thanks!

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Depends some people got the Complete Online Panama Relocation Guide then moved to Panama without visiting first. Others wanted to come check out Panama before they make a big move. The Online Guide will help you decide. panamarelocationtours.com/guide

[@albapugh8837]

Good Job! 👍🇻🇪

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Thanks! 😃

[@nana59ization]

I love the way you describe your experience living in Panama.

[@allenmapes8723]

I have been researching The country of Panama for about 8 or 9 years now. Thank you for your video, I love to listen to perspectives from a number of people. And of course your positive perspective, like most, makes my wife and I happy. The city Boquet Boquet tugs at our heartstrings. And after watching your video, it’s tugs even more. Thank you for sharing. You are a very good speaker. Hopefully the Rotary uses you in that capacity. I love the story about the boy who needed to do better in math becoming your poster child. That’s awesome! What an awesome project to be a part of, EOL, how inspiring. I never get tired of hearing how safe the city of Boquete is. And the weather makes it sound like the Garden of Eden. Again, thank you so much for sharing.

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Glad you liked the video! The weather plus the spectacular scenery are the big draw to Boquete. I absolutely love having my windows open for fresh air every day. No air conditioner or heater needed!

[@greaux4965]

Hi Teri I plan on relocating to Panama in the spring. Don’t know if my wife will join me. Probably makes sense to visit for awhile but I’m fairly compulsive. 68 years old and am tired of the Oregon rainy winters and high cost of living. The taxes and politics are enough to ruin my remaining days. Thanks for the informative vlog.

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

You will absolutely LOVE living in Panama!!!

[@mitchmccrimmon1009]

I have watched several dozen videos on living in Boquete and this one is the best! This person is so inspiring and informative. Thank you so much!!

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Wow, thank you!

[@josepha.stockman8529]

Beautiful condo

[@liezlsmal9151]

Another fantastic video Jackie - Thank you !!!

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Glad you liked it.

[@sammiesmith6690]

Bouqete is a nice small town.

[@TryingToBeKind]

What a great, informative video by such a nice lady! I do have a question: I know that much less expensive homes are available throughout Boquete, but how much does a home like yours in that beautiful development cost? Rental price is nice to know but I’m really curious about purchase prices. (Bedrooms, baths & sqft?). How much would a nice single family detached home in the style of your condo’s be if around say 2700sqft? Thank you!

[@johnashcraft2973]

What a wonderful well presented video. Lots of great information. I can hardly wait for my 2021 tour.

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Glad it was helpful!

[@tallnubian]

I LOVE how she gave MANY details about living expenses, driving, food, safety, and the KHAN Academy sounds really awesome. Even buying a condo the first week of being in Panama!! WOW.

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Glad you liked it!

[@gardengnome1827]

I have been researching the mechanics of moving to Panama for a little while . The real estate is affordable and visa doable . Then I heard about tarantulas . .. What exactly is the insect situation ?

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

it depends on the elevation. If you're above 3500' there are less bugs.

[@fanfare100]

It depends mostly on two things. Elevation and how urban. The more city-like the less bugs. The more country like the more bugs, especially if you are closer to a jungle-lie setting. But also the higher the elevation, the less bugs. But that is just because Panama is likely the most biodiverse country on earth. It's not just bugs its also all the other animals and plants. If you like biodiversity, move to Panama. If biodiversity is not really your thing, then Panama may not be the best for you.

[@sammiesmith6690]

@@fanfare100 True.

[@sammiesmith6690]

@@PanamaRelocationTours True

[@sunnybryson4997]

Wow, very informative video Teri! I look forward to meeting you when I arrive next summer (summer meaning U.S. summer ;-))

[@tracywalker244]

Wonderful video! I bet there aren’t any rentals in that condo WOW 🤩

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

I know of a one bedroom rental for $800 a month in that neighborhood and also a 3 bedroom 3 bath for $1800 a month.

[@fireangel1972]

What is the avg cost to purchase a condo in that neighborhood?

[@anamaria2053]

@@PanamaRelocationTours Yes please. Can you please provide some stats on this neighborhood?

[@terinowak8160]

I would like to take this opportunity to correct myself in the interview. When I said that our poster boy, Adriel, studied his math online for "700 minutes" I should have said "700 minutes." Club Rotario de Boquete does welcome people to join our meetings and volunteer their talents, expertise and time toward bettering our community.

[@justinandrusco2395]

Thanks for the interview, it was very helpful for my wife and I as we plan to visit at some point.

[@davenichols4595]

Thanks Teri, I spotted the Rotary Wheel quickly. We are coming in November for 6 month trial. I am a rotarian in the US so will be looking you guys up. Are you meeting in Zoom?

[@donyboy73]

you're a smart woman!

[@adamreed3590]

Hi Teri, what a small world - just saw your video via an update from Jackie's/Panama relocation facebook group.

[@terinowak8160]

@@davenichols4595 Hi Dave, we look forward to meeting you!

[@Ocean245]

Great video

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@DiandraStarShine]

great video! and, oh, wow! the lady featured, she's AWESOME!!👍 definitely someone I'd want to be local friends with, if Panama was the country I'd choose to move to..after my family obligations to my elders, here in the States, are no more..looking at various countries right now, researching..learning. and curious, though...as she said her husband was diagnosed...after he fell and had that physical reaction and needed a clinic..on a Sunday..but with with what? what, exactly, was the diagnosis??..which I imagine she or the channel admin didn't mean to be cagey about..maybe it got lost in the editing? but as this video is getting more views by the hour, maybe others, too? are wondering about the same thing? also, the 'sim cards' that give the Khan Academy students connectivity to the internet there..is that re: local[??] cable internet?? wi-fi?? DSL?? satellite?? I mean, *specifically,* what does that MEAN, today?? how does it work?? what form of internet connectivity is that about?? and internet speeds?? and to anyone who has the answer: Mange Tak, Gracias, Thank You, Danke Schoen, etc., to anyone and/or ALL, who have the answer to these questions and posts those answers in replies/comments..appreciate you all.💕 P.S. just for the record: the Khan Academy - a 100% awesome organization, btw - it was officially founded/launched in 2008: THOSE OF YOU WHO ARE GENUINELY WEALTHY - or wealthy organizations - and truly *NON-RACIST.* and re: western issues [please check USA news, anyone who wondera why I 'say' that?], PLEASE check for this info, via a genuinely Progressive USA news agency..such as the *TYT* Network's flagship channel and daily show [5x per week]..founded by child-Turkish transplant - but when he was an adult - Cenk Uygur..who often drives me crazy...but, perhaps, it's not a long drive?, LoL??!!😄 anyway, sometimes we just have to put up with personality differences for a larger cause. in any case: heard what this wonderful woman, featured in the video said, about the time line..and just thought it might be important - for some - to relay that the Khan Academy was founded in 2008..and that the founder, Sal [Salman] Khan, human math-angel,👼🏾 imho - he was born only in 1976...and he is an AMAZING human being.💞☮💓☯🌎👍

[@terinowak8160]

Hi Teri Nowak here. I would like to answer your questions. My husband fell into some tall grass and the doctor diagnosed that my husband was bitten by small insects which my husband was very allergic to. I mentioned Tablets with SIM cards for connectivity was needed for students in Boquete, because many poor children of farm workers and indigenous workers cannot afford cable service. Many of the parents do have cell phones to connect to the internet. The Tablets are basically large phones and with tablets students can connect to the national online teaching arrangement now. Due to COVID-19 schools have been closed and recently the Ministry of Education began school instructions online via WhatsApp, ZOOM, and MS TEAMS. Children who do not have WiFi have to rely on TV and/or radio. Our Club clearly saw a need that we could do something about. Previous to COVID-19, Club Rotario de Boquete had developed a pilot project introducting technology and online learning with Khan Academy. When the pandemic happened we were forced to temporarily hold our project. After 6 months wait we heard the government decided to try teaching online. Our Club saw a new opportunity to introduce our concept. At this time, we are lending our tablets to large families who cannot afford cable service. Our club has connected with principles in poor school districts who have identified families with the greatest need for a tablet.

[@anamaria2053]

@@terinowak8160 Outstanding program. It would also be advantageous for the children to learn English. My family immigrated to the US from Cuba. Cubans all learn at least one second language and have, at least, a reading knowledge if they don’t speak fluently. Most Cubans in Cuba don’t get to travel outside the country, but recognize the advantage to having a second language.

[@bubbasinclair6514]

Elegant, attractive woman. Great information. Well presented. You are doing a terrific job with these videos, Jackie. Very happy for your success.

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Glad you like the expat interviews!

[@MrTBoneMalone]

I live in Gresham Oregon and grew up in Sandy Or. Portland is such a mess right now. Antifa has destroyed down town, and now with all the fires we've had the air is the worst in the country. Panama sounds so peaceful. I hope some day I can visit.

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Panama is very peaceful. Come see what you're missing!

[@bonniejoffindumbe4084]

I will travel in November

[@donyboy73]

smart woman!

[@sussannekeith5676]

Probably a really stupid TMI question but I heard that you cannot flush toilet paper and getting hot water is complex. I read this on a blog... is this correct?

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Some businesses have signs in the bathroom requesting that you not flush the toilet paper. But you can flush it at your house. If you live at the beach in a lower price range house, you may not have, or need, hot water. But everywhere else has hot water at the faucets.

[@bobgieser2943]

Central America is known for basic septic tank systems in the residential communities. Also Central America is known for down sizing the size of pipes and the way they use connectors for lines to septic. This causes a back up from toilets. The newer built homes and buildings use proper size pipes and fittings.

[@dr.karenkirkland6593]

Congratulations on your successful description of living in the mountains of Panama. Kudos to your Rotary Club for providing education to local children. Internet connectivity is a grand gift. Thank you for being specific about cost of living, medical care, taxation, entertainments, dining and weather.

Panama is great for low cost, but if you use cannabis, they will chuck you into a cage if you get caught.

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Yep,cannabis is not legal in Panama.

[@bonniejoffindumbe4084]

I'll like to came an open my small business

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

There are many opportunities for businesses in Panama. Just make sure you're working with a good attorney so you set up everything correctly

[@kaveneallen9909]

I want to come to Panama but don't know how and where to start

[@kaveneallen9909]

Can I get some help please

[@dannyluttrell5376]

Pretty lady!

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Pretty on the outside and the inside!

[@robertpolk5406]

Sounds vegan friendly to me. Where do I sign?

[@Joejoe-ns7yv]

Restaurants in Boquete aren't necessarily expensive... if you explore the Panamanian restaurants you will find that the dishes are very tasty, healthy and cheap... the price, for the most part depends on how exclusive it is... a restaurant which is air-conditioned might charge a little more because of a higher utility bill, but generally Panamanian restaurants are very affordable... try to adjust to the local gastronomy, which is excellent and you'll find it to be very affordable. Love your videos and looking forward to watch the next one.

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

In Boquete, you can get a great meal for $4 or spend $30 a person at a fine dining restaurant owned by a celebrity chef. There's something for everyone in every budget!