Retirement is wonderful if you have two essentials - much to live on and much to live for. Invest wisely and get good returns.
@Lemariecooper Жыл бұрын
thank you, can you give a pointer the best investment now ? i am thinking of getting stocks or cryto
@Erikkurilla01 Жыл бұрын
The key to making money in stocks is not to get scared out of them. An important key to investing is to remember that stocks are not lottery tickets. get a financial assistant
@jessicasquire Жыл бұрын
I think this is also a great time to invest in private equity and cryto. Can you give a pointer ?
@Erikkurilla01 Жыл бұрын
I currently work with *STEPHANIE KOPP MEEKS* a financial expert i met in a seminar
@patrickbrussels4454 Жыл бұрын
I recently watched *STEPHANIE KOPP MEEKS* on TV , such a great speaker . but have you made any profit whatsoever working with her ?
@timmcdonald98562 жыл бұрын
I agree that Panama and Costa Rica, then probably Mexico or Portugal, would be the best choices if I was interested in living abroad. But my wife and I just retired and decided to stay right here in rural Tennessee. Other than health care costs, it beats out all the choices for living abroad I have seen. We continue to live in our medium sized 3 bedroom ranch, with great utility costs, close to friends and family, convenient to shopping and entertainment, and while we do not live "rich" we certainly live quite comfortably, able to afford several trips a year and not just eke by. My advice to people in their 40s is to figure out where they would like to retire to, and then get themselves a paid for house there ASAP. Makes all the difference in the world.
@growsinhouseherbiculturali11002 жыл бұрын
Portugal is great!
@waterheaterservices2 жыл бұрын
There is a reason millions of people come to the USA
@dannyv2468va2 Жыл бұрын
Live where ever you like and feel comfortable at I like the Philippines but the best place on Earth is where you want to be!
@DougAlesUSA Жыл бұрын
@@dannyv2468va2 I agree with you. For us, that’s near our kids, grandkids, family, long term friends, church, in other words, right here. Between the above, that’s getting together 5-6 times per week. I have zero desire to golf. I have great desire to continue doing what we are already doing. It gives me joy.
@paulaallen4106 Жыл бұрын
I completely agree with you. I've seen couples who have retired to remote places, and then one of them dies or gets very ill. Then what? It makes no sense to me.
@carefulconsumer8682 Жыл бұрын
Excellent video. My Dad is thinking about living abroad and the top things he considers is health care and crime, esp given the soaring crime rate and medical/dental costs in the USA now.
@anniesshenanigans38152 жыл бұрын
I spent a week in Panama last year and I loved it. It was a tour for people wanting to retire there. Very informative, no sales pitch. I have to wait a few years before I can qualify for the Pensionado visa. Lots of expats there. I watched all the videos of people that went there on the YT channel panama relocation tours.
@PanamaRelocationTours2 жыл бұрын
Thanks Annie!
@mirailic9649 Жыл бұрын
Can you sent me info of the tour you went with? Thanks Annie!
@nancyd7441 Жыл бұрын
It was probably a , Panama Relocation Tour.
@sircharlessinderhorn34522 жыл бұрын
Nice objective presentation. I’m a retired expat from the US living in Phuket Thailand. Lifestyle is so much better for older expats than in the West provided you go easy on the bar scene.
@sirgalahad14702 жыл бұрын
@Sir Charles Sinderhorn I have been following Paddy Doyle on his motocycle journey across Thailand and that country looks like it would be a paradise to retire in
@sircharlessinderhorn34522 жыл бұрын
@@sirgalahad1470 I agree, it is. It’s easy on the wallet and eye but you must avoid thinking it should be more like the west. Accept and adapt and then life is easy. Thais avoid stressing about the future and live in the moment. Perfect state of mind too for retirees.
@nickjacques60872 жыл бұрын
@@sircharlessinderhorn3452 Exactly.
@yasminbarry79412 жыл бұрын
@@sirgalahad1470 : Though Thailand is fascinating, I think it's a good idea to read different vlogs on that country (especially the ones discussing the latest changes made in the laws affecting expats). Apparently, it's not exactly paradise, nor hell, but perhaps something in between, if you are able to adapt.
@tablameister Жыл бұрын
One of my friends retired to Malaysia and loves it.
@ojaiandrew2 жыл бұрын
Crime and safety should definitely be on the list - major oversight.
@mikeh99562 жыл бұрын
#8 bro
@Lesloi62278 ай бұрын
I thought it was- it was mentioned and came up trumps
@blakewilliams37022 жыл бұрын
This was Geoff’s typical video…..WONDERFUL! Great info, well presented. Thanks for turning us on to International Living. Seems to be a good resource. Evan for us looking to stay 3-6 weeks at a time in various counties, this might be the perfect travel guide. All the best in 2022, Sir!
@boink8002 жыл бұрын
Regarding climate in Panama -- the Boquete region is the highlands of Panama. There you have the 'eternal spring climate' compared to the tropical/humid climate of most of the country. The Boquete area is a very popular destination for retirees.
@amylee9 Жыл бұрын
how is the health care system in Boquete?
@boink800 Жыл бұрын
@@amylee9 You mean in Panama. It's top quality, it would be a much better deal than in the States
@Norm4752 жыл бұрын
My criteria--- 1. low crime 2. good health care. 3. low cost of living. 4. not overly crowded. 5. clean water and food.
@goththicus2 жыл бұрын
I lived as a kid in Panama and it was one of the best places we lived. One thing you didn’t mention is that Panamá dollar is 1:1 with the US dollar.
@MASH20312 жыл бұрын
Panama uses the USD as it’s currency.
@goththicus2 жыл бұрын
@@MASH2031 they have their own currency, Panamanian Balboa, which is the equivalent to the USD.
@anniesshenanigans38152 жыл бұрын
@@goththicus they use the dollar. coins are in the Panamanian balboa, but paper money is the US dollar.
@MASH20312 жыл бұрын
@@goththicus
@jesusortega7292 жыл бұрын
Hi, great video. I am from Panama! A country that offers a bit for everyone! You do have to do your homework! More than happy to answer any questions you may have!
@ronaldmhart81742 жыл бұрын
I am considering Panama for future residence. I am 65, financially stable, and do not want to be around a lot of folks! What part do you suggest for me to investigate? Thanks!!!
@mikeg34392 жыл бұрын
My informal business partner (General Manager of my main supplier) lived in Burbank, California up until about 2016. He and his wife had two choices, in his view: continue to work for the rest of his life and barely get by living in Burbank, or he could retire at age 60, living in Panama. It's now nearly 6 years later and I get a couple letters per year from him. They all say the same thing: he doesn't live like a king (he didn't have that much money), but he lives happy days 365/days a year, enjoying life and for the most part, doing whatever he wishes, and it beats the hell out of working 48 hours a week in Burbank, HOPING it will be enough to not go under, living in the highest taxed part of the USA. He spends some busy time volunteering for his Church, helping the less fortunate out locally. He golfs. He wanders beaches with a metal detector. He reads. Or he could struggle at a stress-filled job in Burbank 48 hours a week...
@TimMaloneyNMactor2 жыл бұрын
Burbank was a middle class , sleepy town . today a tiny 2 bd 70 yr old house is typically 7-$800,000
@mikeg34392 жыл бұрын
@@TimMaloneyNMactor Facts! Sometimes even more.
@AhJodie2 жыл бұрын
Oh, that was a good thing to talk about your friend. It helps me a lot! Thank you!
@kevinh5349 Жыл бұрын
Yeah, yeah, yeah. Compare the cesspool that is urban California to Panama. Right.
@dalaov52588 ай бұрын
Wow, write letters eh? So nostalgic! As a family, my mom would read out the letters that came from abroad from our relatives, those were great moments!
@puravida56832 жыл бұрын
I am a U.S. expat. I live and own properties in Costa Rica and Panama. Lower taxes, higher standard of living, stable governments, low crime, great weather and the ability to excise Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness!
@tmwamp62042 жыл бұрын
Military Man 71, I'm a 70 year old veteran and considering a move to panama. My question is are military benefits (Health) effected or reduced by moving from the states?
@anniesshenanigans38152 жыл бұрын
@@tmwamp6204 Panama has excellent VA benefits for expats.
@puravida56832 жыл бұрын
@@tmwamp6204 Great question. If you have service-connected disabilities, you can register online with the VA Foreign Medical Program, and use it abroad. Also, there is Tricare Overseas for military retirees. In addition, if you become a resident of Costa Rica or Panama, you can enroll in their national health care systems. I chose to enroll in Medicare, when I travel in the U.S., or I could use a VA hospital free of charge.
@Rollercoaster5552 жыл бұрын
Hey man do you have to get the jab vaccine to go there.and can you get direct deposit of VA check
@puravida56832 жыл бұрын
@@Rollercoaster555 No jab required Costa Rica, but you have to buy health insurance while visiting, or you become a resident with national healthcare. Yes, you can have VA check deposited into foreign bank. I have two U.S. bank accounts, I bring checking checks, and deposit them into my foreign banks which doesn't cost anything.
@beverlyweber41222 жыл бұрын
I spent a year (2019) in Chiang Mai, Thailand. I lived incredibly well on my late husband's IRA dividiends of $1100 per month. I plan to become a digital nomad. I loved SE Asia, very easy to travel to different countries. Full on internet and modern malls in every medium sized city. I also have friends who live in Albania (hop and a jump from Italy). Don't even need a visa to visit, roughly same cost as Thailand.
@beerbrewer73722 жыл бұрын
Your husband was a lucky man. If you need someone to carry your suitcases I'm your huckleberry.
@amyyates82732 жыл бұрын
We plan to divide our time in retirement between the US, Portugal and Chiang Mai. Such a great city to be a digital nomad in!
@boink8002 жыл бұрын
Yet another plus point of Albania -- US citizens get a visa good for 365 days (yes, one whole year). To renew the visa, just leave the country on a weekend visa run and you get another 365 days.
@beehive58352 жыл бұрын
Thank you for mentioning Albania...I don't see anything on KZbin about Albania as an alternative to S.E. Asia or Central American countries. What is the English language like by most people under 40 there? Health care costs?
@user-wm2tw2 жыл бұрын
What?? A strong independent women living off of husband’s labor? That’s a shame. Where is the money you made?
@daveschmarder-19502 жыл бұрын
A relative moved to Portugal a few years ago for retirement. So far, so good. They bought a house, and working on the language. Me? I'll stay here. Good video topic Geoff.
@brbball2 жыл бұрын
Geoff - Thank you for taking the time to help us learn more about finances in retirement, as well as for providing the information in such an organized way. Will you consider adding an index or video chapters in the description so we can quickly access various sections of the video? Thank you for considering this and I wish you well.
@mxcole1utube2 жыл бұрын
I have been listening to this channel for about two months; I think the information is solid. Thank you! For the info. Don't stop!😁
@reallmccoy9043 Жыл бұрын
Thanks for the interesting statistics. We looked at Costa Rica and there was a little too much crime for our liking. We have watched a ton of videos on panama and are taking a tour in January 2024. We fully intend to move when I hit 62 and get pensionado visas. I just cant take the US any longer!!! Thank you for all your insight into this and your financial advice.
@esthernoel37932 жыл бұрын
Thank you Geoff! You certainly do your research for these awesome videos!
@kurtschoenkopf87342 жыл бұрын
Currently living in Panama. Healthcare is good in Panama City outside is suspect as the facilities tend to be public rather than private. Note if you go private they will want big deposits before they admit you if you don’t have insurance. Drugs prices are high. They seemed to have followed the US model. Equally not all drugs are available. If you want health insurance that will cover you globally you will pay for it. Currently spend $9200 per year with a $10,000 deductible. There are less expensive options but if you want coverage in the US it will cost you. Mountain climates are preferred to Panama City which is stinking hot during the day. Though the city comes alive at night. Great restaurants in PC due to the canal and cultural cross roads. Boquete is a North American ghetto great if that is what you want but you don’t get to experience the culture as they become very insular as they want to emulate the North American experience. Biggest benefit is discounts on airfares and connectivity to Europe and Latin America. Utilities cable internet etc are no great bargain if you want the full enchilada. Taxes are another issue that was not discussed. Panama only taxes on locally sourced income which is great. The best analogy I can think of is it is like moving to Florida without having to be in Florida. By and large good place to be short term (5-10 years) if you can get out when the rainy season gets to you.
@infiad12752 жыл бұрын
It sounds pretty good but I read that Panama can be more dangerous than the U.S. Is this true in your experience? Safety is number one on my list followed closely by reliable, fast internet. 😊
@kurtschoenkopf87342 жыл бұрын
@@infiad1275 I’ve never experienced a problem with safety. They don’t have the gun culture here which is a bonus. But like anything knowing where to go and not go is always important. There are parts of all American cities that are no go. Same in Panama. Safety is a relative term as well. It’s like reviews, unless you know the reviewer I personally think they are all crap. Just opinions without knowing one’s likes and dislikes. As for internet cable and wireless has been stringing 1gb fiber throughout the country. Tigo, the national cable operator is good as well. I have 400mb which is 25 times what I can get in rural America and I’m in rural Panama so no complaints there. I will say that there are service outages on occasion due to weather (high winds and rain) or scheduled maintenance but never longer than 5 hours. The mobile networks are insulated from the fixed line networks so you can always tether your device. Oh and one other thing that never seems to come up. You can drink water out of the tap here unlike a lot of other central and South American countries.
@infiad12752 жыл бұрын
@@kurtschoenkopf8734 I can't tell you how good that is to hear. I guess I just did. Panama just moved to the top of my list. I really appreciate your informative reply.
@formica.2 жыл бұрын
Great report Kurt
@cesardavis42702 жыл бұрын
Why are you lying Kurt about Health and Boquete is like USA Guetto like Kessington, PA or Detroit? Can not believe you are living in Panama, any place in Panama
@michaelc57692 жыл бұрын
Thank you for a well-presented, factual video with concise info. I found it very helpful as I prepare to go visit Panama to check it out.
@stevemlejnek7073 Жыл бұрын
My girlfriend and I will be retiring soon enough. We spent 3 weeks in Panama in Feb '23. We really liked the country and want to take another look down the road. Several others we met were doing the same and some have committed to moving there. Panama Relocation Tours have lots of helpful information and videos on YT.
@Rdominca2 жыл бұрын
Good points. Then again, Colombia is #5 on the International Living list, and we have family in Colombia but not in Panama. So, for us, Colombia goes to the top of the list.
@Dachdogoriginal2 жыл бұрын
Most expats are not relying on International Living. They see things with rose colored glasses. The best source is the FB expat groups where you want to go. You'll find a lot of information from both sides.
@roadhog66032 жыл бұрын
Excellent content. The media is overwhelmed with worthless misinformation ranking best places to live based on gibberish. It’s refreshing to see organized and well thought out content ranking potential expat communities around the world.
@jonweber982 жыл бұрын
I am retiring in 2 months and just bought an AirBnB on the beach in Nicaragua. I am not sure I will be full time expat. But I will be able to at least sample the culture for long periods of time, and make an income, while figuring out where I will land in retirement.
@cesardavis42702 жыл бұрын
Great information, already being to Panama 6 times, retiring there in August 2022.
@ciskokidd5980 Жыл бұрын
Why I watch. This production clearly shows why many of your kith and kin so enjoy your productions, .Stated simply, you're a caring human who likes to help his fellow. Dig your stuff. and thank you for spending your time with us. Reagrads.
@sofocona2 жыл бұрын
Great video,- lots of useful information. Surprised that safety wasn’t on the criteria list. In my opinion it’s very important.
@HolySchmidt2 жыл бұрын
Thanks for the comment
@visevich3 ай бұрын
Your videos are truly excellent, very concise and informative and truly a pleasure to watch. MANY THANKS!!!!
@Mexicobeanpole2 жыл бұрын
We lived as temporary retirees in Panama (6 months) , Costa Rica (6 months) and Mexico (2 years) We loved all three countries, but my favorite was Mexico. Honestly, least favorite was Panama. Especially Boguete. It felt cold and damp. To me anyway. Plus, they make you quarantine your pets. International living is far more user friendly than people would imagine though.
@Dachdogoriginal2 жыл бұрын
Did you investigate Ecuador? I loved there 5 years. Loved it. Many are skipping your locations and heading farther south.
@chrisbeaulieu89942 жыл бұрын
Panama is my top spot for foreign retirement living. Geoff confirmed it
@Mexicobeanpole2 жыл бұрын
@@Dachdogoriginal No, not yet. We still have a home in Mexico, but we un-retired and are back in the US. Lol.
@TreesOnTheBeach2 жыл бұрын
@@Dachdogoriginal I hear a lot of expats saying they used to live in Ecuador. If you loved it, why did you leave? Are you going back?
@Dachdogoriginal2 жыл бұрын
@@TreesOnTheBeach i had a significant injury. I had to come back temporarily. Yes I go back. And im sure some people left Ecuador for Panama. I believe Panama has more modern conveniences, a mailing system, and one stop return to the USA. There are perks. But as I mentioned some people have different priorities. Cost and crime, and for some I am hearing, too many Expats.
@VegasNegus2 жыл бұрын
Great video once again Jeff. And I too started my investigations of offshore retirement with a subscription to International Living. But today there are many expat groups on social media to get boots on the ground info. So don’t neglect free sources of great info, plus potential contacts once moved. 👍
@jeanniebennett37082 жыл бұрын
My husband and I are moving to Ecuador is 2026. Housing and healthcare are main reasons driving this move. We are excited though and wish we could leave sooner. We are working so diligently to save enough to afford a reasonably comfortable retirement. We still have to watch every penny . We even considered Thailand or Serbia. But the former is too hot and latter has snow.
@davecord45532 жыл бұрын
Visit Medellin, Colombia and be surprised.. Modern city with top notch medical care..
@JamesG11262 жыл бұрын
lol
@jonathanjacques72502 жыл бұрын
Paid off home, low property taxs. I'll stay in the US and travel to other places.
@robertgillies59972 жыл бұрын
An interesting presentation. I retired to Panama 22 years ago and even became a Panamanian citizen. I do think Panama is a good choice. There are other good choices as welk. I favour Latin Americsn countries becsuse I like the tropics and I am fluent in Spsnish. Panama uses rhe USD for their currency which also helps. Panama is pretty diverse so there are many different kinds of places from which to choose depending on your preferences.
@daleboris-kane3132 жыл бұрын
I am about to search this but, may I ask if one may have dual citizenship (USA Panama) and not sure travel back & forth was touched upon?
@robertgillies93822 жыл бұрын
@@daleboris-kane313 The dual citizenship question is interesting. When I became a Panamanian citizen I had to renounce my American citizenship. But only to the Panamanian government. I was not required to formally renounce my American citizenship to an officer at the US Consulate. So I still have my American citizenship. Actually it is difficult to lose your American citizenship and it will cost you $2350 to formally renounce it. If you don't pay up then you can't get rid of your American citizenship even if you want to renounce it. The Panamanian government considers me to be only a Panamanian citizen and not an American citizen. To enter Panama I have to use my Panamanian passport. When I enter the US I have to use my American passport. I think the US is somewhat similar to Panama in the way they look at a second citizenship. The US allows you to have as many citizenships as you please but only recognizes that you are an American citizen. My conclusion to my situation is that when I am in Panama I am only a Panamanian citizen. When I am in the USA I am only an American citizen. When I enter a third country I can use either my American or Panamanian passport. It is my choice. I became a Panamanian citizen in 2013. I was born in the US.
@amylee9 Жыл бұрын
@@robertgillies9382 please do a KZbin channel. You have a lot of good info. 👍
@mtadams20092 жыл бұрын
For me they all sound good but leaving all my friends and family at this point in my life is a no go. Maybe for a couple of months but certainly not year round. People and friendships are very important to me. Not cheap living.
@MikeAnn1932 жыл бұрын
I can relate to the huge downside of leaving friends and family. That might be enough to dissuade me as well. However I feel compelled to point out that he _hardly_ touted cheap living; in fact he went out of his way to say there are all those other important factors. The question I have for myself is whether or not they'd outweigh rarely seeing loved ones.
@amyyates82732 жыл бұрын
This video is so good. Please do Portugal next! That’s where we plan to retire.
@resourcefulqueen2 жыл бұрын
I suggest you look at the quality KZbin channel "Our Rich Journey". They retired early to Portugal. Good information.
@anthonybutler31572 жыл бұрын
Great Video and presentation. Retired 3 plus years ago in portugal. Very much at home here.
@HolySchmidt2 жыл бұрын
Thanks for the comment
@kirkwall68922 жыл бұрын
I think Panama is also a fully dollarized economy, thus does not have its own currency. I think this would add to stability for a smaller economy. I think this makes it a markedly different economic risk than many other countries. It’s a point worth investigating to add to your basis for ranking counties.
@ES-mc3cc2 жыл бұрын
Since the dollar may soon crash in the US, that won't help Panama at all.
@kenmcclow89632 жыл бұрын
@@ES-mc3cc Panama has a very large banking sector and they get a lot of income from ships going through the canal and that won't stop whether the dollar is up or down.
@nunyabidniz28682 жыл бұрын
Yes, due to the U.S.' presence in the Canal (until it was handed over by Clinton in '99,) Panama had used the US dollar for its currency for decades. Just a sensible move, insulating them from the volatility most other small nations' currency fluctuations are prone to suffering...
@formica.2 жыл бұрын
If your country's currency is strong (like US dollar for many year) and the local currency is weak, that's a good thing. Your foreign income goes farther. British and Australian expats have had trouble in Thailand, as the Thai Baht climbed against those currencies.
@RoadieWingZZ2 жыл бұрын
@@ES-mc3cc Not happening.
@beerman19572 жыл бұрын
I lived in Panama for two years. I liked it but it rains almost every day and very hot and humid. There are limited resources and you can’t just cant pop downtown and get it. Don’t even get me started with the crazy drivers that put New York cabbies to shame. Things do cost less but selection is limited. If you want to live there, I suggest you try it for a few months.
@nightengale21232 жыл бұрын
We went on a Panama Canal cruise a few years ago, and while traveling through the canal this was the most oppressive humid heat I ever experienced in my life and I have traveled to lots of hot places. Definitely consider your heat tolerance especially if you are coming from a cold climate.
@beerman19572 жыл бұрын
@@nightengale2123 it took me 6 months to almost get used to it. I lived across from Miraflores locks.
@amylee9 Жыл бұрын
is the climate any better on the west side?
@shalmaratrethewey96182 жыл бұрын
I have wondered about Puerto Rico. As its a territory of the US Medicare is used there.
@TimMaloneyNMactor2 жыл бұрын
good point , thanks
@clintfalk2 жыл бұрын
By most accounts, PR is not cheap despite being underdeveloped. It's an island that produces very little and thus, so many things need to be imported. That's the problem with all islands. It does appear to have limited tax advantages, but I understand they have been exaggerated. Disclosure: I've never been to PR, but I have a smart colleague who is from there fill me in.
@jpturner1712 жыл бұрын
Great video… I read many of the comments below. As for my wife and me, I’ve served for 37 years in the Marine Corps and have moved with my family around the world, including Central America. While they’re beautiful countries and the people are great, I’m happy to be living in the good old USA.👍🏽🇺🇸 we are also close to our three daughters and hopefully future grandchildren! We do plan to travel though. Semper Fi!🇺🇸
@HolySchmidt2 жыл бұрын
Semper Fi!
@Rollercoaster5552 жыл бұрын
Hey J p why did you comeback just because of your 3 daughter's
@tomhenry49932 жыл бұрын
Always a great video packed full of important info!
@mattcolver12 жыл бұрын
For me the tough part of retiring in a foreign country would be giving up Medicare. Not sure if healthcare is provided free by the country or if I'd need to buy health insurance. When I was in Panama it was cloudy and poured rain, like buckets of rain.
@TimMaloneyNMactor2 жыл бұрын
it is Seasonal and some people actually enjoy the rainy season . but it is not sunny all the time . from what I`ve heard Health care is Good and very affordable . you could fly back to the states if you ever needed to .
@clintfalk2 жыл бұрын
@@TimMaloneyNMactor To be sure, flights back to the US are abundant and short from Panama's one, compact international airport and by default close to everwhere in that tiny nation. It also is a major international airport with flights to just about every major city in the world. At least that was the case back in 2019, pre-pandemic, when I changed planes there. I was amazed at how such a tiny airport could host so much international traffic. In other words, it could be a great place for a globetrotting retiree to use as a base.
@TimMaloneyNMactor2 жыл бұрын
@@clintfalk xlnt point , thanks
@bernadettesandoval39902 жыл бұрын
Funny because Im trying to escape from Medicare!
@TimMaloneyNMactor2 жыл бұрын
@@bernadettesandoval3990 Sadly , it is the only affordable option available . we feel fortunate to at least have that . not having Health Care at any age can be financially devastating , even more so , as we age . His concern is understandable .
@theodoreolson85292 жыл бұрын
Vietnam. I have visited there seven times and lived there for a year or so, March 2020 to June 2021. Beautiful country, lovely people, great food, very inexpensive place to live. You should consider a vacation there, they have lovely resorts. I can't imagine retirement there. I lived in Ho Chi Minh city, pop roughly 9 million. "commute" traffic is incredibly horrible. Mostly scooters driving randomly. It's like swimming with a school of fish and trying to not touch any of the other fish. By the way, most of the fish don't know how to swim. Outside of the big cities the countryside is beautiful. Medical. Decent hospitals in a third world kind of way. My ex wife convinced me to try acupuncture for back pain. I tried it before. This time one of the needles caused some soft tissue damage. I went to a hospital, was seen by three doctors one of whom did the ultrasound scan of my left knee where the damage occurred. Total cost, $22. Vietnam has managed the pandemic very very well. Again, I think it's a wonderful place to visit. Not great for retirement unless you really like the challenges of living there. If you subscribe to International Living, an author named Wendy Justice has written some articles about living in Vietnam. Thanks again for your hard work putting together your wonderful videos.
@formica.2 жыл бұрын
I've been in Saigon for 6 years. Married a Vietnamese. It definitely has one of the lowest costs of livings, but living here is better for someone who is well traveled and adventurous, who is able to adjust to many differences, and who enjoys living in a country that is developing fast. Weather is like Florida but 75=95 and never goes below 75 except in north or mountains. Healthy food. No violent crime. Communist govt doesn't have any affect on you. Issues are no retirement visa, language though again you can find English speakers, infrastructure is improving, there are zones that are very expat-friendly. Also, nobody talks about the war, they love Americans, don't like Chinese. We also lived in Bangkok, a very modern city, costs a bit more but a notch up in development and transportation and benefits. Medical/dental is world class and inexpensive in Bangkok, so go there for big treatments if living in Vietnam. Theodore, where did you go after Vietnam? I assume they canceled your visa during virus lockdown!
@Dachdogoriginal2 жыл бұрын
Check with local expat FB groups to get the real lay of the land. Many expats in Panama are leaving and moving to other Latin countries. The raise in prices and the crime that is developing is causing them to move.
@formica.2 жыл бұрын
Facebook groups are a hugely useful for expats. Retirees never learn about this! Search for "country name expat" or "big city name expat". Once you subscribe to one, FB will suggest others.
@SherrilynnGrayer.prettyeyes Жыл бұрын
Whére are they now moving to? Thank you
@Dachdogoriginal Жыл бұрын
@@SherrilynnGrayer.prettyeyes Some inquire on FB groups in Ecuador. They say they're contemplating Ecuador or Portugal most of them.
@SantaBarbaraAlberto2 жыл бұрын
Additional Criteria: 11) Taxes International living is a great source of information. Love the criteria.
@cucar83632 жыл бұрын
What a great video! I am thinking on moving from US to another country when I retire in a few years. All the items you covered are important, I am bilingual too so either Panama or Costa Rica will be perfect for me! I cant wait to try either one or the other. Thanks for this video. Do you have any for Costa Rica?
@MarkWyo-i7t Жыл бұрын
Panama is great! Knowing the language helps a great deal.
@andyrose86422 жыл бұрын
Excellent video Geoff, please review a few additional places to retire in the future. Thanks Much......
@alanalbin74322 жыл бұрын
Geoff watching your videos is like drinking a nice warm cup of hot chocolate. Very comforting.
@sanderbyers19762 жыл бұрын
Very informative I always enjoy your thoughtful videos
@MuizzWaljee7 ай бұрын
Retire in Panama If you are planning to retire in Panama we can help with Panama Residency Visa. Typical processing time is 6 months. We have an expedited service that takes 6 weeks or less.
@MrWaterbugdesign2 жыл бұрын
The criteria for retiring in the Philippines is Filipinas. As a single 65 year old American man it's a compelling reason.
@waterheaterservices2 жыл бұрын
YES !
@johnbruenn8755 Жыл бұрын
Excellent video. Great information. My wife and I are strongly considering becoming ex pats in retirement. Another good subject on this matter is collecting social security while living out of the US. I’m hearing in some cases you might not be able to collect SS if you leave the US. Some people have figured out a way around this. I would love to hear your advice on that one.
@kd8199 Жыл бұрын
There’s no secret about it. Anyone can get their social security check living in another country, as long as it’s not in the group with countries like Iran, North Korea, China, etc., The social security website has all of the information there.
@watcher99978 ай бұрын
Have your SS direct deposited in Charles Schwab. Withdraw cash from an ATM machine and Charles Schwab allegedly will reimburse all ATM fees.
@clintfalk2 жыл бұрын
"Colombia topped the list at 87". You are talking about an Andean nation with coastlines on the Pacific and Caribean. The type of climate in Colombia varies greatly throughout that nation, depending on location. Some locations near the coastal areas are hot and humid (like its neighbor, Panama). Others, in the higher altitudes can be chilly and cloudy, year round. Still others will have a perpetual spring-like climate. Due to it location near the equator, the climate intrinsic to a specific locale tends to be constant year-round. So, you have to pick the climate you like, as you are stuck with it year round and at least will have only one wardrobe for one season. The other nations along the equator have a similar dynamic. An Ecuadorean I know has explained how the climate varies throughout his small nation. Want cool, mild weather? Stay in Quito. Want warm year roundt? Stick to the coastal areas.
@robertgillies93822 жыл бұрын
Although I have retired to Panama I have made many trips to Colombia. The girls in Medellin are absolutely beautiful and they speak Spanish with the sexiest accent you will ever hear. Best of all they love for you to notice them even if you are an old fart like myself. If you want to live in a big city then I think Medellin is the nicest big city in Latin America. However you you want a small acreage out in the country then I think Panama is better. If you become a permanent resident in Panama you can spend up to 6 months a year in Colombia as a tourist. Have the best of both worlds. I always enter Colombia using my Panamanian passport.
@amylee9 Жыл бұрын
@@robertgillies9382 thanks for the info. what do you think of healthcare in Columbia versus Panama?
@nedatkins1283 Жыл бұрын
Great job, as usual. Thank you for providing informative, useful and well articulated research.
@keithrodgers10302 жыл бұрын
Excellent video , I will be 65 on the 1st July 2022 so this video is of real interest to me . Doing the research at the moment , it takes time but you have to get it right. I had zoomed in on two locations Panama and Portugal, currently live in Canada but moved from the UK back in 2007. Living on a fixed income means cost of living is up there but so is healthcare. The key thing for me is quality of life & healthcare. We own an apartment at the moment and we are looking at renting it out here in Calgary and moving to the selected country full time. The 6 month rule for tax and benefits means a 6 month flip flop. Have you ever considered doing a comparison between both countries?
@marksr8784 Жыл бұрын
Holy S....Great video Panama 🇵🇦 3 hrs from Miami 😊
@Savannah-ed4rv Жыл бұрын
I love international living! The one country that they recommend quite often Portugal from what I've read and seen on their website and emails that is where I would love to retire to
@ZONEPRESSLLC Жыл бұрын
It's gotten much more expensive (major towns) in the last year.
@trdriver4302 жыл бұрын
Thorough and excellent assessment. Thank you
@JC-by6cl2 жыл бұрын
Great synopsis but I still am left wondering about safety/crime?
@tod3msn2 жыл бұрын
Panama is great. There are lots of opportunities to join and start bowling leagues and pickle ball leagues. I’m currently the commissioner of our pickle ball and bowling leagues and it’s going great. Weather is warm too.
@clintfalk2 жыл бұрын
Whoa! To determine if one country is the best place to retire in this world, you world need to visit them all. I personally plan to retire SOUTH of the Panama Canal, in some pace that most gringos would be afraid to visit. But that's a lot of places I need to visit after I quit my job in June and do an epic tour of South America. And while Panama no doubt has its advantages for retirees, it can't possibly be for everyone. Not everyone likes hot and humid.
@jackbaldwin36492 жыл бұрын
Good to know about Int'l Living. The magazine also has a Facebook page.
@markaguilar76462 жыл бұрын
My wife is Filipino. She like to retire there. Only problem. Its a long plane ride. Id like to be a snowbird leave here in winter come back in spring. Thank you for information. I enjoy your videos.
@richardc4882 жыл бұрын
Seems like Philippines just too backward
@wa2102 жыл бұрын
Been to PI many times too. Cheap living, but sooo humid.
@phmiii2 жыл бұрын
Thank you, this is excellent information!
@PR_GTR2 жыл бұрын
Puerto Rico 🇵🇷 🙌 😎 💕 🥳🏝 im retired I love it 😀 the weather is like Hawaii
@amylee9 Жыл бұрын
which area? and how's the healthcare?
@Sylvan_dB2 жыл бұрын
Sounds like you should take a research trip to Panama. Stay for a few months. Maybe with the family. Properly report your experiences and you conclusion upon return. Seems a tax deductible business expense, no?
@jamesalias5952 жыл бұрын
The best place to retire is individualized. For example a single man in good health would need something different than a couple in good health. Then if your health is bad that totally changes things.
@nrs6956 Жыл бұрын
Thank you for you presentation.
@rayman16112 жыл бұрын
Sir, I respectfully suggest that you visit Panama before proposing this for your viewers. Having actually lived there, in my humble opinion, this video does not present reality.
@Noonespecial2372 жыл бұрын
Easy to understand and no bs. Thanks !!!! Subscribed….
@dougsowell2 жыл бұрын
Que the Van Halen! Panama!
@Rollercoaster5552 жыл бұрын
Like red
@latinaalma19472 жыл бұрын
I planned to retire in Mexico since childhood, I am a native Texan.I always loved so much about MExico. My family vacationed in Mexico. I have been traveling there since childhood in the 1950s. As time went by during my adulthood I traveled to MX many times and saw how various areas changed over time. Some developed to the point of being over developed, some not. We chose a country in Central America that looks like Mexico did 20 yrs ago. We are in a mountain year round Spring climate. Property tax is $97 a year. Cost of living is about half of the USA doubling our purchasing power. Being a US retired professor was a local dissertation advisor for a Panamanian American PhD student working on her PhD research at NYU. She was studying expats in this country and asking if the expats had considered Pamana since the Panamanian government DOES have programs incentivizing retirement, while this country does not. What people interviewed here said was they selected the two particular areas popular with expats HERE as uniquely fitting their needs.Several interviewees had lived in other countries in retirement first: Costa Rica, Ecuador, and in my case and several others, Mexico. In my particular case my husbamd and I had lived aboard our sailboat in the Yucatan over a several year period. We also.had rented longterm in San Miguel Allende, Oaxaca, Mexico City and had visited many towns and cities repeatedly on vacations for decades. For us this town had it all, a small historic tourist town with plenty of restaurants and activities, nead the capital and internatiomal.airport,, a good system of heath professionals and lrivate hospitals . There were active like minded expats from European and North American countries from our professional and business social class with whom to socialize. We had luck making inroads into the social,life of LOCAL professionals and business people unique among expats here...ie social introductions into local society making us feel more at ease and welcome than most expats typically do. The more locals you know well in a small area the easier life becomes because Latino culture is all about knowing the decision makers...owners of local businesses, etc All the red tape disappears in governement and utility offices, businesses and banks when you have "friends" or aquaintances who lift that tape allowing you ease of access..it is how Latinos social and business systems work, far more personal than most Anglo systems. The longer you live in such an area the easier and more fluid life becomes...it is WAY better in this regard than life in the USA. Life becomes personalized not automated and anonymous. Here I am not talking bribes or mordida but personal courtesy and relationships, friendliness. Not every expat gets this: if they are used to urban abruptness, impersonal relations, disagreeable, short tempered they will find many barriers thrown up in their way everywhere they go.And then life as an expat is exceedingly unpleasant and difficult...we see many come and many go because they cannot learn the social customs and lessons. They are not adaptable...adaptsbility and the personality trait of openness to a different cultures the the MOST IMPORTANT variable in happiness in a different country. We could happliy live in several spots in MX, Spain and Portugal...We just chose here because it had the most of the most important variables to US Sybil Francis PhD clincial psychologist, professor since 1979.
@user-wm2tw2 жыл бұрын
Who you know and not what you know. Yes- that’s where system of corruption and flexible rules has its roots in. Enjoy while the ones not from “right” background are shut out and suffer in silence. Such a disgusting piece written with such finesse.
@latinaalma19472 жыл бұрын
@@user-wm2tw Imhad to.adjust tomthis system
@latinaalma19472 жыл бұрын
@@user-wm2tw It took me time to adjust to this different system it would do zero for me to condemn it who cares what I think as a foreigner about THEIR systems..One theory I read pertaining to colonial Mexico was that after Cortez amd his officers received large tracts of land, the church divided up.much of the rest owning a % of imdogenous crops and tribute as well as ñabor on demand and the Spamish crown got theirs in the first stage of colonial settlement via sale of positions, offices and land going forward ... "Peninsulares" from Spain would pay up front before leaving Spain for a governship etc pay the crown some set % annually afterwards but would keep the remainder of fees. Fines, pardons etc for their private purse the privilege would be paid up front as a business investment the "revenue" any source they could comeup.with, creative theft is what it was by the powerful...not very different from the US Congress with Largesse paid by lobbyists to campaign funds etc look at the MOST talented creative psychopaths: Nancy Pelosi, the Obamas, the Clintons who entered office with modest holdings and exited or remain in power with tens or hundreds of millions dollars certainly from corruption, not salaries! And their corruption has hurt far MORE people, not at all limited to Dems either! So I myself am not as sanctimoneous as I once was about the purity of the American system versus the Latin system. I once believed WE were better, silly me.
@yo-yo96632 жыл бұрын
What country did you choose?
@berniekeene8682 жыл бұрын
I wonder how objective International Living is since they make money by helping people live internationally.
@dlg54852 жыл бұрын
I've done a lot of research on this topic as I plan to exit the USA when I retire, this place has become far too toxic for me. Portugal looks great to me, but the language is tough to learn. I only speak English and haven't studied any other language since high school, so it would be a monumental challenge for me to learn Portuguese, but their excellent healthcare, low cost of living, extremely diverse and welcoming culture might just make it worth the effort. I will also look into Panama.
@selin82742 жыл бұрын
Learning the language will keep you mentally engaged. Learning a new language is often suggested for this purpose. When I visited there were few places where not knowing Portuguese was an issue. PT cities are hilly! And the more affordable cities get really hot in the summer. I keep coming back to PT as my #1 place to retire though. No car needed. Just wish it didn’t get so hot. If you live in northern regions it’s damp and indoors cold due to no insulation pre-2005 housing.
@bridgetlove18842 жыл бұрын
I am sure you can get along fine in major cities without knowing Portuguese.
@marlos33332 жыл бұрын
Brazilian Portuguese is easier. Since you've learned BP, European Portuguese will be pretty easier.
@HectorGarcia-nb2ld2 жыл бұрын
You are like me, just to to an English speaking country.
@dlg54852 жыл бұрын
@@HectorGarcia-nb2ld I don't mind challenging myself to learn a new language. It's actually a useful experience for older people to take on because learning a language helps to keep the mind sharp.
@Skott622 жыл бұрын
Personally I would choose Costa Rica over Panama but that's just me.
@richardhowe55832 жыл бұрын
I do believe everything you say but my fiance is in the Philippines. I'll be heading to the Philippines shortly because it will be opened for tourist on the 10th of this month. I will be watching you from over there.👍👌
@franciscusjohannesburger37202 жыл бұрын
Thanks for information .
@nakho35502 жыл бұрын
Actually, this topic is a nice addition to channel.
@wa2102 жыл бұрын
I have flown to Panama many many times with my airline job. Believe me Panama is far from a place I want to retire to. The city of Panama City is dirty, and far too many high rise drug money condos. Way to expensive. Flooded with hookers from many latin countries. Lots of casinos. Humid like here in Houston. Costa Rica or Colombia for Latin countries, would be far better options. Personally I prefer New Zealand or Australia. Both speak English. Brisbane or Sydney being my favorites, and South Island New Zealand.
@barbiec43122 жыл бұрын
The idea seems nice, but logistics seem like a lot. Our mortgage is paid off and we have low property taxes. Selling and packing up to move seems kind of crazy difficult. If we could only keep our home base AND move to Panama, then maybe.
@anniesshenanigans38152 жыл бұрын
that is my plan.
@teacheschem2 жыл бұрын
Can you rent it out for a couple of years while you try out Panama?
@beauthestdane2 жыл бұрын
France has added benefits for US expats, the tax treaty is amazing for retirees, the healthcare is inexpensive and very high quality.
@CheJoffre2 жыл бұрын
Do you have any recommendations on where to find more information about retiring in France?
@beauthestdane2 жыл бұрын
@Buford torkelton And their bureaucracy is legendary. It's certainly not all perfect, far from it, but it has a lot of benefits.
@cynthiagrayson79442 жыл бұрын
France is intriguing but one would have to pay both US and French income tax.
@beauthestdane2 жыл бұрын
@@cynthiagrayson7944 No, there is a tax treaty that prevents double taxation, and, for US sourced retirement accounts, taxes them only in the US. Non retirement income and any French sourced income would be taxed first in France, and likely not at all in the US as French taxes are higher.
@boink8002 жыл бұрын
US retirees in France must have private health insurance (which is affordable).
@ColdPotato Жыл бұрын
David Lee Roth nailed it.
@DeborahCaldwell772 жыл бұрын
My goodness that was interesting. Well presented too. Do you think they drive on The ‘right’ side of the street?
@mwsw502 жыл бұрын
Yes, we drive on the right side
@buckeye432102 жыл бұрын
Yes, they drive on the "correct" side of the street 🙂
@transcend31452 жыл бұрын
I am of the same idea. And East Europe too.
@josephcercy81172 жыл бұрын
I'm seriously considering moving to Mexico or Panama.
@mikemc3302 жыл бұрын
That was very well done. Thanks
@michaelangelo75112 жыл бұрын
No bugs, cool temperatures and a big canal to fish in.
@mike65726932 жыл бұрын
Spend a couple of months living in a place to see how it suits you. No one size fits all solution.
@darcysalmon77812 жыл бұрын
Great video!!! Thanks again... 💗
@teekay_12 жыл бұрын
I have access to the best doctors in the world 10 minutes from my house (very near a large city). Everybody who moved away from a large city area has to drive back to the city when need top-notch doctors, because the local doctors in the middle of nowhere can't handle anything besides routine procedures, and the hospitals don't have the experience in delivering this level of care. Small towns are great and they can save you a lot of money. But understand you are moving away from transportation hubs for travel, moving away from the best doctors in the world, and moving away from concerts, and a variety of museums, restaurants, and other forms of entertainment that you'd like to enjoy in retirement.
@gingermcintosh6545 Жыл бұрын
So what is an average cost of living in Panama? Also how does healthcare compare to US healthcare and how much does it cost, since Medicare won’t work there? Or how much is good health insurance and can you qualify if you have health issues?
@tablameister Жыл бұрын
Thanks for the video. One popular place for retirees in Panama is Boquete, because the climate is "spring like" year round. Unfortunately, due to the growth, there are issues with the infrastructure, so water and electricity outages are common. Prices have gone up significantly for housing and are not as cheap as they once were. However, there are still plenty of places to live (and you can live in whatever climate you want and in either a big city, a rural township, or anything in-between), health care is top notch, prescriptions are relatively cheap, there is a hack that allows you to get Ama*on products within a week, its just a short flight away from the USA, and there are plenty of ex-pats who can help you navigate the system. I think Mexico, Panama, and Costa Rica are the top places for retirees who want to remain close to friends and family.
@patrickmchargue71222 жыл бұрын
Well done, sir.
@skibum64222 жыл бұрын
One of my buddies retired to Panama and he and his wife loves it there.
@joannegonzalez2 жыл бұрын
Puerto Rico 🇵🇷 is also an option
@tulbanemoore84052 жыл бұрын
One of the many problems no one addresses is the Panamanian currency. Although Panama has its own currency (the Balboa), however, Panama also uses the U.S. dollar. The Balboa to U.S. dollar exchange rate is 1-to-1, which doesn't make since when it comes to GDP. The Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in Panama was worth 52.94 billion US dollars in 2020. Compare that to the U.S. GDP in 2020 at l$20.93 trillion. So how did the 1-to-1 exchange rate balance off? Someone with subject matter expertise in economy explain this...
@terryparish71339 ай бұрын
I'm about to find out
@robertlenning3322 жыл бұрын
Literally any country is better than the USA to retire in.