Moving to Panama vs Costa Rica and Why I Left

[@living_in_latam]

From your comments: Here is a follow up to this video: Comparing San Jose & Panama City: kzbin.info/www/bejne/opLVpIaOfrSri9E

[@Banksy2022]

I live in Boquete, Panama 4 years. Most ATM limits are $250 but our Banistmo bank allows $500. You can do 2 transactions per machine per day. We have recycling in several locations plus volunteers who pick up trash every Sunday. The consistent temperatures, lower cost of living & especially the affordability & access to quality healthcare were our major reasons for moving here. We are both in our 60's & pay $224 a month for health insurance compared to $2000 a month in the U.S. when we left.

[@living_in_latam]

Yes I have heard Boquete is awesome. I will be going that way to shoot soon, to create more content comparing the different areas.

[@valentino3228]

The limit to withdraw is 500 USD for security reasons.

[@living_in_latam]

@@valentino3228 yes with a Panamanian card. But a North American card is different. It was $250 for my CIBC Canadian card

[@robinjfr]

Have you found that Panamanians are being priced out of Boquete, or that isn't the case? It seems as though so many expats are heading to Panama, that I wonder whether that has had a negative impact on Panamanians. Boquete is very lovely!

[@living_in_latam]

@@robinjfr through 2 years in Panama it depends what you mean by priced out. Because I’ve seen a lot of middle class Panamanians making a good salary, or owning their own companies.

[@ChrisSmaller]

Been living in Costa Rica for many many years. Now 63 divorced from a Tica Now I'm going to be able to collect my SSI and thinking of moving to Panama and Starting A New Life

[@living_in_latam]

@@ChrisSmaller great. I’ll create some more content on different areas.

[@nicoibzschalin-hr4bj]

Alway a cholita waiting for that perfect gringo😅

[@ChrisSmaller]

@@nicoibzschalin-hr4bj Divorce/Single and Staying That Way. I Paid My Dues. Enjoying The Peace and Freedom of Choice every day

[@JORGEGOMEZ-pd3me]

WELCOME DUDE

[@ChrisSmaller]

@@JORGEGOMEZ-pd3me Thanks Man I'll be there in 1 week. Just gave away all my house stuff to a young couple with a small child to give them a leg up in life. Going with only a Backpack and a Smile

[@robertgillies9382]

You are completely right about Panama vs Costa Rica. I have lived in Panama for 25 years. I visited Costa Rica back in the nineties and decides against choosing it as a place to retire. Instead I chose Panama. I live in Chiriqui close to the border with Costa Rica so I can spend time in Costa Rica whenever I wish. I like living in Panama. I even became a Panamanian citizen back in 2013. I am here to stay.

[@reinadelmar11]

Nice!!! I haven't been to either country yet but have basically come to the same conclusion. I have been considering the Southern Zone in CR in the mountains but maybe I'd be better off up in the mountains on the other side of the border.

[@jorgeeduardobarrios8096]

PANAMÁ🇵🇦(my country) is the best country in CENTRAL AMERICA 👏👍👌💪😏

[@Sky_on_paws964]

Yes,it’s the best, well… not for the people in 1989 that lived here

[@jorgeeduardobarrios8096]

@@Sky_on_paws964 Oh yeah , I was lived hards & bads times with NORIEGA dictator 😖 . Today & thaks of GOD, my PANAMÁ is other country 👍👌👏🏆🏆 is a country with many advantage : Great geographic position Have inter ocenic canal Ports in both oceans Interoceanic railway Inter oceanic highway Only country in CENTRAL AMERICA ,with METRO TRAIN-SUB WAY Banking center Dollarized economi Many comercials centers ( MALLS ) COLÓN free zone 😏👌💪👍👏🇵🇦🇵🇦🇵🇦🇵🇦🇵🇦🇵🇦🇵🇦

[@Dbeiejeenwiwnsbsiekwnwhsurekeb]

I’m gonna go ahead and do some research as into what you’re talking about I’m planning on moving there soon

[@edgardomunoz2688]

I consider, Taboga Island the best place with a natural and clean beach near to Panamá City. You can took a ferry from Isla Perico on Causeway to the island. There is a complete different sensation and vibes compare to the city and from there a really good view of the skyline, the ships moving to Panamá Canal and of course the experience to be on a pacific island.

[@living_in_latam]

Yes Tobago is good but I prefer the Pearl Islands on that side or San Blas but ends up being quite the drive.

[@thepanamaguide]

Excelent Video ! Very Well detailed. Thank you!

[@living_in_latam]

Glad you liked it!

[@CarlosAndresR9]

There are many factors why foreigners prefer Panama: Private Healthcare in Panama is far superior to that of Costa Rica, and Costa Rica's public healthcare is a disaster. Panama has the highest human development index in Central America. Panama is the richest country in Central America. Panama is much safer than Costa Rica, Panama has fewer homicides than Costa Rica. Panama has better roads and highways. In Costa Rica more than 90% of the roads are deteriorated and the vast majority are made of dirt and stone. On a cultural level, Panamanians are friendlier, more open to foreigners. Food prices in Costa Rica are surprisingly high, the vast majority of the national industry of low quality, in Panama you can find products from all over the world at affordable prices. In Panama they use the dollar and have no inflation. Panama has more natural wealth than Costa Rica. Costa Rica is a village-like town.

[@guillermogouldburn763]

I'm from Panama but remember some people prefer a "village-like town."

[@living_in_latam]

yes exactly.

[@rotorairgroup8409]

​@@guillermogouldburn763hippies do

[@vivianballestero7615]

Be more serious in your comment, I read a lot of ignorant facts, I have visited Panamá since childhood, so what you are saying is not real, talking about health care, Costa Rica has the best in Latín América.

[@rotorairgroup8409]

@@vivianballestero7615 Panama has one hospital in the top ten rank in Latin America. Costa Ricans think that the Rest of the world is like Nicaragua

[@MelissaCarson-j1d]

Great content! Please explore other regiones of Panamá. Lots of infrastructure. Valle de Anton, East & West side of Azuero Penninsula for beaches, Santa Fe, Chiriqui beaches & Boquete, Volcan, & Bocas del Toro. All real estate related. There is way more if you are surfing, fishing, hiking, horse back riding, ranching, white water, etc.

[@living_in_latam]

I plan to and will explain and compare more down the road.

[@rocharocha8199]

Escazú, Santa Ana, Curridabat, Nunciatura, Heredia Atenas, Grecia, San Ramón, Turrialba are places that should be explored in Costa Rica.

[@living_in_latam]

Yes I plan to explore more and do more comparisons.

[@lauralane4316]

I'm 65 and from Canada and live primarily in the Grecia and San Ramon surrounding areas when I'm there only because that is where my Costa Rican boyfriend (in his 50's) lives. It is central i.e. not near any water, and there is nothing appealing about those 2 areas unless you love passing by car repair shop after car repair shop etc for kilometers. I'm interested in knowing why in the world you would recommend that tourists go to most of the areas/towns you mentioned?!?

[@GLPEnglish]

Very well laid out video. Well done Jesse

[@living_in_latam]

Thank you!

[@mkoschara]

I live in Costa Rica and have to say that I've not experienced many of the things that you outlined here in this video. For example, it's possible to buy a car entirely with a credit card. As for roads/electricity/internet/etc., the Central Valley is incredibly modern - you would have done much better living in Escazu- but now you're in Panama City. Disfruta!

[@living_in_latam]

Like I said starting this video, I still really do Like Costa Rica. The Central Valley is very different then the Coastal area. The coastal cities are much more rural. If your wanting to buy a brand new car, yes you can buy with a credit card. But if your coming on a budget then you may want to buy a used car.

[@dsmp_17]

​@@living_in_latamBut you are comparing the reality of the coastal areas of Costa Rica with the capital of Panama, that is somewhat unfair and you are leaving Costa Rica as an underdeveloped area when it is not.

[@angeljoelcruz5250]

​@@dsmp_17pero si coata rica es sub desarrollo no se q desarrollo tiene

[@dsmp_17]

@@angeljoelcruz5250 si quieres ver una zona subdesarrollada ve a la Chorrera, San Miguelito (así está el 60% de Panamá)

[@dsmp_17]

@@angeljoelcruz5250 IDH-D (índice de desarrollo humano real según el PNUD) Esperanza de vida de 81 años, la sanidad número 36 del mundo, el mejor país del mundo para el retiro, el país más innovador de Centroamérica, las mejores universidades del área, el país con mayor bienestar social de CA. Podría seguir todo el día

[@CindyRutnik-xv2hk]

Hi. What do you think about beach front villa rental investment in Panama? Is the return there? Are you able to meet up this week in Panama? Thanks. Hope to hear from you

[@living_in_latam]

Hi Cindy, I actually just left Panama. I know of two agents that I trust, That work on the different beaches. Do you happen to know which beaches your looking at?

[@CindyRutnik-xv2hk]

Playa Coronado/Caracol Was wondering if investing in vacation rentals are worth it.

[@living_in_latam]

I would say yes. Coronado is where you will find a lot of older expats. Mainly a retiree community. There is a new development there, but it's inland. I believe you want the beach, there is beach, but most of the beach in Coronado is either a Condo or stand alone homes. All built 10 or more years ago. Playa Caracol is new. Not super expensive and has a ton of options behind it. Depending if your wanting a pre-construction for 3 years from now or right now. Lots of options. The developer also has a great track record. Caracol just delivered their flagship Surfside hotel, which comes with amenities and they are building a village with everything that you will need so you don't need to go into the city.

[@dovygoodguy1296]

Is there better recycling and less trash pollution in Medellin or even Pereira?

[@living_in_latam]

Yes there is in Medellin.

[@hhabty4571]

Hi Jesse, great content, loving the channel, please keep the content coming, thank you! I saw some of your ocean reef condo videos, top notch talent!

[@living_in_latam]

Thank you, a lot more coming soon.

[@MarcelaR-dh1ok]

You are discussing funding via an ATM. I quickly purchased a condo in Rohrmoser, and a Toyota Land Cruiser wo problem. I merely went to the American Express office in San Jose and received AmEx traveler's checks in 1000$ denominations....

[@living_in_latam]

Yes But San Jose is a 4 Hour Drive away. I'm talking coastal Costa Rica

[@reinadelmar11]

Hi. Very useful but you seem to be comparing Tamarindo, a smallish beach community to a major city. I am sure that Panama City is more up to date and convenient than San Jose but what about if you are living out in the countryside or a beach town in Panama? Do you feel that the power grid, roads, prices etc are as good in the countryside as the city? Sad about the litter and lack of environmental awareness. Same here in Cleveland.

[@living_in_latam]

watch this: kzbin.info/www/bejne/opLVpIaOfrSri9E

[@living_in_latam]

As an expat, I was comparing the areas an expat goes, as San Jose the capital city of Panama hasn't been a very popular expat destination. Not compared to Tamarindo.

[@kb1916]

I appreciate your honest opinions. This is very informative and supports other information I have found about both countries. It seems like Costa Rica is kind of overblown. How would you compare your feeling about crime in both countries? I have been to Belize and Mexico (Mexico many times) and would like to check out Panama. I no longer feel safe in Mexico.

[@living_in_latam]

There is a ton of people that are worried about crime and safety down here. But when was the last time you heard about a Canadian or American issue? Back home I would hear about a homicide or a robbery daily. Never hear about it here. I rarely hear of Home invasions in both places. Because you are more aware you just stick to your places like you do wherever you are from.

[@jasonl9266]

I want to set up an airbn b business . What are your thoughts about that ?

[@living_in_latam]

It depends where. That's a very vague statement. Costa Rica? Panama? There are different rules in different areas. Can you please give a bit more detail?

[@MelissaCarson-j1d]

Get out of Panamá City! There are many Panamas ! People are very friendly. Airport in David as well as the capital. Small airports all over!

[@living_in_latam]

yes lots of Airports throughout Panama. Small. Panama Air from Albrook flies to Pedasi, David, Bocas and Boquete.

[@michaelblake4997]

I'm looking for a more rural setting. Any thoughts?

[@living_in_latam]

where are you thinking? Have you looked at Boquete?

[@RDBean]

@michael, non tourist area? Try Cocle provence, low crime, nice people

[@RDBean]

@michael, not rain forest, a bit drier, low mountains, decent beaches

[@hermitcard4494]

Visit Chiriquí province, highlands: Boquete(many foreigners living there), mountains, nature, cool weather, close to the highest point in Panamá, mamy bilingual locals, most bilingual business, close to Bocas del Toro. Also Volcán and Cerro Punta which is on the other side of the volcano is another new tourist area and also the farm land of the country. Also they're close to Costa Rica.

[@hermitcard4494]

Also Boquete and Volcan are close to thermal ponds.

[@luzmariabatista979]

Creo que la comparacion no es acertada, lo seria si fuera entre ciudades, pero, estás comparando un pueblo de playa de Costa Rica vs la ciudad de Panamá. Panamá tambien tiene buenos pueblos playeros y está a unas 2 horas en carro de las playas. Saludos!

[@living_in_latam]

Sí, ese ha sido un comentario similar al anterior, así que creé otros videos para responder esto: Comparando las dos capitales: kzbin.info/www/bejne/opLVpIaOfrSri9Esi=j9-pwZ_bWWmHdcKl Comparación de pueblos costeros populares kzbin.info/www/bejne/qmLQZHmIo9aHhqssi=kxteR2VZpAVqWhdb

[@fgafootball]

How about language? Is English commonly understood or spoken in Panama?

[@living_in_latam]

Commonly no. Your in Latin America, so obviously Español is the main language. But you can get by in certain neighbourhoods.

[@OctavioDeLeon-fi8dj]

San Blas, Panama has the best beaches in Latin America. 3 hrs.from Panama City and Taboga Island, 2p min. ferry ride from Panama City

[@living_in_latam]

Have you been to Bocas Del Toro, Santa Catalina or Venao. I like the Pearl Islands too.

[@kellingtonlink956]

Impressive insights. Thanks for the video.

[@living_in_latam]

your very welcome

[@georgemelcher]

Good morning, have a question for you, where do compare Bocas to ,Joco, Quepos, or Manual Antonio, ? moving to bocas in November, hopefully Basmatiso ,sorry for spelling, early here. Thanks for getting back.

[@living_in_latam]

Do you mean how do you compare Bocas to Jaco, Quepos or Manuel Antonio? Well I couldn't compare: 1. Jaco to any of those. Jaco is the biggest city on the west coast of Costa Rica. 2. Bocas is developed where as Manuel Antonio is kept more rural with tons of wildlife. But they are all in the same part of the world only a few hundred kms away from each other, so very similar in a way. More surf in Bocas as it's on the carribean side.

[@scubamarilu]

I'm panamanian, I lived in Playas del Coco for a month, I loved it, people are so friendly, but cost of living is way too high compare to Panama.

[@living_in_latam]

It is. I just spent a month in CR. It hit the pocket book if your not making colones.

[@georgemelcher]

Look I lived in Quepous for a year and a half, great time great people, moving to Bocas del toro real soon, have did so much research, can't wait to and meet Panamanian people, I'm gringo, don't wan to me Grigos, Moving to learn, and embrace another culture. And to learn to speak Spanish. People seem awesome. God willing, it works out.

[@living_in_latam]

Bocas has a lot of tourists. But Amazing and a lot of fun. If your wanting to meet more locals coastal, further away from the City centre in Bocas, and if your wanting to go to Bocas for the surf and Culture, there isn't much like it but past Venao on the other side has a lot of that.

[@mariagonzales2833]

Què esperas venir a vivir pronto?😀😁

[@fabriziochavarria9793]

I believe the comparison isn't entirely fair, as Tamarindo is a small rural beach town, while Panama City is a large urban area. However, other points mentioned are valid, such as the high cost of food and housing, etc. I believe a fair comparison is tamarindo vs Bocas del Toro or similar size town

[@living_in_latam]

Since the release of this video 2 months ago I went to bocas del toro and Tamarindo again to shoot a comparison on those. Here is a comparison of the 2 capital cities, city to city: kzbin.info/www/bejne/opLVpIaOfrSri9Esi=yEYDGFkQ16QKU1j1

[@living_in_latam]

Here is the comparison of bocas and Tamarindo kzbin.info/www/bejne/qmLQZHmIo9aHhqssi=60ojeFPax93kPXol

[@user-on6uf6om7s]

I have only vacationed in Panama but it's hard for me to imagine why anyone would choose Panama City. It's pretty dilapidated in a lot of spots, it's got the heat and the humidity (which Panama has in general but it's far from the best area for that), and it's the only place in the country where the people weren't friendly. I get that it's convenient but it just has none of what makes Panama appealing to me.

[@living_in_latam]

True. Just some enjoy city life vs. Living with beach or jungle vibes.

[@gordondalrymple7644]

$800 a month is good for San Francisco , I pay a bit less for a 2 bedroom build 15 years ago

[@living_in_latam]

yeah it was a good deal. Probably more expensive now,

[@living_in_latam]

Let me re-clarify some things for the Costa Rican people: 1. This video is simply to compare the areas where most expats or foreigners go in Costa Rica. (Guanacaste) - A small country has the same rules across the board. It wasn't meant to compare a beach town to a major city. 2. I bought the car in San Jose, because it was the cheapest I could find. So the Banking issues, wire transfers, and visa issues all happened in San Jose. Not Tamarindo. But I will be creating more content comparing the best with the best , in my opinion. To help foreigners decide on a place that they would like to relocate to. Hope this helps.

[@yvesdorleans1873]

If I wanted a beachfront home 3 bedroom, 2 bathrooms costs rica or Panama?

[@living_in_latam]

That's very vague. That's like me asking you, Malibu, California vs. Bend, Oregon. Could you give me some more details? Location? New build? Older build?

[@mozisgoingplaces]

Although I agree on certain things, like the banking issues, the problem is that you are comparing a small city in Costa Rica, to the capital of Panama. It is not a fair comparison. For instance, the infrastructure of the internet or electric grid is not the same in San Jose or Escazu compared to Tamarindo, a costal small town for tourism.

[@living_in_latam]

I'm guessing you haven't been to my channel. Or went to the top where the comment is pinned with a follow up video. kzbin.info/www/bejne/opLVpIaOfrSri9E

[@thaniamoore7353]

I miss read your earlier reply and misinterpreted your message, sorry 😅I've out in my glasses now. To answer your question, the coasts of Colón are amazing, and I'd never had any issues with connection living there. Also Veraguas, Azuero and Chiriquí apart from the obvious Bocas. In the istmus, but the archipielagos are just dreamy.

[@living_in_latam]

totally. And no worries. Thank you for your suggestions.

[@barcoavenusnovela4936]

Cuál es el estilo literario de la novela Barco a Venus?

[@living_in_latam]

No estoy seguro que es

[@JORGEGOMEZ-pd3me]

YOU CAN GO TO TABOGA ISLAND,SABOGA,CONTADORA¡¡¡¡¡

[@living_in_latam]

Yes you can. Love the pearl islands.

[@mikkybee10]

Can you do a comparison with Mexico?

[@living_in_latam]

Coming soon. Working on other content for Mexico as we speak.

[@Gbar911]

It is not a fair comparison to talk about a remote town in Costa Rica versus the capital city of Panama.

[@living_in_latam]

Would you prefer I talk about San Jose, Costa Rica? The goal of the video is to share my experience as a Canadian moving down here. Most Canadians will go to Tamarindo, Nosara, or Santa Teresa before they go to San Jose. Hence the comparison.

[@rocharocha8199]

You can talk about little towns like Atenas, Grecia, San Ramon, Perez Zeledon

[@PlayfulInsights]

It's accurate. Doesn't matter if you're in the capital of CR. I'm waaay down south and he's nailing it. Ha, and I'm moving to Panama City in 4 weeks-well for me, I'm done with being solo on a mountain in the jungle. 3 years was all that was needed. Ready to get back to civilization, yet not going back to the US...ever. So the journey continues!

[@tracyjohnson4139]

Panama has some of the latest cars on the road

[@paolowright6420]

Things you say about Panama relate to our Capital! However, "your" Costa Rica was not the Gran Area Metropolitana of Costa Rica, but out of the way Tamarindo!

[@living_in_latam]

The goal of the video was to share where North Americans would travel to. Not many go to San Jose and stay there.

[@crisremr6894]

​@@living_in_latama lot of North Americans move an live in Escazú, Santa Ana, Heredia or Curridabat too, thinking people just go to live in coastal areas is a bit misleading more if we're talking about a diverse city as San José

[@sandybrown7730]

1. It's not fair to compare Tamarindo to Panama City. (One is a surf village, another is a major metro hub) 2. Most of your money/car/housing problems could be solved. For example, 10 min ago, I withdrew $1k USD cash at Tama's Automercado and paid $3 in fees for it. Did it for years - not a single time had a problem. But, I do agree about food (variety and taste!), housing costs, infastructure (though, it has improved in Tama dramatically) and business culture: Panama wins - no contest!

[@living_in_latam]

before you comment, please go to the top of the comments. This video is pinned to the top as a follow up. kzbin.info/www/bejne/opLVpIaOfrSri9E

[@miroslavamillerwaite3228]

Panamá Is a Paradise very beautiful AND quite.god.

[@living_in_latam]

Both are amazing

[@orlandomexodus]

Do you were able to open a Bank account in Panama with out being a resident?

[@living_in_latam]

Yes I did. I had to show a year lease and show that I was invested in the country. ( Staying there)

[@pedrowilliamsolorzanoarena4167]

Las playas en Panamá son mucho mejores que las de Costa Rica, y las he recorrido todas el señor debe recorrer las playas en Panamá y puedes ir a una playa en Pacífico y el mismo día a una en el Atlántico.

[@living_in_latam]

He estado en muchas playas en Panamá y Costa Rica. Yo diría que ambos países tienen países realmente buenos. Santa Teresa por ejemplo en CR. Crearé contenido nuevo comparando muchas de esas playas para mostrárselas a la gente. Gracias por tu mensaje.

[@rotorairgroup8409]

Finally someone say it like it is.

[@living_in_latam]

lol thanks

[@rocharocha8199]

Costa Rica is not perfect. You sound as if Panama were perfect

[@living_in_latam]

@@rocharocha8199 no where is perfect. Some Places you call home, still aren’t perfect. There will always be flaws. Panama for me, as I said In the video is good for me.

[@rotorairgroup8409]

The difference is huge. Perfection doesn't exist but Panama is in a different level. Has strong advantages in safety and being a financial hub it's easier to do business, taxes are very low, has flexible immigration laws etc. ​@rocharocha8199

[@ThePHCHIEF]

$12 to the airport at Albrook $35 to $40 to the main Tocumen airport

[@living_in_latam]

Depends on Timing. Early morning (5am, no traffic) yes $12 to albrook. Can be as low as $18 now. But ideally $23 or so. With Traffic yes $35 at the highest I've seen it.

[@wesgraham2262]

So many vloggers hype up Costa Rica by describing it as a tropical surfing paradise, and the gullible guppies flock down there to experience the truth and slink back home disappointed at the reality of it as you described, so thanks for keeping it real so more people aren’t misled about life in Costa Rica. There are much better places to go!

[@living_in_latam]

I'm all about being real. Thank you for tuning in.

[@crisremr6894]

Those are facts about coastal areas not where most of the ticos live, because in the main cities and in the GAM the quality of life is the same or even better than the one of Panamá city. This guy is comparing a poor coastal or rural area to a major city, supper unfair that's like comparing bocas del Toro island in Panama to San José m, Heredia or Escazú in CR

[@robertochu5337]

when it comes to cars in panama everyone have a car and is a must to, cars have same prices as american cars basically, we do not have this high fees for cars as costa rica does, when it comes to the beach yea we do not use the beach of the city yet, its been clean because of bad infrastructure in the past which all the waste was going into the water from paitilla, if you drive to flamenco you can use that beach which is 5 min from cinta costera and all other beaches are clean as well

[@living_in_latam]

Wasn't the waste going into the water in the are between San Francisco & Punta Pacifica? Yes the beach isn't far, I plan to do more videos explaining where the beaches are in Panama to line up to this video. It's just the first. Thank you for commenting

[@living_in_latam]

In the city I know a lot of expats that don't have cars. They use Ubers, or professional transport. Plus there is the new Metro line that isn't far off as well. So transport is getting there.

[@living_in_latam]

What questions do you have about either Costa Rica or Panama?

[@12567NoYouCannot]

That was too much Rent in Costa Rica, I don't know WHY people even Go there.

[@rocharocha8199]

Panama is also expensive

[@khayeelwilson-el5370]

I’m retired on SS. Would you suggest renting or buying first when moving to Panama? Is there a similar process to purchase property there like it is in the U.S.?

[@marccoulombe2874]

After watching this video I'm second guessing moving from Canada to Costa Rica. My wife has health issues which require certain and somewhat costly medication. Guess I'll have to do some research on Panama.

[@living_in_latam]

A better hospital situation and a lot more i find are retiring there.

[@venturebeats7224]

$1100 - $1300 is way too expensive there are places WAY cheaper in America.....I guess your getting more for your money but still that is NOT cheap

[@living_in_latam]

yeah exactly.

[@charliemr8889]

Dude you have the best beaches in the region in panama, go to san blas ,go to bocas del toro, playa venao,isla secas great road network to most places

[@living_in_latam]

I plan to do other videos comparing beach towns and comparing the cities.

[@miroslavamillerwaite3228]

Thank you for.think un muy Country..god bless.

[@living_in_latam]

Thank you too

[@gif24gt60]

Heard electricity in panama city will knock ur socks off with the AC😮

[@living_in_latam]

It's not that bad, but it's like that everywhere.

[@MarcelaR-dh1ok]

Bingo...Well done. As an old former navy officer, I've been living in LatAm since the 80s. First Arrived CR in 1991, and LOVED it. I'd been to over 40 countries but CR was something else. The climate in the Central Valley, the people, the incredible COL, and San Jose streets were nearly deserted as the boomers had yet to arrive in numbers.... Moved the family to Rohrmoser where 3 ex-CR presidents lived. Purchased a furnished 2-story townhouse...52,000$ By 2008 the US had started printing dollars and the COL in CR was climbing. By 2011 expats were obligated to participate in the caja...the national health system where some of the doctors had been convicted for ..... .......... The CR gov would just pick a number such as 500$ a month and you, the expat, had no recourse for something you had no intention of using. That of course was the idea...just another method to take from the expat. Along with when selling your property and wiring funds back home to the US....CR takes a 15% tax. Another expat tax is on luxury homes. There is a high arsenic content in the tap water.....some have turned green due to that water and worse. Journalistic Integrity....google Parmenio Medina...he told the truth and paid the price. Annual vehicle inspection...colonoscopy is more pleasant... The local attorneys have a nasty habit of retitling property etc, etc... Moved south in 2011, but I still love the CR and that era.

[@living_in_latam]

well said!

[@AdamNicholson-u4t]

Since you've left there are more paved roads, more gyms, the same amount of power outages and more expensive rent!

[@living_in_latam]

lolo and more expensive rent.

[@georgemelcher]

Thank you

[@living_in_latam]

your very welcome

[@marley5874]

From Pañama City to the airport is $30 the last time I flew 4 years ago. And you can withdraw $500 a day from ATM. So not 100% accurate.

[@guillermogouldburn763]

The metro goes all the way to the airport for jut 80 cents.

[@living_in_latam]

But this was 4 years ago, no? Things have changed a bit. I literally caught an Uber from Punta Pacifica to the airport for $12 USD 3 weeks ago.

[@living_in_latam]

Also Canadian banks only allow a min withdraw limit. If I use my Banistmo I can withdraw $500. But the base of the video is people who don't have banks here yet.

[@living_in_latam]

Yeah And it's great.

[@dougscott188]

A taxi will be $30 but I was in Panama in March and it is $12-13 to Tocumen from financial district. Uber is your friend. I never pay more than $15 to the airport.

[@arkyfer197]

Panama 🇵🇦

[@maletu]

Comparing a village to a capital city.... hmmm.

[@living_in_latam]

How does San Jose compare to Panama City, When it comes to expats moving from North America?

[@RicardoFeng-d7p]

🇵🇦 panama is my country

[@Java62PR]

Costa Rica was affordable ....20 years ago...then they started milking tourist for everything....you even have to pay to LEAVE !!! Tamagringo food prices are not any cheaper than Miami..... the ride from Liberia , wow , what a mess ..... but i was smart ...i took a free ride in exchange for a 'Vacation Club " presentation..... we were held hostage for 8 hours ...my wife wanted to kill me ....then they told us the price .....$98,000 !!! by the time we left it was $8,800...... our friends had their home completely emptied twice when they left for a extended period of time in Tamarindo...... like movers came and took Everything ! we will try Panama for two months in September ...hopefully it will be a great experience .

[@living_in_latam]

the ride from Liberia, Yeah that is sky high at times.

[@edwarmartinez9614]

Todos los extranjeros son bienvenidos acá en Panamá, también Respetamos la privacidad de las personas extranjeras, porque sabemos que tienen otra cultura diferente a la nuestra y sabemos que si se mudan a nuestro pais es para viver en tranquilidad, bienvenidos. A Panamá ,un país capitalista y democrático.

[@living_in_latam]

muchas gracias por tu comentario

[@PrettyGoodLookin]

Rent is not that high in Panama.

[@living_in_latam]

Not compared to the US, no. But the rest of the countries in Central America, it can be high.

[@luismiranda8401]

best banking in the area, please, hun this is the biggest banking area in the world or at least was in one time and still in top 3 so yea is a big deal.

[@living_in_latam]

are you referring to Panama or Costa Rica? In Latin America, Panama is. Globally there are a lot in front of it.

[@OctavioDeLeon-fi8dj]

Panama, has better restaurants than Costa Rica and soohisticated health centers. 100 years of a USA presence in Panama

[@aeris4393]

Costa Rica to Panama. Seems like a no Brainer bro

[@living_in_latam]

depending on what your looking for. If your looking for a city then yes. If you want the rural adventure, Costa Rica is good.

[@rocharocha8199]

You have Escazú, Santa Ana, Curridabat, Heredia for the city

[@gordondalrymple7644]

I live in the country in oregon, when it rains it doesn’t pour, I’m not wealthy bc I’m a gringo and have a 15 yo Toyota cost $6k , raised my kids at the school up the street, 40 acre park a block away Your interpreters ripped you off . I don’t use a credit card; if I can’t afford it? Then I don’t need it !

[@living_in_latam]

yes but different people different reactions. I've never spent beyond my means.

[@Noobofthehq]

8:05 in panama there is beach if u travel to "coclé"

[@living_in_latam]

True. But Cocle Province could be a 3-5 Hour Drive. Playa Caracol/Chame is 45 Mins on a good day.

[@JORGEGOMEZ-pd3me]

HERE IN CHIRIQUI EXOST MANY BEAUTIFUL ISLAND AND BEACHES,RIVERS,WATERFALLS,FRESH WEATHER IN BOQUETE AT NOON MAYBE 26 TO 24 IN RAIN SEASON 20 OR 17 IN THE NIGHT 15 IN SOME OCCASIONS 8 DEGREES AND ITS 1,500 FEETS BUT IN VOLCAN THE OTHER SIDE OF BARU VOLCANO VOLCAN IS 1,700 FEETS AND CERRO PUNTA 2,400FEETS SOMETIMES WHEN IS RAINING IS 7 DEGREES.THERE ARE A LOT OF HOSPITALS,AIRPORT IN DAVID CITY SOME SHOPPINGS ,GOOD TTRANSPORT TOO.WE HAVE BEACHES AND MOUNTAINS BRO .CONTINENTAL BEACHES AND ISLAND WITH WHITE SAND,YELLOW SAND ,GRAY TOO¡¡¡ IF YOU HAVE A LITTLE TIME TAKE THE AIRPLANE TO PANAMA CITY TO HERE AROUND A 50 MINUTOS ONLY PAY 64.00$ A ITHINK TO ROUND TRIP ¡¡¡¡

[@edwardmacnab354]

you were paying gringo prices in costa rica--you needed a local middleman friend to deal with locals

[@living_in_latam]

I have many Costa Rican Amigos and theses were just the going rates

[@rocharocha8199]

There are better prices in Atenas, Grecia, San Ramon, zona de low santos, Escazú, Santa Ana

[@OBDPVCR]

I think you're literally comparing apples to oranges. San Jose is a comparative city, Tamarindo is a touristy beach town.

[@living_in_latam]

But when I am comparing apples to oranges. Where do the people from Canada or the US go to? They don't go to San Jose, unless the flight goes there, then the drive to the coast. This is the reason for the comparison. When your coming to Costa Rica, where do North Americans go. 95% of the time it's not San Jose.

[@vmoses1979]

​@@living_in_latamYep. You would think the CR government would invest more in places where rich foreigners go. But I think.the bigger problem is the ripoff culture and the fact that prices have no bearing in reality given incomes in the country.

[@living_in_latam]

@@vmoses1979 yes i don't disagree with this. Incomes need to expand and grow. I have a lot of Costa Rican friends. I know this.

[@vivianballestero7615]

Thousands have moved in, and are happy, so... it is incredible to hear your declaration, you moved out of Costa Rica, you have the power to decide, but please don't even return for vacation, you are not welcome. You talked in such a high tone against a country, I think you should not be received any more , migration should take not. Keep out.

[@Joyfux]

Yep Costa Rica is a ripoff. I left there after five years. Such a shame.

[@emudojo]

Guanacaste is like literally living in an alternate dimension tgh, cartago, Heredia, Alajuela Even San José are far different, yet Panama outside of Panama city of often underdeveloped ugly or lacking (infraestructure, services, etc), Costa Rica is more consistent regarding city development between provinces

[@living_in_latam]

yes agreed. I'm actually creating a video comparing the cities. I liked San Jose after staying there for a week.

[@angeljoelcruz5250]

No se q infraestructura fea o carente porq si hablamos de eos costa rica esta peor y ni hablar q su sistema de transporte es pesimos y atrasado asi q panama en infraestructura esta muy adelante y modernizado q tu pueblo 😊

[@emudojo]

Vivo en costa Rica, pero soy panameño , conozco bastante bien ambas caras de la moneda, en Panamá hay muchísimo dinero para infraestructura, pero sinceramente la cultura del cambio había la modernidad e higiene urbana está atrás

[@angeljoelcruz5250]

@@emudojo q va papa yo es ido a costa rica no me dice lo mismo

[@MarkDunn-v9v]

Costa Rica is more stable and has better education.

[@living_in_latam]

says who?

[@ronrg9518]

Tamarindo is a rural town cant compare to an urba city in costarica or urban panama

[@living_in_latam]

This is what your looking for: kzbin.info/www/bejne/opLVpIaOfrSri9E

[@terryashley4674]

I don't need a beach.

[@living_in_latam]

some do some dont.

[@nancydrew604]

Very glad you are keeping people away from CR. Please, by all means, go to Panama to live! It's actually safer, cleaner, with less crime and much more ecologically concerned. Panama water is absolutely polluted with raw sewage. Enjoy! Pura Vida!

[@m.c.2526]

Stop crying! Panamá doesn't have the fault he chose to live there.

[@solotravelerstour]

Actually you should live in your country. Every culture and country is too different and they can't give your history county life. Is other history life

[@living_in_latam]

Every country is unique in it's own way. This is simply an experience to educate others, so they don't have the same issues twice.

[@tacha1954]

Yea boddy just state there 😂

[@diegovenegas6796]

You're comparing very rural small towns with the capital city of a country. So maybe rename this video "Why did I move to Panama City from Tamarindo, CR". Many things you mentioned, don't happen where most people live.

[@living_in_latam]

I am going to create another video comparing two popular beach towns in both countries. The reason for this video is to explain some of the issues I had. When Buying a car or banking. That was in San Jose not Tamarindo

[@mauriciomarchena9111]

Dude, you are comparing Panama City to Tamarindo? For an apples to apples comparison you should compare against San Jose although, Panama would still beat Costa Rica in banking and car prices.

[@living_in_latam]

Dude, I've pinned the comment with a follow up, And replied many many times with this video. kzbin.info/www/bejne/opLVpIaOfrSri9E

[@douglasnewton9143]

I’m sorry that I have a hard time believing what you’re saying, I’ve lived in the Guanacaste for 16 years, the roads now are way better that before. I used my atm card all the time, it’s a RBC card, never had a problem, I can pull out 2k in 400 dollars increment, I wired 50k usd back to Canada it costs me 50 dollars but there is a charge from an intermediate bank which was nominal. The power situation now is way better very rarely goes out where I am. I’ve heard of issues in Tamarindo with ATM machines, you where living in a small beach community and your comparing to a city, NO THE SAME!!!

[@living_in_latam]

I'll compare beach towns to beach towns. Not where expats go vs. where expats go. Last I checked not a lot of expats go to san jose.

The first thing you should mention is that you are comparing downtown Panama city vs rural random town Costa Rica. Also the fact that CR is always striving to be transparent while Panama still is in grey lists around the world for tax evasions, so of course things like money movements are going to be advantaged in PA.

[@living_in_latam]

Most of the good spots of Costa Rica are considered Rural. Potrero, Flamingo, Playa Grande, Tamarindo, Nosara, Santa Teresa, Uvita, I'm not going to compare Jaco or San Jose to Panama City. The reason for this, was I've had a lot of people living in Costa Rica, ask me. Because when your there, you want to know. Yes the Panama papers are there a few years ago. But now it's very strict.

[@freindpanameno1160]

Si hay envidia que no se note.

[@hermitcard4494]

Taxation is theft.

[@eqschuster]

Costa Rica también la tienen en listas grises por paraíso fiscal, así ve 🤡🤡🤡*

[@magdalenagarita3269]

​@@eqschuster Panamá no está en ninguna lista gris averigue.

[@nicoibzschalin-hr4bj]

Holy shit what a bunch of BS. You compair a surf town with a capital. Go live 8n playa venao or sta clarita in panama and see how it feels. 250 is the limit for atm with a 5$ charge each time. Of you want to try Panama, come for 6 months and move around. Cant open a bank account if you arent a resident in panama. RE prices in panama are still over priced and hoping for the second wave of snowbirds, its a dead market and now white beaches on the pacif8c side if you d9nt want to live very rural.

[@living_in_latam]

I compare where expats go. Plain and simple. Not many go to SaN JOSE or San Jose would be the comparison. I've had expats asking me these questions, so I made a video on it.

[@dsmp_17]

¿Estas comparando el centro de ciudad de Panamá con un pueblo rural de Costa Rica? 😂 Y lo mencionas como si todo el país fuera así.

[@living_in_latam]

Nunca mencioné todo el país. La mayoría de los espectadores de mi canal son expatriados. entonces menciono adónde van los expatriados. Además, comprar un automóvil, realizar transferencias bancarias y realizar operaciones bancarias se realizaba en San José.

[@ernestoroldan8786]

Sir, did you did your homework correctly? but you are talking to much in general..I know both countries, Panama is great IN PANAMA CITY..just that area..have you evr been in La Choorrera, David, Boquete...they have serious lectric and water problems, yes great streets in Panama City, but you need to be more carefull trying to compare both countries...please do a better job next time

[@living_in_latam]

the follow up video, city to city: kzbin.info/www/bejne/opLVpIaOfrSri9Esi=IQ4MnQQjfBao6-JC Yes I've been to all that you've mentioned and created videos on them.

[@angeljoelcruz5250]

Costa rica esta peor q panama

[@wesgraham9588]

You do'nt know what your taking about lying

[@living_in_latam]

Lying about what part?

[@sojournern]

After listening to you talk about both of these countries, I completely lost interest in moving there.

[@living_in_latam]

glad you enjoyed it.

[@robertgillies9382]

You are completely right about Panama vs Costa Rica. I have lived in Panama for 25 years. I visited Costa Rica back in the nineties and decides against choosing it as a place to retire. Instead I chose Panama. I live in Chiriqui close to the border with Costa Rica so I can spend time in Costa Rica whenever I wish. I like living in Panama. I even became a Panamanian citizen back in 2013. I am here to stay.

[@robertgillies9382]

You are completely right about Panama vs Costa Rica. I have lived in Panama for 25 years. I visited Costa Rica back in the nineties and decides against choosing it as a place to retire. Instead I chose Panama. I live in Chiriqui close to the border with Costa Rica so I can spend time in Costa Rica whenever I wish. I like living in Panama. I even became a Panamanian citizen back in 2013. I am here to stay.

[@robertgillies9382]

You are completely right about Panama vs Costa Rica. I have lived in Panama for 25 years. I visited Costa Rica back in the nineties and decides against choosing it as a place to retire. Instead I chose Panama. I live in Chiriqui close to the border with Costa Rica so I can spend time in Costa Rica whenever I wish. I like living in Panama. I even became a Panamanian citizen back in 2013. I am here to stay.