Great Advice from Expats in Panama

Penny and Jim offer some great advice to anyone thinking about relocating to Panama. Penny originally moved to Panama in 2004. She talks about the big difference between what life was like in Panama in 2004 compared to now. Penny has also lived in Costa Rica, Ecuador, and Mexico but much prefers living in Panama. Jim met Penny in 2012 and they have been together ever since.
Penny and Jim share information about what life is like in Panama. You can be as busy as you want to be because there are so many things to do.
The Online Panama Relocation Guide is neatly organized with all the information you need to know to have a smooth and easy relocation to Panama. It includes information about visa options, the best places to live based on your budget, where to buy health insurance for 40% less, how to get pets into Panama, finding a rental, buying a car, and so much more. The Online Guide teaches you exactly what to do and not do to have the confidence to move to Panama. She more details:
panamarelocationtours.com/guide
Since 2010, Panama Relocation Tours has been helping people relocate to Panama. We've helped 1000s of people realize their dreams of living an affordable, stress-free lifestyle in beautiful Panama.
GET A FREE REPORT about moving to and living in Panama at
panamarelocationtours.com/ret...

[@likeitsgolden26]

I like this couple. Respect for the culture is so important. It is on us, the outsider, to adapt. Not the other way around.

[@parler8698]

Yep. I feel that way when people come to the U.S.

[@bedinabebe4521]

The stress of remodeling seems worth it. Your home is beautifully done. So sweet to see expat couples so loved up.💕

[@nato2panama]

I am originally from Panama and I am happy that you feel so at home in my country. God bless.

[@myaglo3999]

Their home is absolutely stunning!!!

[@Stephanie-007]

What a beautiful home! 😍 Now, let me watch the actual video. Well, what a delightful couple you are! Thank you for sharing your story with us today. Each time I watch one of these Panama relocation videos, I am immediately transported to a place of peace and tranquility that I can’t wait to call home. Thank you, Jackie, for providing an invaluable service to people like me who never thought this kind of paradise was even possible.

[@stevelaminack1516]

I was about to say something similar, great couple but 99% of us are not rich or going to be able buy a beautiful home like that and remodel.

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

There are homes and rentals available in ALL price ranges in Panama. A Panamanian friend just moved in to a nice furnished 2 bedroom for $165 a month.

[@soulfullmystic]

They're so cute and have a beautiful home. God bless.

[@kwtravels9065]

great story what a beautiful home!

[@amazing-osky2052]

Great video. I am glad she is a realist And the fact she has lived in other countries and can compare her experiences and why she decided to return to Panama, so there you have it.

[@dwaynepennel1488]

I wish I could go back to the 50's, even though I was born in the late 60's lol. Guess now I can. Been thinking about the safety of the rural areas. I'd like to buy 20 acres and live away from towns, but all American news shows is violence, so can't get a good picture of what it's like there now.

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

There are a lot of expats in Panama. We would not still be here if violence was a problem. Hint... violence is not a problem.

[@sandrascriver7049]

I can’t wait to move there.

[@donnawoodford6641]

I explored Volcán and Boquete, meeting Penny and Dee near Cascada de San Ramón. Tomorrow I return to Florida to consider what's right for me. One phrase I learned from Maritza at Casa Solution: "Primero, Diós."

[@guillermogouldburn763]

Literal translation is 'God first' but the meaning and closest English equivalent is 'God willing.'

[@julietteisanogle9571]

Great video. Love listening to this couple and it is a very well decorated beautiful home. Absolutely lovely!

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@susanwaterworth5622]

Thank you so much for sharing your experience with us, Penny and Jim; the information you shared is very, very helpful. And Jackie, I am appreciating this new spate of videos so incredibly much. Thank you, thank you!

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Glad it was helpful!

[@deltablue4369]

Really enjoyed Penny and Jim! Wealth of info!!

[@dovygoodguy1296]

Gosh, they've done such an admirable job of adjusting. Amazing. Such nice people.

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

They are super nice people and LOVE living in Panama!

[@pollyanasunshine980]

This was a great interview.

[@knowbodysongwritinggroup]

Such a great couple, interview and overview ... we are so looking forward to visiting and maybe more. :) Artists, James & K

[@Hispandinavian]

I live in La Chorrera. It's my family home town

[@thecoclesano]

Nice people and a beautiful house with spectacular scenery. It must be a nice to wake up very early with a cup of good coffee to see the sunshine on the landscape and what to say about the sunsets

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Panama is full of so many places where the views are incredible for that morning coffee! They are both the nicest people you'll ever meet!

[@flynnsgranny]

I hope Bouqette stays fast food free!!!

[@billhennessey6374]

Very nice couple, indeed. Wonderful insight and suggestions.

[@ADONAIsays-so]

Fantastic video. Living there sounds like rural Italy! Thank you for sharing.

[@justmusic8166]

Do they have average Joe's in Bouquete Panama ,average Joe Americans

[@vickyfaul3160]

I giggled when you said that Panamanian ladies are tiny, but we tick in the city area 🤣. Oh I'm from Panama City but living in Nort Dakota. So Happy you guys love my country, its wonderful!!

[@richarddetrich124]

And Jim makes fantastic rum! Panama Red is over-proof and fantastic. And his Panamonte Rum, named after our historic hotel, is the best I have ever tasted!

[@philharper9782]

Odd that the first couple doesn’t know how to pronounce Boquete.

[@albapugh8837]

What a BEAUTIFUL couple 💝‼️

[@MKMann]

Thank you!

[@randyparton5451]

Wow, beautiful home!

[@mikeparker6821]

I'm seeing lots of changes and people in Boquete compared to when I lived in Panama City during the Noriega years (1987-91) and used to visit when I could. My wife and I are considering a return.

[@franciscusjohannesburger3720]

Great video with good info, thanks !

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Thanks for watching!

[@tracywalker244]

Beautiful couple I was at peace just watching the video 😌

[@likeitsgolden26]

Same here. I would love to meet them. My goal is to retire to Panama

[@nikimcmahon3374]

Very well. Respect for for people culture 💯

[@teresafirestone9382]

Thank you for your advice

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

You're welcome

[@trdriver430]

Great vid. Good luck and blessings

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Thanks 👍 for watching the video

[@veronicafall8626]

Paradise!

[@tonykool5347]

Gracias, really good and wise info

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Glad it was helpful!

[@joann5157]

Lovely couple and great advice! I just said to my husband the other day that I wish we could go back to life as we knew it back in the 1950's. My husband has chronic bronchitis and the air quality there sounds great! Also, I would love to live where it is about 72 degrees year round. Panama sounds like the place for us! Next video........show the doggo!!

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Come see how you can live BETTER for less in Panama. We offer 3 ways to explore Panama but it sounds like a Private Tour would be best. panamarelocationtours.com/private-tours

[@jodiesiegel2388]

Beautiful home and acreage

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

It is one of the most beautiful properties in Boquete!

[@floridaislandgirl1039]

We are not far from Mount Dora!! We are looking to retiring to Boquete.

[@janetengleking1498]

You're home is muy bonito!! (so much for my spanish)

[@jodyjohnsen]

I think I need to check out Boquete. I really want a garden and tropical foods. I don’t need restaurants or retail stores. A library would be nice and maybe a pub. I think I’ll schedule a visit for just a few days.

[@928gto]

Outstanding

[@928gto]

It's about-Time

[@edwardstyrczula9355]

Very informative video, great couple, congratulations on your choice of retirement seems like paradise there, stay healthy & enjoy your golden years.

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Thanks for watching the video

[@n.brasco8928]

Hi amigos you look pretty well settled ......Congrats from London UK

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Thanks so much

[@HumidorVault]

Recently retired, currently living in Las Vegas, NV. My wife and I are planning a trip to Panama in April-May this year. Question is, how was the build quality of the home you built??

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Most homes have excellent build quality. Some do not.

[@victoriaallen8271]

Sold

[@candlesoftheearthbestcandl995]

Hello! You are a beautiful couple with a beautiful home. So happy for you that you can enjoy the rest of your loves together in a beautiful place. Hope I am able to do the same as you and live a long and prosperous life. God Bless

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Thank you so much!

[@rharvey2124]

You should grow some sweet corn. Introduce them to sweet corn.

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

You can buy sweet corn in Panama but it rare to find it for sale.

[@romyenglish]

Nice story and nice house. If you want to adopt me I would love that

[@julioarrieta6295]

Also if you can tell how much is the land go for in your area

[@billhennessey6374]

Excellent couple! I would love to talk to Penny about how she was able to get Panamanian citizenship. I have heard it is really difficult to get even after living in Panama for a long time. I couldn't find Penny in our PRT Facebook group though. 😢

[@billhennessey6374]

@@manuelpinzon9854 , please share how it is easy.

[@greaux4965]

Hello from Oregon! I’m 80% moved in to Boquete. The virus has slowed my progress. Jim, maybe someday we can play a round together. How much are green fees there? Lovely home. Thanks for sharing.

[@biggib2222]

I’m in Eugene Oregon and learning all I can about moving to Boquete. Looks fantastic but lots to clear up here before I can go.

[@reginapolo3357]

Hola paisana!!

[@snakeplisken4278]

Interesting. So what would a 2-3 bedroom house on about 2-5 acres go for in your neighborhood?

[@anneschwichtenberg9620]

I'm very interested in moving to Boquete, I have plans to do a tour this summer. My major concern is I am the caregiver to my 86 year old mother who has Dementia and I don't find anything about healthcare for someone like her. Do they recognize it's an issue? I know Canada doesn't seem to have any solution but, I found in the US, they put her on some meds that postponed it.

[@erikab1501]

Thank your Penny and Jim. Please could you share the information about the insurance that you mentioned in this video that wasn't expensive and covers you anywhere in the world at your age (you still a baby).

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

She bought the health insurance when she lived in Mexico. You cannot buy it from Panama.

[@alrent2992]

@@PanamaRelocationTours the name of insurance company is??

[@joann5157]

Your home and furniture and decor are lovely! Did you ship all of it or purchase in Panama?

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

They bought in Panama

[@sunnybryson4997]

Well done! Very informative, thanks so much! How close do you live to Pete & Sarah?

[@PennyRipple1]

We are about 2 km from Peter and Sarah.

[@31pilot]

Very informative video about expat life in Panama, however, one aspect that was not brought up by these lovely couple, was the finances, i.e. Social Security, how does it get paid?? direct deposit thru a bank in Panama?, and others like savings and other income??

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

you can get your social security deposited into your Panama bank account. Or you can continue getting Social Security deposited into your US bank account then use an ATM machine in Panama to get access to your $

[@danielgagne2912]

I'm also passionate about golf so I would like to know if a membership is affordable. What price ranges are we looking at for unrestricted membership?

[@PennyRipple1]

We have a 9 hole executive course Valle Escondido and a 18 hole course outside of town called Lucero. Contact each for details

[@timbutler3213]

does it ever snow in any of the mountains there?

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

NEVER snows in Panama.

[@tutsecret499]

If somebody wants to travel right now to Panama, what's the requirements either as turist or start living there. Is the country opened right now. Today is 2/28/21.

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Panama is open. You need to present a negative Covid PCR or Antigen test to get in.

[@Strokeslow]

Can you tell us about your experience in applying for (after 5 years residency) Panama citizenship??? Word is if/when you actually get it is somewhat arbitrary. How long did it take you to get your passport after you applied. Any advice along those lines would be appreciated. BTW, your home is exquisite! Congratulations!

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

I will do a separate video about getting citizenship.

[@tutsecret499]

If I rent a home with a big yard. Can I raise animal like chicken, geese. Planting lettuce, tomatoes, avocado?

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

You'd have to ask your landlord. Some will allow it but some will not.

[@PennyRipple1]

Sounds like Italy without the Italians. But lots of Italian food.

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Many Italians live in Panama.

[@sgrew]

@@PanamaRelocationTours yes a lot of Italians also migrated to south and central america early in the 1900"s .

[@danadardenful]

My biggest concern living in Panama is banking…..having access to money from my accounts in the States. Have you transferred your funds to a bank in Panama and which one would you recommend?

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

Panama has excellent banks. Some of the banks have online banking in English and Spanish. You can wire the money from your current account to your Panama bank.

[@johnmartz9686]

I wish I could afford to move there. The USA is not what it use to be. God bless you!!

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

A single person can live well in Panama on less than $1500 a month = all in! Perhaps you can afford to move to Panama.

[@erikab1501]

Nowhere is the same they use to. The world is changing and we it is better to be cautious. This is only one video and with all my respect this couple is not living on the edge.

[@evatomon6455]

What is the name of the village you are in?

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

They live in Boquete.

[@julioarrieta6295]

Thanks nice video how you will compare Costarica security and crime to Panama,last I Check Costarica has a lot of crime

[@panamasarah]

No comparison.. Panama is MUCH safer!!

[@julioarrieta6295]

@@panamasarah gracias I need to check Panama whent things get back to normal,whent I retired in 2018 since I have family in Costarica we spend 2 month there and notice people has not peace because of insecurity and crime even in the country they wory about going any were with out living somebody home and in general I didnot feel safe anywere I vicit

[@tutsecret499]

As retiree. Do I still have to pay income tax? either living in USA or Panama?

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

If you are a US citizen, you have to pay taxes on your worldwide income, including Social Security. But no taxes due in Panama unless you are selling products or services in Panama.

[@tutsecret499]

@@PanamaRelocationTours So, no DOUBLE tax income. Although the income retiree is only one from USA.

[@rappsks]

As a single male a few years from retirement I worry about what if I cant take care of myself in ten or so years like from Alzheimers or Dementia. Do they have health care for old needy people?

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

assisted living and nursing homes are available in Panama though not the standard you would probably prefer. Home health care is also available.

[@PennyRipple1]

In Panama the elderly are cared for by family. Institutional care is not common. However, when I wanted to bring my mom here I had no problem finding a caregiver to live in and take care of her. In home care is what you will likely have.

[@reginapolo3357]

Orlando is sinking anyways....like...literally. 🙁

[@venusreena2532]

isnt Gringo derogatory?

[@PanamaRelocationTours]

no gringo is not derogatory.