Panama Expat Survival Tips Panama has done a great job to establish itself as a favored destination for those who have had enough of the status quo. As an American who has been here for 17 years, I encourage you to check out Panama’s advantages and some of the disadvantages of living in Panama. Panama has taken the stance that 20% discount for retirees is written in stone. This can lead to some substantial savings so don’t be afraid to ask for your discount! Hey, if you want out of the States or whatever your home country, what do you have to lose? Maybe a lot of stress and/or regulation relief? Let’s hit the high points of living in Panama. Overall, life in Panama is less complicated than if you live in America, the EU or other ‘developed’ countries. Panama is more receptive across the board for foreigners than most other, or all, Central American and Latin American countries. And, what I like most, is that nobody will bother you if you play by a few simple rules and lifestyle considerations. Nobody includes your neighbors, the Panamanian government and your current national tax man at home. Nice. Where do you want to settle? Panama City has all the international food, accommodation and flavor. If you like the mountains, complete with coffee and citrus groves, lots of flowers and Pacific beaches, check out Chiriqui province. You want to be part of a Caribbean water culture, Bocas del Toro is the place. You want unexplored forests and a touch of adventure, go to Darien. To lay back and do nothing but snorkel and eat fresh seafood, Kuna Yala (Guna Yala) is calling. Want to be a cowboy or girl? Santiago or Los Santos are perfect. Now to daily living in Panama suggestions. Spanish is the national language and it is a good idea to at least take the time to learn the rudimentaries. It will go a long way towards being accepted by the locals, even if you butcher it but try. ‘Spanglish’ is spoken and you can actually have conversations in English in Panama City, Colon and Bocas del Toro. Do not expect Panama to be like your home country. If you do, why in the world are you here? No one is in a hurry. Despite appearances, Panamanians are basically shy around foreigners and the last empty seat on the bus might be next to you. Demonstrating anger in public is considered stupid . People will cut in line in front of you so you have to learn to give in. Men, going without a shirt in public is frowned upon. Women, you would probably get an award. Shorts and sandals, no problem. The water is drinkable from the faucet, the lights work, and you can have your big screen, HD cable TV and Internet. Sometimes the power goes off, or the water dries up or the Internet is slow. Get used to it and go with the flow. The particular service is usually up and functioning in an hour or so. You can find your favorite junk food in times of need. You may encounter the ‘you are a rich foreigner’ syndrome. And in comparison to the average Panamanian you probably are. Nothing you can do about it but don’t let it be an excuse for locals to bleed you constantly for a dollar or a quarter. We spend actual, real green dollars here. American coins too. Panama mints coin equivalents (no paper bills). Spending your money couldn’t be easier. That really sums up the aforementioned high points. Come to Panama, check it out and see if it is the right place and lifestyle for you and perhaps you may become a Panama Expat as well. Many foreigners have and are still here. Many more come every day. Welcome to the Big P! Published June 7, 2013 | By Dennis Smith
Posted on: Sat, 15 Jun 2013 15:06:48 +0000
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