HereForLife
American expat in Panama
Forum posts
59
Contacts
3
About me
American
Lives in Boquete
Registration: 04 September 2015
The jobs that are the most in-demand for expats in Panama by Priscilla
Hello, We invite you to share some information regarding the job market for expats in Panama. This information will be incredibly helpful to anyone considering moving there, so we're very grateful for your contribution. What are the types of ...
Any experience that is not readily available from a Panamanian citizen. That answer is assuming one wants a “job” as in work for a company located or owned by a Panamanian owned company. Good luck - that will be hard to find! However, ... Read More
denouncia - my ex-lanlord called the immigration by dennis82
Hello, i have a question, my ex-landlord kicked me out i was late with my rent. She said she calls immigration so i cant leave, i dispute that. Is there a way for her to just stop me from going home? I'm on a tourist visa in ...
I think this did get off topic but have to agree with the living in Puerto Armuelles point of view. We were looking for a place to buy and went there around 10 years ago and have been back a couple of times maybe 5 years ago was the last time. It ... Read More
The best apps for expats in Panama
Agree with the above. But I will add something that was really non-existent when we we looking all over the country before settling in Chiriquí. WAZE - I can’t believe how far the info via GPS has come. Now I am going back a few years ... Read More
Suggestions on cost of living and optimal salary by arjuarico
Hello, I'm mexican and I have a proposal for working in Panama buy I would like to hear how is the cost of life and which is more or less the optimal salary. Thank you
I have to always use what I believe is the start of leaving the country where you are a citizen. If cost of living (aka cheaper to live here ) is your #1 reason, then forget it! Perhaps I am not as gracious or politically correct as some of the ... Read More
One bedroom
Hola, Where are you located now? Have you been to Panama? Do you know how diverse this small country is? Why $275? If wherever you are now is what you are paying, maybe it’s s better just to stay there? Just something to consider. Best Wishes Read More
Warning-real estate in Panama is not what it seems by WarningToAll
We purchased a condo, pre construction, from what we were told to be a reputable and a premium developer [Moderated] of Panama City, Republic of Panama in October of 2006. The project was named Oceanaire, and was supposedly the best amongst the ...
Thx - good to know. As I said, wasn’t trying to discredit anyone, just our experience several years ago. Hey - I am with you now - we could use a change but Panama is home! Read More
Warning-real estate in Panama is not what it seems by WarningToAll
We purchased a condo, pre construction, from what we were told to be a reputable and a premium developer [Moderated] of Panama City, Republic of Panama in October of 2006. The project was named Oceanaire, and was supposedly the best amongst the ...
Hi to All, Occasionally I will give my own opinion/experience. I have briefly read through the posts. When we started looking to move to Panama, over 10 years ago, is where I will explain it in my words. I called it “vapor photos” now ... Read More
Want to talk to retired expats. by paulglickman
Thinking of relocating and dumping the Trump. You can read all my personal information in my profile so I won't repeat it here. Just want to get a sense of what retired life is like from someone who's living it. I speak Spanish at a C+ ...
Hi Paul, Welcome should you chose to make the leap! We have been here long enough that many left due to Bush, then Obama, and now Trump. I have to admit this is different this time but stick to the principle that it shouldn’t be your primary ... Read More
just arrived in David by Candi B
Apparently I did not plan as well as I thought I did. So I'm at a hotel where there's no English TV at all. I was hoping for at least closed caption and so I could read it in English but. Would like to meet up with some expats!!
Hi Candi, Do you plan on spending time in other parts of Panama? David is what I would consider a starting/landing city. You are not going to find a centralized ex-pat community to the best of my knowledge. Finding a hotel with English TV? There ... Read More
Furniture shops by Elaine Firman
We are moving to the Boquete area next year and would like to know if there are any good modern furniture shops nearby. We want to buy a new modern but comfy settee. Thank you
Welcome to Panama! IMHO, finding furniture here is " hit or miss". Since you are asking for a very specific item, you may find yourself waiting until you find what you want. That is how I am slowly getting the right pieces for my home. ... Read More
Are you happy in Panama? by Priscilla
Hello everyone! According to the 2016 UN World Happiness Survey, Denmark, Switzerland and Iceland are the happiest countries on earth. How about you? Are you happy in Panama? Do you feel happier today in your host country than before in your ...
First, I have not read all the replies thus I am only replying to the title of the topic. Not an original but not sure who said this: "Most people are about as happy as they make up their minds to be". In other words, geographical ... Read More
Jobs for expats in Panama by massimo70
Hi there, I'm interested in relocating in Panama, currently living in Europe. I'm not retired, therefore need to support myself. I'm wondering what jobs are available for an expat with work permit. Thx
Hi massimo, Unless you have a unique skill that cannot be fillled by a Panamanian citizen, it will probably be difficult to find employment here. Having said that, here are my assumptions based on your question: 1. You haven't tried to get a ... Read More
Thinking of moving to Panama (Playa Bonita area) by jms1
My husband and I (a gay couple) are considering an early retirement in Panama (or Cartegena). We will be in Panama in February 2017 and would like advice on the pros and cons as well as the opportunity to meet other expats while we are visiting to ...
Woah slow down Triffic! We have been around a few years and yes the "honeymooon" phase is over. Where ever one chooses to live, it's all about your attitude. Some enjoy the ride not the destination. Others wouldn't be happy ... Read More
Changing banks in Panamá by Do65
Hello all I thought I found a good bank which is the Credicorp bank but that was a very wrong thought. It's reliable yes and they won't steal yr money but the service is terrible and since I am having a house built and the money transfers ...
We are happy clients of Banco General. Read More
what Chitre is like? by Rod L
Would like to know what Chitre is like if there are any expats on this site that live there, what is the climate like what are the beaches like what is Chitre like in general good and the bad please!
Hi Rod, It has been a while, probably around 2007, but my husband and I went on a "country-wide" search to find where we wanted to live full time. We went on an adventure down the coast from Santiago to Pedasi, then finally to the tip of ... Read More
Keeping up with the news in Panama by Priscilla
Hello everyone, Living in Panama provides countless occasions to browse local newspapers, listen to local radio stations or watch local TV shows. As everywhere else in the world, local media play a key role in informing the public. What are ...
Well - the news stinks. Just use it as an opportunity- I do. Read More
Pensionado Visa - worth it? by bwadetx
My husband and I will be moving to Panama this fall. Is spending the $3200 for our Pensionado Visas worth it? Do you really save that much money with discounts offered? I'd love to hear from those who have the visa and from those who chose not ...
Not saying I don't agree, I do. However some of us, the honeymoon phase didn't hit until year 4 or so. That being said, yeah many things are not at all what I expected but I cannot even think about living in the US again. So honeymoon is ... Read More
looking for a call center company by Annj Herrera
Hi guys.. I am looking for a call center company. I speak english and I have good communication skills. can someone help me find company there in panama? gracias..
Agreed with all of the responses. Read More
Cedula Visa,s Both or Neither by Rod L
Brand new wanna be xpat just new to the site, we are about to embark on our third trip to Panama,This time we hope to buy or at least pick out our retirement home.we have nailed it down to somewhere between Altos del Maria and Lidice in the ...
Yes -agreed with both comments above. Not saying that a forum such as this isn't good resource but you have to do your own due diligence! I guess this is a point of frustration for us- nobody led us by the hand and at the time, the message ... Read More
Moving to Panama by Falankuk
Hi All, I am planing to relocate to Panama, I have good language skills in Spanish, I am graduate in pharmacology. I need to know what you need to do in order to obtain a permanent residence in Panama, it is difficult? what is the timescale, ...
Where did you get that idea? Whatever, we won't be seeing you working at Revilla any time soon. Buen Suerte! Read More
Buying computers, printer, phone in Panama? by yvespanama
I'm a newbie and I'm moving to Panama October 1st, 2016. I may have more questions as time goes on but for now, I don't know if I should buy my new laptop, printer and I-Phone here in the USA or are prices really great in Panama? Any ...
Agreed on the laptop - while I have been able to get a replacement English keyboard here for my iMac for about the same price, I wouldn't expect tto walk into any store and get one. I used a Spanish keyboard for a bit and actually kind of liked ... Read More
Considering moving to Panama please advise by KarienG
I am considering moving to Panama either opening a tattoo studio or perhaps Mexican Restaurant. Would prefer not to live in Panama City. Would really appreciate any advise from others on this forum. Thanks!
Hi Steve, It may have been me that gave you those sites .. Maybe not. Let's just say that the local forums are in a state of transition. They truly are better for people who already live here or hey check in once in a while but be prepared to ... Read More
Considering moving to Panama please advise by KarienG
I am considering moving to Panama either opening a tattoo studio or perhaps Mexican Restaurant. Would prefer not to live in Panama City. Would really appreciate any advise from others on this forum. Thanks!
Hi again David, If your income is from investments and trading ( yes I do that too), then you are correct - you will not be exempt unless you can get creative and establish a business - that would be considered self-employment income. However, the ... Read More
Considering moving to Panama please advise by KarienG
I am considering moving to Panama either opening a tattoo studio or perhaps Mexican Restaurant. Would prefer not to live in Panama City. Would really appreciate any advise from others on this forum. Thanks!
Hi David, You may or may not find the cost of living less but if you continue to work from here and are out of the US > 330 days/yr., you are exempt from paying the IRS income taxes (social security will still apply). This isn't just ... Read More
Considering moving to Panama please advise by KarienG
I am considering moving to Panama either opening a tattoo studio or perhaps Mexican Restaurant. Would prefer not to live in Panama City. Would really appreciate any advise from others on this forum. Thanks!
Have to agree with others's responses. I don't know where you where you live Tough1, but to make general statements and basically say that is the way it is everywhere in Panama, is incorrect. Yes, it is clear from your post that you must ... Read More
Living Areas by randyp1
Hello all, Randy and Joanne here. We're 1st timers at this thought and we'd start with the basics. A bit away from a beach would good. If not, closees counts. Access to a city or town, great. A place for 4 or 5 mths or whatever we can swing. ...
Panama is such a diverse country and we have seen most of it. There are so many questions I would ask but I think your brief description and the sites provided are a great start. Buen Suerte! Read More
Making phone calls in Panama by Maximilien
Hi, When settling in Panama, one of the priorities is to be able to make phone calls. How to proceed to get a landline installed in Panama? What are the mobile operators? What is your average monthly budget? Thank you in advance for ...
I probably shouldn't comment since a majority of my career, I worked for " Batwings" aka MOT and supported the Latin America region. At the end of the day, this has nothing to do with it being a Motorala phone. CAVEAT- as long as it ... Read More
need local taxi in David by royretire
Looking for reliable local taxi from airport in David for Nov3.
They all fine! In fact, there are so many taxis in David that it is annoying! More than 2-3 dollars to central David is all you should have to pay as well. Read More
Safety in Panama by Christine
Hi, We would like to talk about a sensitive but important topic: do you feel safe in Panama? How would you define the level of safety in the country? Can you walk safely during the day and at night without any fear? Do you think there ...
This is pure sensationalistic garbage from someone who not only knows the circumstances, and not by choice,, was there the night of the crime. This is just one person trying to capitalize on our neighbor who would never allow what he wrote but ... Read More
Safety in Panama by Christine
Hi, We would like to talk about a sensitive but important topic: do you feel safe in Panama? How would you define the level of safety in the country? Can you walk safely during the day and at night without any fear? Do you think there ...
The answer in one word - Yes. I live in Chiriqui Province. I have never felt unsafe in my day-to-day encounters but I am not naive either. Read More
construction experience by cherokee175
Hi I'm Stephen from USA. I have international construction expeience and would like solid info if there is a need there. I have worked condos schools hospitals and residential houses. I plan to retire and build a house there
Do you speak Spanish? If not, it will be a tough road. Plus, to set up a business here requires a lot of research. Hey I am for you 100%! But think that If you are not aware of what , I brought up, should be considered. Regards! Read More
Safety in Panama by Christine
Hi, We would like to talk about a sensitive but important topic: do you feel safe in Panama? How would you define the level of safety in the country? Can you walk safely during the day and at night without any fear? Do you think there ...
OMG! This "sensationalism" is everywhere - no wonder! We know the the circumstances well - our friends and neighbors. Almost at the point of stop counting the weeks - but 13 tomorrow night. It has been hard but this is just not an ... Read More
Making phone calls in Panama by Maximilien
Hi, When settling in Panama, one of the priorities is to be able to make phone calls. How to proceed to get a landline installed in Panama? What are the mobile operators? What is your average monthly budget? Thank you in advance for ...
:D I have to laugh, sorry. I never thought I could do without a landline phone since we had the same number in the US for 20+ years. Here? Well first where we live there is no such thing (in the country but close to Boquete). Now the mobile ... Read More
Getting started on Visa by oldfart
Do I have to go to Panama city to get my visa or can it be done from David, Boquete? What would I need to start the process? Besides proof of income. Is it really that hard to do with a good lawyer? We have been on a visit to the area and plan ...
It has been a while since we completed the process (2009), but the last time I checked, it is better if you use an attorney in PC since you will need to go there to complete the process. With a good PC attorney (sorry you will have to ask others ... Read More
Working as a freelancer in Panama
Ah - I see thx Steve! I am sending you an email now with a web link - my neighbor's. Read More
What do you like the most in Panama? by Christine
Hi, Living abroad, expats discover and enjoy a new environment. What do you like the most in Panama? What seduced you when settling and living here? Share with us your favorite part of living in Panama and the reason why you enjoy your ...
Well this made me think and glad for the post! I think my answer is the people. There are the Panamanians Who from IMHO, are some of the friendliest in all of Latin America. Then there are other expats - not saying we are the same or agree but we ... Read More
Working as a freelancer in Panama
Sorry but not sure where you are from? I can only speak as a U.S. citizen. No issues if your work is "virtual". You will have to understand your own personal tax circumstances in advance. Read More
Where should we buy real estate in Panama? by kcredneck
Wanting to look at real estate in Panama. We built a house in Caye Caulker Belize. Its a nice island, but we are thinking about retiring in about 4 years. We are thinking we should be closer to hospitals etc. We think we would like to be on the ...
Panama is about the same size as South Carolina but wow is it diverse! How far are you comfortable with being away from a hospital that has at a minimum emergency care? IMHO, that's how I would approach this. After that , you can find about ... Read More
Single Lady retiring to Panama by PattiH
Hi, All New to this blog and looking for information. Are there any other Single ladies looking to retire to Panama? From all I've read I realize this most likely a huge minority. However, If I'm doing it I have to believe there are others.. ...
LOL. Over the years we knew this was going to happen, I did of course speak to people I knew first, and my family and mixed but all now know or we aren't in contact. This was the right decision for my husband and I - no doubt. Then you just ... Read More
What should I do as far as choosing a city or town... by 1991Recon!
Hello and thanks for getting back to me. Well, in a nutshell; I'm retired Army and live in Portland, Or. I have friends who have been there and tell me about how cool the military and civilian retired community was. So I want to move with my ...
Thanks for posting this Bhavna. we did our own research for years before moving here which included several trips and networking but never on any forums! I just read them because #1 was too afraid - many not so nice out there and #2 when I did ... Read More
Single Lady retiring to Panama by PattiH
Hi, All New to this blog and looking for information. Are there any other Single ladies looking to retire to Panama? From all I've read I realize this most likely a huge minority. However, If I'm doing it I have to believe there are others.. ...
Patti, Great question and ironically no - there are and it surprised me, many single women living here in the Boquete area - some maybe lost a loved one but most by choice - so no way would you be the only one. Best Wishes! Read More
Your experience of culture shock in Panama by Christine
Hi, Living in a foreign country implies to discover its culture, to learn and master the cultural codes. How did you deal with that? Share with us your culture shock stories where you experienced a funny or awkward moment in Panama. What is ...
Welcome to Panama Dale. I will explain later but nothing was right about your reaction and expectations. More later and by the way, I thought I had it all figured out after several years living here - nope still learning and lately has been very ... Read More
Pensionado Visa - worth it? by bwadetx
My husband and I will be moving to Panama this fall. Is spending the $3200 for our Pensionado Visas worth it? Do you really save that much money with discounts offered? I'd love to hear from those who have the visa and from those who chose not ...
Looks like the originators of this post presented the question in Jan. of this year. Forget what is costs for a minute (more on that later) you need some kind of Visa! Unless what is now becoming increasedly difficult, from what I understand, ... Read More
Considering Bocas del Toro as a Retirement Location by sjpersonal
Hi, my name is Sondra and I am a 52 yr. old single female currently living in Los Angeles, Ca. I have a few years before retirement but I am attempting to gather as much information about several possible locations as I can. I had settled on ...
Hi Laura, Have you actually been to Boquete? I have been to Caracas at least 10 times - I would have to look at my passport - most during the Chavez days and right after the bridge collapsed going to/from the airport? This is just to let you know ... Read More
Boquete Crime Wave by PacificaMaryAnn
"Violent armed robberies have increased exponentially in Boquete, and the customary strategical armor employed by tourism-related businesses to quell such information has finally cracked". -This excerpt is from an excellent blog called ...
I have not read the other forum but this is correct. I live here and yes there have been an incredible number of home invasions within the last 2 months. However, I am sure and I will look at the forum next that it is full of incorrect information. ... Read More
Considering Bocas del Toro as a Retirement Location by sjpersonal
Hi, my name is Sondra and I am a 52 yr. old single female currently living in Los Angeles, Ca. I have a few years before retirement but I am attempting to gather as much information about several possible locations as I can. I had settled on ...
Agreed Steve and still owe you a note. I have had major computer problems. All I have at the moment is my iPad- working with Aplle Support since Thursday.! Read More
Singaporean living in Panama?
Hi Kengee, I am new but replies to many posts offering my help - so am I 1of the 2 here? Been living in panama since February. 2011, and spent 6-7 years prior planning. I found this forum and not sure how but knew that I could help people - my ... Read More
Considering Bocas del Toro as a Retirement Location by sjpersonal
Hi, my name is Sondra and I am a 52 yr. old single female currently living in Los Angeles, Ca. I have a few years before retirement but I am attempting to gather as much information about several possible locations as I can. I had settled on ...
I have to tell everyone - again that wow - this stuff you see online isn't the real experience at all. I agree with whoever said Bocas del Toro is not the place. There are some great spots very close to me to get away from it all for $$$$ ( but ... Read More
New members of the Panama forum, introduce yourself here 3rd quarter of 2015 by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Panama forum? Dont know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more on ...
Great because that makes a difference. There is one thing you may not know. When we received ours, I think I was 52. Even with the Visa, women are not eligible to receive the discount until they are 55. Not sure if that was on the other ... Read More
New members of the Panama forum, introduce yourself here 3rd quarter of 2015 by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Panama forum? Dont know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more on ...
Hello Reg, For every response I do, I should make a disclaimer - "This is My Experience Only" and I am not attorney by the way! It's important because too many from our past experience are definitive and when you are starting this ... Read More
Why do some expats leave Panama? by PacificaMaryAnn
As I reach the conclusion of my second exploratory trip to Panama, I felt compelled to discuss this new phase. I want to reaffirm how important it is to spend time in Panama before selling the house, the car, and all the belongings. One month in ...
OK - first I apologize because I haven't had a chance to read the entire thread. So I will give as I have said before, only my experience as a newbie on this group. I started to write a long post but it has been a long but great day here in ... Read More
New members of the Panama forum, introduce yourself here 3rd quarter of 2015 by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Panama forum? Dont know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more on ...
Hi Steve, All the reasons you said, is EXACTLY why we chose where we bought our property! I will need to give you more info later, but when I saw your post, I had to let you know that you are right, have done your homework, and I will be glad to ... Read More
New members of the Panama forum, introduce yourself here 3rd quarter of 2015 by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Panama forum? Dont know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more on ...
Hi All, My name is Valerie and my husband and I have lived in Panama for 3 1/2 years. Research, planning, and several trips started in 2007! I work from here as a freelance writer. We live in the country between Boquete and David and have built ... Read More
is it possible to go Warsaw Poland from Brest Belarus by road
Out of my zone of knowledge- buen suerte de Panana ! Read More