jonoyakker
American looking for information about Panama
Forum posts
53
Contacts
1
About me
American
Registration: 10 July 2008
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 ...
Captain Steve, not true. Most property in Panama is titled. If you buy ROP (untitled) you are taking a big risk. The big take-away from this story is DO NOT BUY PRE-CONSTRUCTION PROPERTY. 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 ...
And Colombia has a lot of poverty. 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 ...
Tough1: Once correction-Untrue that most property outside the city is not titled. Read More
Opening a company by Castanheira
Hi everyone, I am about to open an E-commerce company in Panama. However, it is being difficult to find a trustable legal adviser. Anyone has contacts of companies that can help me out with paperwork and give me some advises? Thanks, Luis
I would add that I have been in business going on 3 years and have never paid a bribe (unless you count a cup of coffee) Read More
Opening a company by Castanheira
Hi everyone, I am about to open an E-commerce company in Panama. However, it is being difficult to find a trustable legal adviser. Anyone has contacts of companies that can help me out with paperwork and give me some advises? Thanks, Luis
Tough1, I completely disagree. I have found many honest people here, including lawyers. Read More
Customer care in Panama by Priscilla
Hello everyone, The way customer services are handled can greatly affect your views on certain brands, products, companies or stores. As a consumer, it is important to get familiar with local practices regarding client assistance in Panama and ...
I have been here 4 years and I see things generally improving in terms of customer service. I like Do it Center-especially Westland Mall. I have received some truly amazing service there. The big stores in general are doing some training. But things ... Read More
Looking for a reliable insurance broker by adriano72
Hi, I'm trying to get a local health insurance here in Panama and from my understanding the best way to do so is through an insurance broker. Anyone can recommend a reliable one? Thank you!
No, your best deal is going through a hospital's private insurance, thus eliminating the middle man. Try Hospital San Fernando. Read More
Can you work under the friendly nations visa? by Leapoffaith2016
If you start a business and apply for the friendly nations visa does that allow you to work?
FYI-I've run and worked in my business in Cocle for 2 1/2 years and no one has ever asked if I had a work permit (which I don't) If you try to obey all the restrictions, you won't be able to do anything else. And guess what-NO ONE knows ... Read More
Can you work under the friendly nations visa? by Leapoffaith2016
If you start a business and apply for the friendly nations visa does that allow you to work?
Janice, I don't believe the 90% rule is being enforced currently. Personally, I wouldn't (and don't) worry about it. Jon Read More
Environmental protection in Panama by Kenjee
Hi, Environmental protection is a challenging issue for all the countries around the world. Would you say this issue is deemed of significance in Panama? Is the country going green through initiatives like waste management and selective ...
Approximately 6 months ago, it was announced that there would be centralized trash stations and new trucks. Private collection of trash was outlawed. The money was already budgeted but I've heard nothing since. Read More
Environmental protection in Panama by Kenjee
Hi, Environmental protection is a challenging issue for all the countries around the world. Would you say this issue is deemed of significance in Panama? Is the country going green through initiatives like waste management and selective ...
We have an active recycling and litter clean up program here in El Valle. Jon Read More
Can you work under the friendly nations visa? by Leapoffaith2016
If you start a business and apply for the friendly nations visa does that allow you to work?
Yes. Technically you are supposed to only manage but I've never see it enforced. 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!
A number of people here in El Valle have commented that we need a Mexican restaurant. Jon 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!
Do you know if you want to live in a city, beach area, mountain, or rural area? That would narrow things down for you a great deal. Read More
Accommodations in El Valle by peripatetic_soul
Can anyone provide info on price range for 2 bedroom accomm. in El Valle as well as current food prices, availability of fresh fruit and vegetables, local transportation, safety, and any other details you wish to share? I've already checked out ...
Candado del Rey is near El Dorado and is going to be hot. David is very hot. In Panama, the are no highland cities. There is a gated community north of the city called Cerro Azul that is beautiful and cool but it's 20 minutes from most any ... Read More
Accommodations in El Valle by peripatetic_soul
Can anyone provide info on price range for 2 bedroom accomm. in El Valle as well as current food prices, availability of fresh fruit and vegetables, local transportation, safety, and any other details you wish to share? I've already checked out ...
All 3 locations are towns. But Boquete and Volcan are less than an hour from the hospital in David, but I know nothing of it's reputation. But of the 2, Volcan has less of a gringo arrogant presence and it's less expensive. Good ... Read More
Accommodations in El Valle by peripatetic_soul
Can anyone provide info on price range for 2 bedroom accomm. in El Valle as well as current food prices, availability of fresh fruit and vegetables, local transportation, safety, and any other details you wish to share? I've already checked out ...
No El Valle is a town. There is only a clinic here. There is a small Social Security hospital in San Carlos, 40 minutes away, and a big SS hospital in Penenome is an hour away but I don't hear anything good about that. The private San Fernando ... Read More
Accommodations in El Valle by peripatetic_soul
Can anyone provide info on price range for 2 bedroom accomm. in El Valle as well as current food prices, availability of fresh fruit and vegetables, local transportation, safety, and any other details you wish to share? I've already checked out ...
Yes, I know many Venezuelans here (I would add that I like them all so far) and I am well aware of the unfortunate situation in your country. In general, I will tell you that for highland living (moderate temps) there are only 3 places with good ... Read More
Accommodations in El Valle by peripatetic_soul
Can anyone provide info on price range for 2 bedroom accomm. in El Valle as well as current food prices, availability of fresh fruit and vegetables, local transportation, safety, and any other details you wish to share? I've already checked out ...
El Valle is a very nice mixed community of locals, expats, and wealthy Panamanians who have weekend homes here. There is only one small and wealthy development that is gated. A 2BR house in a decent area will rent for probably $600 and up. All at ... Read More
Is Dengue Fever or Malaria a concern in Panama? by ssaurina
Do we need to be concerned about malaria or dengue fever in Panama? I have young children. Thanks!
There is really not a problem at all with malaria and a very small problem with dengue and that is pretty well confined to a few areas in the city. Read More
Finding the best Banks in Panama ? by wannamovetopanama
Under the terms of the Visa I am working on, I will be required to commit substantial funds into "time deposit" account. At this point , I do not speak Spanish, and assume this will complicate the process.....beyond that I see there are a ...
NOT Multibank. They are now imposing a $250 yearly fee on expats. I am good with Caja Ahorros, and have heard good things about Banco General, also Global seems to be pretty popular. It is probably hit or miss if an agent will speak English. Best to ... Read More
Money Saving Tips For Living in Panama City, Panama by PacificaMaryAnn
The best money saving tips for living in Panama City, Panama involve the use of a credit card. One can pay for almost anything with a credit card in Panama City. Pay for rent, groceries, pharmacy, opticians, medical, everyday shopping, ...
Maryann, Sorry if I offended you-it was not my intention. I'm very passionate about health and diet as I see the repercussions everyday around me. It's one area where I splurge but I consider it an investment in my health. No, cost does not ... Read More
Money Saving Tips For Living in Panama City, Panama by PacificaMaryAnn
The best money saving tips for living in Panama City, Panama involve the use of a credit card. One can pay for almost anything with a credit card in Panama City. Pay for rent, groceries, pharmacy, opticians, medical, everyday shopping, ...
My viewpoint on food is that eating quality food, even if more expensive, is the best investment because health is irreplaceable. At 57, I am in better shape than most because of that. That last thing I want to put in my body is fast food. Price and ... Read More
playa coronado by casadepaz
Hello everyone! My husband and I will be going to playa coronado on Sept.13th for two weeks. We are looking for any info on interesting places to go, good places to eat...etc. Thank you in advance for your info!
Cholos is a good Mexican restaurant in Coronado. I hear good things about La Teca restaurant (upscale) and about the cafe above Mota Wines. Picasso's is a good place to drink and party. El Valle is a nice mountain town with many activities 45 ... Read More
Possible Future Expat by ANtraveler
I would like to learn more about visiting Panama---what is the best month, what are the most important places to see, where should we stay, etc.
Rotsa ruck! Let us know how it goes... Read More
Possible Future Expat by ANtraveler
I would like to learn more about visiting Panama---what is the best month, what are the most important places to see, where should we stay, etc.
I've rented in Panama about a half dozen times and I've always had to pay some insurances at the counter even with my rental car coverage on my credit card. Never heard of being incarcerated as bond for an accident. There is one issue-you can be ... Read More
Possible Future Expat by ANtraveler
I would like to learn more about visiting Panama---what is the best month, what are the most important places to see, where should we stay, etc.
I've stayed at both. Go with the GF-no question IMO. Read More
Possible Future Expat by ANtraveler
I would like to learn more about visiting Panama---what is the best month, what are the most important places to see, where should we stay, etc.
My favorite is the Golden Frog-great all around. Quiet, beautiful, clean, great owners. Read More
Possible Future Expat by ANtraveler
I would like to learn more about visiting Panama---what is the best month, what are the most important places to see, where should we stay, etc.
Yes. It's about a 6 hr drive from Boquete. Watch your speed all the way. The upper half of the access road to El Valle is twisty with often people walking along-best to arrive before dark! Property in EV is expensive but you get what you pay for. ... Read More
Possible Future Expat by ANtraveler
I would like to learn more about visiting Panama---what is the best month, what are the most important places to see, where should we stay, etc.
Yes-that info is dead wrong. There might be a few shops closed for certain days but generally things are happening every day. What day were you thinking of visiting? There is actually a fair number of things to do in EV. One of the good things is ... Read More
Possible Future Expat by ANtraveler
I would like to learn more about visiting Panama---what is the best month, what are the most important places to see, where should we stay, etc.
BTW-some of the guide books say that the market in El Valle is only open weekends-not true. It's open everyday but on weekends, garden plants are on sale too. Read More
Places to visit in Panama by Julie
Hi, For the ones living in Panama, what would you suggest to discover the country? When you have friends or family visiting you, where do you go with them? What are the must-see places in Panama, the tourist sites? How to visit the country ...
Tripadvisor Panama is a pretty good guide. Don't miss a visit to the Embarra Indians with Anne Gordon. Whale watching is good this time of year. Personal tours are always best for speed and ability to personalize-figure $15-20hr. I can recommend ... Read More
Vacation Rental by janmaston
My husband and I are coming to Panama in September for a week to see how we like the country and the possibility of moving there. The rental lease I received is asking for our passport number. Is this common? My husband is a little hesitant about ...
Just like anything else-some people love it, some don't. That's why you have to come and see for yourself... Watch your six means watch your back... Read More
Vacation Rental by janmaston
My husband and I are coming to Panama in September for a week to see how we like the country and the possibility of moving there. The rental lease I received is asking for our passport number. Is this common? My husband is a little hesitant about ...
I wouldn't worry-it's not linked to your $ records. I wouldn't worry necessarily about someone in the gray. Read More
Freshly graduated planning to move to Panama by ArSeTh
Hey, I'm Victor, writing from Central Europe, Hungary. I've just finished with my studies, and now I possess an Oxford Brookes degree in international business relations, and another one in marketing. I'm 24, and totally tired of EU. I have just ...
The city is not cheap. Transportation is a mess right now with the subway construction. Wages are quite low but moving up. I think not being fluent would be a major problem also. Figure $800/month for a small apartment, and add another $1000 for ... Read More
Need some ideas by Janob
My husband will be retiring in about six months. We have never been to Panama but have been reading wonderful things about the country, great place to retire. Writing to ask for ideas of best beach location for a retiree. Want to come explore the ...
Don't think you'll find anyone here who lives in La Chorrera because I doubt there are many expats there. To me it is a grimey, drive through bedroom community 1/2 hr west of the city. Many little cookie cutter houses. Has more of a poor, growing, ... Read More
Reputable car dealer by Rick2544
Can anyone tell me the name of a reputable car dealer in or near Panama City, David or Boquete? My wife and I are currently in Boquete but are returning to the States for a week in July and we want to purchase a good used car when we return in mid ...
Also, it's not a matter of just driving through the border. I'm fairly certain that there are registration stamps required at each border. At least there was when we crossed from Belize into Guatamala. So you will want to be fluent in Spanish for ... Read More
Looking to Move to Panama by CaliDevil71
Hi my name is Joey and after much research I am looking at Panama as my top destination to move permanently in the next 8-10 years. The reason that I am waiting this long is so that I may be able to save some cash and become debt free by the time I ...
I hate to be the bearer of bad news but $1100/month affords only basic living now, but 8-10 years from now it will likely be extremely difficult to live anywhere. It's not that hard to start a biz but again, how do you project conditions 8-10 years ... Read More
Looking to Move to Panama by CaliDevil71
Hi my name is Joey and after much research I am looking at Panama as my top destination to move permanently in the next 8-10 years. The reason that I am waiting this long is so that I may be able to save some cash and become debt free by the time I ...
Invader609, Don't know where you are shopping but I just filled my tank with diesel at $3.55/gallon-that's cheaper than the US. And I just bought pineapples for $.50 apiece, and a big bag of organic veggies from the farmer for $6.00. Food quality in ... Read More
Recommendations On Where to Visit/Live by MizzouFan
Hi all, New member here, thanks in advance for reading this and for any help you can provide :). I am looking for recommendations on where to live in Panama. In order to (hopefully) narrow it down, here are some of my qualifications: 1) Has to be ...
I love El Valle-absolutely beautiful, great, friendly, involved small expat community, cooler temps, and safe. But only come here if you don't need much nightlife and you value people over things because shopping here is limited. Probably the best ... Read More
Do I need a Visas B4 going to Panama ? by sirrobcentral
...and if so where do I get one. I'm just visiting for now but I qualify for the retirement Visa in case I decide to stay. I just want to get there first. I want to leave as early as next week but can wait if I must.
Nathan, I read your profile because I wanted to see what country you are from to answer your visa question accurately. Yes, as a N. American you do not need a visa. Not sure what luxury you desire but I wouldn't move to Panama if your main concern ... Read More
Reputable car dealer by Rick2544
Can anyone tell me the name of a reputable car dealer in or near Panama City, David or Boquete? My wife and I are currently in Boquete but are returning to the States for a week in July and we want to purchase a good used car when we return in mid ...
Rick, Ck your inbox-I sent you a contact in Boquete. Jon Read More
Looking to Move to Panama by CaliDevil71
Hi my name is Joey and after much research I am looking at Panama as my top destination to move permanently in the next 8-10 years. The reason that I am waiting this long is so that I may be able to save some cash and become debt free by the time I ...
Joey, The fact that you loved your visit to Panama is a great first step but as you mentioned, loving a visit and loving living here are two different things. First off,8-10 years from now is a long time away so everything is subject to change. For ... Read More
Just returned from Panama by bpcahoon
My husband and I just returned from a week in Panama. We stayed at the Country Inn on the canal for 2 nights (wonderful!), went to David for the weekend and then back to the Country Inn for the remainder of the stay. We concluded on our first night ...
Bpcahoon, Agree with everything you say. But you just barely scratched the surface of the country. We live in El Valle and the expats here started a litter cleanup and recycling program so our beautiful town is pretty clean. But litter is ... Read More
Affordable rental car? by jwalker_01
I am looking for an affordable rental car for a 90 day period in Panama. The best price I can find is $600+. Does anyone know of a local rental car agency that rents cars for less? Any help is much appreciated.
jwalker, I have more bad news for you-I would bet anything that the insurance charges weren't included in that $600. There are 2 mandatory ones, even with insurance coverage on your credit card, that total about $18 a day! It's a racket! Are you ... Read More
Question for Expats - What do you need/want/miss (business ideas) by Sallyreb
Hi Folks, My husband & I have been thinking about moving to Panama for some time. We are mid-career and would still need to work. We are exploring the possibility of starting a business that would serve the needs of other expats in Panama. We ...
Scubacher (and others), Thank you-it has seemed to me that there is a great deal missing from books and articles I have read regarding relocating to Panama. I am talking about the nuts and bolts of every day life. One gets snippets of the ups and ... Read More