The Good, the Bad and the Not So Sure of Moving to Panama

Originally posted 8/2013

After reviewing the many articles that are available on the internet on the subject of relocating to Panama and discussing the subject with many friends and expats, I wanted to offer my realistic view of the “Good, the Bad, and the Not So Sure” of moving to this wonderful country.

Here’s The Good

You will have many choices to live in Panama. Do you want warm and balmy? Is living near a beach a must? Is the thought of living somewhat reclusive a thrill? Are cooler mountain towns your ideal? Or, is it most important to live near hospitals, shopping and entertainment? Whatever you desire, you can find it in Panama. Beautiful beach & surf towns with warm breezes are readily available. Mountain towns with tropical flower gardens and coffee farms are also possibilities. And, if Spanish is not your first language, you also have options of areas where English is widely spoken.

Is a country with two seasons, a good thing? For many, yes. The dry season (or summer) starts in late December and ends in mid May. The rainy season (or winter) starts around mid May and lasts until late December. Typically, a day in the rainy season begins with the sun out and clear skies. In early afternoon there is rain for about an hour, and then the sun reappears. Temperatures throughout the year, depending on location vary about 10 degrees. 75-85 degrees during the day with the dry season being on the higher end. The climate offers a lush environment with colorful birds and insects.

Many love the food, the good (and inexpensive beer), proximity to beaches, affordable homes and the ability to develop socially. For those who have traveled abroad, the good roads and general infrastructure is really appreciated. Additionally, for the non-retirees, the strong economy offers many opportunities to develop business and healthcare is much more affordable than many other countries.

Some of the Bad

Unfortunately, many of us have to develop new pastimes when we move to Panama. Long telephone calls with family & friends gets cut short very quickly. However, Skype and internet calling has eased the pain. Reading best-sellers, attending the theater, gourmet cooking, different art projects and more are much more difficult, oftentimes needing to be scaled down or eliminated altogether. And what everyone has to adjust to is the limited ability to receive mail from home as easily as we used to. Although, with changing times and advancing technology, these things are easier to do today than a few years go. A common practice is to have visiting friends bring gourmet ingredients, books in your language and keeping connected with wifi helps with overall adjustment.

For previous land and home owners, it may be difficult to become a renter. However, it is always advised not to buy or build for at least one year. New and different laws govern everything differently. Life happens at a much slower pace with little sense of urgency. One should really experience these nuances before building their dream home or choosing an area that will not end up being ideal.

Something to ask yourself, are you a patient person? Answer truthfully. For if you are not, all of these changes will be very difficult. And building a house may drive you crazy. Just ask around and listen to the adventurous challenges that most go through when attempting to be different from the rest and build anyway. Always remember, “manana” does not mean “a little later.” Listen to the ones who have tread before you.

The Not So Sure

So you think you have found “Paradise.” Are you remembering the traffic of Panama City?

The lack of direct flights into David and other parts of the country? The inability of the stores to continuously carry the products you want? The lack of street signs? The mold that is common and often difficult to stay ahead of?

And, don’t forget the less than “fresh” boxed items that appear to be “off” when

you open the package. If these things will have you pulling your hair out, maybe your time in Panama should be a vacation, returning as often as possible. If you believe you can adjust, and better yet, want to adjust, Panama can be fun, exciting, rewarding and everything that you are looking for. The best advice: “Know yourself & do your research.”

Bienvenidos a Panama!

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