I love your voice and personality, you explain about the pros and cons of living in Panama in a concise and straightforward fashion, with a clear and perfect standard American accent which I really love.
A good video. I came to Panama in 1999 so I have been here 25 years. I became a Panamanian citizen in 2013. I vote in Panamanian elections. I have become fluent in Spanish. So I am here to stay. The US has become less and less affordable for retirees especially Florida. So in Panama you enjoy a better lifestyle at a much lower cost. And don't forget Panama uses the US dollar. Very convenient.
I am going to come down winter ‘25 to explore Panama. I love warm weather, speak Spanish, and love birding! It will probably work as long as I’m healthy. When I start declining I’ll probably go back near family.
Hello I agree with all our points. And could add a few more. 1) NATURGY the utility company is one of the most corrupt, incompetent companies in the country. 2) The license plate department is absolutely ridiculous when it comes to simply getting a license plate even when you buy a vehicle in Panama. 3) As a black man living in Panama I've experienced racism. Panamanians aren't nice and welcoming. I've traveled extensively throughout the world and I must say Panamanians are rude. I was told by Panamanians that they have a dislike for us because of the way the American soldiers treated them during our stay here. They coined the phase "gringo" which came from seeing soldiers in their green uniforms and say "green go home". 4) When you start interacting with the locals you'll discover limited intelligence. So its not just the language difference they have very limited critical thinking skills. So instead of making Panama my primary home, even though I bought a beautiful Beachside home, I'm going to make Panama my vacation spot. I can endure the challenges a lot more when I'm just visiting. Very informative video, thanks...
Hi Robert, the license plate issue can be easily solved by paying a messenger to do the process for you from the revisado to actually picking up the plates. Panama is home to a diverse population with varying education levels and backgrounds. Stereotypes rarely capture the full picture. In fact, Panamanians are known for their warmth, resilience, and happiness, as evidenced by numerous studies that rank Panama highly on many World Happiness Indexes.
if you are black maybe you can try out ghana. I lived there as a white person and it was nice and you have the ability to do business and build something with probably 1/5th of what you need in panama
Excellent video thank you so much for getting straight to the point I love it. This is good enough to send to my parents so that they can look at it and they’ll understand what you explaining.
Hi Martin, if you have a ballpark of what something should cost before you get involved in that activity... when you show even a bit of knowledge of how much something might cost, you experience it much less.
This was really helpful, thank you! Also, I think you should try to grow your Social Media presence, because you seem like a natural in front of the camera. Clear voice, pleasant, easy to understand, and we believe you ... I mean, you seem sincere. :-) Subscribed.
Yes, Panama is driving centric, even the smaller towns. There are many areas which are basically inaccessible without a car. There are areas which you might be able to pull off not having a car or using taxis, but for obvious reasons those areas are either in high demand and thus very pricey, or basically ghettos and thus not recommended for some expat or tourist. I do have to note that tourist getting robbed is relatively rare, but that's in no small part people locals will quickly advise you to leave and where safer alternatives exists. If you are hoping for a European style city, they basically don't exist in Panama anywhere. Set your expectations more of a Miami in more ways than one.
I’m a Puerto Rican fully bilingual 63 year old SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY INSURANCE benefit of $1000 monthly income interested in the city of David, Panama. What can you recommend me or better yet, do to help me visit Panamá with intention to relocate there ???
I’m a little confused bc you made negative comments about the traffic and roadways, but gave a thumbs up for infrastructure. To me they are interrelated. You also didn’t mention if the tap water was drinkable/potable or if there was fresh water insecurity in the region. I want to relocate where fresh water supplies are in abundance. Thank you for the information you provided
So a few things - if you right now compare infrastructure to any other surrounding country in Latin America, nothing comes close... secondly, there are 4 huge major public works going on. The highway expansion of the Pan American Highway, going to 8 lanes, the new bridge, the expansion of the metro, and this government just proposed a cross country train. So, yes there is lots of traffic, but also lots of work being done. Much of the current traffic is contributed to growing pains :) but should significantly improve when a few of those works are finished. Water from the tap is perfectly safe to drink here in Panama City and surrounding areas.
@@GLPEnglish wow! Thank you for the quick response. I recently retired and weighing my options which include three Mediterranean countries and Latin America. Portugal, Spain, and Italy are really struggling with their water supplies due to changes in the earths climate. Thank you so much ❤️
@@lalva2024I am no expert, but this is the tropics so we get plenty of rainfall. It's had a few years of low reserves in Gatun where its used to fill the canal locks, but drinking water has been fine. The country has 52 watersheds that are vital for water security and ecological well-being.
Yes, but it's not Panamanian :) we import a lot from Argentina/Chile. The Brahman cows are the most common here and they don't have much fat on them at all, but they do the best in the tropical climate.
in the last decade it has become much more pet friendly... dogs are allowed in some malls + most cafes have at least a terrace that you can bring your dog. There are plenty of dog parks around the city, etc.
I grew up on Ft. Clayton in the 80’s was may favorite country until I went to the Philippines in 2016. I went back in 09 and 11 both times I was targeted to be robbed because my skin is white. Do t know how you’re not being targeted. I dress always in gym shorts and a shit don’t wear jewelry. I look broke. My friend from there and his sister were laughing because I bring a knife everywhere since I was 16. She talked about how that’s useless they just pull out a gun so I asked them to pull one out, neither had. In 2012 almost a year to the day her daughter was in an argument outside the house, she woke to go out there and was attacked by 2 women w/ knives who killed her. I’m Puerto Rican I left PR because it’s difficult to maintain on disability pay I’ve am now a week away from 3 years living in Medellin Colombia. Only problem I had here was a few months in saving a prostitute from her pimp/boyfriend from beating her in my apartment complex, he attempted to pull a knife but I was faster having trained in Kali since 91. Police came ask me not to get involved since they don’t here😏 and took his knife because of his dramatic actions when they were there listening to the story. The landlord shook my hand and tossed them out the next day. They were Venezuelans, I’ve had no issues at all here w/ locals. I wouldn’t believe it either I was against coming here when a girl I met in Panama ask me to visit her here. Especially as her father she didn’t remember was killed by Escobar this place just seemed way too dangerous but it is actually far safer than Panama, cheaper better climate and no mosquitoes which are clearly a problem in Panama. The only disadvantage here is the food, Panama wins there🤣
minimum education levels in all of Latin America vary... the public school system has a long way to go. But one of my favorite things about Panama is that there are small business owners who efficiently do those small annoying things very well and you can hire them to do it for you for a very reasonable price. For example the process of getting your license plate here would be confusing for someone who has never done it before, but instead of fight the system and stand in line for hours, you can pay someone $35 who will do 5-10 at a time. He feeds his family and you saved yourself an entire day of waiting in lines.
Coming from Nebraska winters, I would have to disagree :) - obviously depends on the setting, but mornings/evenings/ any time there is a pool involved, Panama is just right. You might enjoy somewhere like Boquete where it is cooler.
@@GLPEnglish Totally agree about the pool. But I'm from Canada. Trust me, I know where you're coming from ❄️☃️❄️😜. I walked the Malecon yesterday and the humidity sucked all my energy out, making the walk very unpleasant. Luckily my building has a pool, but if it didn't, I probably wouldn't stay long. I've looked into bouquete but if seems like a small town. I like big cities. Bogota, Lima, Buenos Aires. Etc are my jam. Appreciate the recommendation though.
Yes, Americans will never escape the IRS... but if it is generated internationally there are exemptions for specific amounts (changes yearly or so) but you will always have to file. Canadians can become non-tax residents depending on how much time they spend out of Canada.
@@jackbaldwin3649What? Of course it’s different. I don’t pay anything to the government of my home country when I don’t work there. I couldn’t believe it when I found out that Americans have to do that
I'm a former Zonian and plan on retiring in PC within the next 18 months. Can you do a video on how much property taxes and home insurance are on a luxury condo? Property taxes and home insurance in the U.S. has gone crazy!!
Hi Victor I've seen you commenting on many different Panama channels, if you want something really specific, reach out to one of these channels. Get on a call. I'm sure anyone will be gladly be willing to help you out with your questions.
Hi Victor, that is quite specific when you say a luxury condo. What would you consider luxury? (price range) I don't currently know the exact pricing, so I would need to create a collaboration with someone to get you the exact answer.
yep, here taxes are low, usually 7% in almost everything. There are some exceptions: for example, if you're an american that likes guns, to buy your own licensed gun in Panama, it's like... x10 times more expensive here than in the US.
@victortoombs4754 we had so much influence for 100 years of panama city. Why do you think infrastructure looks so much like the usa. No other country in central or south america like that. Maybe we didn't run the city, but having a large military base in the city made a difference.
Hi Rod, some things are all encompassing, like taxes etc... but yes, this is mostly Panama City focused. We can do another on other areas of the country.
Hi there! eating out can be done at many levels... yes going to nice places here is expensive, but you can find very good food here (even in the city) and it does not break the bank... not just local fonda food. I'd encourage you to explore outside of your normal spots and you might be surprised. My favorite organic soup (lunch spot) is $5.
I love how you just got straight to the point
Me, too.😆
me three
I love your voice and personality, you explain about the pros and cons of living in Panama in a concise and straightforward fashion, with a clear and perfect standard American accent which I really love.
thanks so much!
Right to the point! Nice!!! No unnecessary blaring music, no super long cover shots, just straight to the content. You rock!
hahah don't worry - no blaring music here :) thank you for the kind review!
A good video. I came to Panama in 1999 so I have been here 25 years. I became a Panamanian citizen in 2013. I vote in Panamanian elections. I have become fluent in Spanish. So I am here to stay. The US has become less and less affordable for retirees especially Florida. So in Panama you enjoy a better lifestyle at a much lower cost. And don't forget Panama uses the US dollar. Very convenient.
Convenient for now.
Thank you! Wow, what a story, so glad to hear it worked for you long term.
Concise and informative without the all too common on YT hyperbole! Well done!
Hi there, thanks so much! :)
Thanks for breaking down the main points and going straight to the point with time stamps
Thanks for the video, you touched on a lot of questions I was curious about. Well done!
Thank you for making this video so concise and informative. Very helpful!
Thank you! :)
Traffic is Horrible and heat is crazy.
traffic always depends on time of day and heat when there is a pool nearby is welcome :)
Thank You!
A knowledge-packed 7 minutes. Thank you.
thank you!
Excellent information.
Glad it was helpful! thank you for tuning in.
2 Dutch girls
I am going to come down winter ‘25 to explore Panama. I love warm weather, speak Spanish, and love birding! It will probably work as long as I’m healthy. When I start declining I’ll probably go back near family.
Hi there! It's actually extremely affordable to have live in nurses here, just something to consider.
Another pro - you can swim either in the Atlantic or Pacific; your choice.
Hello I agree with all our points. And could add a few more.
1) NATURGY the utility company is one of the most corrupt, incompetent companies in the country.
2) The license plate department is absolutely ridiculous when it comes to simply getting a license plate even when you buy a vehicle in Panama.
3) As a black man living in Panama I've experienced racism. Panamanians aren't nice and welcoming. I've traveled extensively throughout the world and I must say Panamanians are rude. I was told by Panamanians that they have a dislike for us because of the way the American soldiers treated them during our stay here. They coined the phase "gringo" which came from seeing soldiers in their green uniforms and say "green go home".
4) When you start interacting with the locals you'll discover limited intelligence. So its not just the language difference they have very limited critical thinking skills. So instead of making Panama my primary home, even though I bought a beautiful Beachside home, I'm going to make Panama my vacation spot. I can endure the challenges a lot more when I'm just visiting. Very informative video, thanks...
Hi Robert, the license plate issue can be easily solved by paying a messenger to do the process for you from the revisado to actually picking up the plates.
Panama is home to a diverse population with varying education levels and backgrounds. Stereotypes rarely capture the full picture. In fact, Panamanians are known for their warmth, resilience, and happiness, as evidenced by numerous studies that rank Panama highly on many World Happiness Indexes.
if you are black maybe you can try out ghana. I lived there as a white person and it was nice and you have the ability to do business and build something with probably 1/5th of what you need in panama
Taxes are a big + !
yes they are!
Excellent video thank you so much for getting straight to the point I love it. This is good enough to send to my parents so that they can look at it and they’ll understand what you explaining.
Hi Racquel, thanks so much :) if you/they have more questions please let me know and we can make another video with more Q&A
Have you experienced the "gringo tax" mentioned in another video I watched?
Hi Martin, if you have a ballpark of what something should cost before you get involved in that activity... when you show even a bit of knowledge of how much something might cost, you experience it much less.
This was really helpful, thank you! Also, I think you should try to grow your Social Media presence, because you seem like a natural in front of the camera. Clear voice, pleasant, easy to understand, and we believe you ... I mean, you seem sincere. :-) Subscribed.
Thank you so much! :) I am happy it comes across as sincere, because it is.
Excellent. Thank you.
Thanks for watching!
We are considering Panama as a location to relocate from Texas within the next six months.
You will already be used to the humidity! It's a wonderful place to be, I relocated from Nebraska ten years ago and have never regretted it.
Humidity is a con for curly hair. Also, is Panama generally driving centric?
I find my curls are the best in Panama. It's weird, because you would think the humidity would make them frizzy. But they are great.
Yes, Panama is driving centric, even the smaller towns. There are many areas which are basically inaccessible without a car. There are areas which you might be able to pull off not having a car or using taxis, but for obvious reasons those areas are either in high demand and thus very pricey, or basically ghettos and thus not recommended for some expat or tourist. I do have to note that tourist getting robbed is relatively rare, but that's in no small part people locals will quickly advise you to leave and where safer alternatives exists.
If you are hoping for a European style city, they basically don't exist in Panama anywhere. Set your expectations more of a Miami in more ways than one.
I am wondering about internet speeds in Panama City and elsewhere ? any info would be helpful
Hi Chris, at home I have 1000mbs. Will obviously vary depending on your plan, but we get great internet.
I’m a Puerto Rican fully bilingual 63 year old SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY INSURANCE benefit of $1000 monthly income interested in the city of David, Panama. What can you recommend me or better yet, do to help me visit Panamá with intention to relocate there ???
Hi Alberto, we don't currently have any properties in the David area. With $1,000 it would be necessary to move to the countryside of Panama.
Well you can live better in Panama on 1000 per month than you can in the US.
I would argue that banking is horrible for the American citizen throughout the world.
Hi, congrats on your new arrival :) Which is the condo you're at now? Looks very chic and modern.
Hi! This is the game room in Seascape on Ocean Reef Islands... it's a beautiful project.
is there a landbase casino in panama?
Hi Mico, many casinos in Panama City to pick from!
I’m a little confused bc you made negative comments about the traffic and roadways, but gave a thumbs up for infrastructure. To me they are interrelated. You also didn’t mention if the tap water was drinkable/potable or if there was fresh water insecurity in the region. I want to relocate where fresh water supplies are in abundance. Thank you for the information you provided
So a few things - if you right now compare infrastructure to any other surrounding country in Latin America, nothing comes close... secondly, there are 4 huge major public works going on. The highway expansion of the Pan American Highway, going to 8 lanes, the new bridge, the expansion of the metro, and this government just proposed a cross country train. So, yes there is lots of traffic, but also lots of work being done. Much of the current traffic is contributed to growing pains :) but should significantly improve when a few of those works are finished.
Water from the tap is perfectly safe to drink here in Panama City and surrounding areas.
@@GLPEnglish wow! Thank you for the quick response. I recently retired and weighing my options which include three Mediterranean countries and Latin America. Portugal, Spain, and Italy are really struggling with their water supplies due to changes in the earths climate. Thank you so much ❤️
@@GLPEnglish is there a threat to the fresh water supply (e.g., drought conditions)?
@@lalva2024I am no expert, but this is the tropics so we get plenty of rainfall. It's had a few years of low reserves in Gatun where its used to fill the canal locks, but drinking water has been fine. The country has 52 watersheds that are vital for water security and ecological well-being.
@@GLPEnglish Thank you so much. I do research, but much of the information is either contradictory or extremely convoluted. You’re a gem 💎
Got good Steak out there ?
Yes, but it's not Panamanian :) we import a lot from Argentina/Chile. The Brahman cows are the most common here and they don't have much fat on them at all, but they do the best in the tropical climate.
@@GLPEnglish Thank You
Thanks a lot, is it pet friendly?
in the last decade it has become much more pet friendly... dogs are allowed in some malls + most cafes have at least a terrace that you can bring your dog. There are plenty of dog parks around the city, etc.
I grew up on Ft. Clayton in the 80’s was may favorite country until I went to the Philippines in 2016. I went back in 09 and 11 both times I was targeted to be robbed because my skin is white. Do t know how you’re not being targeted. I dress always in gym shorts and a shit don’t wear jewelry. I look broke. My friend from there and his sister were laughing because I bring a knife everywhere since I was 16. She talked about how that’s useless they just pull out a gun so I asked them to pull one out, neither had. In 2012 almost a year to the day her daughter was in an argument outside the house, she woke to go out there and was attacked by 2 women w/ knives who killed her. I’m Puerto Rican I left PR because it’s difficult to maintain on disability pay I’ve am now a week away from 3 years living in Medellin Colombia. Only problem I had here was a few months in saving a prostitute from her pimp/boyfriend from beating her in my apartment complex, he attempted to pull a knife but I was faster having trained in Kali since 91. Police came ask me not to get involved since they don’t here😏 and took his knife because of his dramatic actions when they were there listening to the story. The landlord shook my hand and tossed them out the next day. They were Venezuelans, I’ve had no issues at all here w/ locals. I wouldn’t believe it either I was against coming here when a girl I met in Panama ask me to visit her here. Especially as her father she didn’t remember was killed by Escobar this place just seemed way too dangerous but it is actually far safer than Panama, cheaper better climate and no mosquitoes which are clearly a problem in Panama. The only disadvantage here is the food, Panama wins there🤣
Yes Sir. The weather in Medellin, a great pro. The people in Colombia
a great pro. Panameians are lazy, a great con.
The incompetence is on a different level in Panama. You might as well do everything yourself to save your sanity and wallet.
minimum education levels in all of Latin America vary... the public school system has a long way to go. But one of my favorite things about Panama is that there are small business owners who efficiently do those small annoying things very well and you can hire them to do it for you for a very reasonable price. For example the process of getting your license plate here would be confusing for someone who has never done it before, but instead of fight the system and stand in line for hours, you can pay someone $35 who will do 5-10 at a time. He feeds his family and you saved yourself an entire day of waiting in lines.
Weather is definitely not a pro. Humidity here is unbearable, and the main reason im leaving. Back to Bogota for me.
Coming from Nebraska winters, I would have to disagree :) - obviously depends on the setting, but mornings/evenings/ any time there is a pool involved, Panama is just right. You might enjoy somewhere like Boquete where it is cooler.
@@GLPEnglish Totally agree about the pool. But I'm from Canada. Trust me, I know where you're coming from ❄️☃️❄️😜.
I walked the Malecon yesterday and the humidity sucked all my energy out, making the walk very unpleasant. Luckily my building has a pool, but if it didn't, I probably wouldn't stay long.
I've looked into bouquete but if seems like a small town. I like big cities. Bogota, Lima, Buenos Aires. Etc are my jam.
Appreciate the recommendation though.
But you still must file taxes with the usa
Yes, Americans will never escape the IRS... but if it is generated internationally there are exemptions for specific amounts (changes yearly or so) but you will always have to file. Canadians can become non-tax residents depending on how much time they spend out of Canada.
Horrible
@@glenndoty739 Perhaps but it's no different for a citizen of any other country.
@@jackbaldwin3649What? Of course it’s different. I don’t pay anything to the government of my home country when I don’t work there. I couldn’t believe it when I found out that Americans have to do that
I'm a former Zonian and plan on retiring in PC within the next 18 months. Can you do a video on how much property taxes and home insurance are on a luxury condo? Property taxes and home insurance in the U.S. has gone crazy!!
Hi Victor I've seen you commenting on many different Panama channels, if you want something really specific, reach out to one of these channels. Get on a call. I'm sure anyone will be gladly be willing to help you out with your questions.
Hi Victor, that is quite specific when you say a luxury condo. What would you consider luxury? (price range) I don't currently know the exact pricing, so I would need to create a collaboration with someone to get you the exact answer.
@@GLPEnglish $1 million.
yep, here taxes are low, usually 7% in almost everything. There are some exceptions: for example, if you're an american that likes guns, to buy your own licensed gun in Panama, it's like... x10 times more expensive here than in the US.
Reason it is the way it is, because usa ran that city for 100 year's
Actually, that isn't true. I'm a former Zonian and the U.S. ran the Canal Zone but had little if anything to do with Panama City.
@victortoombs4754 we had so much influence for 100 years of panama city. Why do you think infrastructure looks so much like the usa. No other country in central or south america like that. Maybe we didn't run the city, but having a large military base in the city made a difference.
Your only talking about Panama City, not the country.
Hi Rod, some things are all encompassing, like taxes etc... but yes, this is mostly Panama City focused. We can do another on other areas of the country.
@@GLPEnglish I would like to see that as well. Perhaps start with your favorite areas of the country?
great idea. We'll work on some more content. Any other ideas?
international gentrification
It's happening everywhere, including China to North America. Just part of inflation
How about Finnland?
Hi Bruno, we are based in Panama.. so our videos are Panama focused! Sorry not much help on Finland
Live in Panama for 50 years. Is really expensive, eating out is out of control, real state is expensive and service is really bad.
Hi there! eating out can be done at many levels... yes going to nice places here is expensive, but you can find very good food here (even in the city) and it does not break the bank... not just local fonda food. I'd encourage you to explore outside of your normal spots and you might be surprised. My favorite organic soup (lunch spot) is $5.