I’ve been watching you for years and I just want to thank both of you for all your effort in making these realistic videos! You’re keeping my dreams alive! 👏🏻👏🏻❤️❤️😎😎🌹🌹
Hello kosamui, thank you for your personal note of encouragement. It really does make a difference for us when we know people appreciate what we are doing. Your comments also cause RUclips to show our video to more people so your note is like paying us a small tip $$ for our time. Thank you, Dan
Thank you for the video, Dan, always good to have as much information as possible. I watched another video earlier today about Boquete, and a gentleman commented that he just moved from Boquete to Panama City. He lived in Boquete for 16 months and left for several reasons: 1. The rain you mentioned in this video; he stated it was too much for him. And you stated there is 8 inches of rain every month except December. (That would definitely be too much for us.) 2. The grocery choices; he stated there were two stores to choose from, but they did not offer the variety he needed. He also stated many people either use Amazon or drive to David to ensure they get the foods they want. 3. Limited parking; Boquete is getting busier each year, and more people means too many cars that you can't park. 4. Dog ownership / noise; many dogs that stay out at night so you hear a lot of barking whether it is day or night. (This one might not seem like much, but I've spent a lot of time in Ecuador and have heard this for myself. Not a lot of fun, and I don't know if you just get used to that, or you move.) Hope this helps anyone looking at this area. My wife and I have two countries as possibilities to retire in, with Panama being our first choice so far. The three main communities we planned on visiting (hopefully this coming spring) were Boquete, David and Volcan. Looks like Boquete might be off the list, we'll see. Thank you again, Dan, Happy Holidays to you and Qiang! Marc
Very good. I lived in Panama 1989-91 and one of my neighbors, Hernan V. was from here and always told me how nice it was. I never got to go because of the political situation, I think Noriega had a house there. Hernan always bragged about Chiriqui province. He would call me "Chirigringo". Maybe I'll get a chance to visit there still...thanks for the tour.
Great story Ralph Stewart. Thank you for sharing it with us. Your interaction with our channel helps us get subscribers and views, so we really appreciate it. Best, Dan
I stayed in Boquette for one month in February 2017 in a small one bedroom apartment for about $350.00, there was a small restaurant/bakery off the main drag where you could get a great breakfast with coffee and juice for about $5.00…..I’m 69 years old now, single, and the town was too small and not much to do at night to my liking to live but nevertheless very nice area to visit…
So true Dennis Gonya, the world is such a beautiful place. I just laugh quietly to myself when I hear someone say "this country, or that country," is the best country in the world. Almost every country I explore is uniquely inspiring to me in more than one way. That is ultimately why I keep traveling the world slowly rather than settling permanently in one place! The World is a beautiful place. Best, Dan
Thanks for your information. Boquete Panama is definitely on our list of place to check out as part of a longer investigative tour to several countries of interest to retire at a lower cost. Many thanks.
That’s a beautiful area there. The climate is cooler and the flowers...wow. Also in that River there are some trout believe it or not. They were released from the hatchery many years ago. I used to spend some weekends on that mountain and really loved it.. I hope you enjoy your stay!
Hey Off the cuff adventures with Jamie, thanks for sharing this tip. I appreciate the ideas. Thanks for commenting too. When people comment, our videos are suggested to more people. So thank you so much! Best, Dan
Well done! I’m going on my Panama scouting trip this fall. Boquete, Volcan, El Valle. Your video was more detailed than any other I’ve seen. You covered rentals in detail with drive by examples. How cool is that?
Always love to watch your videos. I am back to Hawaii island. Playing to visit Central America again this March. México, Guatemala, and Panama are my next destinations.
Great story Yuan Shuan. Thank you for sharing it with us. Your interaction with our channel helps us get subscribers and views, so we really appreciate it. Best, Dan
Always enjoy your videos you guys do a great job. Thanks to your videos I've been in Mexico Colombia currently in Thailand hope to visit the Philippines and then Panama is now on my list. 🙏🤞
Hello Bob Frazier, thank you for your personal note of encouragement. It really does make a difference for us when we know people appreciate what we are doing. Your comments also cause RUclips to show our video to more people so your note is like paying us a small tip $$ for our time. Thank you, Dan
I was one who requested this location so thank you for great info and report. I love aspects like walkability that’s so crucial to me and of course rentability
Good video Dan; I’ve been watching a lot of videos on Boquete and yours is very informative; my Filipina wife and I have considered Baguio but are now looking at Boquete more closely
Totally. Thanks for correcting that error. Isn't that tree amazing? Luckily there are more like it that survived the Spanish Armada ship building years.
Enjoyable video. What might make for some interesting content would be if you were to have some video chats in person with local ex-pat homeowners. I would be curious as to their experience of buying a home in a foreign country including the entire process and any hurdles they have experienced. This of course would be theoretically in contrast to what you generally advise about not buying a home in a foreign country or at least waiting three years. I wonder if any foreign homeowners there feel regretful or stuck.
Thank you for your constructive criticism ONEDIRECTION. That is how we get better. That is one of the big reason I invite guest stars on the channel to give their unique perspective. The only reason I mention not to buy (for a few years) in every video is so people understand the counterpoints to buying. Because many other channels are getting commissions around the world if they can get people to buy. So they are overselling the idea. There needed to be some balance. Here is my full report on that topic for those that have not yet seen it. vagabondbuddha.com/why-retired-expats-should-not-buy-real-estate-overseas/ And thanks for commenting, Best, Dan
Great video, thank you. you keep it more real than most gringo tourist videos who gravitate to expensive gated communities and tourist traps. BTW, that's a 1,000 year old tree, no a 100 year old tree. :P
My military retirement and rental income is over 6k AFTER taxes and money put aside for emergencies. Im 50 now and thought id have to wait until im 62 or older. This looks like me and wife be ok in Boquete like we want.
Super nice place to visit for a weekend especially during the flower and coffee festival. After that there is absolutely nothing to do and it takes over an hour to go to David to buy anything you need and there's not much there, either. I been here in the city 23 years and everyone I knew who expatted there moved out in a year or two. It's basically 3rd world poverty surrounding a dozen overpriced restaurants
You don't find the mountains around you charming. I thought it was the most magical hiking trails I have ever seen. But your point is well taken. The reason I am a slow traveler is because after about 60 to 90 days almost anywhere, I start feeling "been there, done that." If that is you, consider trying slow travel. It is a white knuckle ride.
@@VagabondAwake I agree .... over a 15 year stretch of my life I visited 30+ countries for 3 or 4 weeks each and stayed in 15 for several months ..... Bangkok for almost a year and thought seriously THIS must be the place. All the best, bud .... soak it up and remember every girl .... someday when yer my age those memories will be all ya got
Always rent first and pluck those stars out of your eyes if you have that itch to buy.. In a small countries laws can be past affecting you and your life very quickly. Was there in 2017 and rumors was that a major airport, in David. Southern C. R. and that part could get major growth. Yankee prices, bargains was 10 years ago. With this flu problem, good luck...
Hi Dan one thing you didn’t mention in your budget or maybe you have it under entertainment . For me I would budget money for a gift if you are invited to a party or to treat a new friend for helping you out. Also money for a local charity.
trample, Here is how we find cheap apartments all over the world now. Watch the video and read the text to get all of our tips: vagabondbuddha.com/how-i-find-perfect-apartments-traveling-the-world/ Thanks, Dan
Have you gone an update recently? These prices you speak of here have increased substantially since my trip last month; rentals, groceries, taxis, and restaurants.
dan and qiang when you were in boquete did anyone talk about the 2 women that went for a hike and did not make it back alive. do locals have an idea as to what happened.?
Hi Dan & Quiang, Will you please provide link to episode where Dan shows what and how he packs his backpack? Loved how you bring a baggie of spices!☺ Visiting Panama starting in Mountains and visiting beaches. I have a 30 liter Osprey, backpack. Mexico, Central & South America to begin journey!
You just pick somewhere you want to go that is allowing foreigners to enter and you do whatever they want to let you enter. Some, like Mexico and the DR don't want anything. Some want tests, some want vaccines, some want tests and vaccines. I am willing to do whatever they want but quarantine. www.kayak.com/travel-restrictions
I’ve been here for several months, and I can guarantee that these prices are completely unrealistic. Unless you’re willing to live in a tiny, noisy apartment and compromise on quality food, it’s impossible to get by on such a low budget. The vast majority of people watching this are neither interested nor willing to accept these conditions.
I spent some time in Boquete. It was fun to visit but I couldn't live there due to the lack of culture, activities and entertainment. I would get bored quickly.
In the dry season almost every day. In the wet season even on rainy days it usually does not rain the whole day so you will also get some rest from the rain during that part of the year.
One of the many problems no one addresses is the Panamanian currency. Although Panama has its own currency (the Balboa), however, Panama also uses the U.S. dollar. The Balboa to U.S. dollar exchange rate is 1-to-1, which doesn't make since when it comes to GDP. The Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in Panama was worth 52.94 billion US dollars in 2020. Compare that to the U.S. GDP in 2020 at l$20.93 trillion. So how did the 1-to-1 exchange rate balance off? Someone with subject matter expertise in economy explain this...
Hi Tulbane Moore, I don't rank Panama the best place to retire. It is just better than Costa Rica in my opinion, which is also not the best place to retire. The Balboa is used only for coins in Panama. The USD dollar is used for everything else in Panama. The value of good and services is based only on supply and demand. Nobody is propping up the Balboa because it does not exist. I do a report every year on the top 15 places in the entire world to retire cheap in paradise, Here is my most recent report and video on that topic. vagabondbuddha.com/top-15-places-in-entire-world-to-retire-early-cheap-in-2022/ Thanks for watching and commenting, Dan
I would be able to retire cheaper in Panama than Cost Rica. But it is best to visit both and see where you would rent, eat, and how you would entertain yourself and add tit all up. We are all different so it is your expenses that matter most.
Thank you for the wise thought Vincent. I couldn't have said it better myself. And thanks for taking the time to help our business grow by commenting. When you comment, like, share, or subscribe, RUclips shows our videos to more people. So it is like you are paying me for my creative energy. So, thank you, :-) Dan
That's a pretty tight budget for Boquete. Depending on where one is coming from a $400 rental is pretty meagre. At that price usually there is no hot water for showers. Most people from the US/Canada/Europe don't consider the ability to have heated showers as an upgrade. From what I see, a $550 rental is pretty much, bottom of the barrel to have minimum standards. If it is an apartment at that range, it will include utilities but not if it is a home. In terms of the Pensionado visa- the most common visa, the average US amount is around $1400 per person, so one can live on that amount down here.
Thanks for sharing your numbers Jean. Most ex-pats spend more more as explained in the video, so $1400 on up is closer to what most spend. I didn't see any apartments that didn't have hot water.
@@VagabondAwake If one goes on to Boquete Ning, they will get a good idea of what a $400 monthly rental is like. Most are not going to be close to Bajo Boquete where one can walk into town, there is a fair amount of distance. Some of the properties referred to as Boquete are actually in places like Dolega, El Frances, or Caldera, it is a fair distance. Another factor for people to consider is that Boquete gets around 120 inches a year of rain, so there is rain all year. There is a great deal of humidity here in Boquete, I started seeing mold grow on walls, so I had to get a de-humiifer from Price Smart in David. Running this has raised utility bills closer to $100/month. Many lower cost rentals only have a washer and not a dryer. If one does live in Dolega or Caldera it is much warmer, so one will use their AC. Another thing to factor into if one lives in more of a " local" neighborhood is that it will be far louder than many expats are use to. The reason I mention this is that many people move to this area due to its natural beauty and feel they are getting this serene paradise for a much lower cost, I'm just pointing out some realities. If one looks at the new Digital Nomad Visa which is good for 9 months and can be renewed for an additional 9 months, this will give an indication of the direction of things. One needs to be able to show $3,000 of monthly income per month plus have one's health insurance in place.
Good question as the cost of buying abroad is so relatively cheap. Dan usually discusses flexibility and sovereign risk, capital gain and the cost of renting being cheap relative to the income that you could generate from the capital you would otherwise tie up in the condo/house. Condo fees or land tax can be an ongoing issue too. Dan loves to move around, so buying in one place reduces flexibility. Real estate owned in your own country (which is his favoured strategy) will generate rental returns plus the potential for capital gains keeping up with or exceeding inflation. Also provides a safe haven to return to if the need arises. Sovereign risk: if the country decides all foreigners must leave or imposes restrictions on visitation you could end up with either a stranded asset or one you have to offload to a local at local prices (and at the discount that happens when everyone sells at the same time). Dan, if there is anything I have missed, let Richard know. It may suit your circumstances better to buy if you want a fixed address, can cope with the capital loss in the unlikely event expats become undesirable and are happy to travel from your new overseas base. You could let out your new home while you're traveling too. Depends on whether you're still dating different countries or if you've decided to 'marry' ie settle down in one.
@@perspective4517 In Panama you won't pay taxes if the house or condo you buy is older than 2012. But also, if you're older than 70 years old, nobody will finance you. So you either extremely set on the property you want to pay cash for it, or simply pay rent, which is reasonable anyway.
I know this is an old video to tag you in but I'm curious about Cuba. I have a friend from Canada that is visiting her son there that apparently lives there. The government rate is 24 pesos to the dollar or something but the black market rate which everyone on the street operates on a 7o to 100 pesos per dollar. Also she's at one of the most beautiful beaches I've ever seen in my life and I forget the name of it but it starts with the letter v I think it's the name of the town too. Could you speak on Cuba?
Consider googling current situation in Cuba. To my casual knowledge, many citizens are in such dire straits that they’re selling their homes for almost nothing just to have money for food, even though it is in short supply. The pandemic affected their tourism industry (obviously) but also political crackdowns, and many are fleeing both legally and illegally. Of course, staying in a tourist bubble can buffer you from some of these things, but I’d personally want to know more before visiting. Just my 2 cents! 🙄😁
Hey guys, are you stuck in Panamá?.... you've been there for a little while I think lol.... I was in Panama City.just before COVID-19 hit the news so I left on 3-19 that year
Really nice video, first of all. A bit repetitious on the shots of your partner, even though she is lovely. Spot on advice about not buying property for at least two or three years when moving to an area. I doubt I would ever buy ( how many years would it take me to spend $130 k in rent).
I have friends that live there for years and I've been there as well ...wouldn't be my first choice... kind of boring and small.. nice enough climate but really grangolandia 😐
Thanks for your thoughts @hayleterry310. Personally, I have decided not to buy real estate overseas and I give a few reasons why in this video along with reasons some people should buy (in this report): vagabondbuddha.com/why-retired-expats-should-not-buy-real-estate-overseas/ Thanks, Dan
Google "Expat health insurance in 'country name'" and get at least 3 quotes. It varies based upon your age and other factors. Here is what I do about health care: vagabondbuddha.com/two-biggest-risks-of-retiring-early-overseas/
Hi Henning Roseth, That is important information. Would they like to be a guest start on one of my videos? Here is an example guest star video: ruclips.net/video/ySM_2jAC4v4/видео.html The video could be just your voice or we could do a zoom call showing your face. If you would like to be a guest star and share your story please leave a personal message here: vagabondbuddha.com/contact/ Thank you for your comment. The detail of your comment makes this real for other people. If you have a business or service or RUclips channel you could promote it on the video if you like. Best, Dan
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I’ve been watching you for years and I just want to thank both of you for all your effort in making these realistic videos! You’re keeping my dreams alive! 👏🏻👏🏻❤️❤️😎😎🌹🌹
Hello kosamui, thank you for your personal note of encouragement. It really does make a difference for us when we know people appreciate what we are doing. Your comments also cause RUclips to show our video to more people so your note is like paying us a small tip $$ for our time. Thank you, Dan
Thank you for the video, Dan, always good to have as much information as possible.
I watched another video earlier today about Boquete, and a gentleman commented that he just moved from Boquete to Panama City. He lived in Boquete for 16 months and left for several reasons:
1. The rain you mentioned in this video; he stated it was too much for him. And you stated there is 8 inches of rain every month except December. (That would definitely be too much for us.)
2. The grocery choices; he stated there were two stores to choose from, but they did not offer the variety he needed. He also stated many people either use Amazon or drive to David to ensure they get the foods they want.
3. Limited parking; Boquete is getting busier each year, and more people means too many cars that you can't park.
4. Dog ownership / noise; many dogs that stay out at night so you hear a lot of barking whether it is day or night. (This one might not seem like much, but I've spent a lot of time in Ecuador and have heard this for myself. Not a lot of fun, and I don't know if you just get used to that, or you move.)
Hope this helps anyone looking at this area. My wife and I have two countries as possibilities to retire in, with Panama being our first choice so far. The three main communities we planned on visiting (hopefully this coming spring) were Boquete, David and Volcan. Looks like Boquete might be off the list, we'll see.
Thank you again, Dan, Happy Holidays to you and Qiang!
Marc
Very good. I lived in Panama 1989-91 and one of my neighbors, Hernan V. was from here and always told me how nice it was. I never got to go because of the political situation, I think Noriega had a house there. Hernan always bragged about Chiriqui province. He would call me "Chirigringo". Maybe I'll get a chance to visit there still...thanks for the tour.
Great story Ralph Stewart. Thank you for sharing it with us. Your interaction with our channel helps us get subscribers and views, so we really appreciate it. Best, Dan
I stayed in Boquette for one month in February 2017 in a small one bedroom apartment for about $350.00, there was a small restaurant/bakery off the main drag where you could get a great breakfast with coffee and juice for about $5.00…..I’m 69 years old now, single, and the town was too small and not much to do at night to my liking to live but nevertheless very nice area to visit…
Thank you Hump! Your interactions help our channel grow! Have a great day. :-) Dan
I'm thrilled to see that you finally made a visit to Panama. You covered Boquete nicely. 👍🏽
Many beautiful homes there and the shopping looked so clean and modern. Another Dan and Qiang surprise. How could it get better than this. Take care.
So true Dennis Gonya, the world is such a beautiful place. I just laugh quietly to myself when I hear someone say "this country, or that country," is the best country in the world. Almost every country I explore is uniquely inspiring to me in more than one way. That is ultimately why I keep traveling the world slowly rather than settling permanently in one place! The World is a beautiful place. Best, Dan
Thanks for your information. Boquete Panama is definitely on our list of place to check out as part of a longer investigative tour to several countries of interest to retire at a lower cost. Many thanks.
That is exactly how to do it. A touring investigation. Great tip,
Thanks again Dan and Qiang! Great info as always.
Our pleasure!
That’s a beautiful area there. The climate is cooler and the flowers...wow. Also in that River there are some trout believe it or not. They were released from the hatchery many years ago. I used to spend some weekends on that mountain and really loved it.. I hope you enjoy your stay!
Hey Off the cuff adventures with Jamie, thanks for sharing this tip. I appreciate the ideas. Thanks for commenting too. When people comment, our videos are suggested to more people. So thank you so much! Best, Dan
@@VagabondAwake My pleasure guys! 🙏🏻
good to see you guys are still traveling, thanks for info, never knew about this town.
Thanks for watching!
Well done! I’m going on my Panama scouting trip this fall. Boquete, Volcan, El Valle. Your video was more detailed than any other I’ve seen. You covered rentals in detail with drive by examples. How cool is that?
Thank you. Very informative. I lived in Costa Rica for nearly 7 years but came back to the USA several years
Glad you enjoyed it!
Thank you guys … aa always it is exhaustively informative.
Thank you Vegas Zoom. I try to add at least one new idea to each video about this life. :-)
Great video and a lovely couple. Boquete is a paradise.
Thanks a million for this amazing video. The information provided as well as the view of Boquete are excellent. Thank you.
Always love to watch your videos. I am back to Hawaii island. Playing to visit Central America again this March. México, Guatemala, and Panama are my next destinations.
Great story Yuan Shuan. Thank you for sharing it with us. Your interaction with our channel helps us get subscribers and views, so we really appreciate it. Best, Dan
I rented for 10 years here in Singapore before finally buying a place. That was 15 years ago, no regrets.
Thank you celtosaxon! Thanks for watching and commenting. :-) Dan
Always enjoy your videos you guys do a great job. Thanks to your videos I've been in Mexico Colombia currently in Thailand hope to visit the Philippines and then Panama is now on my list. 🙏🤞
you won't regret it.
You are welcome CBR929RR Riding Free. Thanks for commenting. You are helping our channel grow. Dan
Really enjoyed the video, thanks very much.
Great job, keep 'em comming!
Hello Bob Frazier, thank you for your personal note of encouragement. It really does make a difference for us when we know people appreciate what we are doing. Your comments also cause RUclips to show our video to more people so your note is like paying us a small tip $$ for our time. Thank you, Dan
Thanks. Great video.
I was one who requested this location so thank you for great info and report. I love aspects like walkability that’s so crucial to me and of course rentability
You are welcome. :-)
Thank you Eliza. :-) Dan
Hi Dan,
My wife & I retired here 3 months ago - it's every bit as fantastic as you say! - Love to catch up if you're still around.😊
@Stephen Hall... Hello Stephen . have you, like me, also lived in other parts and f the world? I was curious how it compares....
We lived on the Sunshine Coast of Queensland for a couple of years before coming to Boquete, and much prefer it here...
Wow. Thanks for the vote of confidence Stephen. :-) Dan
Good video Dan; I’ve been watching a lot of videos on Boquete and yours is very informative; my Filipina wife and I have considered Baguio but are now looking at Boquete more closely
Glad it was helpful!
A good overview!
The sign says the tree was 1400 years old, not 100. Pretty cool place, thanks for the great video!
Totally. Thanks for correcting that error. Isn't that tree amazing? Luckily there are more like it that survived the Spanish Armada ship building years.
Enjoyable video.
What might make for some interesting content would be if you were to have some video chats in person with local ex-pat homeowners. I would be curious as to their experience of buying a home in a foreign country including the entire process and any hurdles they have experienced. This of course would be theoretically in contrast to what you generally advise about not buying a home in a foreign country or at least waiting three years. I wonder if any foreign homeowners there feel regretful or stuck.
Thank you for your constructive criticism ONEDIRECTION. That is how we get better. That is one of the big reason I invite guest stars on the channel to give their unique perspective. The only reason I mention not to buy (for a few years) in every video is so people understand the counterpoints to buying. Because many other channels are getting commissions around the world if they can get people to buy. So they are overselling the idea. There needed to be some balance. Here is my full report on that topic for those that have not yet seen it. vagabondbuddha.com/why-retired-expats-should-not-buy-real-estate-overseas/
And thanks for commenting, Best, Dan
Buying in Panama is unlike buying in the US.
@@anncazares111 Respectfully, that is a very broad and general statement.
What has your experience been?
Great video, thank you. you keep it more real than most gringo tourist videos who gravitate to expensive gated communities and tourist traps. BTW, that's a 1,000 year old tree, no a 100 year old tree. :P
For sure. I like learning about countries when I travel around the world. You can't learn much if you hide in a bubble. :-)
My military retirement and rental income is over 6k AFTER taxes and money put aside for emergencies. Im 50 now and thought id have to wait until im 62 or older. This looks like me and wife be ok in Boquete like we want.
Great video, Dan !
Too small for us, I think, but pretty area.
Fair enough!
Thanks Dan
You are welcome Doug Blomgren. Thanks for commenting. You are helping our channel grow. Dan
Super nice place to visit for a weekend especially during the flower and coffee festival. After that there is absolutely nothing to do and it takes over an hour to go to David to buy anything you need and there's not much there, either. I been here in the city 23 years and everyone I knew who expatted there moved out in a year or two. It's basically 3rd world poverty surrounding a dozen overpriced restaurants
You don't find the mountains around you charming. I thought it was the most magical hiking trails I have ever seen. But your point is well taken. The reason I am a slow traveler is because after about 60 to 90 days almost anywhere, I start feeling "been there, done that." If that is you, consider trying slow travel. It is a white knuckle ride.
@@VagabondAwake I agree .... over a 15 year stretch of my life I visited 30+ countries for 3 or 4 weeks each and stayed in 15 for several months ..... Bangkok for almost a year and thought seriously THIS must be the place. All the best, bud .... soak it up and remember every girl .... someday when yer my age those memories will be all ya got
Always rent first and pluck those stars out of your eyes if you have that itch to buy.. In a small countries laws can be past affecting you and your life very quickly. Was there in 2017 and rumors was that a major airport, in David. Southern C. R. and that part could get major growth. Yankee prices, bargains was 10 years ago. With this flu problem, good luck...
Thank you farmerboy! Yes, rent until you have a real understanding and not stars in your eyes.
Thanks for watching and commenting. :-) Dan
Hi Dan one thing you didn’t mention in your budget or maybe you have it under entertainment . For me I would budget money for a gift if you are invited to a party or to treat a new friend for helping you out. Also money for a local charity.
Thank you vgshwk! Great ideas. Thanks for watching and commenting. :-) Dan
Hey,Dan! The more you travel, the better you look! 😃👍🏽
lol. :-) Qiang says that sometimes too. She thinks I am getting younger.
hi Dan, great video on Boquete. love all the places to eat, however, do you mention motels or airbnb recommendations? sorry if I missed it.
trample, Here is how we find cheap apartments all over the world now. Watch the video and read the text to get all of our tips:
vagabondbuddha.com/how-i-find-perfect-apartments-traveling-the-world/
Thanks,
Dan
Thanks for all of the good information, how would you say the prices you mentioned compare to todays prices?
Can you make a video about David and Volcan.
Thanks Ricardo Figueroa, great minds think alike. Stay tuned. Your wish is my command. Best, Dan
Have you gone an update recently?
These prices you speak of here have increased substantially since my trip last month; rentals, groceries, taxis, and restaurants.
No recent updates
Thanks very nice
Most welcome
What other places in Panama do you recommend for retirement? How about Coronado/Nueve Gorgona? le Valle de Anton?
I prefer something closer to the city (but not in it)
Here are our feet on the ground videos of Panama: ruclips.net/video/OAGYVK2FzIU/видео.html
Thank you! Whom did you use for long-term apartment rentals? Good stuff!
Here is our trick: vagabondbuddha.com/how-i-find-perfect-apartments-traveling-the-world/
What about insects.Can you go outside day or night without being completely attacked by some form of biting
dan and qiang when you were in boquete did anyone talk about the 2 women that went for a hike and did not make it back alive. do locals have an idea as to what happened.?
Thanks for watching and commenting!
@@VagabondAwake I’m interested in this as well, but all you did was thank - no answer. ???
Hi Dan & Quiang,
Will you please provide link to episode where Dan shows what and how he packs his backpack? Loved how you bring a baggie of spices!☺ Visiting Panama starting in Mountains and visiting beaches. I have a 30 liter Osprey, backpack. Mexico, Central & South America to begin journey!
vagabondbuddha.com/what-i-pack-to-travel-the-world/
How do you travel so much with COVID-19
You just pick somewhere you want to go that is allowing foreigners to enter and you do whatever they want to let you enter. Some, like Mexico and the DR don't want anything.
Some want tests, some want vaccines, some want tests and vaccines. I am willing to do whatever they want but quarantine. www.kayak.com/travel-restrictions
@@VagabondAwake I will try thank you
Whatever they want..😢
I’ve been here for several months, and I can guarantee that these prices are completely unrealistic. Unless you’re willing to live in a tiny, noisy apartment and compromise on quality food, it’s impossible to get by on such a low budget. The vast majority of people watching this are neither interested nor willing to accept these conditions.
I spent some time in Boquete. It was fun to visit but I couldn't live there due to the lack of culture, activities and entertainment. I would get bored quickly.
Yes, it is a small town. The hiking is a big draw there. So green and beautiful.
Sounds Like A Great Place!!! How Often Does The Sun Come Out???
In the dry season almost every day. In the wet season even on rainy days it usually does not rain the whole day so you will also get some rest from the rain during that part of the year.
Hey Mickey Garcia, thanks for the great question. Fanfare100 got it right. So, thank you! Dan
One of the many problems no one addresses is the Panamanian currency. Although Panama has its own currency (the Balboa), however, Panama also uses the U.S. dollar. The Balboa to U.S. dollar exchange rate is 1-to-1, which doesn't make since when it comes to GDP. The Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in Panama was worth 52.94 billion US dollars in 2020. Compare that to the U.S. GDP in 2020 at l$20.93 trillion. So how did the 1-to-1 exchange rate balance off? Someone with subject matter expertise in economy explain this...
Hi Tulbane Moore, I don't rank Panama the best place to retire. It is just better than Costa Rica in my opinion, which is also not the best place to retire. The Balboa is used only for coins in Panama. The USD dollar is used for everything else in Panama. The value of good and services is based only on supply and demand. Nobody is propping up the Balboa because it does not exist. I do a report every year on the top 15 places in the entire world to retire cheap in paradise, Here is my most recent report and video on that topic.
vagabondbuddha.com/top-15-places-in-entire-world-to-retire-early-cheap-in-2022/
Thanks for watching and commenting,
Dan
isn't the e silent on Bouquete at the end
www.spanishdict.com/pronunciation/boquete :-)
hi, nice video, one question, where is ore expensive to retire wiyh a social security pension, Costa Rica or Panama Boquete
I would be able to retire cheaper in Panama than Cost Rica. But it is best to visit both and see where you would rent, eat, and how you would entertain yourself and add tit all up. We are all different so it is your expenses that matter most.
I would like to be living there with in the next 12 months.
Thank you Mae Kelm! Your interactions help our channel grow! Have a great day. :-) Dan
Inflation and the decline of the dollar and the USA is going to affect retiring cheaply; if depending on US retirement income
Thank you for the wise thought Vincent. I couldn't have said it better myself. And thanks for taking the time to help our business grow by commenting. When you comment, like, share, or subscribe, RUclips shows our videos to more people. So it is like you are paying me for my creative energy. So, thank you, :-) Dan
Do you feel any differently about your experience now ?
That's a pretty tight budget for Boquete. Depending on where one is coming from a $400 rental is pretty meagre. At that price usually there is no hot water for showers. Most people from the US/Canada/Europe don't consider the ability to have heated showers as an upgrade. From what I see, a $550 rental is pretty much, bottom of the barrel to have minimum standards. If it is an apartment at that range, it will include utilities but not if it is a home. In terms of the Pensionado visa- the most common visa, the average US amount is around $1400 per person, so one can live on that amount down here.
Thanks for sharing your numbers Jean. Most ex-pats spend more more as explained in the video, so $1400 on up is closer to what most spend. I didn't see any apartments that didn't have hot water.
@@VagabondAwake If one goes on to Boquete Ning, they will get a good idea of what a $400 monthly rental is like. Most are not going to be close to Bajo Boquete where one can walk into town, there is a fair amount of distance. Some of the properties referred to as Boquete are actually in places like Dolega, El Frances, or Caldera, it is a fair distance. Another factor for people to consider is that Boquete gets around 120 inches a year of rain, so there is rain all year. There is a great deal of humidity here in Boquete, I started seeing mold grow on walls, so I had to get a de-humiifer from Price Smart in David. Running this has raised utility bills closer to $100/month. Many lower cost rentals only have a washer and not a dryer. If one does live in Dolega or Caldera it is much warmer, so one will use their AC. Another thing to factor into if one lives in more of a " local" neighborhood is that it will be far louder than many expats are use to. The reason I mention this is that many people move to this area due to its natural beauty and feel they are getting this serene paradise for a much lower cost, I'm just pointing out some realities.
If one looks at the new Digital Nomad Visa which is good for 9 months and can be renewed for an additional 9 months, this will give an indication of the direction of things. One needs to be able to show $3,000 of monthly income per month plus have one's health insurance in place.
Hello Dan love your channel. Why do you recommend not buying real estate abroad?
Good question as the cost of buying abroad is so relatively cheap. Dan usually discusses flexibility and sovereign risk, capital gain and the cost of renting being cheap relative to the income that you could generate from the capital you would otherwise tie up in the condo/house. Condo fees or land tax can be an ongoing issue too. Dan loves to move around, so buying in one place reduces flexibility. Real estate owned in your own country (which is his favoured strategy) will generate rental returns plus the potential for capital gains keeping up with or exceeding inflation. Also provides a safe haven to return to if the need arises. Sovereign risk: if the country decides all foreigners must leave or imposes restrictions on visitation you could end up with either a stranded asset or one you have to offload to a local at local prices (and at the discount that happens when everyone sells at the same time). Dan, if there is anything I have missed, let Richard know. It may suit your circumstances better to buy if you want a fixed address, can cope with the capital loss in the unlikely event expats become undesirable and are happy to travel from your new overseas base. You could let out your new home while you're traveling too. Depends on whether you're still dating different countries or if you've decided to 'marry' ie settle down in one.
@@perspective4517 In Panama you won't pay taxes if the house or condo you buy is older than 2012. But also, if you're older than 70 years old, nobody will finance you. So you either extremely set on the property you want to pay cash for it, or simply pay rent, which is reasonable anyway.
Wow, great question and answers! Here is my report on the topic. :-) vagabondbuddha.com/why-retired-expats-should-not-buy-real-estate-overseas/
I know this is an old video to tag you in but I'm curious about Cuba. I have a friend from Canada that is visiting her son there that apparently lives there. The government rate is 24 pesos to the dollar or something but the black market rate which everyone on the street operates on a 7o to 100 pesos per dollar. Also she's at one of the most beautiful beaches I've ever seen in my life and I forget the name of it but it starts with the letter v I think it's the name of the town too. Could you speak on Cuba?
Thank you Andrew Brann! Thanks for watching and commenting. :-) Dan
I have not been to Cuba but hope to someday.
Consider googling current situation in Cuba. To my casual knowledge, many citizens are in such dire straits that they’re selling their homes for almost nothing just to have money for food, even though it is in short supply. The pandemic affected their tourism industry (obviously) but also political crackdowns, and many are fleeing both legally and illegally. Of course, staying in a tourist bubble can buffer you from some of these things, but I’d personally want to know more before visiting. Just my 2 cents! 🙄😁
Can you hire drivers instead of using a bus?
Waooooo bellísima
Thank you Sergio Rigon! Thanks for watching and commenting. :-) Dan
Hey guys, are you stuck in Panamá?.... you've been there for a little while I think lol.... I was in Panama City.just before COVID-19 hit the news so I left on 3-19 that year
No, we just left Panama. Loved the place. Out videos are about 30 days behind. :-)
@@VagabondAwake good fortune ahead guys!
Loved this video. It looks like it rains a lot there. Does it?
Absolutely. :-) It is one of the greenest wettest place in the world.
@@VagabondAwake - Well I guess Boquete has Seattle beat for annual rainfall then.😁
do they have a good gym?
They have a few. I didn't go inside though. So not sure.
Really nice video, first of all. A bit repetitious on the shots of your partner, even though she is lovely. Spot on advice about not buying property for at least two or three years when moving to an area. I doubt I would ever buy ( how many years would it take me to spend $130 k in rent).
I have friends that live there for years and I've been there as well ...wouldn't be my first choice... kind of boring and small.. nice enough climate but really grangolandia 😐
Yes, I like to be in foreign countries when I am in a foreign country. So I know what you mean. :-)
Why I shouldn't buy a home out over seas
Thanks for your thoughts @hayleterry310. Personally, I have decided not to buy real estate overseas and I give a few reasons why in this video along with reasons some people should buy (in this report):
vagabondbuddha.com/why-retired-expats-should-not-buy-real-estate-overseas/
Thanks, Dan
That water seems cold
That was a hot spring. :-)
What about health insurance?
Google "Expat health insurance in 'country name'" and get at least 3 quotes. It varies based upon your age and other factors. Here is what I do about health care: vagabondbuddha.com/two-biggest-risks-of-retiring-early-overseas/
CaldER!!!!!
Alexander Calder?
Found a expat doing it for 412
Sorry, doing what for 412?
@@seashell4327 It's actually possible. My sister lives in Panama and for years her salary was $800 to $900.
Hi Henning Roseth, That is important information. Would they like to be a guest start on one of my videos? Here is an example guest star video:
ruclips.net/video/ySM_2jAC4v4/видео.html
The video could be just your voice or we could do a zoom call showing your face. If you would like to be a guest star and share your story please leave a personal message here:
vagabondbuddha.com/contact/
Thank you for your comment. The detail of your comment makes this real for other people. If you have a business or service or RUclips channel you could promote it on the video if you like. Best, Dan
@@VagabondAwake
ruclips.net/video/YrjgQ2a-ogA/видео.html
Havent seen any new content from him for a while… to shame, cuz i really liked his videos
LOL