Living In Panama Expat Guide part 1 – that will be the topic of today’s article.
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The best time to consider your financial situation is when you are moving to a new country.
Introduction
There are many reasons why people might choose to move to Panama. Perhaps you’re looking for a change in scenery, or you want to take advantage of the lower cost of living. Maybe you’re looking for someplace warmer to live in, or you want to retire in a beautiful setting.
Whatever your reasons, Panama offers plenty of opportunities for expats. One of the biggest advantages of living in Panama is its location. The country is bordered by the Pacific and Atlantic oceans, which means there are plenty of beaches and coastal towns to choose from.
Panama is also a short flight from the United States, making it easy to visit family and friends back home. And, thanks to its well-developed infrastructure, Panama is relatively easy to get around. That being said, Panama is a diverse country with something to offer everyone.
Whether you’re looking for metropolitan excitement or rural peace, you can find it in Panama. The cost of living is also relatively low, making it an affordable place to live. Healthcare is also good, and the country has several excellent schools.
In this article, we will walk you through the basics of moving to Panama, from finding a place to live to get set up with utilities. We will also give you some tips on adjusting to life in this beautiful country. I’m sure you’re ready to see what we’ve got, right? Continue reading to get a glimpse of what we’re saying.
Interesting Facts about Panama Cultures and Traditions
The culture and traditions of Panama are a mix of indigenous, Spanish, and Afro-Caribbean influences. Here are some interesting facts about some of the most notable aspects of Panama’s cultural heritage.
The Traditional Dress
The traditional dress for women in Panama is the pollera. A pollera is a large, full skirt made from many layers of brightly colored fabric. A pollera typically has a ruffled edge and is worn with a blouse and a shawl. Also, women in Panama often wear a headscarf called a rebozo.
The Traditional Dance
The traditional dance of Panama is the baile de la conga. The conga is a lively, upbeat dance popular throughout Latin America. That being said, there are many different styles of dance in Panama, each with its unique flavor. Besides the congas, some of the most popular dances in Panama include the paso doble and the mambo.
The Traditional Food
The traditional food of Panama is a mix of indigenous, Spanish, and Afro-Caribbean flavors. Some of the most popular dishes include sancocho (a stew made with chicken, beef, or pork), ceviche (a dish made with raw fish, shrimp, or lobster), and Arroz con Pollo traditional (rice with chicken).
The Music
The traditional music of Panama is a mix of indigenous, Spanish, and Afro-Caribbean influences. Some of the most popular styles of music include salsa, merengue, and reggaeton. Also, Panama is home to several well-known musicians, including Ruben Blades, Marc Anthony, and Shakira.
The Holidays
The most important holidays in Panama are Christmas, New Year’s Day, and Carnival. Christmas is celebrated on December 25th, New Year’s Day is celebrated on January 1st, and Carnival is celebrated throughout February. These are just a few of the many interesting facts about the culture and traditions of Panama.
Pros and Cons of Living in Panama
When it comes to the pros and cons of living in Panama, it really depends on what you are looking for in your home country. If you are looking for a place with pristine beaches and lush rainforests, Panama may be the right choice for you.
However, if you are looking for a more developed country with all of the amenities of first-world living, Panama may not be the best option. In this article, we will walk you through the pros and cons of living in Panama as an expat. Without further ado, take a look at the pros and cons below.
Pros
The Weather Is Amazing
If you’re looking for a place where the sun shines almost every day, and the temperature is perfect, Panama is a great choice. The country enjoys year-round sunshine, with 75 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Also, there is very little rainfall, so you don’t have to worry about dealing with rain all the time.
The Cost Of Living Is Low
Compared to other popular expat destinations, such as Spain or Italy, Panama is much more affordable. You can easily get by on a budget of $1,000 to $1,500 per month, including rent. And, if you’re looking for a bargain, there are plenty of great deals to be found on housing, food, and entertainment.
Panama Is A Safe Place to Live
Panama is a relatively safe country, with low levels of crime and violence. This makes it a great place to raise a family or to retire. In addition, the government is stable, and there is little political instability. Also, the healthcare system is good, and it’s easy to find reliable medical care when you need it.
The Infrastructure Is Well Developed
Panama has a well-developed infrastructure, with good roads, airports, and telecommunications. This makes it easy to get around the country and stay connected with the rest of the world. Besides, the locals are friendly and welcoming, and it’s easy to make friends in Panama.
Panama Is A Great Place to Learn Spanish
If you’re looking to learn Spanish, Panama is a great place to do it. The locals speak a clear and easy-to-understand form of Spanish, and there are plenty of language schools where you can get started. Also, the country is home to a large expat community, so you’ll have plenty of opportunities to practice your new skills.
The Food Is Delicious
Panamanian cuisine is a mix of African, Spanish, and Native American flavors, and it’s delicious. You’ll find plenty of restaurants serving up traditional dishes, as well as international fare. And, if you’re feeling adventurous, you can always try cooking Panamanian food yourself.
Panama Is A Great Place to Live
All in all, Panama is a great place to live. The weather is amazing, the cost of living is low, and the infrastructure is well developed. Plus, the locals are friendly and welcoming, and there are plenty of things to do and see in the country. If you’re looking for a place to call home, Panama is a great option.
Cons
Traffic Congestion Is a Problem
Panama City is notorious for its traffic congestion. Expats who are used to living in cities with less traffic will find themselves spending a lot of time in their cars. The best way to avoid traffic is to leave early in the morning or late at night. Also, using public transportation can help you avoid traffic jams.
It’s Expensive To Live In Panama
Compared to other countries in Central America, Panama is more expensive to live in. Expats will need to budget their money carefully to afford necessities such as food, housing, and transportation. Also, keep in mind that the cost of living can vary depending on the city or town you choose to live in.
The Weather Is Hot and Humid
Panama is located in a tropical climate, which means that it’s hot and humid all year round. Expats who are not used to this type of weather may find it difficult to adjust. Besides, the humidity can be very uncomfortable, and it’s hard to stay cool during the summer months. Moreover, there is a high chance of experiencing a hurricane or tropical storm.
High Crime Rate
Panama has a high crime rate, which can be alarming for expats. Petty crimes such as theft and robbery are common, so it’s important to take precautions and always be aware of your surroundings. The best way to avoid becoming a victim of crime is to be street smart and know where to go and not go in the city.
Inadequate Healthcare System
Panama’s healthcare system is not as developed as other countries in the region. This means that there are not many hospitals or clinics, and available ones are often overcrowded. Expats who require medical attention may travel to a neighboring country for treatment.
Top 7 Cities for Expats in Panama
There is no question that Panama is a welcoming and hospitable country for expats. But which city is the best place to live? Well, that depends on your lifestyle, and what you are looking for in a city. Without further ado, here are the top 5 cities for expats in Panama:
Panama City
The capital of Panama and the largest city in the country, Panama City offers Expats all the amenities they could want, from international restaurants and nightlife to hospitals and schools. It is also a great place to network, as many expats live in the city. That being said, it can also be expensive to live in Panama City, and the traffic can be a nightmare.
Boquete
A mountain town about two hours from Panama City, Boquete is a popular destination for expats looking for a more relaxed and rural lifestyle. The town is home to many ex-pats who have moved here for the cooler weather, stunning scenery, and friendly community.
David
David is the second-largest city in Panama after Panama City and is a great option for expats looking for an affordable and convenient location. The city has all the amenities you would expect, including hospitals, schools, and malls. It’s also a great jumping-off point for exploring the rest of Panama.
Bocas del Toro
This archipelago is a popular destination for expats looking for a tropical island getaway. With its white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush jungles, Bocas del Toro is hard to beat. However, it can be expensive to live here, and the infrastructure is not as developed as in some of the other cities on this list.
Coronado
This beach town outside of Panama City is a great option for expats who want to live near the city but enjoy the peace of a smaller town. Coronado is home to many ex-pats and has all the amenities you would expect, including grocery stores, restaurants, and pharmacies. It’s also a great place to retire.
Santiago
Santiago is a small town in the province of Veraguas that is becoming increasingly popular with expats. It’s a great option for those looking for a quiet and rural lifestyle, as Santiago has all the amenities you need, including grocery stores, schools, and hospitals. Moreover, the cost of living is very affordable.
San Carlos
San Carlos is a small town on the border with Costa Rica that is becoming a popular destination for expats. It’s a great option for those looking for a quiet and rural lifestyle, as San Carlos has all the amenities you need, including grocery stores, schools, and hospitals. Also, it’s a great place to retire.
