Boquete, Panama

"Be prepared to change your life. Leave behind all your pre concieved notions of how it should be, what you need, want, and must have to get by. EVERYTHING is different, embrace it, learn from it, apply what you can to your life but don't come here with demands, strict ideals, uptight lifestyle, and the idea that you are going to save a third world culture from itself. I find the opposite is what happens, it saves you from yourself and what ever madness you left behind," wrote one member in Boquete.

"Expats considering retiring in Boquete should be aware that the cost of living is relatively low compared to other countries, but it is still important to budget carefully. Boquete is a small town, so it is important to research the local amenities and services available before making the move. The climate in Boquete is generally mild and pleasant, but it is important to be aware of the rainy season and the potential for flooding. Additionally, it is important to research the local healthcare system and the availability of medical services in the area. Finally, it is important to research the local laws and regulations regarding residency and visas," remarked one expat who made the move to Boquete.

"Come and visit several areas before making the move. We have snakes, though I haven't seen one yet. We do not have mosquitos. If you select an International Mover, avoid Move Management. They are very efficient on the US side, but they use PIR on the Panama side. PIR can't create a ACH to withdraw funds from your checking account, nor can they swipe a debit or credit card. As Manny Rojas in Miami,says, you can always pay in cash. (his relatives in Panama City run PIR) If you do not have two thousand in cash it may take you nine days to get the cash from an ATM, meanwhile, port charges, at $50 per day, keep mounting. I was withdrawing from 2 different banks in the US banks on a daily basis. BTW, every ATM here spits out $20.00 bills. You may have to fight with your US bank to make them understand that there is no Foreign Exchange issue in Panama. Mastercard charged as much as $12 foreign transaction. They have since reduced those fees to $5 or $6. Visa charges $4. If you don't have a place for your goods to be delivered, PIR charges $500 per month or any portion thereof, even one extra day will cost you $500.00. One more thing, if you send them a wire transfer, their bank charges PIR $90, which they will gleefully pass on to you. Bring buckets of cash or avoid Move Management. Your local US contact will drop you like a hot potato as soon as your goods are on the water. There is a storage place on the way to Boquete called Chiriqui Storage run by Hellmut and Linda Pederson. One good sized locker is $100/mo. A 20 ft. container would take two lockers," explained one expat living in Alto Boquete, Panama.

"We visited here many times before moving and stayed in different areas each time. There are 13 micro-climates here and they vary greatly. Some roads are not good so that may play into housing decisions too. Temperatures vary, even 5 minutes away can make a big difference. There are also areas that get extremely windy in Jan-Feb. Rent before buying," said one expat in Boquete.

"I lived in Leon, Nicaragua and was tired of heat, The temperatures here suit me well. I found an apartment in Alto Boquete on the Internet, and took a 6 month lease. I will be moving closer to town as I don't own a car," said one expat who made the move to Boquete.

"We lived in Panama City for a short time while we were waiting for our goods to arrive. The heat is almost unbearable. We had visited Boquete on previous visits and decided that its mild weather is a good choice. Never too hot or too cold. We purchase a dehumidifier for the rainy season, but you don't need an air conditioner or space heater. A lighted ceiling fan is all you need," explained one expat living in Alto Boquete, Panama.

"Typical construction of homes in Boquete, or all of Panama, is lack of insulation. During rainy season the rain drops, size of marbles on a tin roof is deafening. You may want to keep ear plugs nearby," wrote one member in Boquete.

"3 bedroom 2 bath homes. In Boquete it is typical to have a home but there are some apartments available. When you make any change to your house you will be overcharged and you will receive poor quality work. Your electricity will be high, and undependable, and you will never have the bill delivered to your house. It is your responsible to know when the bill is due and your responsibility to go to them and pay it. (the Post Office does not deliver mail. you may not even have a street name and house number.)," remarked one expat who made the move to Boquete.

"Expat homes and apartments in Boquete are typically modern and comfortable, with many featuring open-plan living areas, large windows, and balconies with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Many homes and apartments come with amenities such as air conditioning, cable TV, and high-speed internet. Expats can also find a variety of housing options, from luxury villas to more affordable apartments. Boquete is a great place for expats to live, with its temperate climate, friendly locals, and abundance of outdoor activities," explained one expat living in Boquete, Panama.

"We have a 2 bedroom rental house up the hill from Boquete town. It is our preferred area. We were lucky and planned well in advance of moving here," said one expat in Boquete.

"We are certain it is less to live there than in the US although....prices are creeping up at least in the grocery stores," said one expat in Boquete.

"Our rent (including electric, gas and high-speed internet) is less than half of just our mortgage in S. Florida. Tip: if internet is important to you, don't ask, "do you have internet" since everyone can get it. Ask, "what speed internet can I get and how much does it cost?" We pay about $50 for 5G megs mo. Five minutes away it is $150 for 1meg," said one expat who made the move to Boquete.

"Monthly rental is $905.00 per month cheaper. Housing here is between $600 $700 for two bedrooms. There are real estate people here who will find a house or apartment for you. Be prepared, every local has his hand out. Everyone from the cab drivers to our exterminator will offer to find a house for you. They have contacts and get commissions. But make no mistake, the Panamanians are all good-hearted and mean well. Sometimes strike gold," explained one expat living in Alto Boquete, Panama.

"Expats in Boquete often join clubs and activities such as the Boquete Expat Club, Boquete Garden Club, Boquete Birders, Boquete Book Club, Boquete Photography Club, and Boquete Hiking Club. Expats also meet people by attending local events such as the Boquete Jazz & Blues Festival, Boquete Flower & Coffee Festival, and Boquete International Film Festival. Additionally, expats can meet people by attending local churches, volunteering in the community, or joining a language exchange program," remarked one expat who made the move to Boquete.

"The Tuesday Market at the BCP (Boquete Community Players) is a good place to see and be seen. Very easy to meet others if you are at all outgoing. There is also a newcomers group that meets a couple of times a month. There is always something happening, somewhere to go, something to do. There are many non-profits looking for volunteers, so just find one that speaks to you," explained one expat living in Boquete, Panama.

"I shipped via UPS all "necessary" items to decorate as well as daily living items...towels...sheets and all kitchen cooking supplies including china and silverware from Virginia to Panama City. Additional charge from Panama City to Boquete. No furniture or appliances as they were included in the contract. This was a 3500 K expense but we wanted to move right into the house to start enjoying life and not have to shop when there. This did not happen . "OUR" house was illegally occupied and we were unable to have him evicted and after several months returned to the US. Let me make it clear that it was not a Panamanian but a "Gringo" that we bought from. We remain in litigation...one year. Bottom line..After renting there for months and having time to "find" ourselves I WOULD NOT SHIP ANYTHING. IN PANAMA THERE ARE SO MANY LOCAL AND INTERESTING THINGS FOR A HOUSE and fun to look. Not too far from Boquete near the border of Costa Rica is a great place to start! I gave all away to needy Panamanians and a local church," wrote one member in Boquete.

"Full size vacuum cleaner. I brought all of my slacks. In Panama we are going through a phase of slacks and jeans with 3" zippers. If your are not wearing a thong, you better have a very long shirt. I don't have any idea when this style will change. There are no Talbot's type shops here. Shoes are reasonably priced. We wish we had brought power tools. They are more expensive here than at Home Depot. If you have a computer, bring a modem. Bring your car. Roads vary from super highways to dirt roads. New cars are expensive in Panama," remarked one expat who made the move to Alto Boquete.

"Things I wished or do not regret bringing: Towels in colors I like, Bed linens and Shoes. Things I wish I left at home: nothing," explained one expat living in Boquete, Panama.

"Before retiring in Boquete, expats should be aware of the cost of living, which is higher than in other parts of the country. It is important to research the local healthcare system and ensure that it meets your needs. Additionally, expats should be aware of the local culture and customs, and be prepared to learn some Spanish. It is also important to research the local climate and terrain, as Boquete is located in a mountainous region with a tropical climate. Finally, expats should be aware of the local laws and regulations, and ensure that they are compliant with them," remarked one expat living in Boquete, Panama.

"Many expats are not allowed to work in Panama. Those with the pensionado visa cannot legally work here, and ever if you can work, you need to be aware of the laws and requirements. Speak to an attorney before you move while assuming you can just set up shop," wrote a member in Boquete.

"Foreigners often work in Boquete as English teachers, tour guides, hospitality workers, and in the service industry. They may also find work in the agricultural sector, such as coffee and flower farming, or in the construction industry. Other popular jobs for foreigners include working in restaurants, bars, and hotels, as well as in the retail sector," commented one expat who made the move to Boquete.

"Life for expats and digital nomads in Boquete is generally quite pleasant. The town is small and friendly, with a laid-back atmosphere and plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. The climate is mild and the scenery is beautiful, with lush green mountains and valleys. The cost of living is low, making it an attractive destination for those looking to stretch their budget. There is a strong expat community in Boquete, with plenty of opportunities to meet new people and make friends. The internet connection is reliable, making it a great place to work remotely. All in all, Boquete is an ideal destination for expats and digital nomads looking for a peaceful and affordable place to live," explained one expat living in Boquete, Panama.

"I appreciate the dedication to family - it's refreshing to see entire extended families spending time together and enjoying life," said one expat in Boquete.

"Expats in Boquete appreciate the friendly and welcoming nature of the local people. They also enjoy the laid-back atmosphere and the slower pace of life. The stunning natural beauty of the area is another draw, with lush green mountains, rivers, and waterfalls. The local cuisine is also a highlight, with a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as delicious seafood. The vibrant culture and traditions of the Ngöbe-Buglé people are also appreciated by expats, who enjoy learning about the local customs and history," said one expat who made the move to Boquete.

"The difference in attitude regarding such things as appointment times - even if you agree to meet at a specific day and time, if a Panamanian has a family event, another appointment or just decides not to come, they may show up an hour or two late or the next day. You need to be prepared to schedule and re-schedule without getting too frustrated," commented one expat who made the move to Boquete.

"Expats in Boquete often find the language barrier to be the most challenging aspect of the local culture. Many locals speak Spanish, and while some may understand English, it can be difficult to communicate with them without a basic understanding of the language. Additionally, the local customs and traditions can be difficult to understand and navigate for those who are not familiar with them. Expats may also find the slower pace of life in Boquete to be a challenge, as it can be difficult to adjust to the more relaxed lifestyle," remarked one expat living in Boquete, Panama.

"Almost none. Only 'property' crime like the occasional break in, but overall we're much safer here than in any large US city," said one expat in Boquete.

"Boquete is generally considered to be a safe place to live and visit. While there is some crime in the area, it is generally limited to petty theft and is not considered to be a major problem. The local police are known to be vigilant and responsive to reports of crime. In general, visitors and residents of Boquete can feel safe and secure in the area," said one expat who made the move to Boquete.

"Boquete is a diverse community with people from many different backgrounds. The population includes people from all over the world, including North America, Europe, and Latin America. People in Boquete are generally accepting of differences and embrace the diversity of the community. There is a strong sense of community and acceptance of different cultures, religions, and lifestyles," explained one expat living in Boquete, Panama.

"This is a coffee town. The labor is provided by the Indians - the Nogobe Bugle. Women and girls wear traditional dresses and men wear rubber knee boots. They have their own places to shop and gather as do the gringos and its all good. Nobody minds or is wary of other social groups. Most gringos are well aware that we are just visitors, its thier country and the best we can do is learn, adapt, and be good members of the community. Contributing to the community is a good thing, trying to change someones way of life is a bad thing. Know the difference," said one expat in Boquete.

"The Boquete International School (BIS) is one of the best international schools in Boquete. BIS offers a comprehensive education program for students from pre-kindergarten to grade 12. The school follows an American-style curriculum and provides a safe and nurturing environment for students to learn and grow. BIS also offers a variety of extracurricular activities, such as sports, music, and art. The Boquete Bilingual School (BBS) is another excellent school in Boquete, Panama. BBS offers a bilingual education program for students from pre-kindergarten to grade 12. The school follows a curriculum that combines the best of both American and Panamanian education systems. BBS also provides a variety of extracurricular activities, such as sports, music, and art. The Boquete American School (BAS) is a great option for students looking for an American-style education in Boquete, Panama. BAS offers a comprehensive education program for students from pre-kindergarten to grade 12. The school follows an American-style curriculum and provides a safe and nurturing environment for students to learn and grow. BAS also offers a variety of extracurricular activities, such as sports, music, and art," remarked one expat living in Boquete with children attending .

"The people and culture here are incredible and give me great hope for the future of this planet," said one expat living in Boquete.

"Expats and digital nomads living in Boquete enjoy the temperate climate, the stunning natural beauty of the area, and the friendly locals. They also appreciate the low cost of living, the abundance of outdoor activities, and the easy access to the rest of Panama. On the downside, some expats and digital nomads find the lack of infrastructure and the slow internet speeds to be a challenge. Additionally, the language barrier can be a problem for those who don't speak Spanish," mentioned one expat inBoquete.

"Expats, retirees and digital nomads living in Boquete typically have an active social life. There are many opportunities to meet people and make friends, such as joining local clubs and organizations, attending community events, and participating in outdoor activities. Expats often join expat-specific groups and activities, while retirees and digital nomads often join local clubs and organizations. Additionally, there are many restaurants, bars, and cafes in Boquete where people can socialize and meet new people," mentioned an expat living in Boquete.

"Friendly people and lots of social opportunities however covid has temporarily kept us apart. We are much more careful of social distancing than in the US," said an expat in Boquete.

"Love the friendly Panamanian people and living in Panama. The other expats are mainly happy adventurers that we enjoy also," said an expat in Boquete.

"The social scene in Boquete is vibrant and welcoming. There are plenty of opportunities to meet new people and make friends, whether it be through joining a local sports team, attending a weekly salsa class, or simply enjoying a beer at one of the many bars and restaurants. The expat community is also very active, with regular meet-ups and events taking place throughout the year. Boquete is a great place to make lasting connections and build a strong social network," remarked one expat in Boquete.

"Expats in Boquete recommend researching the area thoroughly before committing to a rental or purchase. It is important to consider the location, size, and amenities of the property, as well as the cost of living in the area. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the local laws and regulations regarding rental and purchase agreements. It is also recommended to work with a reputable real estate agent or lawyer to ensure that all paperwork is in order. Finally, it is important to be aware of the local culture and customs to ensure a smooth transition into the community," commented one expat who moved to Boquete.

"Always rent until you find your forever area. Then it is up to you whether you rent or buy. We rent because we feel that is best for us. You can find good housing either way," said one expat.

"Many doctors live in our town and the facilities are quite adequate for expat healthcare," remarked one expat living in Boquete.

"Boquete offers a wide range of medical services. The town has several private clinics and hospitals that provide quality medical care. Many of these facilities are staffed by experienced and qualified doctors and nurses. Additionally, Boquete has a number of pharmacies that offer a variety of medications and medical supplies. The town also has a number of medical specialists, such as dentists, optometrists, and physical therapists, who are available to provide specialized care. Boquete also has a number of medical laboratories that offer diagnostic testing and other services. In addition, the town has a number of medical centers that provide emergency care and other medical services," said one expat living in Boquete.

"Healthcare and health insurance in Boquete are generally considered to be quite affordable. The cost of medical care is much lower than in the United States, and the quality of care is generally good. Health insurance is also available at a reasonable cost, and many expats choose to purchase it to ensure they have access to quality medical care," wrote one expat living in Boquete.

"The cost of living in Boquete is generally considered to be quite affordable. Rental prices for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Boquete, Panama range from around $400 to $600 per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment can range from around $500 to $800 per month. Eating dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Boquete, Panama can cost around $10 to $15 per person," said one expat living in Boquete.

"In order to visit Boquete, visitors must obtain a tourist visa from the Panamanian government. The process of applying for a tourist visa involves submitting an application form, a valid passport, a passport-sized photograph, and a fee. Once the visa is approved, visitors can stay in Boquete for up to 180 days. In order to become a resident of Boquete, Panama, applicants must apply for a residency visa. The process of applying for residency involves submitting an application form, a valid passport, a passport-sized photograph, proof of financial solvency, and a fee. Once the visa is approved, applicants can stay in Boquete for up to 5 years," remarked one expat living in Boquete.

"Boquete is a popular destination for expats due to its stunning natural beauty, temperate climate, and low cost of living. The area is known for its lush green mountains, stunning waterfalls, and picturesque coffee plantations. Boquete also offers a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, rafting, and bird watching. Additionally, the town is home to a vibrant expat community, with many expats choosing to retire in Boquete due to its low cost of living and relaxed lifestyle. With its stunning scenery, temperate climate, and low cost of living, Boquete is an attractive destination for expats looking for a new home," remarked one expat in Boquete.