One Fall, a Three-Hour Hospital Visit, and a Bill of Just $320
Anyone who lives here in Panama knows that the Panamanian people are exceptionally kind, caring, and helpful…and that their healthcare system is inexpensive and efficient.
Larke Newell
Retired But Not Restless in Chiriqui, Panama
When my husband Gary and I retired, we were adamant that we’d kick back and enjoy our new life. No deadlines. No alarm clocks. No schedules. But we’ve discovered we’re not quite ready to go from full steam ahead to a full stop.
What it Really Costs to Live in Panama
Each year, my husband and I spend six months of the year living in Panama’s Chiriqui province. One of the many reasons we decided to live our snowbird lifestyle here was the lower cost of living. And it’s something I often hear from expats…affordable and good-value cost of living was one of the main factors in their decision to live here.
We Can Afford Adventures Because We Retired to Panama
My husband Gary and I love to travel. Happily, since we retired to Panama, it's easy and convenient to do. The proximity of Costa Rica, Colombia, Nicaragua, Brazil, Peru, and numerous additional Latin American countries, as well as many exotic Caribbean islands, gives us the opportunity to visit them all. Being retired we have the time...and, since our life in Panama is so economical, we can afford it.
Panama’s Perfect-Weather Beachside Town
Being a small country, it’s easy to get around Panama. That means most parts of the country are within easy reach of our home in the Chiriqui Province. Recently, my husband Gary and I jumped in the car and took to the road to check out the beach town of Pedasi.
We Don’t Worry About Healthcare Costs in Panama
Ah yes, another warm, sunny day in Panama is drawing to a close. It's been just one of many afternoons spent reclining lazily on our terrace watching the iguanas, birds, and squirrels cavorting in our yard. Unfortunately the day did not start out that way. My poor husband suffers periodically from allergies and, after completing some vigorous yard work he had irritated, sore eyes and itchy skin. But after a quick trip to our local farmacia (pharmacy) he was symptom-free.
The Glitter and Pageantry of Retirement in Panama
If you love boisterous, colorful celebrations, folklore, and pageantry you will love retirement in Panama. Panamanians work hard and play hard; they have music in their souls. They’re happy, gregarious folks who love to set aside their cares and woes and “party hearty.” You’ll find arguably more formal opportunities to celebrate in Latin America than anywhere else on earth.
A Snowbird Life in Sunny Panama
I’m a Canadian. I’m used to long, cold winters. But a few years back, my husband Gary and I had had enough. I refuse to spend my precious retirement years shoveling snow and huddled in front of my fireplace…not to mention donning layers of clothing from top to toe just to venture outside. And so each and every fall, we say goodbye to block heaters…snow shovels…hats, scarves, and outrageous heating bills…and head to Panama’s warmer climes.
This Is What Makes Panama So Special…
There's no other retirement destination quite like Panama. Whatever you're looking for in a retirement, you'll find it here. Do you prefer living by the ocean? In the mountains? In ranching country? Big city? Small town? Would you prefer the mainland or a nearby island paradise? Well, Panama has it all so the choice is yours.