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David (pronounced Dah-veed) is the capital of Panama’s Chiriquí province. Short for San José de David, it is the third largest urban area in Panama, with a population of over 164,000—of which most are considered middle class Panamanians.
David, the capital city of Panama's Chiriquí province, has a wide selection of housing choices throughout its bustling districts. But if you travel a little outside the city limits you'll discover a more relaxed environment—if that big city vibe isn't for you.
After spending time visiting Central America, Shawn and Shena Lockwood decided that a permanent move there was the change they needed from their home in Utah. As passionate surfers, they wanted to live near the ocean and enjoy their favorite sport more regularly.
When you first look at real estate websites you might get the impression that Panama's Chiriquí province is beyond your budget. But discovering great deals is only a matter of being in Panama and hitting the pavements.
Many people don’t realize that Panama’s famous Pensionado discounts are by law given to all who qualify by age—expat or Panamanian. When women reach the age of 55 and men 60, they can automatically start using the benefits that the Pensionado provides.
Boca Chica is a slow-paced fishing village of only 300 inhabitants, right on the Pacific Ocean. Here you won’t find any grocery stores, gas stations, or services—but that’s the beauty of it. Boca Chica is where you come to experience nature and the beauty of Panama.
Smartphones can be your best friend when traveling abroad. Your phone can be your “go to” for keeping track of your travel documents and reservations, and it can help manage and save your money. The first order of business is finding out if your phone is unlocked or can be unlocked.
Panama is a diverse country with differing climates and geography. In Chiriquí, many expats seem to settle in David, Boquete, and Bocas del Toro. These three locations are uniquely different from each other in climate, location, and the size of their expat communities.
Las Lajas is the favored beach among expats in Chiriquí. An easy one-hour drive from David going east on the Interamerican highway brings you to the San Felix intersection. Here you turn right and head towards the ocean. Thirty minutes more and you will find the two-lane road ends at the shore. The small village seems abandoned as you drive along the rough road.
I always wanted to live in the tropics, and since moving to the city of David all my expectations have been surpassed. Besides the great weather, shopping, and services, David is a thriving modern city. Even though David has a population of over 164,000, it feels like a smaller town. Everything I need is within 10 to 15 minutes of where I live.