Panama has become a popular destination for Americans seeking an alternative to living in the United States. On the surface, it’s easy to see why people love life in Panama. Its tropical environment with first-class, modern amenities, good infrastructure, and healthcare make Panama the IT destination.
Expats Love Panama!
In addition, according to the Panamanian government, more than 80,000 Americans currently live life in Panama. But there must be more to it than good roads and competent doctors to make so many people flock to a country just north of the equator. The best way to find out is to ask the expats about what they find so wonderful about living in Panama.
Luxury is the New Normal in Panama
Luxury can be found simply in Panama. Taylor Benterud is a Canadian living in Panama City. In his YouTube video, he mentions that he moved to Panama for the weather and the taxes. One of his top benefits of life in Panama City was the inexpensive labor cost. He hired a cleaning person and a chef for around a thousand dollars per month combined, demonstrating that you don’t need much money to live luxuriously in Panama.
Don’t Believe Us, Listen To Those Who Know
Everyday life has advantages in Panama as well. Josh and Kalie from Expats Everywhere point out that Panama City has much to offer for expats. “There are plenty of malls for shopping,” Kalie says. “Of course, there’s bars and clubs, if you prefer that scene.”
“For those history buffs out there,” Josh continues, “museums and UNESCO World Heritage sites are in the capital. They also have music festivals and art. Panama is surrounded by lots of water, and Panama City is right on the water. That means water sports and beach activities.”
“But it’s not all about water,” Kalie points out. “because you can move a little more inland and experience mountains and jungles.”
A Welcoming Local Culture
There are many ways for expats to immerse themselves in local culture to feel like they’re becoming more a part of Panamanian society. Panamanian festivals, parades, and events are great ways to meet other expats and native Panamanians. Immersing yourself in the culture will help you “find your crew,” but there are other benefits. Taking part in local cultural events will help create a sense that you have found the place where you belong. It will also give you a deeper understanding of the land you now call home.
Find Your Crew
You will also want your “crew” to expand beyond just expats. Getting to know local and native people will deepen your roots in Panama and, more completely, make you a part of the community. It’s not uncommon to hear of expats who have married Panamanians. That shouldn’t necessarily be the expectation, but Panamanians are a welcoming population, and getting to know as many of them as possible should be high on your list when you move there.
Do you need more testimonials? The link below will take you to five of the most popular blogs by expats living in Panama.
Panama – Top Five Expat Blogs – Expat Focus
If you’re considering a relocation, why not consider Panama? So many others have found exactly what they were looking for in this tropical paradise. If we can help make your expat dreams come true, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We’ve been working with expats for years and have helped them just like we can help you.