I often think about what Panama is like today. I was an U.S. Marine deployed to Panama in 1989 and 1990. Aside from the hostilies. The country and especially the women were very beautiful and very nice. I hope to visit Panama some day again.
In 1989 I was 6 years old but I remember everything and for me it was a relief to stop being afraid of wearing a white shirt with my uniform, (I was afraid of being mistaken for a civilian and that the police would beat me) I never felt that the soldiers did wrong (apart from the incident of the slice of watermelon and January 9) but I remember in 1990 with great affection Lieutenant Segura and the soldiers on the banks of the Raicero river in the name of God, colon, they filled in a stretch of road and put culverts so that we would not walk through water knee to go to school and they also donated a huge amount of books to us. I also remember Sergeant Colon, he was Puerto Rican and was very close to my family. I wish with all my heart that they and all the soldiers who were here from 89 to 99 are well.
@@curtisake7431 were you at Rodman? I was in Security Police unit there from 86-91. Were you at Big House or in the Temp barracks not far from the O Club & pool
Hello friend, I was recently watching a TH-cam video you made related to Panama, I just wanted to clarify that Panama is located in Central America, not South America. Located between Costa Rica and Colombia, between the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean, just a small comment. Very nice video
I enjoyed the video, I have been to Panama since 2018, I’m from Argentina. It’s a beautiful and quiet place. The economy is stable, it’s a good point to stay here! Enjoy “retire and go”!
Historically it's South American, geographically it's Central American, and culturally it's a bit of both plus Caribbean. Strong American influence. Very diverse ethnically.
@guillermogouldburn763 It's actually part of North America if you look at a map of the 7 continents. Central America is a sub continent but yes it's still in Central America too
Thank you for such an awesome video. I admire the lifestyle that you are living. At 60 yrs old and on the verge of retirement you have inspired me to get out of my comfort zone and make the next phase of my life an adventure!!! Be well.
We visited Panama in May, loved it. Stayed in St. Carlos for most of the time, traveled to Colon for 1 day trip, Punta Chame and a few more interesting places. We're going again in February for 10 days. Bocas Del Toro this time. Looking to move to Panama from sinking ship called United Kingdom in near future. We do have enough.
I used to live in the Zone. On Ancon Hill. The best pizza I ever had in my life was in town at Sorrento's pizza. They cooked it in a wood burning open brick oven I'd eat half of one and then wait 5 minutes, in order to savor the pizza more. Hope it's still there.
Even if it wasn’t meant to be disrespectful please don’t regard Panama as no 51st state… Panama is its own country ruled by their own people and it should be respected as such. Thank u!
I also didn’t appreciate this. It evokes times when the US considered Panama to be part of “their backyard,” and comes across as a casual dismissal of the tensions and violence involved in that neo-colonial arrangement throughout the 20th Century, such as that of the Day of the Martyrs in 1964 and the 1989 invasion. Sovereignity and national identity are important to many Panamanians, so please be careful with this kind of stuff.
You are absolutely adorable! Loved the video. I am coming on a tour this summer to see where I want to settle. I retire in a year and can't wait to make my home in Panama. Thanks for the video. Made me more excited than I already am!! 😊
The one it closes on Sundays is Avda Balboa, you are right, they only close one direction, but goes all the way to the islands connected to the city by a road built with the sand they took from the Panama channel when was built. Amazing ride for biking or running on Sundays, i did that one for years, very recommended
Thinking of joining peace corps in Panama, knowing this could potentially be a bus ride away from where I’d stay makes me feel so at ease. Thank you for this!
Great video and very inspiring. You mention rent of $800 per month,....I wonder if that is on the high side for something reasonable. I imagine with a bit more searching, one can find cheaper long term accomodations. I think $800 would eat too far into an average SS check of $1500/month.
Very nice video showing the charms of Panama City. As someone who first visited in 1982, this city has grown in leaps and bounds. I need to point out a couple of things. Panama is not in South America. It is in Central America. The reason that you encountered so many English speaking people is because Panama has very attractive visa offerings. The main one is the Pensionado visa (pensioners visa). Panama wants to attract retirees who will come to live and spend their pensions in the country. You are not allowed to work as a pensioner, therefore you will not be taking from the country but contributing. This visa will also give anyone over 55 years of age, discounts on every service imaginable. Buses, air travel, medical, entry fees, movie theaters ,pharmacies etc.etc.. Additionally they have visas for those who start a business and employ Panamanians, real estate investors etc. Panama is also the airline hub of the Americas. You can fly to multiple US, Canada, Central American, South American and European destinations. There is even a flight to Istanbul where you can connect to Asia. The city and its closest surroundings are more expensive. The central and western part of the country, towards Costa Rica, is much more affordable. Panama is also a business hub, with 190 foreign companies operating regional offices there. Let’s not forget the Panama Canal also. Regarding the old city area, it has become a very nice refurbished area. When I first visited in 1982, it was a dump, totally in disrepair. It has now become a very beautiful location. Regarding food, despite all the great offerings, you are really on a carbohydrate overload! Despite all your walking, if you keep eating and drinking this way, your health will suffer. Take it from me a 71 year old man, who has the same waist size as when I was 25 years old and who has to watch very carefully what and how I eat. I will admit though that that pizza looked very appetizing. One last question, how can you wear jeans and a jean shirt in such hot humid weather? I know that you are a minimalist traveler. The other day you were on the beach in Brazil, walking around in jeans. It has to be uncomfortable.
im in Bali, just saw you eating pizza on your video and it inspired me to go get pizza, saturdays are two for the price of one here at the Lokkha on Jalan Padma. Was great thank you for the inspiration and persuasion, havent had pizza this good since i was went there last time 8 years ago.
@@RetireandGo definitely check it out, well worth it, appx 130,000rp to 150,000rp for a large, 70,000rp for small, absolutely delicious, still full 3 hours later. been here 4 weeks, just needed to get a cheese fix. haha
Nice video! I am visiting Panama as we speak. Some things less expensive ( groceries, Uber), but restaurants r not. Clothing is not. Gas is not. Don’t know about rent.Plan to get out of the city in hopes of better prices
@@RetireandGo Cost of Living: David boasts a lower cost of living compared to bustling Panama City. This affordability allows retirees to stretch their budgets while enjoying a comfortable lifestyle. Infrastructure: As Panama’s third-largest city, David has a developed infrastructure. It serves as a hub for commerce, business, transportation, education, and healthcare in western Panama
@@lorenk.775 David is Panama’s second-largest city and has a population of about 140,000. It has decent shopping and since it is not in Panama City, the prices are a lot more affordable. If you go to Boquete which is a big expat destination, this is the closest city of any size.
Hi ,as a pre retired i would like to have your opinion between south Asia and South America according to the cost of life, security, weather, thanks a lot and Aloha
I would go to Argentina this year for sure Go now The cost is so low Then go check out Thailand Start from those two Asia is for me but I loved Costa Rica and Argentina
@Retireandgo Kindly give us some basic info on Argentina: COL (cost of living - incldg rent). Compared to Thailand & Vietnam's COL? 1-yr visa? Ease of getting citizenship? Welcoming g to expats? etc. Gracias!
To answer your question, no. One cannot retire in Panama cheap. Not campared to anywhere else in Central America where you are, or South America. Panama is relatively expensive if one still wants to have a good quality of life living. Southeast Asia is the cheapest… the Philippines, Cambodia, Malaysia, Vietnam and Thailand. I’ve lived in all of those countries except Vietnam where you can’t stay longer than 3 months. Cambodia is the cheapest of all of them. I’m there now renting a newer, fully-furnished 1-bedroom apartment with free water, free Internet, a washing machine and a 47 inch Smart TV for $200 a month on a 6-month lease.
I'll be there June 2025 Retired , you make me jealous. Thanks for the tour and thoughts, I stopped to listen to you because I said this guy dresses like me. Clean neat conservative , you know Old School. Thanks Man good Video Vince Murry
I just saw your interview on Mark Thorton’s channel. It was great to know more about you. I appreciate your efforts with your channel. What do you think about SCHD, the dividend ETF? Thank you
SCHD is a good steady payer Not a growth stock But steady , I own some Toss in some PICK and BAM to up the returns maybe It’s a safe and steady stock though
Well, that's only Panama City, the other towns look unkempt/not nice, sadly. and the cost to live in downtown Panama City is almost as high as in USA, unless you can share costs.
That was the better time of the year. Right now it's unbearably muggy or rainy. I don't like the climate here. I was here in April as well and it was raining all the time. It's very hot. I much prefer areas of the country at higher altitudes where no air-con is needed (nor heating).
You never mentioned the resentment that many Panamanians have toward the US due to the Canal business. I hear that the Canal has a museum where Panama portrays itself as the sole entity of importance concerning its construction & financing.
Hi! There's no resentment anymore, don't worry. Yes, Panama and the US had a complicated history in the past for obvius reasons, but after the Canal was handed over to Panamanian control 25 years ago, the friendship, mutual respect and cooperation has grown ever since. If you get the chance to visit the Canal Museum in Casco Viejo first, and the Visitor Centre at the Miraflores Locks aftewards, you'll find out that nobody here thinks were the sole entity in this story. Welcome to Panama!
Great question I do see Southeast Asia as my main area through my 50s In my 60s we will see if the kids have kids haha Then I’ll make longer term plans What about you?
Well, that is a good question. I have been planning a trip to Thailand . I plan to stay for at least 1 month. If I like it,will stay longer and maybe find where I'm meant to be... 😀
They must have shut down the road for a special event which they do from time to time, but it is not always shut down. I have a view of it and it has traffic on weekend.
Avenida Balboa is multi-lane in two directions. They do NOT shut that down on weekends. This was a special event, either a bike race/marathon or parade route. Hotel California is a great value but just crossing the street to get to the metro is incredibly difficult during traffic hours. The "bicycle path" is the Cinta Costera, and the "old town" is Casco Viejo.
Yeah the shirt I brought is a really light denim fabric It was a good South America shirt for this trip I’m looking forward to the ultra light travel and clothes of Asia though
I work in a company that is initiating studies to develop a project of 28 apartments in a town 115 kilometers from Panama City, looking for American and Canadian retirees as a market, but there is no real data if retirees and expats prefer to rent or buy. What do you think?
a couple of Nitpicks, Panama is actually in central america, Panamanians may find offensive calling their country the 51st state, specially with all the history they share. I've been to panama a few times and I love it, the only reason I wouldn't live there is the traffic and the heat, my god the heat is next level.
@@Mayochup191 Colombia Travel Advisory Travel Advisory January 2, 2024Colombia - Level 3: Reconsider Travel KUTC Reissued with updates to the country summary. Reconsider travel due to crime and terrorism. Exercise increased caution due to civil unrest and kidnapping. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory. Do Not Travel to: Arauca, Cauca (excluding Popayán), and Norte de Santander departments due to crime and terrorism. The Colombia-Venezuela border region due to crime, kidnapping, and risk of detention when crossing into Venezuela from Colombia. Country Summary: Violent crime, such as homicide, assault, and armed robbery, is widespread. Organized criminal activities, such as extortion, robbery, and kidnapping, are common in some areas. Terrorist groups and criminal organizations continue operating and carrying out attacks in Colombia. They may attack with little or no warning, targeting transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, police stations, military facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, airports, other public areas, and U.S. government facilities. Demonstrations occur regularly throughout the country and can be about a variety of political or economic issues. They can shutdown roads and highways, often without prior notice or estimated reopening timelines. Demonstrations and road closures may significantly reduce access to public transportation and may disrupt travel within and between cities. Protests can become violent and can result in fatalities and injuries. Travel.State.Gov Have a nice trip.
I am returning to KL this year and I’ll do more videos on the KL costs, housing, area, all of it The cultures are very different KL was lower cost for me about half
Anywhere in Latin America I can’t suggest going alone as a woman, I would not suggest going to any US city alone as a woman Safety first Please get a few travel partners Travel Asia alone
I am a single woman, I moved to La Chorrea reminds me of West Palm Beach, Fl…. Clean, nice people !! Been here less than a month love it . Only thing is health care because I have pre existing conditions.!! What can I do or get ? A little expensive where I live at. Went to Santa Fe hospital they did not accept my US MEDICARE ADVANTAGE PLAN. Still waiting on my Insurance for Panamanian. Thank you
Isn't the Bridge of America considered the division, along with the canal, the line between Central and South America? IDK, only been in and out in Panama for 40yrs, resident since 1997, relocated here in 2015(wife wanted to come home). Lots of infuriating things here, buracracy over simple things, etc....but would not go back to the states! Great people/culture, and the food-no GMA, antibiotic laden food. Another thing, live in a low tourist area, was in town(Penonome) other day, walking around heard at least 6 lanuages not Spanish or English on the streets. Away from Capital & Colon, crime is really low. Panama has a lot to offer, but keep an open mind
@@RetireandGo yeah, wife returned here end of 2013, I had to work till end of Feb 2015 for 2d retirement. SS kicked for me Feb 2016 & wife 2022. Not rich, but comfortable and happy here
@@RetireandGo For sure. Here in Costa Rica I pay the equivalent of about $40 USD a month for healthcare in CR's socialized medicine system. Ticos pay far less of their GDP on healthcare than the US does, about 9% to about 17%, respectively, and Ticos have a slightly greater life expectancy than Americans. Paying less, living longer. America the greatest country on earth? In some ways yes, in many other ways no. BTW, I'm a Yank retired in CR.
It’s always interesting to hear how easily people can convince themselves that avoiding taxes for their own personal benefit is a good thing and does nothing to hurt fellow citizens from their home country.
@@andrewrogers7735 wonder what that is like, retired to Panama 10yrs ago & pay USA taxes every year. My wife of almost 40yrs is from Panama, have residency here, wife is dual citizen. We live better here than the states, no GMA foods, antibiotc laden meat & NO POLITICAL CORRECTNESS!
Sadly, my brother has not prepared for retiring. At 58, he has nothing, and only barely qualifies for SS, which would get him about $700/mo. His daughter is following in his footsteps. I’m frustrated because I’ve worked hard and sacrificed a lot to amass funds, and they will end up burdening me. If not monthly then with some enormous medical expense.
That's their choice how they lived their lives. With choices come consequences, not you're burden to finance theirs. At 58, guess he'll have to keep working the rest of his life. His problem.
If you allow them to burden you, that is on you. Shame on you BIG fella. I am assuming your brother had the same opportunities in life as you did. Now if he didn't think out of the box and think about retiring someday. Well, again that is on him. Unless it is your parents, don't allow anyone to burden you. Enjoy your retirement!!!
It is true in Bogotá sne in small town around such as village de Leiva you become amaze. When are you planning to visit Bogotá and hopefully sharing a cup of coffee ?
After 25 years in Panama , which is actually Central America. You CAN NOT live in Panama on US Social security. That is poverty level living . Please do not be mislead by a dude who visited for a hot minute. Panama is not the states, we use Spanish, the culture is soo far removed from what you are used to. Do your research properly. Your retirement money does go further here nor will it..
Great question! I’m not living in Panama I’m living overseas and moving constantly I’m not applying for citizenship in Panama But, it would be a good place for that I think
Good research and content but too much looking at you while you walk. I want to see what you are walking past. Put your ego aside and improve your videos. Thank you
@Retireandgo Good job! 1) I'll fwd this to a fellow Canadian (of Italian descent), & an Italian-born Priest here in Canada - let them enjoy Calicanto Italian Restaurant 12:27-15:09! 2) I'd be specific: a) instead of generalising, "It's cheaper here", I'd give actual amounts, "You can live on less that US $1,000/mth (total exps); and, b) give neighbourhood names that have the less expensive real estate you referred to. Keep up the good work...& blessings!
@@adad1270 you can live perfectly with 1000 a month here. Every video you see always talk about the capital city or boquete, but panama has really good affordable places
I often think about what Panama is like today. I was an U.S. Marine deployed to Panama in 1989 and 1990. Aside from the hostilies. The country and especially the women were very beautiful and very nice. I hope to visit Panama some day again.
I was there that same time frame
The Air Force base bar was awesome haha
@@RetireandGoI spent a lot of time in the bush. But a few times, was able to visit the Howard AFB enlisted club. Awesome indeed.
In 1989 I was 6 years old but I remember everything and for me it was a relief to stop being afraid of wearing a white shirt with my uniform, (I was afraid of being mistaken for a civilian and that the police would beat me) I never felt that the soldiers did wrong (apart from the incident of the slice of watermelon and January 9) but I remember in 1990 with great affection Lieutenant Segura and the soldiers on the banks of the Raicero river in the name of God, colon, they filled in a stretch of road and put culverts so that we would not walk through water knee to go to school and they also donated a huge amount of books to us. I also remember Sergeant Colon, he was Puerto Rican and was very close to my family. I wish with all my heart that they and all the soldiers who were here from 89 to 99 are well.
@@curtisake7431 were you at Rodman? I was in Security Police unit there from 86-91. Were you at Big House or in the Temp barracks not far from the O Club & pool
I vacationed there in December and absolutely loved it. Nice break from Chicago.
It is a nice destination
Many Americans are moving here
Hello friend,
I was recently watching a TH-cam video you made related to Panama, I just wanted to clarify that Panama is located in Central America, not South America.
Located between Costa Rica and Colombia, between the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean, just a small comment. Very nice video
Thank you :-)
Have a great day
you too. :)@@RetireandGo
I enjoyed the video, I have been to Panama since 2018, I’m from Argentina. It’s a beautiful and quiet place. The economy is stable, it’s a good point to stay here! Enjoy “retire and go”!
I enjoyed Argentina this year as well
I have videos up
A beautiful country
I will be spending the month of January in Panama. No more Midwest winters for me
Oh my that is great
A cool place to chill for a month
Boquete is a very popular place to retire, due to its eternal spring climate.
Interesting
I saw good prices on homes too
I'm Panamanian living in Kansas. I really appreciate your video.
Thank you so much
I enjoyed my stay
Who caresc
Isn't Panama considered Central America?
I guess
Check it out though
Go this year
Argentina too
Historically it's South American, geographically it's Central American, and culturally it's a bit of both plus Caribbean. Strong American influence. Very diverse ethnically.
I also thought Panama was considered part of Central America, the map doesn’t lie.
@markt9805 Geographically it is, but it was part of Colombia until 1903, so historically it's South American.
@guillermogouldburn763 It's actually part of North America if you look at a map of the 7 continents. Central America is a sub continent but yes it's still in Central America too
You look younger in your new videos and healthier !
All the vitamin D and walking in SE Asia , good food too.
Yes I think so !
Thank you :-)
Thank you for such an awesome video. I admire the lifestyle that you are living. At 60 yrs old and on the verge of retirement you have inspired me to get out of my comfort zone and make the next phase of my life an adventure!!! Be well.
This comment makes me feel wonderful
That is the mission of this channel
To inspire !
We visited Panama in May, loved it. Stayed in St. Carlos for most of the time, traveled to Colon for 1 day trip, Punta Chame and a few more interesting places.
We're going again in February for 10 days. Bocas Del Toro this time.
Looking to move to Panama from sinking ship called United Kingdom in near future.
We do have enough.
There are some fun spots to visit in Panama City
I used to live in the Zone. On Ancon Hill. The best pizza I ever had in my life was in town at Sorrento's pizza. They cooked it in a wood burning open brick oven I'd eat half of one and then wait 5 minutes, in order to savor the pizza more. Hope it's still there.
Oh that sounds like a good place !
Yes, but not the same location
Even if it wasn’t meant to be disrespectful please don’t regard Panama as no 51st state… Panama is its own country ruled by their own people and it should be respected as such. Thank u!
Have a great day !
I also didn’t appreciate this. It evokes times when the US considered Panama to be part of “their backyard,” and comes across as a casual dismissal of the tensions and violence involved in that neo-colonial arrangement throughout the 20th Century, such as that of the Day of the Martyrs in 1964 and the 1989 invasion. Sovereignity and national identity are important to many Panamanians, so please be careful with this kind of stuff.
Panamá is located in Central America, not South America.
@@ZujarisA well, half of it ;-)
@@theoneneolink stop crying
You are absolutely adorable! Loved the video. I am coming on a tour this summer to see where I want to settle. I retire in a year and can't wait to make my home in Panama. Thanks for the video. Made me more excited than I already am!! 😊
This is wonderful news!
Please keep us updated
:-)
Thank you for bringing up retirement and places to potentially Expat. Those tacos looked amazing ,👍
Yes for sure
I want to show options
Lower cost locations
The one it closes on Sundays is Avda Balboa, you are right, they only close one direction, but goes all the way to the islands connected to the city by a road built with the sand they took from the Panama channel when was built. Amazing ride for biking or running on Sundays, i did that one for years, very recommended
I would go there to walk and listen to music every weekend
It was so nice
Thinking of joining peace corps in Panama, knowing this could potentially be a bus ride away from where I’d stay makes me feel so at ease. Thank you for this!
Oh my ! Very interesting
Ask them if they are ok with you documenting your time there on TH-cam, photos, maybe a book
This sounds interesting!
Enjoyed your presentation and your style. Thank you. Doug
You are most welcome
Have a great week
If you have an opportunity to ride a stand up electric scooter, I always found that the best way to sightsee.
Interesting those do look fun
Great video and very inspiring. You mention rent of $800 per month,....I wonder if that is on the high side for something reasonable. I imagine with a bit more searching, one can find cheaper long term accomodations. I think $800 would eat too far into an average SS check of $1500/month.
Asia was much cheaper I’m heading back to Thailand soon
Depend in las tablas can be 100 to 250.00
Very nice video showing the charms of Panama City. As someone who first visited in 1982, this city has grown in leaps and bounds. I need to point out a couple of things. Panama is not in South America. It is in Central America. The reason that you encountered so many English speaking people is because Panama has very attractive visa offerings. The main one is the Pensionado visa (pensioners visa). Panama wants to attract retirees who will come to live and spend their pensions in the country. You are not allowed to work as a pensioner, therefore you will not be taking from the country but contributing. This visa will also give anyone over 55 years of age, discounts on every service imaginable. Buses, air travel, medical, entry fees, movie theaters ,pharmacies etc.etc.. Additionally they have visas for those who start a business and employ Panamanians, real estate investors etc. Panama is also the airline hub of the Americas. You can fly to multiple US, Canada, Central American, South American and European destinations. There is even a flight to Istanbul where you can connect to Asia. The city and its closest surroundings are more expensive. The central and western part of the country, towards Costa Rica, is much more affordable. Panama is also a business hub, with 190 foreign companies operating regional offices there. Let’s not forget the Panama Canal also. Regarding the old city area, it has become a very nice refurbished area. When I first visited in 1982, it was a dump, totally in disrepair. It has now become a very beautiful location. Regarding food, despite all the great offerings, you are really on a carbohydrate overload! Despite all your walking, if you keep eating and drinking this way, your health will suffer. Take it from me a 71 year old man, who has the same waist size as when I was 25 years old and who has to watch very carefully what and how I eat. I will admit though that that pizza looked very appetizing. One last question, how can you wear jeans and a jean shirt in such hot humid weather? I know that you are a minimalist traveler. The other day you were on the beach in Brazil, walking around in jeans. It has to be uncomfortable.
You have seen so many changes
Did you take lots of pictures?
Consider a book ok?
That’s 40 years or history
Nice video, i enjoyed your content, Panama city Panama is beautiful
It’s a nice place to check out
Many American and Canadians retiring there
It's beautiful bcoz of the money from the groups in Colombia investing in Panama City over the years. 😀😀
Thanks for love 🇵🇦...Great video God Bless You
You are most welcome
I wish you a great day
im in Bali, just saw you eating pizza on your video and it inspired me to go get pizza, saturdays are two for the price of one here at the Lokkha on Jalan Padma. Was great thank you for the inspiration and persuasion, havent had pizza this good since i was went there last time 8 years ago.
Two for one sounds good !
I need to check that place out
@@RetireandGo definitely check it out, well worth it, appx 130,000rp to 150,000rp for a large, 70,000rp for small, absolutely delicious, still full 3 hours later. been here 4 weeks, just needed to get a cheese fix. haha
@@DavidFullard I found it on Google maps and screen shot it ! Thank you
@@RetireandGo Well done, youre welcome, thanks for getting me back on the pizza trail, ;)
Enjoying your content. Love your attitude and style.
Thank you so much for this :-)
Nice video! I am visiting Panama as we speak. Some things less expensive ( groceries, Uber), but restaurants r not. Clothing is not. Gas is not. Don’t know about rent.Plan to get out of the city in hopes of better prices
It’s a great place to visit
Homes are affordable too
I think more retirees are heading to Panama
Do you agree ?
I would look at David, decent size town. All the amenities and much more affordable
Interesting
Can you tell me more about it ?
@@RetireandGo Cost of Living: David boasts a lower cost of living compared to bustling Panama City. This affordability allows retirees to stretch their budgets while enjoying a comfortable lifestyle.
Infrastructure: As Panama’s third-largest city, David has a developed infrastructure. It serves as a hub for commerce, business, transportation, education, and healthcare in western Panama
@@steveharris7116 The David town simply looks as a small town, nothing impressive, just okay maybe, and it's far away from the capital.
@@lorenk.775 David is Panama’s second-largest city and has a population of about 140,000. It has decent shopping and since it is not in Panama City, the prices are a lot more affordable. If you go to Boquete which is a big expat destination, this is the closest city of any size.
@@steveharris7116 I know, but it still looks as a small town, suburban. La Chorrera would be the ideal option but it has safety issues i hear.
Hi ,as a pre retired i would like to have your opinion between south Asia and South America according to the cost of life, security, weather, thanks a lot and Aloha
I would go to Argentina this year for sure
Go now
The cost is so low
Then go check out Thailand
Start from those two
Asia is for me but I loved Costa Rica and Argentina
@Retireandgo
Kindly give us some basic info on Argentina: COL (cost of living - incldg rent). Compared to Thailand & Vietnam's COL? 1-yr visa? Ease of getting citizenship? Welcoming g to expats? etc.
Gracias!
Thank you for all the information you provided
You are most welcome
Have you been to Panama ?
@@RetireandGo yes I had. My husband is about to retire and he wants to live in Panama. He worked there for a year and he loved it
Clear pictures and sound ! Tell us about bachelor or 1-bedroom apt rental !
Thank you for the feedback!
It helps !
Video audio check appreciated
To answer your question, no. One cannot retire in Panama cheap. Not campared to anywhere else in Central America where you are, or South America. Panama is relatively expensive if one still wants to have a good quality of life living. Southeast Asia is the cheapest… the Philippines, Cambodia, Malaysia, Vietnam and Thailand. I’ve lived in all of those countries except Vietnam where you can’t stay longer than 3 months. Cambodia is the cheapest of all of them. I’m there now renting a newer, fully-furnished 1-bedroom apartment with free water, free Internet, a washing machine and a 47 inch Smart TV for $200 a month on a 6-month lease.
True
The cost of living was higher than Thailand for sure :-)
You look good, eating that delicious 😋 pizza! Thanks for sharing this..😉
Enjoy checking out latest local pizza places
It helps them and reminds me of the states
A good pepperoni will cure what ailes ya
I'll be there June 2025 Retired , you make me jealous. Thanks for the tour and thoughts, I stopped to listen to you because I said this guy dresses like me. Clean neat conservative , you know Old School.
Thanks Man good Video
Vince Murry
You are most welcome
Thank you
I’m excited for you retiring in Panama !
Another spot that has been on my Radar, the Pizza and tacos looked amazing. Malaho
I think it’s a good place to check k out
Very much like Texas
You will be comfortable
Low cost
Thank you for the video.
You are most welcome
I hope you have a good week
Waiting on my passport, soon I can join you in the fun! 😉
Oh that’s great!
It will open the world to you
Asia or Latin America this year?
Love your positivity, brother 👍🌅
Thank you so much
I appreciate that !
I just saw your interview on Mark Thorton’s channel. It was great to know more about you. I appreciate your efforts with your channel.
What do you think about SCHD, the dividend ETF? Thank you
SCHD is a good steady payer
Not a growth stock
But steady , I own some
Toss in some PICK and BAM to up the returns maybe
It’s a safe and steady stock though
After your tour of south america. Pls compare with South east asia
Yes I will for sure
Have a great day
He's not in South America but he himself is too America to realize that 😂
That architecture is so beautiful. Just amazing. ❤❤
Panama is a nice place to visit
Short flight too
Cheap flights
Well, that's only Panama City, the other towns look unkempt/not nice, sadly.
and the cost to live in downtown Panama City is almost as high as in USA, unless you can share costs.
That pizza looks 10/10. 🍕
Yes true
It was good !
I always like to try the local pizza
Was there two weeks ago loved it !
Oh! Very good , where to next?
That was the better time of the year. Right now it's unbearably muggy or rainy. I don't like the climate here. I was here in April as well and it was raining all the time. It's very hot.
I much prefer areas of the country at higher altitudes where no air-con is needed (nor heating).
You never mentioned the resentment that many Panamanians have toward the US due to the Canal business. I hear that the Canal has a museum where Panama portrays itself as the sole entity of importance concerning its construction & financing.
I do show the canal museum in one of my Panama videos
Check it out and let me know if it’s the right one you are mentioning
I do show the canal museum in one of my Panama videos
Check it out and let me know if it’s the right one you are mentioning
??????Qué??? Resentido estarás tú
Hi!
There's no resentment anymore, don't worry. Yes, Panama and the US had a complicated history in the past for obvius reasons, but after the Canal was handed over to Panamanian control 25 years ago, the friendship, mutual respect and cooperation has grown ever since.
If you get the chance to visit the Canal Museum in Casco Viejo first, and the Visitor Centre at the Miraflores Locks aftewards, you'll find out that nobody here thinks were the sole entity in this story.
Welcome to Panama!
@@pimentoso oh yes the museums were wonderful
And watching the ships was a treat!
What was the date and temperature please, lived in usa, Colombia, Philippines Singapore
You have traveled to some great places
This was in February
Excellent video
Thank you !
I appreciate this :-)
Love your videos. Don't know if you ever talked about when you will retire. Slow down in travel. Where would you hang your hat and why
Great question
I do see Southeast Asia as my main area through my 50s
In my 60s we will see if the kids have kids haha
Then I’ll make longer term plans
What about you?
Well, that is a good question. I have been planning a trip to Thailand . I plan to stay for at least 1 month. If I like it,will stay longer and maybe find where I'm meant to be... 😀
They must have shut down the road for a special event which they do from time to time, but it is not always shut down. I have a view of it and it has traffic on weekend.
Interesting
Maybe
Avenida Balboa is multi-lane in two directions. They do NOT shut that down on weekends. This was a special event, either a bike race/marathon or parade route. Hotel California is a great value but just crossing the street to get to the metro is incredibly difficult during traffic hours. The "bicycle path" is the Cinta Costera, and the "old town" is Casco Viejo.
So what I learned about Panama primarily is that its located in Central America not South America
I joke … half of it is , haha :-)
Thanks nice video. Was it really hot ?I noticed you wore a denim jacket!😮
Yeah the shirt I brought is a really light denim fabric
It was a good South America shirt for this trip
I’m looking forward to the ultra light travel and clothes of Asia though
I've heard it can get unbearably hot and humid in the capital of Panama. More than Miami. That would be my only gripe !
It was hot but I did not find it Miami sweltering hot
I’m heading back to Asia soon and it is more humid in Thailand than Panama
@@RetireandGo That's good to know. Thanks so much!
I work in a company that is initiating studies to develop a project of 28 apartments in a town 115 kilometers from Panama City, looking for American and Canadian retirees as a market, but there is no real data if retirees and expats prefer to rent or buy. What do you think?
Exciting !
I just Subscribed, need suggestions boquette or casco viejo which I better for my first Visit.
Please answer this question
Please and Thank you
Start with beautiful Panama City
For a month
You can feel the culture out and get accustomed
Te estas dando la vida que tu te mereces
Thank you so much
I hope your week is going well
Great video!
Thank you so much
Have a good day
a couple of Nitpicks, Panama is actually in central america, Panamanians may find offensive calling their country the 51st state, specially with all the history they share.
I've been to panama a few times and I love it, the only reason I wouldn't live there is the traffic and the heat, my god the heat is next level.
It’s hot for sure
I liked the old town area
I could walk that every day
It’s hot for sure
I liked the old town area
I could walk that every day
Panamanian here. Yes it most definetly is offensive.
I would recommend changing it.
Hello there, your video is very interesting. Please note that Panama is in Central America not in South America. Thank you.
In the dimension I’m from it is
Haha :-)
Just joking around
Have a good week
@@RetireandGo All good. I relocated to Panama a couples of months ago. Have a wonderful journey!
Of all your travels which country do you recommend
To start I would say Thailand
Then Malaysia
great video
Thank you , very kind of you
:-)
Good afternoon thanks for visit me country,but panama is part of Central America.
Thank you this is very kind
I say this joke “ only half of it is” haha
Panama was so nice
I never been there. I heard it was expensive. I have been to Colombia a few times which is a lot of fun.
Is Colombia dangerous
@@Mayochup191 Colombia Travel Advisory
Travel Advisory
January 2, 2024Colombia - Level 3: Reconsider Travel
KUTC
Reissued with updates to the country summary.
Reconsider travel due to crime and terrorism. Exercise increased caution due to civil unrest and kidnapping. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.
Do Not Travel to:
Arauca, Cauca (excluding Popayán), and Norte de Santander departments due to crime and terrorism.
The Colombia-Venezuela border region due to crime, kidnapping, and risk of detention when crossing into Venezuela from Colombia.
Country Summary: Violent crime, such as homicide, assault, and armed robbery, is widespread. Organized criminal activities, such as extortion, robbery, and kidnapping, are common in some areas.
Terrorist groups and criminal organizations continue operating and carrying out attacks in Colombia. They may attack with little or no warning, targeting transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, police stations, military facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, airports, other public areas, and U.S. government facilities.
Demonstrations occur regularly throughout the country and can be about a variety of political or economic issues. They can shutdown roads and highways, often without prior notice or estimated reopening timelines. Demonstrations and road closures may significantly reduce access to public transportation and may disrupt travel within and between cities. Protests can become violent and can result in fatalities and injuries.
Travel.State.Gov
Have a nice trip.
@@Mayochup191 No it's not. NYC is dangerous
@@Mayochup191 I've been to Colombia twice. It's very safe.
@@Mongoose-ct6usdon't lie to people!! Colombia is very!! Dangerous!!
I like this guy's videos, he reminds me of a evil bad guy on a Steven sagal movie!!!
Haha love that :-)
Panama is central America no south America.
I always joke … half of it is ;-)
Are there beach towns with public transit that go in to panama city?
This would be a great project
To show trains and bus routes like this
I wish I had more time there in Panama
It was a lovely experience
Thank you 🙏🏼
You are welcome
I hope you have a good week :-)
How's the personal safety?
About the food, why aren't you eating local foods?
I was in the central area of town, but still I very seldom go anyplace in Latin America after dark
In any country in central or South America
@@RetireandGoI don't go anywhere after dark in the US! Well, except for work, I work midnight shift!🤣
You keep saying South America, Panama is in Central America.
I’ll work on that thank you
How would you compare Panama City to Kuala Lumpur?
I am returning to KL this year and I’ll do more videos on the KL costs, housing, area, all of it
The cultures are very different
KL was lower cost for me about half
I am visiting panama in a couple weeks. What is the name of the restaurant where you got the two sausage rolls with a coffee for $2.50?
That is across the street from the hotel
Search the hotel name
It’s a bakery
Thank you. I have found it. It’s Arte Del Pan Perejil.
Everywhere is so clean.
True
Panama is a great destination to check out
Many are moving there
Its filthy dirty with garbage thrown everywhere, just not in the areas shown in this video
Panama definitely isn't clean. They throw their garbage everywhere from rivers and streams to city streets and along the highways. It's disgusting
I'm going to Panama city in a few months. Do you think it's safe going there alone for a woman ? I'm a digital noma d too...
Anywhere in Latin America I can’t suggest going alone as a woman, I would not suggest going to any US city alone as a woman
Safety first
Please get a few travel partners
Travel Asia alone
I am a single woman, I moved to La Chorrea reminds me of West Palm Beach, Fl…. Clean, nice people !! Been here less than a month love it . Only thing is health care because I have pre existing conditions.!! What can I do or get ? A little expensive where I live at. Went to Santa Fe hospital they did not accept my US MEDICARE ADVANTAGE PLAN. Still waiting on my Insurance for Panamanian. Thank you
Yeah Man , Coffee and fresh bakery goods, oh yeah.
Vince Murry
Yes true
I love a good pastry in the morning
Are you going to Pedasi ? Gracias & aloha
I’ll look into this
Tell me about it more
Isn't the Bridge of America considered the division, along with the canal, the line between Central and South America? IDK, only been in and out in Panama for 40yrs, resident since 1997, relocated here in 2015(wife wanted to come home). Lots of infuriating things here, buracracy over simple things, etc....but would not go back to the states! Great people/culture, and the food-no GMA, antibiotic laden food. Another thing, live in a low tourist area, was in town(Penonome) other day, walking around heard at least 6 lanuages not Spanish or English on the streets. Away from Capital & Colon, crime is really low. Panama has a lot to offer, but keep an open mind
Hmm you might be right with that
You are living in Panama now? That must be wonderful
It’s a nice place
@@RetireandGo yeah, wife returned here end of 2013, I had to work till end of Feb 2015 for 2d retirement. SS kicked for me Feb 2016 & wife 2022. Not rich, but comfortable and happy here
@@RDBean a beautiful place !
Here in Costa Rica, I've seen Venezuelans begging for money. They are on their way to the US! I tell them they should have stayed in Panama.
@@jim2376 yes true
The US does not have a better life for them anymore
Too expensive
Expensive Homes, low paying jobs, crime
@@RetireandGo For sure. Here in Costa Rica I pay the equivalent of about $40 USD a month for healthcare in CR's socialized medicine system. Ticos pay far less of their GDP on healthcare than the US does, about 9% to about 17%, respectively, and Ticos have a slightly greater life expectancy than Americans. Paying less, living longer. America the greatest country on earth? In some ways yes, in many other ways no. BTW, I'm a Yank retired in CR.
@@jim2376 wow that’s a good price for a month of healthcare
$40!
Panama is in Central America.
@@irisj.barbee5602 let’s compromise and say middle America
Haha :-)
All good, have a nice week
It’s always interesting to hear how easily people can convince themselves that avoiding taxes for their own personal benefit is a good thing and does nothing to hurt fellow citizens from their home country.
Thanks for the input ! :-)
@@andrewrogers7735 wonder what that is like, retired to Panama 10yrs ago & pay USA taxes every year. My wife of almost 40yrs is from Panama, have residency here, wife is dual citizen. We live better here than the states, no GMA foods, antibiotc laden meat & NO POLITICAL CORRECTNESS!
It seems with all the Americans coming it may raise prices. 😮
Perhaps
Just go
Cheap life for decades
Yes it is raising prices!!
👍👍👍
Aloha to you !
6:21 Just so you know you can't work in Panama for a Panamanian company unless you have a work permit.
Good information thank you!
It’s Central America
Well half of it is haha
Sadly, my brother has not prepared for retiring. At 58, he has nothing, and only barely qualifies for SS, which would get him about $700/mo. His daughter is following in his footsteps. I’m frustrated because I’ve worked hard and sacrificed a lot to amass funds, and they will end up burdening me. If not monthly then with some enormous medical expense.
I understand
Try your best to give good advice to him but remember you can’t save anyone they have to do the work
That's their choice how they lived their lives. With choices come consequences, not you're burden to finance theirs. At 58, guess he'll have to keep working the rest of his life. His problem.
Also, if he can't pay for his medical expenses, then the doctor/hospital will just have to eat those costs. Happens every day.
Sooo it’s Central America not South America
If you allow them to burden you, that is on you. Shame on you BIG fella. I am assuming your brother had the same opportunities in life as you did. Now if he didn't think out of the box and think about retiring someday. Well, again that is on him. Unless it is your parents, don't allow anyone to burden you. Enjoy your retirement!!!
it is not cheap to live in panama,, about the same as in the usa
Yeah I noticed some higher prices as well
Excellent colonial architectural views
Beautiful buildings!
I liked that about all of Latin America
It is true in Bogotá sne in small town around such as village de Leiva you become amaze.
When are you planning to visit Bogotá and hopefully sharing a cup of coffee ?
After 25 years in Panama , which is actually Central America. You CAN NOT live in Panama on US Social security. That is poverty level living . Please do not be mislead by a dude who visited for a hot minute.
Panama is not the states, we use Spanish, the culture is soo far removed from what you are used to.
Do your research properly.
Your retirement money does go further here nor will it..
I hope you are enjoying it there :-)
Have a great week
Hoow much monthly money would be a good amount to live normally in panama? I mean the country, not the city.
@@nstorm2415 oh goodness, country…I would say
$2000 a month maybe
Panama is in Central America. And it is not American. It is PANAMANIAN.
@@GoExplorePanamá it’s Panamazing!
Have a good day
Ok
Ohh boy, I'm in love with that HOT TACO! 😅 Yummy 😋
I was good the locals gave me the information on those
I need to learn to order less haha
I fed the hotel front desk with leftovers haha
I get hungry watching you...........eat.
Haha I get that
I feel that way when I watch vids too haha
5 tacos!?!?!?! What are you loco?!?!?!?!
@@matthewmagennis2072 accept tacos as your supreme being!
Obey the tacos!
Just came to ask aren't you an immigrant instead of an expat?
Great question!
I’m not living in Panama I’m living overseas and moving constantly
I’m not applying for citizenship in Panama
But, it would be a good place for that I think
Central America
@@man47tor let’s say half in each haha :-)
Have a good day
Love your video but please do your research Panama Is not a South America country it is a Central America country
More of a fun remark than anything else :-)
Have a great day
En panama
Have a great day !
51 this!!
Haha have a good day
Panama is Central America, not South America 😂😂
Let’s meet half way and say half of it is :-)
South America... ummm no Panama is not South America Muchacho
I joke that half of it is haha
Have a good day
Good research and content but too much looking at you while you walk. I want to see what you are walking past. Put your ego aside and improve your videos. Thank you
Thank you for the feedback !
@Retireandgo
Good job!
1) I'll fwd this to a fellow Canadian (of Italian descent), & an Italian-born Priest here in Canada - let them enjoy Calicanto Italian Restaurant 12:27-15:09!
2) I'd be specific:
a) instead of generalising, "It's cheaper here", I'd give actual amounts, "You can live on less that US $1,000/mth (total exps); and,
b) give neighbourhood names that have the less expensive real estate you referred to.
Keep up the good work...& blessings!
@@adad1270 you can live perfectly with 1000 a month here. Every video you see always talk about the capital city or boquete, but panama has really good affordable places
Panama is NOT and will NEVER be another star on the US's flag!!
It was a metaphor
@@RetireandGoMuy desagradable tu metafora. Be careful with what you say!
Very true !!
I would move to Panama if recreational marijuana were legal
Haha I understand
Thailand is for you !