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," remarked one expat living in Boquete, Panama.

"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," wrote one member in Boquete.

"Come and visit! I guarantee it is nothing like where you live. The culture is very different than the US and the systems and structures can sometimes make no sense at all. If you can't roll with things when they go wrong or get frustrating, it may not be for you," remarked one expat who made the move to Boquete.

"Boquete is a small mountain town in the Chiriquí province of Panama. It is known for its temperate climate, lush vegetation, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Expats should be aware that Boquete is a small town with limited amenities, so it is important to plan ahead and bring any necessary items with you. Additionally, Boquete is a popular tourist destination, so it is important to be aware of the local customs and laws. Expats should also be aware that the cost of living in Boquete is higher than in other parts of Panama, so it is important to budget accordingly. Finally, Boquete is a great place to learn Spanish, as there are many language schools and classes available," explained one expat living in Boquete, Panama.

"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," remarked one expat who made the move to Boquete.

"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," remarked one expat who made the move to Boquete.

"Homes in Boquete range from quite rustic Panamanian style homes to large luxury homes. It all depends on your desires and budget! Most homes in Panama are concrete block construction. I will disagree with the previous poster, most homes in Boquete do not have either AC or heat, as it is not needed due to the stable and comfortable air temperature. As you drive from Boquete to David it get significantly hotter and AC would be highly desirable in those areas. See homes at https://casasolution.com," explained one expat living in Boquete, Panama.

"We are renting a home. It is typical housing; concrete outside. This home has a lot of wood including ceilings. We just paid for an exterminator to gas the house. It is large. It has 4 bedrooms, one barely larger than a closet. The kitchens in older homes have no drawers. Think table service settings. Small countertop, limited storage in overhead cabinets. My eating area has steel shelving that I brought from the US. It provides storage for the mixer, baking equipment extra dishes and bowls. It's has a very Restoration Hardware look about it. I think that new construction has limited storage space as well. If you have books or dvds, buy shelving. Linen closets often don't exist. I store my linens and fabric in antique suitcases. Even if you buy kitchenware in Panama, you have to store it somewhere," said one expat in Alto Boquete.

"The cost of housing in Boquete varies depending on the size and location of the property. Generally, the average cost of a one-bedroom apartment in Boquete is around $500 per month, while a three-bedroom house can cost up to $1,500 per month. Prices can also vary depending on the amenities offered, such as a pool or a view," wrote one member in 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," remarked one expat who made the move to Alto Boquete.

"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.

"At first I shunned the gringo/expat organized weekly meeting, the Tuesday Morning Informational and Networking Meeting. All the people were of retired age, I'm not. Then I started going, I found I had things to say and others had things to teach. they soon published a small book of the meetings minutes with recaps of many speakers. I learned many valuable things and shared opinions and even changed some opinions. We bonded, we drank local coffee, we bitched and moaned and rejoyced together. seek out such groups and see what you can learn or contribute to them," 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," remarked one expat living in Boquete, Panama.

"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," wrote one member in Boquete.

"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," explained 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," commented one expat who made the move to 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," remarked one expat living in Boquete, Panama.

"Coffee is the big industry here and its some of the best in the world. Tourism, real estate, building, development, adventure, are a few of the biggies. Career opps and jobs for gingos are almost non existant. You basically have to make your own way or bring a job, career, or business with you and then employ locals to work at it. The laws are strict and pretty much say- Panamanians first," wrote one member in Boquete.

"The locals work hard and have lots of festivals. They honor the old folks, thier heritage, and way of life. They take time for coffee, for conversation. They are more then willing to show you and teach you and help you to find your place in their society. If you even try to speak spanish they admire you for that and even try thier hand at English or apologize for their lack of. Everyone says hello, waves, nods, gives recognition, an old fashioned thing that I missed in the U.S," remarked one expat living in Boquete, Panama.

"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," wrote one member in Boquete.

"I appreciate the dedication to family - it's refreshing to see entire extended families spending time together and enjoying life," remarked 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," remarked one expat who made the move to 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," 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," remarked 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.

"Boquete has some diversity and I have found it to be a very open and welcoming culture. A variety of religions and also non religious people. There is a vast economic diversity in Panama in general," 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," said one parent with children at 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 an expat living in Boquete.

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

"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," wrote one 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," commented one expat who moved to Boquete.

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

"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," commented one expat living in Boquete, Panama.

"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," said one expat.

"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," commented one expat living in Boquete, Panama.

"Many doctors live in our town and the facilities are quite adequate for expat healthcare," said 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," mentioned one expat inBoquete.

"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," said one expat.

"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," mentioned an 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," said an expat 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," mentioned an expat living in Boquete.