What do I need to know before retiring in Playa Panama?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Playa Panama, they said...
"Expats considering retirement in Playa Panama should be aware of several key factors. Firstly, the cost of living can be higher than in other parts of Costa Rica, due to its popularity as a tourist destination. However, it is still generally lower than in many parts of the United States or Europe. Healthcare in Costa Rica is of a high standard, with both public and private options available. Expats can join the public healthcare system for a small monthly fee, or opt for private insurance. The official language is Spanish, so it would be beneficial to learn some basic phrases before moving. However, English is widely spoken in tourist areas and by many locals. The climate in Playa Panama is tropical, with a dry season from December to April and a rainy season from May to November. It's important to be prepared for this, particularly if you're not used to living in a humid environment. The local culture is friendly and relaxed, with a strong emphasis on family and community. It's common for locals and expats to socialize together, and there are plenty of opportunities to get involved in community events and activities. Safety is generally not a major concern in Playa Panama, but like anywhere, it's important to take basic precautions. This includes not leaving valuables unattended and being aware of your surroundings, particularly at night. Finally, it's important to understand the visa and residency requirements for living in Costa Rica. This can be a complex process, so it's recommended to seek advice from a legal professional or expat organization," explained one expat living in Playa Panama, Costa Rica.

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RelocateNow Costa Rica's clients who run through the RelocateNow Program get quick results in formulating and successfully executing our laid out plan for moving to Costa Rica! Expert consulting for future expats in Costa Rica who wish to fast track the process of their move by receiving the specialized information they need, trustworthy connections within the country, and high level 1:1 support through the entire process.
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

RelocateNow Costa Rica's clients who run through the RelocateNow Program get quick results in formulating and successfully executing our laid out plan for moving to Costa Rica! Expert consulting for future expats in Costa Rica who wish to fast track the process of their move by receiving the specialized information they need, trustworthy connections within the country, and high level 1:1 support through the entire process.
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Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to Playa Panama?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Playa Panama?
- Will I be able to find a job in Playa Panama?
- What is life like in Playa Panama?
- What do expats in Playa Panama appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Playa Panama?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Playa Panama accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Playa Panama like?
- What are healthcare services like in Playa Panama?
- What are medical services in Playa Panama like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Playa Panama?
- What are emergency services like in Playa Panama?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Playa Panama?
- How are local medical facilities in Playa Panama?
- As a foreigner living in Playa Panama, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
What do I need to know before retiring in Playa Panama?
If you live in Playa Panama, newcomers to Playa Panama would love to hear your answer to this question.