Expat Community > Panama

AlienOnTheRun
Joined 2013
Posts: 47

A New Home in Panama?

11 years ago

Hi everyone! I'm an Asian Canadian male, who has spent most of his adult life and has worked only in the US, thus my retirement accounts are also only in the US. I'm in my middle age and considering to move overseas mainly for the financial reason. I used to work as a sub teacher for public schools in California and, looking long-term, my retirement funds are simply too skimpy to allow me to live in North America.

I've been researching lately and learned Panama is one of the best destinations for retirement overseas. Of course, I'm also interested in learning Latin culture. Since money is the main (despite not only) reason I'm considering this option, I'd like to know just how much it will cost to live there.

Below is the cost of living in Panama City Please advise how accurate they are.

http://www.numbeo.com/cost-of-living/city_result.jsp?country=Panama&city=Panama+City

It appears it’s not cheap in this city. I’m wondering if there are any other options that may fit the bill.

My main concerns are:
1) rent / real estate prices
2) how easy / difficult to get a tourist / PR visa?
3) Is it possible for expat to get jobs there since I still need to work. Unless I can afford a piece of real estate and rent out rooms, but I prefer to work.
4) Are they tax / expat friendly?
5) Low crime
6) Affordable and good quality medical care.
7) I'm an Asian from English-speaking countries. I'm wondering how well-received I'll be there ?

A few other concerns:
(in random order)
Warm weather (80 degree F is the optimum temperature to me, and I'd rather hot than cold, ideally not too humid)
Easy access to beach and mountains,
Has affordable gyms with at least doable equipments,
Clean, with good infrastructure
English-friendly is a plus, but not a must

I know these are a lot of questions. Please feel free to respond to any of them. Much obliged !

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