More and more people getting on in life prefer retirement in Panama. The low cost of living and the wonderful scenery are among the contributing factors for this trend. High cost of retirement in places such as the United States of America and Europe is driving a large number of people to look for other foreign destinations. While there are many places which can rival Panama when it comes to natural splendor, the country has comparatively got some other advantages, making it a favorite with retirees.
The popularity of the country can be gauged from the fact that the country has been voted the number one destination for retirement for the last seven consecutive years. For many, the clinching factors, apart from the low cost of living, are the endless miles of beautiful beaches that the country has. This apart, the landscape of Panama also boasts of many mountainous regions too. The weather too is just about perfect, with year round sunshine on offer. There is a rainy season, but you will find even in the rainy season, it will perhaps just rain for a few hours in the morning.
Although there are other places with similar weather in Central and South America, what makes Panama different is that it offers a unique combination of excellent infrastructure, safety and solitude. For those wanting to spend the last years of their lives in a peaceful paradise, there could not be a better place to choose than Panama.
All said and done, most people flock to Panama because of its low cost of living. A comparison of the real estate prices in Panama in relation to some parts of the United States and Europe would give you a good idea about how cheap this country really is. For example, a house with your own private swimming pool would cost you around $100,000 - $200,000. This is something that is next to impossible in many European countries or in the United States. Similarly, you can watch a movie in a modern cinema complex for just $4 and an average ride in a taxi would only set you back by $2, things which you can’t even imagine in many other countries, offering so many facilities.
Panama boasts of world-class health care facilities which are another reason for the country being a preferred choice of retirees. The infrastructure is modern with many beautiful shopping malls dotting the skyline in the capital, Panama City. The country is also one of the most important banking centers around the world. With the Panama Canal being of high economic and strategic value, the country’s economy is only predicted to become even better in the near future. To put it in a nutshell, a Panama retirement is something that you cannot find in any other place on the planet.
Friday, December 26, 2008
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
Merry Christmas From Panama
Just wanted to greet my readers from Panama with the Spanish greeting “Feliz Navidad”. My kids have all come down from cold cities in North America on flights to Panama, many of which are direct and range from 3 – 5 hours long in duration.
The Christmas season in Panama starts on December 8th, with a parade down the main street celebrating the Immaculate Conception. Young girls with wings on their dresses, dressed like angels, participate in the parade with a Statue of the Blessed Virgin. The children take their first communion this day.
Panamians clean their houses and prepare such delicious food as turkey (pavo), stuffing (relleno) tamales, arroz, arturo sauce, capers, meats, prunes and additional spices covered in plantain leaves and boiled. Traditional fruitcake is popular for the dessert.
At midnight, the feast is served, there is music, dancing and celebration in the streets as people visit their friends and family. Traditional Christmas music is heard, gaitas and villancicos. Nacimientos are displayed. There are even Christmas trees which were originally bought from Europe. Christmas lights on the houses brighten up the night.
The morning of December 25th, people go to church. Family and friends are visited, eating more traditional Christmas food. On the Epiphany, or the Dia de los Reyes, (King’s Day), the children are given presents. Since the Americans were in Panama, Christmas time has been a blend of Panamanian and American influences. It’s a joyous season here in Panama, this Christmas time, lots of food, music and friendly people.
I just wanted to wish my friends, Feliz Navidad from my retirement in Panama. The weather couldn't be better. For five seconds I wanted to see snow, well, because it's Christmas so I turned on my tv and watched the news stories of the storms in the north east. Every day, I think of how lucky I am to have decided to retire in Panama.
The Christmas season in Panama starts on December 8th, with a parade down the main street celebrating the Immaculate Conception. Young girls with wings on their dresses, dressed like angels, participate in the parade with a Statue of the Blessed Virgin. The children take their first communion this day.
Panamians clean their houses and prepare such delicious food as turkey (pavo), stuffing (relleno) tamales, arroz, arturo sauce, capers, meats, prunes and additional spices covered in plantain leaves and boiled. Traditional fruitcake is popular for the dessert.
At midnight, the feast is served, there is music, dancing and celebration in the streets as people visit their friends and family. Traditional Christmas music is heard, gaitas and villancicos. Nacimientos are displayed. There are even Christmas trees which were originally bought from Europe. Christmas lights on the houses brighten up the night.
The morning of December 25th, people go to church. Family and friends are visited, eating more traditional Christmas food. On the Epiphany, or the Dia de los Reyes, (King’s Day), the children are given presents. Since the Americans were in Panama, Christmas time has been a blend of Panamanian and American influences. It’s a joyous season here in Panama, this Christmas time, lots of food, music and friendly people.
I just wanted to wish my friends, Feliz Navidad from my retirement in Panama. The weather couldn't be better. For five seconds I wanted to see snow, well, because it's Christmas so I turned on my tv and watched the news stories of the storms in the north east. Every day, I think of how lucky I am to have decided to retire in Panama.
Saturday, December 20, 2008
Celebrating Your Retirement in Panama
Retirement in Panama is something that an increasing number of people are opting for these days. There are several reasons for this fascination with Panama among those who have recently retired. For one, the country is ranked by many reputable international organizations as one of the best countries to live.
The other biggest attraction for those looking to retire in Panama is the low cost of living. The combination of these factors has led to Panama now becoming the most sought after country for those looking for a retirement haven.
Panama is well known for its abundant natural beauty. The place is every nature lover’s delight. One can find a wide variety of animals as well as birds in Panama. The scenic splendor and the peace that Panama offers is something of an irresistible combination for those looking towards a quiet life in the evening of their life.
You will also find that Panama is considered more foreigner friendly when compared to a lot of other countries, with similar climate and natural conditions. The health care facilities that are available in Panama are comparable with the best that is available anywhere else in the world too. This is one more reason why retirees find Panama such an attractive option to spend their retirement years. The high cost of medical care is something that people find difficult in many other countries and what brings them to Panama.
Panama is a country that boasts of modern infrastructure Whether it is the roads or the buildings, you can find the government here places emphasis on modern infrastructure. The entire real estate scene in Panama is buoyant, with plenty of options available for people when it comes to finding a home.
Panama is a country that enjoys sunny weather throughout the year including the rainy season. Moreover, the occurrence of natural disasters such as major earthquakes, tornadoes and hurricanes is also very less here. The vast stretches of tropical forests and beaches are another attraction for retirees looking to spend a peaceful life. Being surrounded by the Pacific and Caribbean oceans, the country is home to many picturesque beaches.
The banking facilities available in Panama are world class making it one of the most important financial centers in the world. The country is also well connected by air to most of the major cities of the world. In fact it only takes a few hours to reach most of the major cities in the United States from Panama. With so many advantages, it is not surprising that many people want to retire in Panama nowadays.
The other biggest attraction for those looking to retire in Panama is the low cost of living. The combination of these factors has led to Panama now becoming the most sought after country for those looking for a retirement haven.
Panama is well known for its abundant natural beauty. The place is every nature lover’s delight. One can find a wide variety of animals as well as birds in Panama. The scenic splendor and the peace that Panama offers is something of an irresistible combination for those looking towards a quiet life in the evening of their life.
You will also find that Panama is considered more foreigner friendly when compared to a lot of other countries, with similar climate and natural conditions. The health care facilities that are available in Panama are comparable with the best that is available anywhere else in the world too. This is one more reason why retirees find Panama such an attractive option to spend their retirement years. The high cost of medical care is something that people find difficult in many other countries and what brings them to Panama.
Panama is a country that boasts of modern infrastructure Whether it is the roads or the buildings, you can find the government here places emphasis on modern infrastructure. The entire real estate scene in Panama is buoyant, with plenty of options available for people when it comes to finding a home.
Panama is a country that enjoys sunny weather throughout the year including the rainy season. Moreover, the occurrence of natural disasters such as major earthquakes, tornadoes and hurricanes is also very less here. The vast stretches of tropical forests and beaches are another attraction for retirees looking to spend a peaceful life. Being surrounded by the Pacific and Caribbean oceans, the country is home to many picturesque beaches.
The banking facilities available in Panama are world class making it one of the most important financial centers in the world. The country is also well connected by air to most of the major cities of the world. In fact it only takes a few hours to reach most of the major cities in the United States from Panama. With so many advantages, it is not surprising that many people want to retire in Panama nowadays.
Sunday, December 7, 2008
My Decision to Retire in Panama
When I first decided to retire in Panama, there was a lot of research to be done, talking to people who were thinking about the idea, people who were actually retired and living in Panama and searching on the internet for information for retirement in Panama. I discovered this company called International Living.
I had heard things about living in Panama and buying property in Panama, like “buyer beware” and you’d better either speak Spanish or else hire a lawyer from Panama. So I was a bit of a doubting Thomas, very wary of, well, everything to be quite honest with you. No sense draining my life time savings and getting screwed at my age.
Nevertheless, I was a bit cynical, but I knew I wanted to retire in Panama. I signed up to this company for a three day real estate tour which promised to show many quality properties during their three day real estate presentation. Let me remind you, I was feeling kinda cynical.
Passing through customs was relatively easy. Once on the other side of customs, I was looking for the guy from the company. I figured no one would be meeting me at Tocumen International airport as promised but it was sort of encouraging when I saw the guy at the terminal holding up the sign for his company. As promised.
A hotel room was booked for those attending at the Miramar Intercontinental Hotel, a luxury hotel for sure, not a doubt about it. We got to sleep in a bit the next morning at the hotel because the event the company was running wouldn’t start until 1:00 p.m. The event started right at 1:00 p.m. Promptly. As promised.
Two guys gave the welcoming address about retiring in Panama, safety, stability, climate, reasons to retire and invest in Panama. A lawyer then gave a speech on the legal aspects of retiring and conducting business in Panama. There were further presentations on investments such as investing in teak forests and how to finance property in Panama. So much valuable information. I was ready for a break. Next up on the schedule: a reception by the pool. Cocktails in the sun. Ah! Panama. As promised.
Next day it was an early start to the day. At 8:00 a.m., a bus was waiting outside of the Miramar to take us to the Intercontinental Playa Bonita Resort and Spa. This is some luxurious hotel, a 5 star hotel resort in Panama. Beautiful! It’s on a private secluded beach. As promised.
The first presentation was a speech about economic development in Panama. After that, we headed to Playa Serena, a beach front paradise on the Pacific side consisting of two and three bedroom apartments from 699 to 1,205 suqare feet in size in two 20 story buildings. With a view on the ocean. More beautiful – as promised.
Well, we were here to see properties in Panama and the next property we were taken to was named Vista Mar. We had lunch here followed by a tour. Again, fantastic views of the Pacific Ocean, designer kitchens, stainless steel appliances. Talk about attention to detail.
The night was to be spent at Playa Blanca. White hotel with blue roofs. Here they have two high rise condo buildings under construction. Dancers and bongo drums greet us. A resort on the Pacific. Another nice one. Great buffet and dancers. Beautiful sunset.
Nighttime. A show was put on at the resort. Dancers singing broadway songs. More bongo drums.
Santa Clara and Coronado were next on our itinerary. Santa Clara and Coronado are quiet communities surrounded by the Pacific Ocean on one side and beautiful tropical forests and foliage surrounding the community. From $130,000 to $800,00 US, you can buy two to four bedroom homes. More beauty. As promised. For peaceful and quiet retirement in Panama, this is all about location, location.
Other properties we were taken too included Tucan Country Club for breakfast. This property is a 180 acre community, still under construction, consisting of 500 town homes, villas, and terrace condominiums built around an 18 hole, par 72 professionally designed gold course. This property is just across the Bridge of the Americas, a short drive from Panama City. Other high rise condos presented to our group included the Grand Bay Tower, Bayfront Tower, Destiny Panama Bay, and Sol Marina with spectacular views of the city skyline and the ocean, and furnished with all the modern amenities you could desire. There’s lots of building going on in Panama, especially for those who are thinking of retiring there.
The three days ended back at our hotel in Panama City – the Hotel Miramar. The properties I had seen had all been tempting. The presentation had boosted my goal to retire in Panama. It was an exhausting few days in Panama, you know, places to go, people to see, but I had seen some properties I was definitely interested in looking at further. There seems to be something for everyone interested in retiring in Panama whether it be a property on an ocean front, a quiet spot in the mountains, or the bustling city of Panama itself. As promised.
I had heard things about living in Panama and buying property in Panama, like “buyer beware” and you’d better either speak Spanish or else hire a lawyer from Panama. So I was a bit of a doubting Thomas, very wary of, well, everything to be quite honest with you. No sense draining my life time savings and getting screwed at my age.
Nevertheless, I was a bit cynical, but I knew I wanted to retire in Panama. I signed up to this company for a three day real estate tour which promised to show many quality properties during their three day real estate presentation. Let me remind you, I was feeling kinda cynical.
Passing through customs was relatively easy. Once on the other side of customs, I was looking for the guy from the company. I figured no one would be meeting me at Tocumen International airport as promised but it was sort of encouraging when I saw the guy at the terminal holding up the sign for his company. As promised.
A hotel room was booked for those attending at the Miramar Intercontinental Hotel, a luxury hotel for sure, not a doubt about it. We got to sleep in a bit the next morning at the hotel because the event the company was running wouldn’t start until 1:00 p.m. The event started right at 1:00 p.m. Promptly. As promised.
Two guys gave the welcoming address about retiring in Panama, safety, stability, climate, reasons to retire and invest in Panama. A lawyer then gave a speech on the legal aspects of retiring and conducting business in Panama. There were further presentations on investments such as investing in teak forests and how to finance property in Panama. So much valuable information. I was ready for a break. Next up on the schedule: a reception by the pool. Cocktails in the sun. Ah! Panama. As promised.
Next day it was an early start to the day. At 8:00 a.m., a bus was waiting outside of the Miramar to take us to the Intercontinental Playa Bonita Resort and Spa. This is some luxurious hotel, a 5 star hotel resort in Panama. Beautiful! It’s on a private secluded beach. As promised.
The first presentation was a speech about economic development in Panama. After that, we headed to Playa Serena, a beach front paradise on the Pacific side consisting of two and three bedroom apartments from 699 to 1,205 suqare feet in size in two 20 story buildings. With a view on the ocean. More beautiful – as promised.
Well, we were here to see properties in Panama and the next property we were taken to was named Vista Mar. We had lunch here followed by a tour. Again, fantastic views of the Pacific Ocean, designer kitchens, stainless steel appliances. Talk about attention to detail.
The night was to be spent at Playa Blanca. White hotel with blue roofs. Here they have two high rise condo buildings under construction. Dancers and bongo drums greet us. A resort on the Pacific. Another nice one. Great buffet and dancers. Beautiful sunset.
Nighttime. A show was put on at the resort. Dancers singing broadway songs. More bongo drums.
Santa Clara and Coronado were next on our itinerary. Santa Clara and Coronado are quiet communities surrounded by the Pacific Ocean on one side and beautiful tropical forests and foliage surrounding the community. From $130,000 to $800,00 US, you can buy two to four bedroom homes. More beauty. As promised. For peaceful and quiet retirement in Panama, this is all about location, location.
Other properties we were taken too included Tucan Country Club for breakfast. This property is a 180 acre community, still under construction, consisting of 500 town homes, villas, and terrace condominiums built around an 18 hole, par 72 professionally designed gold course. This property is just across the Bridge of the Americas, a short drive from Panama City. Other high rise condos presented to our group included the Grand Bay Tower, Bayfront Tower, Destiny Panama Bay, and Sol Marina with spectacular views of the city skyline and the ocean, and furnished with all the modern amenities you could desire. There’s lots of building going on in Panama, especially for those who are thinking of retiring there.
The three days ended back at our hotel in Panama City – the Hotel Miramar. The properties I had seen had all been tempting. The presentation had boosted my goal to retire in Panama. It was an exhausting few days in Panama, you know, places to go, people to see, but I had seen some properties I was definitely interested in looking at further. There seems to be something for everyone interested in retiring in Panama whether it be a property on an ocean front, a quiet spot in the mountains, or the bustling city of Panama itself. As promised.
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