Tuesday, February 20, 2018

Top Ten Reasons to Make the Move to Panama



So, maybe you're still considering several places to move to, and Panama is one of the countries on your 'short' list.

As we have pointed out before, Panama is home to some of the happiest people on earth. And why not?

Here are some of the reasons we chose Panama, and this particular spot, to call home:

Reason #1

Low cost of living

The cost for most things people buy regularly (gas, food, housing, energy, etc) are generally lower in many parts of Panama than in the states or in the Eurozone. Of course, the cost of housing and restaurant food in the big cities like Panama City and David are about the same as in the states, but if you can tolerate a little inconvenience and live a little more remotely, the costs can be dramatically lower. Just stay away from the well-known expat areas (Coronado, El Valle, Boquete and Volcan), as prices there tend to be higher than in the rural agricultural areas.

Reason #2

Weather

Yes, you read that correctly. Contrary to many people's beliefs there are some very comfortable places to live in Panama, despite the fact that this is a tropical region that gets a lot more rainfall than many places in the States or Europe. The temperature and humidity are very different at higher altitudes than down by the ocean. In the area we located our farms, the weather stays a comfortable 70 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit nearly all year, day and night. And, there's just enough rainfall to keep the plants happy without irrigating.

Reason #3

Location out of harms way

Nobody knows what is really going on behind the scenes, but it does seem to be getting a little 'sketchy' in and around the big cities in the US and Europe these days. Violence, drug abuse and social problems are rampant and acts of violence against innocent people are on the rise. Natural weather related events also seem to be occurring more often, such as drought, flooding and fires all over the US, and all are on the rise in recent years. Why this is happening is debatable, but it is clear that things are changing and not for the better. Being remote and surrounded by fewer people who are not dependent as much on others may be a safer bet than near a big city, if things continue to accelerate.

Reason #4

The economy is vibrant

The Panamanian economy has been in a boon since the early 2000's, and is expected to continue along that course for the foreseeable future. The Panama Canal recent expansion, which is now able to accommodate larger ships and charge higher fees has helped fuel this increase in revenue. And, the leaders of the country seem to be putting that money to good use, expanding the infrastructure, enhancing and improving water distribution and encouraging self reliance by promoting agriculture.

Reason #5

They use the dollar

For Americans living in Panama, conducting business is much like doing it at home for the simple reason there is no need to convert the currency. Although they use the dollar, as a backup they also have their own currency (the Balboa), which is pegged to the dollar and circulates alongside the dollar. If there ever were to be a rapid drop in the value or acceptance of the dollar, one could simply spend Balboas instead.

Reason #6

Neutral stable government

The government of Panama doesn't seem to be eager or willing to become entangled in the politics or social affairs of other countries. And, they seem to be willing to trade with other countries, even going as far as visiting them to set up trade Agreements, like the recent one between Panama and the United States. They are also high on the scale for peace.

Reason #7

Panama is on the 'way up', rather than on the way down

Panama is still several decades behind the US and European countries socially, economically and business wise. That means there is a lot of opportunity to grow in these areas, learning from the mistakes of the more developed nations.

Reason #8

Low and fair tax system

Unlike some other countries, Panama does not tax residents on the income they receive from countries outside Panama. And, if you are a dual resident and citizen of the US, the US gives you a break on your US taxes for income that is generated in Panama, up to a point. Property taxes are also quite low, and as of this writing, only collected when a property is sold.

Reason #9

Close proximity to everywhere

Whether you live in the US, the Eurozone, South America or Asia, Panama is centrally located and a hub of travel to anywhere in the world. Several new airports have been built and the main airport in Panama City (Tocumen) is undergoing a large scale redevelopment, and is sure to be Central America's main travel destination for residents from all over the world.

Reason #10

It's a great place to retire

Panama gives more than just lip service to retirees, both local and expats. As a "pensioner" you are treated to special discounts on food, hotels, entertainment and airline tickets. Discounts range from 20 to 40% or more in some cases. Citizens also get a monthly stipend, so there is very little homelessness, which is a welcome change from what one sees in the states nowadays.

Buying land or a home in another country and starting over can be a little scary and intimidating, but it doesn't have to be. The world is changing rapidly, and some places will fare better than others when those changes take place. Rural Panama is like the US was back in the 80's or maybe even the 70's, and the pace of life is much slower and people are more down to earth. Sure, they still have smart phones, internet services and TV's but they don't seem to be as caught up in the latest technology as everyone in the US seems to be.

If simpler, safer and slower is what you are looking for, take a look at what we are doing here at Finca Cazador. For a limited time, we are offering (1-5 acre) plots of organic bio-diverse land in our community to like minded individuals and families who want to live a clean, self sufficient (but not alone) lifestyle.

If this sounds interesting to you, contact us by email using the form at the top of the page, or email us at info@fincacazador.com


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