A good video. I came to Panama in 1999 so I have been here 25 years. I became a Panamanian citizen in 2013. I vote in Panamanian elections. I have become fluent in Spanish. So I am here to stay. The US has become less and less affordable for retirees especially Florida. So in Panama you enjoy a better lifestyle at a much lower cost. And don't forget Panama uses the US dollar. Very convenient.
I love your voice and personality, you explain about the pros and cons of living in Panama in a concise and straightforward fashion, with a clear and perfect standard American accent which I really love.
Excellent video thank you so much for getting straight to the point I love it. This is good enough to send to my parents so that they can look at it and they’ll understand what you explaining.
This was really helpful, thank you! Also, I think you should try to grow your Social Media presence, because you seem like a natural in front of the camera. Clear voice, pleasant, easy to understand, and we believe you ... I mean, you seem sincere. :-) Subscribed.
Great insights on moving to Panama! I just wish school options were mentioned, as it's crucial for families relocating. Still, excellent, straight-to-the-point information, thanks!
Hi Alvison, there are many to name - and depends highly on location/budget/cultural experience you want your child to have. Maybe this can be a whole episode on it's own.
I am going to come down winter ‘25 to explore Panama. I love warm weather, speak Spanish, and love birding! It will probably work as long as I’m healthy. When I start declining I’ll probably go back near family.
@briantravelman Let's be real.... the weather is no different than in certain states in America. There's a change of climate "wherever" you live, and it's no surprise you'll find the same in Panama. Moreover, just like anywhere else... once you get acclimated... you'll adapt & adjust accordingly! Happy Living, God Bless! 😊
Great pros and cons list! How is the internet connection stability, would you say? And secondly, does one open a bank account in the local currency or USD/CAD or both?
Hi there! Depends on where you are located, at home I have 1000mbs and use Cable and Wireless, but there are other providers/options depending on where you are located. For bank account - most banks I believe are only USD but there are some that are more investment focused that have USD/CAD/YEN + a few others.
Hi Martin, if you have a ballpark of what something should cost before you get involved in that activity... when you show even a bit of knowledge of how much something might cost, you experience it much less.
Yes, Panama is driving centric, even the smaller towns. There are many areas which are basically inaccessible without a car. There are areas which you might be able to pull off not having a car or using taxis, but for obvious reasons those areas are either in high demand and thus very pricey, or basically ghettos and thus not recommended for some expat or tourist. I do have to note that tourist getting robbed is relatively rare, but that's in no small part people locals will quickly advise you to leave and where safer alternatives exists. If you are hoping for a European style city, they basically don't exist in Panama anywhere. Set your expectations more of a Miami in more ways than one.
Has she been living in Panama, track and field is huge here, especially running, cycling. I can't count the number of 5k, 10k races they have on Ave Balboa on the weekends
Hahah yes, just for a decade or so. I would not consider this a sport that people watch for fun. The ones I mention are what Panamanians go to watch/cheer for.
I’m a little confused bc you made negative comments about the traffic and roadways, but gave a thumbs up for infrastructure. To me they are interrelated. You also didn’t mention if the tap water was drinkable/potable or if there was fresh water insecurity in the region. I want to relocate where fresh water supplies are in abundance. Thank you for the information you provided
So a few things - if you right now compare infrastructure to any other surrounding country in Latin America, nothing comes close... secondly, there are 4 huge major public works going on. The highway expansion of the Pan American Highway, going to 8 lanes, the new bridge, the expansion of the metro, and this government just proposed a cross country train. So, yes there is lots of traffic, but also lots of work being done. Much of the current traffic is contributed to growing pains :) but should significantly improve when a few of those works are finished. Water from the tap is perfectly safe to drink here in Panama City and surrounding areas.
@@GLPEnglish wow! Thank you for the quick response. I recently retired and weighing my options which include three Mediterranean countries and Latin America. Portugal, Spain, and Italy are really struggling with their water supplies due to changes in the earths climate. Thank you so much ❤️
@@lalva2024I am no expert, but this is the tropics so we get plenty of rainfall. It's had a few years of low reserves in Gatun where its used to fill the canal locks, but drinking water has been fine. The country has 52 watersheds that are vital for water security and ecological well-being.
As a tourist, the worst thing on this list for me was definitely "Timing". These people are in no hurry at all, and it was driving me absolutely nuts! 😂They only hurry to buy a ferry ticket and to get off planes and ferries. But when it comes to serving others, they're so slow. 😂Especially when it came to paying a restaurant bill and getting you back to you back to your hotel. They were in no hurry at all. But other tourists I talked too, couldn't understand why I was so annoyed by this😂They said they'd already been traveling in other Latin American countries, so they were used to slow service, but for me as an American, it was so annoying. I think people on some Caribbean islands are worse though
I would have thought the weather was a con. It’s the thing that gives me the most pause. I’ve heard of clothes-melting humidity. Please share why you think it’s pro even with the humidity. Thanks.
Depending on what time of the year, Panama can be very fresh both in the morning and evenings... everything is preference - coming from a cold climate, I will take the tropical climate over scraping the ice from my car window. Once you acclimate to the humidity, it's great for your skin, joints, etc.
I would need more context for this - when selling real estate if it is in a corporation, you can legally bypass the capital gains tax because you are transferring the shares of the corporation and there is no taxable event.
@@wcthrill yes would depend on where the investment account is held - not sure where you are from or if you plan to open one in Panama. You can contact Diego at Delco Law who should be able to help you. delcolaw.com/en/
Hello I agree with all our points. And could add a few more. 1) NATURGY the utility company is one of the most corrupt, incompetent companies in the country. 2) The license plate department is absolutely ridiculous when it comes to simply getting a license plate even when you buy a vehicle in Panama. 3) As a black man living in Panama I've experienced racism. Panamanians aren't nice and welcoming. I've traveled extensively throughout the world and I must say Panamanians are rude. I was told by Panamanians that they have a dislike for us because of the way the American soldiers treated them during our stay here. They coined the phase "gringo" which came from seeing soldiers in their green uniforms and say "green go home". 4) When you start interacting with the locals you'll discover limited intelligence. So its not just the language difference they have very limited critical thinking skills. So instead of making Panama my primary home, even though I bought a beautiful Beachside home, I'm going to make Panama my vacation spot. I can endure the challenges a lot more when I'm just visiting. Very informative video, thanks...
Hi Robert, the license plate issue can be easily solved by paying a messenger to do the process for you from the revisado to actually picking up the plates. Panama is home to a diverse population with varying education levels and backgrounds. Stereotypes rarely capture the full picture. In fact, Panamanians are known for their warmth, resilience, and happiness, as evidenced by numerous studies that rank Panama highly on many World Happiness Indexes.
if you are black maybe you can try out ghana. I lived there as a white person and it was nice and you have the ability to do business and build something with probably 1/5th of what you need in panama
Coming from Nebraska winters, I would have to disagree :) - obviously depends on the setting, but mornings/evenings/ any time there is a pool involved, Panama is just right. You might enjoy somewhere like Boquete where it is cooler.
@@GLPEnglish Totally agree about the pool. But I'm from Canada. Trust me, I know where you're coming from ❄️☃️❄️😜. I walked the Malecon yesterday and the humidity sucked all my energy out, making the walk very unpleasant. Luckily my building has a pool, but if it didn't, I probably wouldn't stay long. I've looked into bouquete but if seems like a small town. I like big cities. Bogota, Lima, Buenos Aires. Etc are my jam. Appreciate the recommendation though.
in the last decade it has become much more pet friendly... dogs are allowed in some malls + most cafes have at least a terrace that you can bring your dog. There are plenty of dog parks around the city, etc.
I’m a Puerto Rican fully bilingual 63 year old SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY INSURANCE benefit of $1000 monthly income interested in the city of David, Panama. What can you recommend me or better yet, do to help me visit Panamá with intention to relocate there ???
I'm a former Zonian and plan on retiring in PC within the next 18 months. Can you do a video on how much property taxes and home insurance are on a luxury condo? Property taxes and home insurance in the U.S. has gone crazy!!
Hi Victor I've seen you commenting on many different Panama channels, if you want something really specific, reach out to one of these channels. Get on a call. I'm sure anyone will be gladly be willing to help you out with your questions.
Hi Victor, that is quite specific when you say a luxury condo. What would you consider luxury? (price range) I don't currently know the exact pricing, so I would need to create a collaboration with someone to get you the exact answer.
Yes, but it's not Panamanian :) we import a lot from Argentina/Chile. The Brahman cows are the most common here and they don't have much fat on them at all, but they do the best in the tropical climate.
Yes, Americans will never escape the IRS... but if it is generated internationally there are exemptions for specific amounts (changes yearly or so) but you will always have to file. Canadians can become non-tax residents depending on how much time they spend out of Canada.
@@jackbaldwin3649What? Of course it’s different. I don’t pay anything to the government of my home country when I don’t work there. I couldn’t believe it when I found out that Americans have to do that
minimum education levels in all of Latin America vary... the public school system has a long way to go. But one of my favorite things about Panama is that there are small business owners who efficiently do those small annoying things very well and you can hire them to do it for you for a very reasonable price. For example the process of getting your license plate here would be confusing for someone who has never done it before, but instead of fight the system and stand in line for hours, you can pay someone $35 who will do 5-10 at a time. He feeds his family and you saved yourself an entire day of waiting in lines.
After dealing with the Social Security system in the US, I’m not Sure how much worse Panama could possibly be 😂. I’m kind of kidding because I live in Mexico, so I do understand that countries south of the US border do operate on a different timeline, but… the US doesn’t have much room to talk.
yep, here taxes are low, usually 7% in almost everything. There are some exceptions: for example, if you're an american that likes guns, to buy your own licensed gun in Panama, it's like... x10 times more expensive here than in the US.
Hi Rod, some things are all encompassing, like taxes etc... but yes, this is mostly Panama City focused. We can do another on other areas of the country.
I grew up on Ft. Clayton in the 80’s was may favorite country until I went to the Philippines in 2016. I went back in 09 and 11 both times I was targeted to be robbed because my skin is white. Do t know how you’re not being targeted. I dress always in gym shorts and a shit don’t wear jewelry. I look broke. My friend from there and his sister were laughing because I bring a knife everywhere since I was 16. She talked about how that’s useless they just pull out a gun so I asked them to pull one out, neither had. In 2012 almost a year to the day her daughter was in an argument outside the house, she woke to go out there and was attacked by 2 women w/ knives who killed her. I’m Puerto Rican I left PR because it’s difficult to maintain on disability pay I’ve am now a week away from 3 years living in Medellin Colombia. Only problem I had here was a few months in saving a prostitute from her pimp/boyfriend from beating her in my apartment complex, he attempted to pull a knife but I was faster having trained in Kali since 91. Police came ask me not to get involved since they don’t here😏 and took his knife because of his dramatic actions when they were there listening to the story. The landlord shook my hand and tossed them out the next day. They were Venezuelans, I’ve had no issues at all here w/ locals. I wouldn’t believe it either I was against coming here when a girl I met in Panama ask me to visit her here. Especially as her father she didn’t remember was killed by Escobar this place just seemed way too dangerous but it is actually far safer than Panama, cheaper better climate and no mosquitoes which are clearly a problem in Panama. The only disadvantage here is the food, Panama wins there🤣
@victortoombs4754 we had so much influence for 100 years of panama city. Why do you think infrastructure looks so much like the usa. No other country in central or south america like that. Maybe we didn't run the city, but having a large military base in the city made a difference.
Hi there! eating out can be done at many levels... yes going to nice places here is expensive, but you can find very good food here (even in the city) and it does not break the bank... not just local fonda food. I'd encourage you to explore outside of your normal spots and you might be surprised. My favorite organic soup (lunch spot) is $5.
I love how you just got straight to the point
Me, too.😆
me three
Right to the point! Nice!!! No unnecessary blaring music, no super long cover shots, just straight to the content. You rock!
hahah don't worry - no blaring music here :) thank you for the kind review!
A sport that grow in Panamá is paddel and you did not mention It.
A good video. I came to Panama in 1999 so I have been here 25 years. I became a Panamanian citizen in 2013. I vote in Panamanian elections. I have become fluent in Spanish. So I am here to stay. The US has become less and less affordable for retirees especially Florida. So in Panama you enjoy a better lifestyle at a much lower cost. And don't forget Panama uses the US dollar. Very convenient.
Convenient for now.
Thank you! Wow, what a story, so glad to hear it worked for you long term.
Thank you for not wasting time and getting to the point.
I love your voice and personality, you explain about the pros and cons of living in Panama in a concise and straightforward fashion, with a clear and perfect standard American accent which I really love.
thanks so much!
NICE JOB of giving us the real deal.
Concise and informative without the all too common on YT hyperbole! Well done!
Hi there, thanks so much! :)
I visited Panama City last December and loved it. I would consider retiring down there for lower cost of living and escaping the cold Chicago winters.
A knowledge-packed 7 minutes. Thank you.
thank you!
Great video. Thanks for jumping right in and explaining clearly.
Thank you for making this video so concise and informative. Very helpful!
Thank you! :)
Thanks for the video, you touched on a lot of questions I was curious about. Well done!
Thanks for breaking down the main points and going straight to the point with time stamps
Excellent video thank you so much for getting straight to the point I love it. This is good enough to send to my parents so that they can look at it and they’ll understand what you explaining.
Hi Racquel, thanks so much :) if you/they have more questions please let me know and we can make another video with more Q&A
It is quite different in the mountains or on the beach, in Panama.
This was really helpful, thank you! Also, I think you should try to grow your Social Media presence, because you seem like a natural in front of the camera. Clear voice, pleasant, easy to understand, and we believe you ... I mean, you seem sincere. :-) Subscribed.
Thank you so much! :) I am happy it comes across as sincere, because it is.
Great information. Thank you for sharing.
Hi Levar, thanks so much!
Another pro - you can swim either in the Atlantic or Pacific; your choice.
thank you for mentioning sport i hope i can get ESPN there!
Excellent information.
Glad it was helpful! thank you for tuning in.
2 Dutch girls
Great insights on moving to Panama! I just wish school options were mentioned, as it's crucial for families relocating. Still, excellent, straight-to-the-point information, thanks!
Hi Alvison, there are many to name - and depends highly on location/budget/cultural experience you want your child to have. Maybe this can be a whole episode on it's own.
@@GLPEnglish You are indeed right. This can certainly be another great episode, looking forward to watch it once published: Subscribed!
I am going to come down winter ‘25 to explore Panama. I love warm weather, speak Spanish, and love birding! It will probably work as long as I’m healthy. When I start declining I’ll probably go back near family.
Hi there! It's actually extremely affordable to have live in nurses here, just something to consider.
Traffic is Horrible and heat is crazy.
traffic always depends on time of day and heat when there is a pool nearby is welcome :)
Sounds like Tampa Florida! LOL
Yeah, I was surprised that she put "Weather" as a Pro
@briantravelman Let's be real.... the weather is no different than in certain states in America. There's a change of climate "wherever" you live, and it's no surprise you'll find the same in Panama. Moreover, just like anywhere else... once you get acclimated... you'll adapt & adjust accordingly! Happy Living, God Bless! 😊
Thank You!
Great pros and cons list! How is the internet connection stability, would you say? And secondly, does one open a bank account in the local currency or USD/CAD or both?
Hi there! Depends on where you are located, at home I have 1000mbs and use Cable and Wireless, but there are other providers/options depending on where you are located. For bank account - most banks I believe are only USD but there are some that are more investment focused that have USD/CAD/YEN + a few others.
I have tentative plans to do a relocation tour next March and will try to relocate early May next year. I live off of Military and SSDI.
Have you experienced the "gringo tax" mentioned in another video I watched?
Hi Martin, if you have a ballpark of what something should cost before you get involved in that activity... when you show even a bit of knowledge of how much something might cost, you experience it much less.
This is awesome
Humidity is a con for curly hair. Also, is Panama generally driving centric?
I find my curls are the best in Panama. It's weird, because you would think the humidity would make them frizzy. But they are great.
Yes, Panama is driving centric, even the smaller towns. There are many areas which are basically inaccessible without a car. There are areas which you might be able to pull off not having a car or using taxis, but for obvious reasons those areas are either in high demand and thus very pricey, or basically ghettos and thus not recommended for some expat or tourist. I do have to note that tourist getting robbed is relatively rare, but that's in no small part people locals will quickly advise you to leave and where safer alternatives exists.
If you are hoping for a European style city, they basically don't exist in Panama anywhere. Set your expectations more of a Miami in more ways than one.
Excellent. Thank you.
Thanks for watching!
Has she been living in Panama, track and field is huge here, especially running, cycling. I can't count the number of 5k, 10k races they have on Ave Balboa on the weekends
Hahah yes, just for a decade or so. I would not consider this a sport that people watch for fun. The ones I mention are what Panamanians go to watch/cheer for.
I’m a little confused bc you made negative comments about the traffic and roadways, but gave a thumbs up for infrastructure. To me they are interrelated. You also didn’t mention if the tap water was drinkable/potable or if there was fresh water insecurity in the region. I want to relocate where fresh water supplies are in abundance. Thank you for the information you provided
So a few things - if you right now compare infrastructure to any other surrounding country in Latin America, nothing comes close... secondly, there are 4 huge major public works going on. The highway expansion of the Pan American Highway, going to 8 lanes, the new bridge, the expansion of the metro, and this government just proposed a cross country train. So, yes there is lots of traffic, but also lots of work being done. Much of the current traffic is contributed to growing pains :) but should significantly improve when a few of those works are finished.
Water from the tap is perfectly safe to drink here in Panama City and surrounding areas.
@@GLPEnglish wow! Thank you for the quick response. I recently retired and weighing my options which include three Mediterranean countries and Latin America. Portugal, Spain, and Italy are really struggling with their water supplies due to changes in the earths climate. Thank you so much ❤️
@@GLPEnglish is there a threat to the fresh water supply (e.g., drought conditions)?
@@lalva2024I am no expert, but this is the tropics so we get plenty of rainfall. It's had a few years of low reserves in Gatun where its used to fill the canal locks, but drinking water has been fine. The country has 52 watersheds that are vital for water security and ecological well-being.
@@GLPEnglish Thank you so much. I do research, but much of the information is either contradictory or extremely convoluted. You’re a gem 💎
Hi, congrats on your new arrival :) Which is the condo you're at now? Looks very chic and modern.
Hi! This is the game room in Seascape on Ocean Reef Islands... it's a beautiful project.
Taxes are a big + !
yes they are!
As a tourist, the worst thing on this list for me was definitely "Timing". These people are in no hurry at all, and it was driving me absolutely nuts! 😂They only hurry to buy a ferry ticket and to get off planes and ferries. But when it comes to serving others, they're so slow. 😂Especially when it came to paying a restaurant bill and getting you back to you back to your hotel. They were in no hurry at all. But other tourists I talked too, couldn't understand why I was so annoyed by this😂They said they'd already been traveling in other Latin American countries, so they were used to slow service, but for me as an American, it was so annoying. I think people on some Caribbean islands are worse though
Do you sell homes all throughout Panama or just the Panama City area? I only ask because I really like the city of Boquete. Thanks! Great video!
We are considering Panama as a location to relocate from Texas within the next six months.
You will already be used to the humidity! It's a wonderful place to be, I relocated from Nebraska ten years ago and have never regretted it.
Thx 😊
Seems like most of the pros and cons are for Panama City.... does most of it follow for David and Alto Boquete?
tax benefits etc all apply, but it would be very different even between David and Boquete - the climates are completely different etc.
I would have thought the weather was a con. It’s the thing that gives me the most pause. I’ve heard of clothes-melting humidity. Please share why you think it’s pro even with the humidity. Thanks.
Depending on what time of the year, Panama can be very fresh both in the morning and evenings... everything is preference - coming from a cold climate, I will take the tropical climate over scraping the ice from my car window.
Once you acclimate to the humidity, it's great for your skin, joints, etc.
I am wondering about internet speeds in Panama City and elsewhere ? any info would be helpful
Hi Chris, at home I have 1000mbs. Will obviously vary depending on your plan, but we get great internet.
is there a landbase casino in panama?
Hi Mico, many casinos in Panama City to pick from!
How do I avoid paying capital gains tax? Do I need to be solely a Panamanian citizen?
I would need more context for this - when selling real estate if it is in a corporation, you can legally bypass the capital gains tax because you are transferring the shares of the corporation and there is no taxable event.
@@GLPEnglish I was referring more to stocks
@@wcthrill yes would depend on where the investment account is held - not sure where you are from or if you plan to open one in Panama. You can contact Diego at Delco Law who should be able to help you. delcolaw.com/en/
Is the friendly nations visa easiest to get?
it really depends on your specific situation + purchasing power. There are easier/quicker ones but they are a bit more costly.
Do you have gringo pricing?
it would depend on where/what is the situation but gringo pricing is everywhere outside of the US... in specific places.
Hello I agree with all our points. And could add a few more.
1) NATURGY the utility company is one of the most corrupt, incompetent companies in the country.
2) The license plate department is absolutely ridiculous when it comes to simply getting a license plate even when you buy a vehicle in Panama.
3) As a black man living in Panama I've experienced racism. Panamanians aren't nice and welcoming. I've traveled extensively throughout the world and I must say Panamanians are rude. I was told by Panamanians that they have a dislike for us because of the way the American soldiers treated them during our stay here. They coined the phase "gringo" which came from seeing soldiers in their green uniforms and say "green go home".
4) When you start interacting with the locals you'll discover limited intelligence. So its not just the language difference they have very limited critical thinking skills. So instead of making Panama my primary home, even though I bought a beautiful Beachside home, I'm going to make Panama my vacation spot. I can endure the challenges a lot more when I'm just visiting. Very informative video, thanks...
Hi Robert, the license plate issue can be easily solved by paying a messenger to do the process for you from the revisado to actually picking up the plates.
Panama is home to a diverse population with varying education levels and backgrounds. Stereotypes rarely capture the full picture. In fact, Panamanians are known for their warmth, resilience, and happiness, as evidenced by numerous studies that rank Panama highly on many World Happiness Indexes.
if you are black maybe you can try out ghana. I lived there as a white person and it was nice and you have the ability to do business and build something with probably 1/5th of what you need in panama
Weather is definitely not a pro. Humidity here is unbearable, and the main reason im leaving. Back to Bogota for me.
Coming from Nebraska winters, I would have to disagree :) - obviously depends on the setting, but mornings/evenings/ any time there is a pool involved, Panama is just right. You might enjoy somewhere like Boquete where it is cooler.
@@GLPEnglish Totally agree about the pool. But I'm from Canada. Trust me, I know where you're coming from ❄️☃️❄️😜.
I walked the Malecon yesterday and the humidity sucked all my energy out, making the walk very unpleasant. Luckily my building has a pool, but if it didn't, I probably wouldn't stay long.
I've looked into bouquete but if seems like a small town. I like big cities. Bogota, Lima, Buenos Aires. Etc are my jam.
Appreciate the recommendation though.
Yeah Panama is notorious for having one of the worst climates on earth. But if she's from a cold state, maybe for her it's a pro😂
@@briantravelman well everything relative :) many people move here for the weather.... summer time with a breeze and a drink by the pool is perfect.
the heat will kill you
but the negative temps won't freeze you :)
Thanks a lot, is it pet friendly?
in the last decade it has become much more pet friendly... dogs are allowed in some malls + most cafes have at least a terrace that you can bring your dog. There are plenty of dog parks around the city, etc.
I’m a Puerto Rican fully bilingual 63 year old SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY INSURANCE benefit of $1000 monthly income interested in the city of David, Panama. What can you recommend me or better yet, do to help me visit Panamá with intention to relocate there ???
Hi Alberto, we don't currently have any properties in the David area. With $1,000 it would be necessary to move to the countryside of Panama.
Well you can live better in Panama on 1000 per month than you can in the US.
I'm a former Zonian and plan on retiring in PC within the next 18 months. Can you do a video on how much property taxes and home insurance are on a luxury condo? Property taxes and home insurance in the U.S. has gone crazy!!
Hi Victor I've seen you commenting on many different Panama channels, if you want something really specific, reach out to one of these channels. Get on a call. I'm sure anyone will be gladly be willing to help you out with your questions.
Hi Victor, that is quite specific when you say a luxury condo. What would you consider luxury? (price range) I don't currently know the exact pricing, so I would need to create a collaboration with someone to get you the exact answer.
@@GLPEnglish $1 million.
Got good Steak out there ?
Yes, but it's not Panamanian :) we import a lot from Argentina/Chile. The Brahman cows are the most common here and they don't have much fat on them at all, but they do the best in the tropical climate.
@@GLPEnglish Thank You
But you still must file taxes with the usa
Yes, Americans will never escape the IRS... but if it is generated internationally there are exemptions for specific amounts (changes yearly or so) but you will always have to file. Canadians can become non-tax residents depending on how much time they spend out of Canada.
Horrible
@@glenndoty739 Perhaps but it's no different for a citizen of any other country.
@@jackbaldwin3649What? Of course it’s different. I don’t pay anything to the government of my home country when I don’t work there. I couldn’t believe it when I found out that Americans have to do that
The incompetence is on a different level in Panama. You might as well do everything yourself to save your sanity and wallet.
minimum education levels in all of Latin America vary... the public school system has a long way to go. But one of my favorite things about Panama is that there are small business owners who efficiently do those small annoying things very well and you can hire them to do it for you for a very reasonable price. For example the process of getting your license plate here would be confusing for someone who has never done it before, but instead of fight the system and stand in line for hours, you can pay someone $35 who will do 5-10 at a time. He feeds his family and you saved yourself an entire day of waiting in lines.
I would argue that banking is horrible for the American citizen throughout the world.
After dealing with the Social Security system in the US, I’m not Sure how much worse Panama could possibly be 😂. I’m kind of kidding because I live in Mexico, so I do understand that countries south of the US border do operate on a different timeline, but… the US doesn’t have much room to talk.
yep, here taxes are low, usually 7% in almost everything. There are some exceptions: for example, if you're an american that likes guns, to buy your own licensed gun in Panama, it's like... x10 times more expensive here than in the US.
Your only talking about Panama City, not the country.
Hi Rod, some things are all encompassing, like taxes etc... but yes, this is mostly Panama City focused. We can do another on other areas of the country.
@@GLPEnglish I would like to see that as well. Perhaps start with your favorite areas of the country?
great idea. We'll work on some more content. Any other ideas?
I grew up on Ft. Clayton in the 80’s was may favorite country until I went to the Philippines in 2016. I went back in 09 and 11 both times I was targeted to be robbed because my skin is white. Do t know how you’re not being targeted. I dress always in gym shorts and a shit don’t wear jewelry. I look broke. My friend from there and his sister were laughing because I bring a knife everywhere since I was 16. She talked about how that’s useless they just pull out a gun so I asked them to pull one out, neither had. In 2012 almost a year to the day her daughter was in an argument outside the house, she woke to go out there and was attacked by 2 women w/ knives who killed her. I’m Puerto Rican I left PR because it’s difficult to maintain on disability pay I’ve am now a week away from 3 years living in Medellin Colombia. Only problem I had here was a few months in saving a prostitute from her pimp/boyfriend from beating her in my apartment complex, he attempted to pull a knife but I was faster having trained in Kali since 91. Police came ask me not to get involved since they don’t here😏 and took his knife because of his dramatic actions when they were there listening to the story. The landlord shook my hand and tossed them out the next day. They were Venezuelans, I’ve had no issues at all here w/ locals. I wouldn’t believe it either I was against coming here when a girl I met in Panama ask me to visit her here. Especially as her father she didn’t remember was killed by Escobar this place just seemed way too dangerous but it is actually far safer than Panama, cheaper better climate and no mosquitoes which are clearly a problem in Panama. The only disadvantage here is the food, Panama wins there🤣
Yes Sir. The weather in Medellin, a great pro. The people in Colombia
a great pro. Panameians are lazy, a great con.
How about Finnland?
Hi Bruno, we are based in Panama.. so our videos are Panama focused! Sorry not much help on Finland
Reason it is the way it is, because usa ran that city for 100 year's
Actually, that isn't true. I'm a former Zonian and the U.S. ran the Canal Zone but had little if anything to do with Panama City.
@victortoombs4754 we had so much influence for 100 years of panama city. Why do you think infrastructure looks so much like the usa. No other country in central or south america like that. Maybe we didn't run the city, but having a large military base in the city made a difference.
@@Gus5515you are very ignorant!
international gentrification
It's happening everywhere, including China to North America. Just part of inflation
Live in Panama for 50 years. Is really expensive, eating out is out of control, real state is expensive and service is really bad.
Hi there! eating out can be done at many levels... yes going to nice places here is expensive, but you can find very good food here (even in the city) and it does not break the bank... not just local fonda food. I'd encourage you to explore outside of your normal spots and you might be surprised. My favorite organic soup (lunch spot) is $5.