I just visited Panama and I was pleasantly surprised. I was not expecting what I saw. Panama City is amazing. It is definitely not a 3rd world country.
Panama is not a 3rd world country... Panama is safe, financially stable ... Panama is consistently a top 10 destination to live and vist over the last 20 years... You can live a terrific live style for less than 2000 a month...
@Daryl Gault I took what he said to mean he started with 3rd world locations due to budget constraints and THEN found Panama afterward. Panama gets things right that "1st world" misses the boat on big-time! (The quotes mean I ridicule the "1st world vs 3rd world".)
Are there not so known areas where the cost of living is just over $1000.00 a month? I am not Spanish, but I am from Spanish Borikén. I find it sadly predictable that North Americans move to Central America expecting them to speak Ingles. Just make a decent effort to learn the host country's language. Gated communities just isolate foreign people from the real experience of living in Panamá, and create a more expensive and less accessible barrier for average folks. Btw, Panamá is not a third world country. I have been there and Panamá is a wonderfully upto date country.
Infrastructure, water systems would indicate otherwise. The roads and power outages plus water outages would allow us to say 3rd world developing. No water sanitation or sewage treatment indicates otherwise. I love Panama!
Firstly 3rd world is now called developing . Panama is developing but like all developing countries there are many areas that are extremely developed and parts that are not so developed.
@@randyrogers4644 Thanks for this information. This is exactly what I want; practical every day situations, eg don't put toilet paper down the Pan (ama) !
My connection with Panamá is through my wife who I met while assigned there in the 1980s on an 18-month assignment in the US Navy. Years later we purchased a house in Santiago and since I retired three years ago, I now spend more time there. It’s a great place where the dollar stretches a long way.
Randy, I grew up 15 miles west of Portland in Westmoreland, TN. I'm presently in Costa Rica. I come down for three months every year. I enjoy the climate and the people in Latin America.
Randy although my wife and I are from Puerto Rico we currently live in the Chattanooga area. I know Portland, took a day trip around town not long ago. Spanish is our first language but as any American we also are thinking about Panama for retirement. Excellent presentation. God bless you.
I was in the Air Force back in the mid 80's, and spent a year on Howard Air Force base outside of Panama City. It's a beautiful country and I enjoyed my time there so much!
Chas chas me too Chas, June 75-June 78, I lived in a house right under the weather dome on the top of the hill. I worked in the last hangar on the left in TMO/Freight Section. I enjoyed my 3 years there, especially eating the Peacock Bass, hmmmm, delis! Loved going fishing, trips to country(el Valle), colon, And other places I can’t spell.
I visited Boquete last July for 3 days. It remains on my radar due to the climate and the outside activities available. The people were really nice and I actually maintain contact with one of the local tour operators. Congrats on the move! Volcano Baru remains on my list, as a massive thunderstorm kept me from the hike last year.
Want to know why Dr. visits are so cheap.....No lawyers involved. The Dr.'s there are truely dedicated to their profession....and not to the insurance companies. I like that. I like that a lot.
It is all in the DNA of these people. Kindness, close to family, wanting to be helpful and to better the society. It is a first world in the things that truly count. It is the blood of the natives of South America, Mexico and the islands. Unfortunately where the whites have dominated, the culture has changed.
Yeah, lots of young couples who leave the USA and then want to make money documenting their travels using UA-cam videos featuring their titillating female. I find them nauseatingly narcissistic.
This was such an informative, down to earth, lovely video. Our son's are talking about and researching the possibility of our family living in Panama. We are from Maine, USA, so it would be a HUGE difference. Thanks so much for this. Hugs from Maine.
I lived the dream for eight years. I built the house behind the gas station and the hotel up palo alto. I should have stayed. Its more expensive now. Philippines is cheaper. But Boquete is great!!!
That's my neighborhood Alto Dorado! It's so great to see how so many people are experiencing the beauty of the place I called home while growing up. Going to visit in January 2024 so my American family also sees the wonders this slice of Panama has to offer. Bests!
Congratulations Randy! So many people find the elusive American Dream in Panama. It's great to live worry-free on Social Security! Next time you fly to the States, check out the prices on Spirit Airlines. They're dirt cheap! It's cheaper to fly to Panama than many places in the U.S.
I spent some time in the Darien Gap trekking. I love Panama. You can find low key or you can find as much adventure as you can handle... I love the jungle....so Panama stays on my destination list....
It really depends on how much social security you have, which you did not talk about, for obvious reasons. I'm impressed, your life in Panama looks really great.
@@insidedadshead9691 Thanks Mister Obvious,, and my point was that there is a very large range of what social security pays out to different people who retire in different conditions at different ages. It may not be true, and it may mean nothing even if it is true.
Randy, just wanted to say thank you, for your knowledge of your new found homeland. I learned so much, and now I am thinking about Panama instead of Ecuador. Thank you!
Have my reservations already and looking forward to taking the Panama tour in January. Really want to move out of the US once the travel restrictions are lifted. Been studying Spanish for almost a year now.
@@tallnubian I suggest either DuoLingo or the Mango Language apps. Mango can be expensive but I think DuoLingo is either cheap or free. But if you got a library card, lots of libraries will allow you to set up a Mango account for free and then all u gotta do is download the app and log in for free. Enjoy!
@@Kenny-bj2zq That's way too blanketed of a statement. that's way too broad a brushstroke. This guy is surviving on only his Social Security cheque and with extra money to spare and he's in a desirable neighbourhood in a desirable town near a desirable capital of the 2nd riches province of Panama. Imagine had he settled practically anywhere else except for the two richest provinces? It would have been dirt dirt cheap. Sure, you can pick to live in the historic district of Casco or in ritzy Costa del Este, but you have soooo many options in Panama. And, don;t forget that if you become a citizen or maybe even just as a legal resident you get access to the Medicare For All equivalent. This is something that saved the life of someone who lost their job in Oklahoma who was a diabetic. And before he was a legal resident him paying full price was the equivalent as when he had an HMO in the United States. So, that paints a pretty good comparative perspective.
@@fanfare100 Before I moved here in 2012, the minimum guaranteed lifetime income to get a permanent resident visa was $600, and now it is $1000 for individuals and $1600 for married couples. We don't need A/C or here in the highlands, and my electric bill with senior discount runs about $12/month. I knew one American expat who rented a bare-bones but livable house for $250 month with a fenced yard for his dog. Public transportion - buses of all sizes and taxis - are everywhere, and inexpensive. I also know Americans who live here in magnificent $500K and up houses, so it isn't just those on limited incomes who choose to live here. And many of us with sufficient incomes are still supporting with cash gifts the Panamanian friends and families who were the workers that we hired before the lockdown.
Visited over Christmas and loved it, I stayed around Panama City with a few day trips to see some sites. I want to go back again, next time it will be for longer and will include Boquete and David.
Great presentation, Randy. I particularly liked your discussion about Spanish. The language barrier is a challenge we worry about. I can get along in Spanish - my wife less so - but we both get lost when people talk at breakneck speeds - but it sounds like we'd be able to get along OK. Again, many thanks for your presentation!
I haven't been to Panama yet. Been living in Colombia for the past 4 years. Tickets are super cheap to fly to Panama from here. Need to make it out there to check it out.
It improves daily, as a lot of America, goes INSANE, and becomes Moreland more, and more third world, with each passing moment. My GOD willing by this time next year,I'll have found my spot in Republica de Panama.
Thank You, Thank you. I am still a few years away and I am relocating. I appreciate your down to earth and honest assessment. Panama is on my top 5 options. I want to travel so I want to find a Home and then be about to commute to other places around it. Like Costa Rica, Argentina and Europe. I am encouraged.
Thank you for your time. Panama is considered a world bank high income country and ranks high in human development. They may have some third world prices and that’s what we are looking for in retirement. Great Video Thanks
Costa Rica is more expensive, but I disagree about your statement about its laws. You can find similar prices in small apartments, lots of fresh fruits and veggies. More to do in the central valley (capital San Jose) than where you are sir. If you are over 65 local bus rides are free. You are hours from Panama city which is hot, hot during the day. Check out Costa Rica if you're considering Panama. And for some reason very few deaths (10 as of today) from the Covid 19.
Great down to earth video concerning everyday living in Panama. By the way Panama is not a 3rd world country and that is an old colonial view point used to describe non white countries.
Excellent presentation.I plan to take the tour I was in Panama in 1960 I guess it’s completely different I may not move there but interested in seeing the change I will be 80 next year and I am a widower so I may stay for a year or two. Thanks TonyC
A lot of single women have retired in Panama. You can see some of their videos on our channel. You'll quickly have a support system so you never feel alone!
I been in Panama for 25 years now and some of what you say is true but it's not all like to say now. Great place to live but you need to keep your eyes open the people here in Panama have been given things by the U.S government so they think it's ok to get your money . You can find good people but you need to keep your eyes open. Godbless you all.
@@vangeezerexperience He said that he had come to the conclusion that it seemed his best bet was to retire to a third world country. OK so far? THEN he adds, by way of explanation, that he had travelled the world, so he had a good idea of all the possibilities, & then goes on to list a few of the countries he'd visited, Germany, Italy, Thailand etc etc. He did NOT say, or even imply, that Germany & Italy were 3rd world countries. Only a cynic would interpret that.
I live about 45 miles due east of Nashville but been to Portland as I have worked in Nashville for the last 20 years. Your daughter told you right Randy . I had the virus and barely survived. This was not the place to be to avoid being infected. I would like to get away from the cold winters. Just saying.....tom
Damn straight. Here in East TN still barely 30% vaccinated and COVID through the roof, no one can get hospital care due to being overwhelmed with the unvaccinated and unmasked. Science is wonderful when you’ve had a heart attack, but evidently it’s a scam for this. 🙄
Thanks for the info. I'm wondering if it wouldn't be worth it for me to just go down for a month or so just to check it out. You make it sound inviting. Good luck in your retirement.
Hi, Randy! Welcome to Panama! Make some time to visit the Azuero Peninsula, specifically Smiley's Restaurant in Pedasí. On Friday nights they have life music, and you will enjoy meeting other Americans who live there. This time of the year is less hot, even until early January.
Great job, thanks for the info. Your video brought back memories, I'm from New York State but used to live in Tennessee and had a good friend from Portland, TN. I haven't been there since 2003, but if I remember correctly they had some big strawberry festival in Portland. Anyway, best wishes in your retirement, take care. Joe
Randy remember when you move to another country because of a favorable exchange rate that can change quickly on you. Just ask ex-pat Australian who relocated to Thailand then discovered the rate changed 50% to the negative for them.
Tony, One of the deciding factors for Randy is NO exchange rate. Panama uses the US dollar. Randy's pension is in US dollars. But, you're right that the currency exchange rate should certainly be taken in to consideration.
Thank you for doing this very helpful video! My husband and I are just outside of Toronto, Canada, and have just started our Panama relocation. We will both learn Spanish before we leave. We are 63 & 65, and would like to move within a year. Our real estate agent will be here on Wednesday!
Thanks Randy, great information. I live in barranquilla Colombia (my place of birth) and i was also planning on returning to NYC but my kids were completely against it for my safety.
Jose I was planning on moving to Santa Marta, Colombia or possibly a few spots in Panama. What are your thoughts on Santa Marta? I was looking for a city that doesn't get a lot of rain, not overcrowded, beautiful beaches, and more conscious people.
@@jamescadzow9545 Hi James, im in barranquilla. Santa marta, less than 2 hours away by car is a pretty smaller city less crowded with beautiful beaches near by, but sometimes they have water and electricity problem Along the colombian coast we get about 3 months of rainy season . I enjoy SM on long weekends but I love the comforts of barranquilla, though it can get very hot, AC is a must. Like most of Colombia, people are very friendly specifically towards foreigners. I'm happy in barranquilla cus I have Cartagena just to the south and SM to the north
@@josevasquez5113 Thank for your response. I live in Phoenix, Arizona so I not really a fan of rain, but I love the heat though. I will just have to adapt to the humidity and rain because Phoenix is like 20% humidity and only 9 inches of rain per year and parts of Colombia is like 60% humidity with more rainfall. I understand about the challenges with the electricity and water. It's more the language barrier I'm concerned with, since Spanish was my worst subject in school. Most people said they use a different dialect of Spanish in Panama and Colombia and it's best to just learn while your there from the locals. Phoenix has everything I desire other than a beach and more mindfulness. Based on the research I've done Santa Marta seems less rainy and more peaceful then most places in Colombia. Since your a local I would love your input on a list of other beach cities I might check out when I'm there? Barranquilla is already on my list so I agree with you, seems like a great place. To respond to your earlier comment, I was born in upstate New York but I have been to the city many times. It's such an amazing unique place like no other, but I would never want to move there in a million years. It's way overcrowded, stressful, and the weather is very depressing for your mindset. For a vacation it's amazing but this is just my perspective.
@@jamescadzow9545 James, you like heat? Man do we have heat for you. All the heat you want in Santa marta, barranquilla or Cartagena. All coastal cities, but not so bad in the evening.
@@josevasquez5113 The heat doesn't make you sweat, it's the humidity that follows the rain that does. Phoenix is like an dry heat more like a oven but not like a the wet heat of a sauna, because a sauna makes you sweat. You don't sweat here unless you do something physical or work outside which is fine with me, that's a given.
Mine was where is the bathroom Lol Me and my friend. He lives in Panama city has a lady from south America and is more Spanish than American. Anyway he thought that was funny..now ,that I've traveled some into Panama it is a great place and can't wait to keep coming back.
EXCELLENT..EXCELLENT video!! Lots of info about the areas, elevations, weather, transportation, the people, language.etc. THANK YOU for sharing and being VERY detailed about your experiences so far. I get even more mtivated to come there to live I think the country would be perfect for me!! EXCEPT for scorpions...uhhhh NOPE..not that part, LOL, LOL!
Hello Randy Rogers. Thank you for the information. I just recently started looking at either Panama or Costa Rico. Like you I am single. Would just be me and my cute little pomeranian. Being that I was in the military and lived in Spain and Greece as well as done a lot of traveling. Moving to another country isn't that scary for me as it might be for some people that have never lived out of the USA. Anywhere I look forward to taking a professional tour . I need to renew my passport so I got to get on that tomorrow. I hope you all at Panama relocation tours are having a wonderful day. Linda W
My hardest question. HOW do you leave your family behind? I had a spouse I've been separated from for 15 years--although we are besties, and my 30 YO (autistic) son. They would never leave. I lived on Mau'i for many years and I KNOW how much I need to retire under palm trees (I live in Boston). Thank you!
Tour operators are not professions. There is no extensive multi-year training, no membership required with a governing body that reviews potential violations of membership eligibility and there is no ongoing training required. Tour operators are trades.
I’m from Panama, and USA, Florida, tanks for your beautifull words, my house is in the Higth land in Altos de Maria, beautifully and cool area in a private gated community and I put for sale on UNITED COUNTRY REALTOR, because I move back to FLORIDA. welcome to My Country 😃🇵🇦🇺🇸
I am one of Randy's neighbors, and want to clarify some misinformation in the comments. Not only is this a great place to live, it is a good place to be during the covonavirus pandemic. The American Embassy sends an updated e-mail about the lockdown and coronavirus status daily to those who sign up for embassy e-mail notifications. The Panamanian government's health department - "Minsa" - has a regularly updated website that non-Spanish speakers can view in English with Google Chrome's auto-translate feature. Same for website of "La Prensa", the biggest Panamanian newspaper. There are a number of good, reliable online information sources available to anyone here. It is easy to stay informed. During the coronavirus lockdown, segments of each group (men and women) get two hours on their designated men's and women's days based on the last digit on their cedula (national ID) - or passport for non-citizen permanent residents. Seniors, regardless of ID number, have from 11am to 1pm on the respective days for men and women. Our two hour windows are limited to buying food, medicine and other essentials. Purchase and consumption of alcohol, including beer is prohibited, and this helps to ensure that curtailed incomes are spent on food for families and not for booze to get men drunk - and the no-alcohol rule helps to reduce the likelihood of spousal and child abuse by men who are forced to stay home - and get irritated and frustrated for reasons including not being able to provide for their families. Draconian? Yes. But I support these emergency rules. Most expats - including me - seem to like the current government, and think that Panamanian President Laurentino "Nito" Cortizo and his administration are doing a very good job. Since there are not government benefits and handouts for many working people, many expats help local workers and other Latino friends who do not currently have an income with cash donations. Also, an attorney is not "required" to obtain permanent legal residency in Panama, but because the process is quite complicated, having an attorney is highly desirable. I retained an excellent attorney for my immigration process eight years ago, and I really appreciated his assistance.
Thank you for your feedback.Positive,realistic and informative.I have Panamanian friends and we call each other sisters.Great people,great nation.I wish I were there now kn the moddle of all this craze here!
I want a 5 minute walk to a nice beach, a 5 minute drive to a golf course or live in golf community, a 10 minute drive to a good church. Where’s that in Panama?
@@peterpeet4507 I guess it would take watching several interviewers to kind of ball park different areas and their costs of living.Like comparing NYC to Alabama.Costs and living style would differ greatly.There is just no justification for being vulgar and aggressive.Its not normal human interaction.🙂These are the very kind of people Central and South America would rather not have in their country.The kind that goes there to live cheaper,yet constantly criticizing their way of life,and comparing it to US.He serves humanity best by staying right where he is.In any case,I blocked him.
@@textsmsmaster9884 you sound like you are miserable, and have a serious inferiority complex. No one here really cares where you live, even though it's the most scabbiest state in the nation. If you must live with 'numbers' like you said, get them yourself.
I am from Dayton Tennessee and considering moving to Panama. My wife and I visited chriqui in 2005 and loved it. I own a shave ice business here in Tennessee and am considering moving there. I was wondering what type of desert ice type businesses they have as well as the difficulty of starting a business
@@randyrogers4644 Thank you. Sounds like you are in good shape. The reason prices are so reasonable is related to currency exchange rate between the US dollar in America and the US dollar in Panama. Always that way in developing nations. Makes it wonderfully cheap to live but the cost is in not having some conveniences. Sounds nice, though.
Randy's interview was very helpful, also he added so many what I would call common sense things that I do believe we have lost here in the states. I wouldn't want to live in the city, however; in his area, it would be healthy for me. I love to smile and say hi to people. Only problem I would see is that I am awful when it comes to cooking and I don't know if restaurants would have a menu that I could physically tolerate. The part about a band of alcohol sale also makes sense health wise, Since Alcohol can depress the respiratory system. (as an asthmatic and a Registered Nurse) I know this to be a fact.
I'm a lousy cook, too. But I love being independent in that way. I'm on a special diet, also, no meat. Check out the Starch Solution. Easy to cook, cheaper and great for health. It's done wonders for mine.
Hey Jeanne Re, yes Panama is safe for a single gal. Check out some of our other videos of single women who have relocated to Panama. Also see this article panamarelocationtours.com/single-women-moving-to-panama
I just visited Panama and I was pleasantly surprised. I was not expecting what I saw. Panama City is amazing. It is definitely not a 3rd world country.
Panama is not a 3rd world country... Panama is safe, financially stable ... Panama is consistently a top 10 destination to live and vist over the last 20 years... You can live a terrific live style for less than 2000 a month...
@Daryl Gault
I took what he said to mean he started with 3rd world locations due to budget constraints and THEN found Panama afterward.
Panama gets things right that "1st world" misses the boat on big-time!
(The quotes mean I ridicule the "1st world vs 3rd world".)
Are there not so known areas where the cost of living is just over $1000.00 a month? I am not Spanish, but I am from Spanish Borikén. I find it sadly predictable that North Americans move to Central America expecting them to speak Ingles. Just make a decent effort to learn the host country's language. Gated communities just isolate foreign people from the real experience of living in Panamá, and create a more expensive and less accessible barrier for average folks. Btw, Panamá is not a third world country. I have been there and Panamá is a wonderfully upto date country.
Infrastructure, water systems would indicate otherwise. The roads and power outages plus water outages would allow us to say 3rd world developing. No water sanitation or sewage treatment indicates otherwise. I love Panama!
Firstly 3rd world is now called developing . Panama is developing but like all developing countries there are many areas that are extremely developed and parts that are not so developed.
@@randyrogers4644 Thanks for this information. This is exactly what I want; practical every day situations, eg don't put toilet paper down the Pan (ama) !
My connection with Panamá is through my wife who I met while assigned there in the 1980s on an 18-month assignment in the US Navy. Years later we purchased a house in Santiago and since I retired three years ago, I now spend more time there. It’s a great place where the dollar stretches a long way.
Randy, I grew up 15 miles west of Portland in Westmoreland, TN. I'm presently in Costa Rica. I come down for three months every year. I enjoy the climate and the people in Latin America.
Wow Jerry. Small world. Thank you!
Im in Nashville and been to CR many times. I got two more years here and I’m out. Panama is on the list but we’ll what happens!
Randy although my wife and I are from Puerto Rico we currently live in the Chattanooga area. I know Portland, took a day trip around town not long ago. Spanish is our first language but as any American we also are thinking about Panama for retirement. Excellent presentation. God bless you.
Thank you Mr. Randy for all your possitive information about Panamá. People like you are very welcome in my country!!!😘🌹God bless you☺😍
Maria it is my blessing and pleasure to be here in Your country. This is Paradise.
@@randyrogers4644 Randy, what is the covid situation there now, in your opinion?
Hi maria so many people say so many good things about panama that i am planning to move over there me podrias orientar soy bilingue thanks maria.
@@franciscoclavi73 hola Sr. Francisco. Yo no vivo en Panamá. Pero encontrará muchas personas q lo oriente.
@@randyrogers4644 God bless you Mr. Randy🙏😊🗽
This man makes quite a case for relocating to Panama through this agency. Very thorough and candid in a very nice way!
I was in the Air Force back in the mid 80's, and spent a year on Howard Air Force base outside of Panama City. It's a beautiful country and I enjoyed my time there so much!
Chas chas me too Chas, June 75-June 78, I lived in a house right under the weather dome on the top of the hill. I worked in the last hangar on the left in TMO/Freight Section. I enjoyed my 3 years there, especially eating the Peacock Bass, hmmmm, delis! Loved going fishing, trips to country(el Valle), colon, And other places I can’t spell.
I lived on the Atlantic side in the early 70's on Fort Gulick and Fort Davis. Played against Howard in Pee Wee football also, Fort Clayton and Pariso.
Good luck to you and enjoy!
Chas Chas &. Henauder Titzauf
I was there in the last part of
1960's Also
guess ill join in panama in 91 the Noriega extraction. a stripper told me everything is free.. , loved it
I visited Boquete last July for 3 days. It remains on my radar due to the climate and the outside activities available. The people were really nice and I actually maintain contact with one of the local tour operators. Congrats on the move! Volcano Baru remains on my list, as a massive thunderstorm kept me from the hike last year.
Want to know why Dr. visits are so cheap.....No lawyers involved. The Dr.'s there are truely dedicated to their profession....and not to the insurance companies. I like that. I like that a lot.
It is all in the DNA of these people. Kindness, close to family, wanting to be helpful and to better the society. It is a first world in the things that truly count. It is the blood of the natives of South America, Mexico and the islands. Unfortunately where the whites have dominated, the culture has changed.
Don't forget to add that the majority of doctors in Panama get their medical education from first world countries like Canada, Germany, and the U.S.
@Thomas Delgado
And even *SWITZERLAND*
@Sandra🦋 😮
There is a young couple from the US that live in the same area as you. They live up on the hill. They have a youtube channel called Nomadic Movement.
Yeah, lots of young couples who leave the USA and then want to make money documenting their travels using UA-cam videos featuring their titillating female. I find them nauseatingly narcissistic.
I live with my family in Volcancito welcome to Panamá......
This was such an informative, down to earth, lovely video.
Our son's are talking about and researching the possibility of our family living in Panama.
We are from Maine, USA, so it would be a HUGE difference.
Thanks so much for this.
Hugs from Maine.
Glad it was helpful!
I lived the dream for eight years. I built the house behind the gas station and the hotel up palo alto. I should have stayed. Its more expensive now. Philippines is cheaper. But Boquete is great!!!
That's my neighborhood Alto Dorado! It's so great to see how so many people are experiencing the beauty of the place I called home while growing up. Going to visit in January 2024 so my American family also sees the wonders this slice of Panama has to offer. Bests!
I’m so happy for this dude ❤️
You are going to be just fine.I love Panamanians!You just found Paradise.
Congratulations Randy! So many people find the elusive American Dream in Panama. It's great to live worry-free on Social Security! Next time you fly to the States, check out the prices on Spirit Airlines. They're dirt cheap! It's cheaper to fly to Panama than many places in the U.S.
Spirit doesn't fly to Panama
Yes they do. I just checked prices from Indianapolis to Panama city.
I spent some time in the Darien Gap trekking. I love Panama. You can find low key or you can find as much adventure as you can handle...
I love the jungle....so Panama stays on my destination list....
You can also buy a handheld 2 way translator to help with the language and help you learn it.
@Hello Robbie how are you doing?
It really depends on how much social security you have, which you did not talk about, for obvious reasons. I'm impressed, your life in Panama looks really great.
@@insidedadshead9691
Thanks Mister Obvious,, and my point was that there is a very large range of what social security pays out to different people who retire in different conditions at different ages. It may not be true, and it may mean nothing even if it is true.
Awesome job Randy. Thanks for taking your time to share. You highlighted things of Panama very well.
All the videos by Panama Relocation Tours are so nice! Thanks, Randy!!
Glad you like them!
I like Randy's presentation. I have to find a much cheaper place to live. The U.S. is going to s*&t anyway. Thanks for posting.
Go check out Mexico. Preferably Oaxaca, Chiapas or Yucatan peninsula.
@@alrent2992 I'm headed to Yucatan next month. I can't wait to get there.
Has gone to shit. The whole world has. We are living in end times. I feel it's imperative to be self sufficient.
@@alrent2992 I've always wanted to go to Yucatan.
Randy, just wanted to say thank you, for your knowledge of your new found homeland. I learned so much, and now I am thinking about Panama instead of Ecuador. Thank you!
Glad I could help
You look really happy and refreshed! Enjoy!
Have my reservations already and looking forward to taking the Panama tour in January. Really want to move out of the US once the travel restrictions are lifted. Been studying Spanish for almost a year now.
Hank, are you using any online courses to study spanish?
@@tallnubian I suggest either DuoLingo or the Mango Language apps. Mango can be expensive but I think DuoLingo is either cheap or free. But if you got a library card, lots of libraries will allow you to set up a Mango account for free and then all u gotta do is download the app and log in for free. Enjoy!
@@Kenny-bj2zq That's way too blanketed of a statement. that's way too broad a brushstroke. This guy is surviving on only his Social Security cheque and with extra money to spare and he's in a desirable neighbourhood in a desirable town near a desirable capital of the 2nd riches province of Panama. Imagine had he settled practically anywhere else except for the two richest provinces? It would have been dirt dirt cheap. Sure, you can pick to live in the historic district of Casco or in ritzy Costa del Este, but you have soooo many options in Panama. And, don;t forget that if you become a citizen or maybe even just as a legal resident you get access to the Medicare For All equivalent. This is something that saved the life of someone who lost their job in Oklahoma who was a diabetic. And before he was a legal resident him paying full price was the equivalent as when he had an HMO in the United States. So, that paints a pretty good comparative perspective.
@@fanfare100 Before I moved here in 2012, the minimum guaranteed lifetime income to get a permanent resident visa was $600, and now it is $1000 for individuals and $1600 for married couples. We don't need A/C or here in the highlands, and my electric bill with senior discount runs about $12/month. I knew one American expat who rented a bare-bones but livable house for $250 month with a fenced yard for his dog. Public transportion - buses of all sizes and taxis - are everywhere, and inexpensive.
I also know Americans who live here in magnificent $500K and up houses, so it isn't just those on limited incomes who choose to live here.
And many of us with sufficient incomes are still supporting with cash gifts the Panamanian friends and families who were the workers that we hired before the lockdown.
Visited over Christmas and loved it, I stayed around Panama City with a few day trips to see some sites. I want to go back again, next time it will be for longer and will include Boquete and David.
Great presentation, Randy. I particularly liked your discussion about Spanish. The language barrier is a challenge we worry about. I can get along in Spanish - my wife less so - but we both get lost when people talk at breakneck speeds - but it sounds like we'd be able to get along OK. Again, many thanks for your presentation!
@@HectorGarcia-nb2ld yes but is the weather, costs of living, beaches as nice? 1/3 costs of USA?
Screw a beach I prefer mountains
The presenter was great! His details and advice were informative. Thoughts of doing something like this have circulated my mind for a year or two.
I haven't been to Panama yet. Been living in Colombia for the past 4 years. Tickets are super cheap to fly to Panama from here. Need to make it out there to check it out.
Great conversation... thank you very much for sharing your experience.
Lots of my friends live there, and they don't speak much spanish. It's the best.
It improves daily, as a lot of America, goes INSANE, and becomes Moreland more, and more third world, with each passing moment. My GOD willing by this time next year,I'll have found my spot in Republica de Panama.
Thank You, Thank you. I am still a few years away and I am relocating. I appreciate your down to earth and honest assessment. Panama is on my top 5 options. I want to travel so I want to find a Home and then be about to commute to other places around it. Like Costa Rica, Argentina and Europe. I am encouraged.
Thank you for your time. Panama is considered a world bank high income country and ranks high in human development. They may have some third world prices and that’s what we are looking for in retirement. Great Video Thanks
Costa Rica is more expensive, but I disagree about your statement about its laws. You can find similar prices in small apartments, lots of fresh fruits and veggies. More to do in the central valley (capital San Jose) than where you are sir. If you are over 65 local bus rides are free. You are hours from Panama city which is hot, hot during the day. Check out Costa Rica if you're considering Panama. And for some reason very few deaths (10 as of today) from the Covid 19.
You're right. We are expats here in Costa Rica and we live in Central Valley. Nice temperature.😍💖
Great down to earth video concerning everyday living in Panama. By the way Panama is not a 3rd world country and that is an old colonial view point used to describe non white countries.
Exactly! Last time I checked, there was only one world...
Excellent presentation.I plan to take the tour I was in Panama in 1960 I guess it’s completely different I may not move there but interested in seeing the change I will be 80 next year and I am a widower so I may stay for a year or two. Thanks TonyC
You'll be amazed when you see the changes
Great video Randy! I’m looking forward to meeting you and all my other PRT friends when I get there in February! Celeste
Sounds great!
I like your honesty, as for language, that will come over time.
Long ago I remember the clothing line Panama jack😃
Great Video. Very informative.
I want to move there!!!! I will retire there in about 3-4yrs. Thsnk you for posting😘 im a little scared as a single woman, but I will pray about it🙂🙏
A lot of single women have retired in Panama. You can see some of their videos on our channel. You'll quickly have a support system so you never feel alone!
Hi Randy, I'm in Knoxville! Panama is a place I am seriously considering!
Live in panama really good
Thanks you Randy, for these positive information about our country. ☺️ Boquete beautiful place.
It really is!
Hi Randy! I see you are up to 161K! I told you that you would become a celebrity! Enjoy! Rebecca
Thanks so much for providing this information! Grateful, sir 🙏🏼😊
Love this video. You seem like the nicest guy
Randy is the nicest guy. Glad you liked the video!
I been in Panama for 25 years now and some of what you say is true but it's not all like to say now.
Great place to live but you need to keep your eyes open the people here in Panama have been given things by the U.S government so they think it's ok to get your money .
You can find good people but you need to keep your eyes open.
Godbless you all.
What a nice man!
Nice man.....very common in the South
"I was thinking about a third world country....I traveled the world, I went to Italy and Germany" :)
As the United States, becomes more, and more, and more of a third world country, by the hour.
@@michaelkirkland1929 I know, right? How ironic! Time to move out ... and not look back. Panama finally reopened.
I didn't interpret it like that. He was simply switching topics. Perfectly normal in speech.
@@missasinenomine Interpreted it as what?
@@vangeezerexperience He said that he had come to the conclusion that it seemed his best bet was to retire to a third world country. OK so far? THEN he adds, by way of explanation, that he had travelled the world, so he had a good idea of all the possibilities, & then goes on to list a few of the countries he'd visited, Germany, Italy, Thailand etc etc. He did NOT say, or even imply, that Germany & Italy were 3rd world countries. Only a cynic would interpret that.
min. 15:40 the other reason is... this measure was taken, because alcohol intake during quarantine increases family violence!!! 🤷♀️🤦♀️❤
I thought about Ecuador and did a lot of research but decided to live in a RV on the Alabama gulf coast. Good choice for me.
That sounds pretty nice too.
I live in Foley...I am from Bama but spent time all over the country and Navy.. Its bloody hot here..
Thank you rather be safe Semper fi
I live about 45 miles due east of Nashville but been to Portland as I have worked in Nashville for the last 20 years. Your daughter told you right Randy . I had the virus and barely survived. This was not the place to be to avoid being infected. I would like to get away from the cold winters. Just saying.....tom
Damn straight. Here in East TN still barely 30% vaccinated and COVID through the roof, no one can get hospital care due to being overwhelmed with the unvaccinated and unmasked. Science is wonderful when you’ve had a heart attack, but evidently it’s a scam for this. 🙄
Good for you!! Enjoy it!! 🙌🏻🦋💜
Thanks for the info. I'm wondering if it wouldn't be worth it for me to just go down for a month or so just to check it out. You make it sound inviting. Good luck in your retirement.
You would be advised to get on a tour with Jackie Lang Panama Relocation tours. There is alot to this.
Randy you did a real good honest video on living as a retiree in Panama.
Hi, Randy! Welcome to Panama! Make some time to visit the Azuero Peninsula, specifically Smiley's Restaurant in Pedasí. On Friday nights they have life music, and you will enjoy meeting other Americans who live there. This time of the year is less hot, even until early January.
Thanks for the tips!
Thank you for the info and god bless . From WNYS in the USA .
Great video and love the drone shots.
Great job, thanks for the info. Your video brought back memories, I'm from New York State but used to live in Tennessee and had a good friend from Portland, TN. I haven't been there since 2003, but if I remember correctly they had some big strawberry festival in Portland. Anyway, best wishes in your retirement, take care. Joe
The old colonial section of Panama city is really attractive architecture
Randy remember when you move to another country because of a favorable exchange rate that can change quickly on you. Just ask ex-pat Australian who relocated to Thailand then discovered the rate changed 50% to the negative for them.
Tony, One of the deciding factors for Randy is NO exchange rate. Panama uses the US dollar. Randy's pension is in US dollars. But, you're right that the currency exchange rate should certainly be taken in to consideration.
Thank you for doing this very helpful video! My husband and I are just outside of Toronto, Canada, and have just started our Panama relocation. We will both learn Spanish before we leave. We are 63 & 65, and would like to move within a year. Our real estate agent will be here on Wednesday!
You are so welcome! glad it was helpful
Thanks Randy, great information. I live in barranquilla Colombia (my place of birth) and i was also planning on returning to NYC but my kids were completely against it for my safety.
Jose I was planning on moving to Santa Marta, Colombia or possibly a few spots in Panama. What are your thoughts on Santa Marta? I was looking for a city that doesn't get a lot of rain, not overcrowded, beautiful beaches, and more conscious people.
@@jamescadzow9545 Hi James, im in barranquilla. Santa marta, less than 2 hours away by car is a pretty smaller city less crowded with beautiful beaches near by, but sometimes they have water and electricity problem
Along the colombian coast we get about 3 months of rainy season .
I enjoy SM on long weekends but I love the comforts of barranquilla, though it can get very hot, AC is a must.
Like most of Colombia, people are very friendly specifically towards foreigners.
I'm happy in barranquilla cus I have Cartagena just to the south and SM to the north
@@josevasquez5113 Thank for your response. I live in Phoenix, Arizona so I not really a fan of rain, but I love the heat though. I will just have to adapt to the humidity and rain because Phoenix is like 20% humidity and only 9 inches of rain per year and parts of Colombia is like 60% humidity with more rainfall. I understand about the challenges with the electricity and water. It's more the language barrier I'm concerned with, since Spanish was my worst subject in school. Most people said they use a different dialect of Spanish in Panama and Colombia and it's best to just learn while your there from the locals.
Phoenix has everything I desire other than a beach and more mindfulness. Based on the research I've done Santa Marta seems less rainy and more peaceful then most places in Colombia. Since your a local I would love your input on a list of other beach cities I might check out when I'm there? Barranquilla is already on my list so I agree with you, seems like a great place.
To respond to your earlier comment, I was born in upstate New York but I have been to the city many times. It's such an amazing unique place like no other, but I would never want to move there in a million years. It's way overcrowded, stressful, and the weather is very depressing for your mindset. For a vacation it's amazing but this is just my perspective.
@@jamescadzow9545 James, you like heat? Man do we have heat for you. All the heat you want in Santa marta, barranquilla or Cartagena. All coastal cities, but not so bad in the evening.
@@josevasquez5113 The heat doesn't make you sweat, it's the humidity that follows the rain that does. Phoenix is like an dry heat more like a oven but not like a the wet heat of a sauna, because a sauna makes you sweat. You don't sweat here unless you do something physical or work outside which is fine with me, that's a given.
Mine was where is the bathroom
Lol
Me and my friend. He lives in Panama city has a lady from south America and is more Spanish than American. Anyway he thought that was funny..now ,that I've traveled some into Panama it is a great place and can't wait to keep coming back.
Guy there is like paradise, beautiful landscape, confortable house and are you saving money. What else could you ask?
Delightful presentation, Thank You :) I've been to Boquete in 2009 - has changed quite a bit. Looking forward to returning :) Be Blessed
EXCELLENT..EXCELLENT video!! Lots of info about the areas, elevations, weather, transportation, the people, language.etc. THANK YOU for sharing and being VERY detailed about your experiences so far. I get even more mtivated to come there to live I think the country would be perfect for me!! EXCEPT for scorpions...uhhhh NOPE..not that part, LOL, LOL!
I agree. I thought the presenter did a wonderful job.
Thanks Shirley and Derek. I have seen a few scorpions but not in my apartment. I ask them politely to stay away. So far it has worked. Lol
You never lose your accent LMAO I took my New York City accent to Tennessee .
I have that same shirt
Hello Randy Rogers. Thank you for the information. I just recently started looking at either Panama or Costa Rico. Like you I am single. Would just be me and my cute little pomeranian. Being that I was in the military and lived in Spain and Greece as well as done a lot of traveling. Moving to another country isn't that scary for me as it might be for some people that have never lived out of the USA. Anywhere I look forward to taking a professional tour . I need to renew my passport so I got to get on that tomorrow. I hope you all at Panama relocation tours are having a wonderful day. Linda W
Thankyou Linda. Hope to meet you !
Thank God for Good Old Boys!!!
My hardest question.
HOW do you leave your family behind? I had a spouse I've been separated from for 15 years--although we are besties, and my 30 YO (autistic) son. They would never leave.
I lived on Mau'i for many years and I KNOW how much I need to retire under palm trees (I live in Boston). Thank you!
Hop on the bus Gus, Don't need to discuss much, Just drop off the key, Bri, and get yourself free.
Thank you. Visit only. my conservative 6 day visit is costing 2,300,,. Taxi from airport to Coronado is close to $300, must pay round trip.
I PLAN TO START MY FAMILY THERE.
what happened to Colombia!
Dont listen to these idiots if you what to start a family start one...
Hi MARWA im a big fan of your video bro ..in i love your PANAMA video
Have a vasectomy instead!
Great video, thank you
Are you still in your home no?
This video is 3 years old I see.
Magical place,,, here I come
We posted an updated video with Randy two months ago: ua-cam.com/video/Ix9ZXHYtDbo/v-deo.html
Tour operators are not professions. There is no extensive multi-year training, no membership required with a governing body that reviews potential violations of membership eligibility and there is no ongoing training required.
Tour operators are trades.
very nice, real and down to earth..enjoy your retirement
Thank you kindly
I'm all about the mountains
Thanks for sharing, shared.
thank you for the informative video and the time I know it took you.
Randy thanks for all your info and experiences...
Thanks for watching. Glad you enjoyed the video
I’m from Panama, and USA, Florida, tanks for your beautifull words, my house is in the Higth land in Altos de Maria, beautifully and cool area in a private gated community and I put for sale on UNITED COUNTRY REALTOR, because I move back to FLORIDA. welcome to My Country 😃🇵🇦🇺🇸
Maria,I'll move to Panama anytime if I could.🤗 Florida here.🙋♀️
Can’t wait to visit this September!
You will be amazed!
I am one of Randy's neighbors, and want to clarify some misinformation in the comments. Not only is this a great place to live, it is a good place to be during the covonavirus pandemic.
The American Embassy sends an updated e-mail about the lockdown and coronavirus status daily to those who sign up for embassy e-mail notifications. The Panamanian government's health department - "Minsa" - has a regularly updated website that non-Spanish speakers can view in English with Google Chrome's auto-translate feature. Same for website of "La Prensa", the biggest Panamanian newspaper. There are a number of good, reliable online information sources available to anyone here. It is easy to stay informed.
During the coronavirus lockdown, segments of each group (men and women) get two hours on their designated men's and women's days based on the last digit on their cedula (national ID) - or passport for non-citizen permanent residents. Seniors, regardless of ID number, have from 11am to 1pm on the respective days for men and women. Our two hour windows are limited to buying food, medicine and other essentials. Purchase and consumption of alcohol, including beer is prohibited, and this helps to ensure that curtailed incomes are spent on food for families and not for booze to get men drunk - and the no-alcohol rule helps to reduce the likelihood of spousal and child abuse by men who are forced to stay home - and get irritated and frustrated for reasons including not being able to provide for their families. Draconian? Yes. But I support these emergency rules.
Most expats - including me - seem to like the current government, and think that Panamanian President Laurentino "Nito" Cortizo and his administration are doing a very good job. Since there are not government benefits and handouts for many working people, many expats help local workers and other Latino friends who do not currently have an income with cash donations.
Also, an attorney is not "required" to obtain permanent legal residency in Panama, but because the process is quite complicated, having an attorney is highly desirable. I retained an excellent attorney for my immigration process eight years ago, and I really appreciated his assistance.
Thank you for your feedback.Positive,realistic and informative.I have Panamanian friends and we call each other sisters.Great people,great nation.I wish I were there now kn the moddle of all this craze here!
@@textsmsmaster9884 coo coo
@Bry 416 Too cowardly to use your own name
@Bry 416 leave the cult
@Bry 416 coo coo coo coo
I want a 5 minute walk to a nice beach, a 5 minute drive to a golf course or live in golf community, a 10 minute drive to a good church. Where’s that in Panama?
Thank you, for the information and good luck to you.
Awesome, Man! Enjoy Your Self.
Good info. But the title is misleading. I thought he would describe “living on less than Social Security income”. That’s my largest concern and issue.
Randy did say that he spends less than his Social Security and it even able to save money too.
@@MsAure the issue is tex want to know what average rent food and utilities cost. I'm just like him. It talks about emotions and not hard numbers
@@peterpeet4507 I guess it would take watching several interviewers to kind of ball park different areas and their costs of living.Like comparing NYC to Alabama.Costs and living style would differ greatly.There is just no justification for being vulgar and aggressive.Its not normal human interaction.🙂These are the very kind of people Central and South America would rather not have in their country.The kind that goes there to live cheaper,yet constantly criticizing their way of life,and comparing it to US.He serves humanity best by staying right where he is.In any case,I blocked him.
@@textsmsmaster9884 Shut up you braggadocio MORON!!
@@textsmsmaster9884 you sound like you are miserable, and have a serious inferiority complex. No one here really cares where you live, even though it's the most scabbiest state in the nation. If you must live with 'numbers' like you said, get them yourself.
I am from Dayton Tennessee and considering moving to Panama. My wife and I visited chriqui in 2005 and loved it. I own a shave ice business here in Tennessee and am considering moving there. I was wondering what type of desert ice type businesses they have as well as the difficulty of starting a business
Would like to hear a breakdown of your income vs your costs. And are you studying Spanish?
My budget is rent 450.00 utilities internet and furnishings included. It is hard to spend more than 50.00 a week on groceries.
@@randyrogers4644 Thank you. Sounds like you are in good shape. The reason prices are so reasonable is related to currency exchange rate between the US dollar in America and the US dollar in Panama. Always that way in developing nations. Makes it wonderfully cheap to live but the cost is in not having some conveniences. Sounds nice, though.
@@carpediem6568 he said he was studying Spanish in the presentation, were you not listening? I thought eh did a fairly good job, subscribe and follow.
@@billwilliams9527 i usually watch videos start to finish. This particular one, I skimmed through it. My mistake.
@@carpediem6568 Understand, I sometimes do the same trying to get through them all I select.
Thanks. I really appreciate this. ✌☺
Randy's interview was very helpful, also he added so many what I would call common sense things that I do believe we have lost here in the states. I wouldn't want to live in the city, however; in his area, it would be healthy for me. I love to smile and say hi to people. Only problem I would see is that I am awful when it comes to cooking and I don't know if restaurants would have a menu that I could physically tolerate. The part about a band of alcohol sale also makes sense health wise, Since Alcohol can depress the respiratory system. (as an asthmatic and a Registered Nurse) I know this to be a fact.
I'm a lousy cook, too. But I love being independent in that way. I'm on a special diet, also, no meat. Check out the Starch Solution. Easy to cook, cheaper and great for health. It's done wonders for mine.
@@carpediem6568 Dr.McDougal...one of the best!
You are adorable. I was trying to decide where to go! Recently retired and ready for adventure. Safe for single gals?
Hey Jeanne Re, yes Panama is safe for a single gal. Check out some of our other videos of single women who have relocated to Panama. Also see this article panamarelocationtours.com/single-women-moving-to-panama
Thank you for this helpful information. I’ve been tossing around whether to settle in Nicaragua or Panama. 🤔
Panama is better! Come check out Panama! We have private tours of the most popular places to live panamarelocationtours.com/private-tours
Thank your