It’s easy to see the appeal of a move to Panama.
Between the warmer weather, beautiful coastlines, lower cost of living, and a slower pace of life, it’s a tempting choice for many UK retirees and future expats.
Still, a move like this means packing up your entire life, so it makes sense to see the country for yourself first.
Experiencing Panama Before You Commit
Before you make any immediate life changes, it’s important to experience a country without any pressure.
You can’t just rely on internet searches and social media. You need to see Panama with your own eyes, which is one of the biggest advantages of booking Panama Canal cruises.
As your ship travels through the Panama Canal, you’ll get the chance to experience both the Pacific and Caribbean sides of the country and gain a better appreciation for Panama’s geography.
What’s more, many itineraries also include time ashore, so you’ll also get to explore beyond the port.
This is the perfect opportunity to visit areas that are popular with international residents, and decide what type of neighbourhood you’d prefer to live in. And while you’re exploring, don’t forget to pay attention to the little details that shape everyday life.
How easy is it to get around? What amenities are available in the areas you’re considering?
Make a point of enjoying the local culture while you’re there, too. Try a few local dishes, chat with residents, and really soak in the atmosphere. All of this will help you decide whether Panama feels right for the life you want.
Panama and Your Long-Term Plans
It’s not difficult to fall in love with Panama, but you also need to see it through a future lens.
For example, if retirement is part of your long-term plans, this is a good time to look into residency requirements. Understanding what a retirement visa grants can help you decide whether the country suits your finances and the way you want to live.
You also want to look into other practical factors, such as:
- Cost of living. Are the grocery prices, utility costs, and accommodation what you’re used to in the UK?
- Healthcare. If you can, visit the hospitals and clinics in the areas you’re considering to research their cost, quality, and accessibility.
- Everyday services. Find out how easy it would be to access banks and supermarkets, plus other essential services you may need once you’re living in Panama.
- Internet reliability. If you plan to work remotely or simply stay connected, reliable internet is an important consideration.
- Safety. Spend time walking around different neighbourhoods in the day and at night to get a feel for how welcoming and comfortable they are.
Panama offers a variety of different lifestyles, so keep this in mind during your time on shore.
Deciding on a Neighbourhood
A cruise is a great introduction to Panama, but it doesn’t need to end when you disembark.
If you’re seriously considering a move, try to extend your trip by a few days so that you can explore different areas and neighbourhoods at your own pace.
So, where do you start when it comes to choosing a neighbourhood?
Panama City is where you’ll find mostly apartments, international restaurants, and plenty of shopping opportunities. However, if waking up to ocean views is more important to you, then you may want to look at Coronado instead.
For those who prefer the mountains and slightly cooler temperatures, Boquete is worth a look. And if a smaller, more peaceful setting is more your style, Pedasí comes highly recommended.
Wherever you decide to visit, take the opportunity to speak to people who know the area well.
Let Your Journey Shape Your Next Chapter
Relocating to another country is a big decision, so make sure to experience it first-hand before you commit. It’s what will give you the confidence you need to make the move.
So, turn your next holiday into a scouting mission. You will have a clearer sense of the country, the neighbourhoods that appeal to you, the tradeoffs you would face, and whether a move to Panama really makes sense for you.
