Carol S. Says: Could Jessica please let me know if there are any fishing villages of about 5,000 inhabitants that are on the pacific coast side of Panama? If so, does she have any information she could share for potential long-term rentals? IL Panama Editor Jessica Ramesch Says: Hi Carol, According to the last Read more...: Could you Recommend a Fishing Village in Panama?
Cheryl B. Says: What’s the alternative healing scene like in Panama? IL Panama Editor Jessica Ramesch Says: Hi Cheryl, Panama has always had its share of alternative medicine practitioners. As foreigners continue to move here in search of healthier lifestyles, the industry continues to grow. You’ll find all kinds of therapies and treatments available Read more...: What’s the Alternative Healing Scene like in Panama?
Patti B. Says: We’re interested in residing in Panama for part of the year, hoping to explore different locations each year. What kind of visa is required for perhaps a three- to five-month stay? IL Panama Editor Jessica Ramesch Says: Hi Patti, If you’ve got a U.S. or Canadian passport, at time of writing Read more...: What Visa Do I Need to Spend 3 to 5 Months in Panama?
I landed here in 1990 without a word of Spanish and, at first, learning it seemed like an insurmountable task. I soon realized, however, that a bit of Spanish would help me make friends and have a richer experience. I also learned that Panamanians love to tease, and so I got comfortable—very quickly—with making mistakes.
Though healthcare in Panama is affordable, that doesn’t mean insurance isn’t a worthy consideration. Don’t assume you’ll be able to pay all your medical expenses out of pocket.
Getting a Panamanian passport is possible, but for most expats living here it’s not necessary or desirable. Mostly due to the difficulty of the process and its requirements.
Edwin P. Says: What are the restrictions on gun ownership in Panama? I enjoy target and skeet shooting. IL Panama Editor Jessica Ramesch Says: Hi Edwin, Panama has much stricter gun ownership laws than the U.S., so it is important to know the details if you wish to own a firearm here. In general, only Panamanian Read more...: What Are Panama’s Gun Laws Like?
Mohan R. Says: What is dental care like in Panama? IL Panama Editor Jessica Ramesch Says: Hello Mohan, Panama has excellent dentists and dental clinics. In Panama City and hub towns across the country, you can generally find quality English-speaking dentists. My experiences have been stellar… I’ve had a root canal, a wisdom tooth removed, Read more...: What is Dental Care Like in Panama?
Maya F. Says: Hello Jessica, Can you please tell me the rent for a one-bedroom place in David, Panama? IL Panama Editor Jessica Ramesch Says: Hello Maya, While two- or three-bedroom homes are popular in David, you can find a one- or two-bedroom long-term rentals for around $500 a month. Going 20 minutes outside the Read more...: What is the Rent for a 1-Bed Home in David, Panama?
Claire E. Says: Hi I am traveling with my son to Panama in March. Obviously, it would be prudent of me to check it out for retirement—what do you suggest I could do while there? IL Panama Correspondent Jessica Ramesch Says: Hi Claire, It’s a great idea to take advantage of your time here to Read more...: Where Should I Scout in Panama?