Boquete Panama

When AARP rates somewhere “#1 Best Offshore Retirement Destination in all of the Americas” the world sits up and takes note. Even more so when this place is a small town in the mountains of Panama. So what makes the town of Boquete so special? Why are so many retirees happily selling their family homes in the USA, Canada and Europe and settling down in a totally new environment?

The country of Panama offers many things not found in other Central American countries, hence its top position in International Living’s “Best place to retire”. A good infrastructure of roads and transport is one. A world renowned Banking sector is another. It is considered the safest Caribbean country with a high-profile police presence. English is fairly widely spoken, and English-speaking TV programs and newspapers are available everywhere.

Now why Boquete in particular? Having visited, I found the town charming, with a real sense of community. It has a fabulous climate, 70-88 degrees year round, and less humidity than the hotter coastal areas. The higher rainfall which suits the coffee plantations also encourages a plethora of beautiful and exotic flowers and trees throughout the year. It is also well-protected from unsuitable development and over-commercialization and consequently is still a bird-watchers paradise. There is still plenty of open wilderness, waterfalls and vast areas of untouched rainforest and jungle.

Access is cheap and easy to the USA and Canada either from the airport at David, 20 miles away, or from Panama City, 300 miles (408 kms) away. Beaches are just one hour’s pleasant drive away.

With its bustling town, quality restaurants, coffee shops, delis and artist’s wares, Boquete is a delightful centre. Prices are the same here as elsewhere in Panama’s coastal resorts, and the availability and quality of cuisine is excellent. Take your pick from Peruvian (highly recommended), Italian, Bistro or Spa Restaurant, down to Pizzas and Ice cream parlors. Further afield, David offers many supermarkets, PriceSmart, electrical retailers, banks, hardware stores and car dealerships.

Health is another big consideration for retirees and Panama has excellent and affordable healthcare centers. A visit to the local Doctor is just $5, hospitals are world-renowned and well-equipped. Prescription drugs are widely available, often sold over-the-counter and are very reasonably priced.

In conclusion, there are no major negatives to life in Panama. The standard of living is good and the cost of living and healthcare is lower than in many other countries.