Boquete , Panama

Expat Community Thrives in Panama Mountains

As always, with an article about the prospects of living or owning property in an international destination, the question of why a potential expat should choose this island, country, or city above all others is paramount. Everyone has different tastes, financial considerations, and needs. The challenge for a prospective retiree is profound. Of the thousands of possibilities on our planet, there is a satisfying destination for everyone, a place to fill any person’s desires. Here, we investigate the unique characteristics of a community in the western mountains of Panama called Boquete (pronounced “Bow-ket-tay) and the possible reasons why a retiree might want to select it.

Over 6,000 expats have discovered this jewel and have bought rental properties or moved to Boquete over the last few decades. With an overall population

by William Burr

of around 20,000, it still retains a relaxed, smalltown feel. One of the big draws to a potential expat is the large American population, making English a commonly spoken language in the local stores, restaurants, and service sectors.

Nestled in the highlands of western Panama, Boquete is an excellent choice for expats looking for a simpler lifestyle. It has clean air, green jungle, friendly people, and a low cost of living. Small and walkable, the town of Boquete is an excellent choice to enjoy a different side of Panama compared to the bustle of Panama City or the heat of the Pacific beaches, which are only an hour away.

Since Boquete enjoys a cool, temperate climate, it draws not only expats, but many Panamanians looking for nearly ideal weather. Temperatures at this higher elevation are generally in the 70s and 80s Fahrenheit during the day. Nights are cooler. Not only does this provide spring-like conditions in a mountainous, hilly environment, but it’s perfect for growing rich, aromatic coffee and citrus fruits at fincas that dot the hillsides. There’s a range of rewards derived from the year-round spring-like weather, but possibly the most unusual for a northerner to appreciate is that a consistently mild climate means no heating or air conditioning bills. Another climate advantage is that, unlike many other tropical locations, there are no hurricanes.

Travelers fly domestic airlines from Panama City to the airport in David, where a four-lane highway leads to Boquete in 40 minutes. David is Panama’s thirdlargest city and the commercial hub in the region with many shopping options along with local government offices and medical providers.

Boquete has both modern housing and traditional, brightly-painted wooden cabins speckling the hillsides. Although prices have risen in tandem with growing popularity, real estate in Boquete is still affordable. By eliminating the expense of heating and air conditioning, there is an immediate and major reduction in the overall cost of living. Additionally, many newer homes are exempt from property taxes for a number of years. Also, homeowner’s insurance is affordable, which is not the case in many other international locations.

One of the biggest benefits of living in Boquete is being able to take advantage of Panama’s Pensionado program, which is considered one of the best programs