Why Panama?
What's this hype about Panama and is it really true? We think so but of course we're biased. Most can’t believe anyplace could as great as we portray but our visitors tell it is even better than described. Of course IL & AARP thinks so but we knew this, years before they jumped on the band wagon.

Reasons for living here are infinite and we are blessed to be in a country saturated with western culture and freedom. Judicial, Constitutional and traffic regulations are based on American law. Standard of living, food, music and attire, have all been influenced by over a 100 years of American presence. Panamanians are anxious to please and most will look you straight in the eye while saying "Buen Dia" (Good day). Not only is the government enticing retirement, English is taught in all schools.

Judicial, Constitutional and traffic regulations are based on American law. The standard of living, food, music, attire all have been influenced by a century of American presence. Even though many here speak little or no English, they are anxious to help and most will look you straight in the eye and give you a sincere "Buen Dia" (Good day). Not only is the government enticing retirees and promoting tourism, English is taught in all primary and secondary schools.

For whatever reason, you are already contemplating a change in your life or you would not be hitting "search" button. Okay, we got your attention, so now what?

With living in Panama so many years, we have an idea as to what to recommend and understand the emotional commitment and sacrifice one must make to carry out such a radical decision. Although challenging, is not at all as difficult as one may think. We have already assisted dozens to relocate. We try to put ourselves in your place, take you by the hand and lead you through the process.

Of course you have to come to check it out and make sure it’s right for you. We would be pleased to assist with your in-country logistics and throw in a orientation tour of Volcan and Cerro Punta to boot.

We do not solicit or receive payment for this courtesy service, or under any obligation to purchase or build through Hemingway Hideaway. While here, you may wish to see some properties, check on immigration and discuss home building potential.

Although Panama has everything one may wish for, let's face it, it may not be for you. We would rather you stay home, than invest your valuable time and capital only to get on the next plane back. It may be cultural shock, the language barrier or whatever. Many Ex-pats speak no Spanish and do very well. It is essential that one set their goal, keep an open mind and willing to adapt to a new way of life.

Most inquires are from those desiring to integrate amongst their host, understand their tradition and learn the language. Others elect to live near other retirees because of social contacts. It is important not to reflect fear and mistrust through isolation. As a guest in this country, make every effort to socialize and communicate with your kind host.

Panamanians are great people and we can honestly say, we have never had a sour experience in our 36 years here. Of course, every element of our society has a few bad apples and others with they're hand out.

Foreign retirees significantly contribute to the local economy that provides vital "trickle down" prosperity to the lowest level. For an example, the economic impact directly-indirectly via Hemingway Hideaway, has contributed impressively to the local economy.

We are constantly being inundated by the media as to how violent and dangerous the world is and it is only a matter of time before either a “man made” or "natural" calamity unfolds. This threat is genuine and cannot be ignored. Meanwhile, as our anxiety mounts, we watch our quality of life disintegrate before our eyes. It is depressing it has reached this stage and forced to weigh our options.

Besides all the extraordinary reasons for residing in this beautiful country, let’s address other momentous concerns brought on us by our changing world and why perhaps why the Chiriqui highlands may be your solution. This opinion is not intended to create doubt but confront reality.

Serious threats to our survival are escalating out of control and our government’s priority is to spend rather than any concern for the welfare of its citizens (especially the elderly) which leaves us leaves us dumbstruck.

Let’s start by looking at our financial debt. Cost of living is rising everywhere and getting harder to meet our commitments with utility and taxes going through the roof. Here in the highlands, overall expenses are still reasonable as we are surrounded by agricultural, beef and dairy farms resulting in lower prices and is still one of the only places you can still survive on a pension. Also there is no need for air conditioning or heating and a host of generous retirement benefits unheard of in the U.S.

Taxation is just and many incentives and exonerations exist. Property tax cannot be increased for a pensioner regardless of adjacent development (Malls, highways etc,) cannot be forced to sell their beloved abode because they cannot pay higher property tax! (a horrendous crime). Sales and restaurant tax is 5%. No tax on land under $30,000 or new home construction for the first 15 years.

There is very little crime, gangs or high profile cases in the highlands you can walk anywhere at any time. Most theft is “opportune” caused by one’s own carelessness. As anywhere, there is a random break-in. The further you are from a major city, there is less crime. Using common sense and minimal protection measures prevails (fence, dog, motion lights etc.). We never had a problem in 15 years.

Most drugs transiting Panama are on their way north. Both police and customs put their life on the line for every “bust” which they consider a U.S. problem. They are very skilled in locating and destroying substantial catches.

The impact of global climate is nil. Although sea temperature may vary between the El Niño and La Niña, the transition date between dry/wet season and min/max daily temperature remain the same.

Because of our altitude, our environment could not be better as there is little or no pollution. There is some haze during the dry season from farmers brush fires but quickly blown away by the same seasonal winds. Generally though it is smog free and no contrails.

Spiritual values, religious freedom and morality is fast on the way out. The spiritual based democracy in the states is being systematically destroyed (from the inside) and the lean to socialism is authentic. Panama is Hispanic and their culture and faith is similar. Religious conviction is a highly dynamic part of their life. Un like other Latin countries, religion is mostly Protestant but there any many other denominations to choose from.

Terrorism is undoubtedly our biggest menace. Not enough can be said about the importance of this peril and what is at stake. This peril is far more threatening than any Nat-Geo TV “doomsday” scenario and our existence is at stake. Many concur, it is not a matter of if, but when! a nuclear incident or other calamity occurs. Every day, Muslim radicals cross our southern border intent on our destruction and the government does not want to control the border! Is this a coincidence, political (votes) or part of a larger plan? The Chiriqui highlands are 250 miles west of Panama and not considered a “high profile target”, therefore the threat of terrorism is almost non-existent.

A combined attack against us by unstable Korea and suicidal Iran could explode into war at any moment. After all, Korea is supplying Iran with nuclear technology/material and it does not take a rocket scientist to understand what’s happening. It is apparent our government does not have the cajones or the military (bless them) capability and resources to confront a third and fourth front and they no it!

What’s the alternative? Bail out, abandon ship, escape, get out of Dodge, move to the freezing north? Sure, it’s a traumatic decision but it is a crucial one. Of course, there are many other places but Panama is superior and offers a great place to live. It is a conveniently located modern country and North Americans are warmly welcomed and could be an attractive alternative.

Who are we?
Since our conception 1999, Panama has become ranked as one of the top worldwide retirement "hot spots" attracting thousands of people from around the globe. The invasion of retires is on and many would like to join but have no inkling as to how to take the first step.

Trying to find adequate information to make a sound judgment can be challenging besides locating reliable in-country assistance, both which are crucial for a successful endeavor. When we moved to Volcan in 95, there was no inter-net or anyone to ask for guidance so we learned by trial and error and many costly mistakes.

It was obvious there was a urgent demand for credible information and assistance. With Living half our adult life in Panama and Latin America, it placed us in a unique position to take this opportunity to fill this gap and established Hemingway Hideaway S.A.

Hemingway Hideaway has since grown into an impressive "under one roof", team of real estate, legal (immigration & offshore), logistics, finance, surveyors, architects, engineers and insurance professionals and referrals that can address most necessities.

We will be pleased to respond to your inquires and calls.

Contact us
We can be reached several ways.

1. E-mail to hp3xbh@tierrasaltas.net (in subject line put Panama or Retirement)
2. Telephone (from US, dial 011 first, then) 507-771-5948 Cell: 625-8988
3. Snail Mail. Apartado 00029, Zone 0424, Volcan, Chiriqui, Rep of Panama
4. If you have Skype, enter our e-mail address in search and we will chat.