About ChiriquiDebbie

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Citizen of:

Some Forum Posts:

Panama: Buying Cellphone on Visit to Panama:

You won't be able to unlock a Verizon phone because it's on a different system (CDMA). Phones that use SIM cards are on GSM and can be unlocked, then you just slip in a new SIM card when you travel. I first bought a $20 phone with SIM card and purchased minutes as I went. Easy. A cheap smart phone can be found for about $50 in Panama (BLU is one brand I know of). They don't use 2 years commitment plans here, it's all pay as you go.

Panama: 63 Year=Old Woman:

I personally know 6 single expat women in my town of Puerto Armuelles, and 5 of them are over 50. All are happy and safe here!

Panama: Help me understand:

I live in a more local (rather than expat) area of Panama, Puerto Armuelles, and I see properties that have sat for sale for years here too. However, there ARE properties selling as well. My perception is that most of the properties that aren't moving are probably priced too high. Especially if they are owned by expats, though that is not always the case. A lot of people that are buying here are looking for a "deal" and those are often sold by 'word-of'mouth" in Panama, between locals. Once they are listed online or with a realtor the price goes up because they are basing it on what they see listed online already. There is no functional national MLS service so no way to find comps to determine the right price. If I were you, I'd rent first and talk to as many locals as you can to let them know you are looking for a place to buy. You'll have better luck at getting a more reasonably priced property this way. Good luck!

Panama: Puerto Armuelles Contractor-Builder:

I know of a couple of people, just heading out the door and I'll have to look up their contact information. You can message me at editor@visitPuertoArmuelles.com to remind me, if I don't send it to you, or post it, by the end of the day. Debbie

Panama: Looking for long term rental.:

Hola Tez! In Puerto Armuelles, there is a good new website where owners place real estate classified listings, for sale and rent. It's at www.VisitPuertoArmuelles.com I have been living in Puerto full time for 2 years and part-time for 2 years prior. I am happy to answer questions or point you to the folks that can. Feel free to private message me. Debbie

Panama: My two Dogs:

I brought my 2 small dogs from Arizona to Panama last year. I documented the process step-by-step, including all costs involved, because I could not find complete information anywhere, just bits & pieces. If you follow the timeline I provide, it will be an easy move. The vet that checks the dogs in is right at the baggage claim at Tocumen Airport, so you don't need to hire anyone to walk over 30 feet to the office. Read the entire process and steps here: http://expatfreedom.com/how-to-transport-your-dog-from-the-usa-to-panama/ Debbie

Panama: seeking retirement place off the beaten path:

I live in Puerto Armuelles, which is 'off the beaten track'. Beaches are beautiful, real estate is affordable, and there are not a lot of expats here. No realtors in town, but the new town website has real estate classifieds (by owner). Here is the site: http://visitpuertoarmuelles.com/real-estate Good luck!

Panama: Calenders:

Hi Sheila, I don't know about the elderly cause, but you can get beautiful scenic calendars of Panama at www.PanamaCalendars.com

Panama: Moving with kids!:

Hi Amanda, The options vary tremendously around the country of Panama. There are rather expensive expat communities where you have better amenities and school options, like Coronado. Then, there are very inexpensive, more "local", areas and some folks have relocated and raised families here. It really depends on what you want. Here is a short video interview with an expat teenager after living in Panama for 4 years, talking about school, social life, etc. : https://youtu.be/3W_MpwN50CI

Panama: Professional Employment:

I actually wrote an article on that topic recently, which you may find useful: http://expatfreedom.com/how-to-find-a-job-in-panama/ Good Luck! Debbie Fishell

Date Joined:

8/9/2014

Total Posts:

25

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