Boquete, Panama
An American who moved to Boquete, Panama encourages newcomers to arrive with the attitude that you are willing to make adjustments to your expectations and keep in mind that things will be different than you expect, you'll thrive here!
Boquete
The only cross-cultural training I received was from reading about the local culture, norms and attitudes.
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I spoke very little Spanish when we arrived; I have been taking lessons for the past few months and find it easier to communicate now, since not everyone here speaks English.
Not really - we have traveled extensively, so expected at least some of the differences.
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If you arrive here with the attitude that you are willing to make adjustments to your expectations and keep in mind that things will be different than you expect, you'll thrive here! Please don't expect the local population to adjust to your expectations - arrive with an open mind, be willing to embrace the differences, and be adventurous!
Absolutely - initially, we found the differences charming and delightful. As time goes on and you have needs you want met, it becomes a bit more frustrating to understand the "manana" attitude here, but you have to be willing to accept those differences and adjust to them. Do we get frustrated? Of course! But if you understand that Panamanians find it very difficult to say "no", you can adjust how you ask for things and make sure you understand that time and commitment have a different meaning here.
Culture shock can affect people differently. Personally, I haven't found culture shock to be much of an issue, but friends have been very frustrated by both the attitudes here and the language difference. Panamanians have different priorities, and if you can adjust to that you'll do well. Family, faith and fiestas are the Panamanian way!
I appreciate the dedication to family - it's refreshing to see entire extended families spending time together and enjoying life!
The difference in attitude regarding such things as appointment times - even if you agree to meet at a specific day and time, if a Panamanian has a family event, another appointment or just decides not to come, they may show up an hour or two late or the next day. You need to be prepared to schedule and re-schedule without getting too frustrated!
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Boquete Index
An index of all of our site's Boquete information.
11 expats.talk about what it's like to live in the beautiful mountain town of Boquete, Panama. From the Tuesday Market at the BCP to group hikes and drinks at Mike's Global Grill, expats.love living in Boquete.
Panama Forum
Talk with other digital nomads and expats in Panama on our Panama forum - meet people, get advice and help others.
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Help others in Panama by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Panama.
Expats in Panama offer advice about healthcare, hospital visits, emergency rooms visits, finding a doctor and buying health insurance in Panama.
Panama is a great place to live or retire with easy residency laws, warm people and lots of expats. Whether you want to live by the beach in Bocas del Toro or need to live in Panama City for work and schools, there are many places to explore.
Expats with children who explore the possibility of moving to Panama first and foremost want to know what educational options are available there. Here is a great start on exploring the options in Panama City... and beyond.
Get a quote for health insurance from our partner, Allianz Care.
Get a Quote
Get a quote for health insurance from our partner, Allianz Care.
Get a Quote
Boquete Index
An index of all of our site's Boquete information.
11 expats.talk about what it's like to live in the beautiful mountain town of Boquete, Panama. From the Tuesday Market at the BCP to group hikes and drinks at Mike's Global Grill, expats.love living in Boquete.
Panama Forum
Talk with other digital nomads and expats in Panama on our Panama forum - meet people, get advice and help others.
Contribute
Help others in Panama by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Panama.
Expats in Panama offer advice about healthcare, hospital visits, emergency rooms visits, finding a doctor and buying health insurance in Panama.
Panama is a great place to live or retire with easy residency laws, warm people and lots of expats. Whether you want to live by the beach in Bocas del Toro or need to live in Panama City for work and schools, there are many places to explore.
Expats with children who explore the possibility of moving to Panama first and foremost want to know what educational options are available there. Here is a great start on exploring the options in Panama City... and beyond.
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