Pros and Cons of Living in Boquete
Last updated on Apr 20, 2023
Summary: The pros of living in Boquete, Panama include its temperate climate, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant culture. Boquete is also known for its excellent healthcare and educational systems, as well as its low cost of living. Additionally, the town is home to a diverse expat community, making it easy to make friends and find support. The cons of living in Boquete include its remote location, which can make it difficult to access certain services and amenities. Additionally, the language barrier can be a challenge for those who don't speak Spanish. Finally, the town is prone to natural disasters such as floods and landslides, which can cause disruption and damage.
What are the pros and cons of living in Boquete?
Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in Boquete responded:
"Expats and digital nomads living in Boquete enjoy the temperate climate, the stunning natural beauty of the area, and the friendly locals. They also appreciate the low cost of living, the abundance of outdoor activities, and the easy access to the rest of Panama. On the downside, some expats and digital nomads find the lack of infrastructure and the slow internet speeds to be a challenge. Additionally, the language barrier can be a problem for those who don't speak Spanish," said one expat in living in Boquete, Panama.
"The people and culture here are incredible and give me great hope for the future of this planet," wrote one expat in Boquete.
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What do expats in Boquete appreciate most about the local culture?
"I appreciate the dedication to family - it's refreshing to see entire extended families spending time together and enjoying life," explained one expat.
"Expats in Boquete appreciate the friendly and welcoming nature of the local people. They also enjoy the laid-back atmosphere and the slower pace of life. The stunning natural beauty of the area is another draw, with lush green mountains, rivers, and waterfalls. The local cuisine is also a highlight, with a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as delicious seafood. The vibrant culture and traditions of the Ngöbe-Buglé people are also appreciated by expats, who enjoy learning about the local customs and history," said one person in Boquete.
What do expats find most challenging?
"Expats in Boquete often find the language barrier to be the most challenging aspect of the local culture. Many locals speak Spanish, and while some may understand English, it can be difficult to communicate with them without a basic understanding of the language. Additionally, the local customs and traditions can be difficult to understand and navigate for those who are not familiar with them. Expats may also find the slower pace of life in Boquete to be a challenge, as it can be difficult to adjust to the more relaxed lifestyle," explained one expat.
"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," said one person in Boquete.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to Boquete?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Boquete?
- Will I be able to find a job in Boquete?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- What do expats in Boquete appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Boquete?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Boquete accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Boquete like?
- How are healthcare services in Boquete?
- What are medical services in Boquete like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Boquete?
- What are emergency services like in Boquete?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Boquete?
- How are local medical facilities in Boquete?
- As a foreigner living in Boquete, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?