Retire in Las Tablas, Panama

"None of us expats admit to being expats. It's an unspoken agreement. Oh yeah, even with masks and covid lockdowns and general covid paranoia there are cultural attractions, recreations, and the nightlife never stops. The fireworks have been going nonstop celebrating Christmas, 24 hours a day. Fortunately I'm partly deaf..," said a retiree who moved to Las Tablas, Panama.

"Life for a retiree in Las Tablas, can be quite serene and fulfilling. The town is known for its friendly locals, slow pace of life, and low cost of living, making it an attractive destination for retirees. There is a small but active expat community in Las Tablas, which often organizes social events and gatherings, providing a sense of camaraderie and support for those far from their home countries. Culturally, Las Tablas is rich and vibrant. It is famous for its annual Carnival, one of the biggest and most colorful in Panama, which attracts visitors from all over the world. The town is also known for its traditional Panamanian music and dance, and retirees can enjoy performances at local festivals and events. Recreational opportunities abound in and around Las Tablas. The town is close to several beautiful beaches, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or simply enjoying a leisurely walk. For nature lovers, the surrounding countryside offers opportunities for hiking and bird watching. Fishing is also a popular pastime, with the nearby Pacific Ocean teeming with a variety of fish species. Nightlife in Las Tablas is relatively low-key, reflecting the town's laid-back atmosphere. However, there are several bars and restaurants where retirees can enjoy a meal, a drink, and often, live music. For those seeking a more lively nightlife scene, the city of Panama, with its numerous clubs, bars, and entertainment venues, is just a few hours' drive away. Overall, life for a retiree in Las Tablas, Panama, offers a blend of tranquility, cultural richness, and recreational activities, all set in a warm and welcoming community," said one retiree in Las Tablas.

"Retirees in Las Tablas advise others considering retiring abroad to learn the local language, as it not only helps in day-to-day communication but also in understanding and integrating into the local culture. They suggest researching the cost of living and healthcare facilities in the area before making a decision. It's also recommended to visit the place multiple times at different times of the year to get a feel for the climate and lifestyle. They emphasize the importance of understanding the local laws, especially those related to property ownership and taxes. They also advise building a local network for support and companionship, and to be open to new experiences and cultures. Lastly, they suggest maintaining a flexible attitude, as things may not always go as planned," explained a retiree in Las Tablas.

"Sometimes it seems that Americans want to re-create America abroad. I try to encourage anybody from the U.S. to spend some time talking and walking with the natives here. It's the diplomatic thing to do, and you'll gain empathy from the experience," explained one retiree living in Las Tablas.

"One of the most challenging aspects of retiring in Las Tablas is the language barrier, as Spanish is the primary language spoken and not everyone may speak English. Another challenge could be adjusting to the local culture and customs, which may be significantly different from what retirees are used to in their home countries. The healthcare system, while generally good in Panama, may not be up to the standards some retirees from developed countries are accustomed to, and access to specialized care may be limited in smaller towns like Las Tablas. The tropical climate, while appealing to some, can be difficult for others to adjust to, particularly the high humidity and heat. The cost of living, while lower than in many developed countries, can still be a challenge for those on a fixed income, especially when considering costs like housing, healthcare, and imported goods. Finally, being far from family and friends back home can be emotionally challenging for some retirees," explained a retiree in Las Tablas.

"Retiring in Las Tablas offers a relaxed and slow-paced lifestyle, allowing retirees to enjoy their golden years in peace. The cost of living is significantly lower compared to many Western countries, making it an affordable option for retirees. The local community is friendly and welcoming, making it easy for expats to integrate and feel at home. The town is known for its vibrant culture and traditional festivals, providing plenty of entertainment and social activities. The weather is warm and tropical year-round, perfect for those who enjoy outdoor activities. The healthcare system in Panama is also of high quality and affordable, ensuring retirees have access to good medical care. The town's location offers easy access to beautiful beaches and stunning natural landscapes, ideal for nature lovers. Lastly, Panama's pensionado program offers numerous benefits and discounts to retirees, making it an attractive retirement destination," remarked one retiree in Las Tablas.

"It's Panama. Complete freedom--unbridled freedom to live my life however I choose," said a retiree who moved to Las Tablas, Panama.

"Healthcare services in Las Tablas are generally of good quality, with both public and private healthcare facilities available. The public healthcare system is run by the Ministry of Health and the Social Security System, providing free or low-cost services to Panamanian citizens and residents. Private healthcare is also available, offering a higher standard of care with more modern facilities and English-speaking staff, but at a higher cost. In Las Tablas, there are several clinics and hospitals that provide a range of medical services. These include general practitioners, specialists, and emergency services. The healthcare professionals are well-trained, many of whom have received their education abroad. Pharmacies are widely available in Las Tablas, offering a range of over-the-counter and prescription medications. Some pharmacies also offer basic medical services, such as blood pressure checks and vaccinations. Despite the generally good standard of healthcare, it's worth noting that services in Las Tablas may not be as comprehensive or advanced as in larger cities in Panama, such as Panama City. Therefore, complex medical conditions may require travel to a larger city or even abroad for treatment. Health insurance is highly recommended for expats living in Las Tablas, as it can help cover the cost of private healthcare and medical evacuation if necessary. Overall, while healthcare in Las Tablas is reliable, it's important for individuals to take precautions and plan for potential health issues," commented one retiree living in Las Tablas, Panama.

"I don't really know. I've been to a doctor a few times and a dentist. A typical visit costs $30. I sort of think I could get some acute care if I needed it. But for instance I had a post-covid heart attack several months ago, and I thought that I was dying. Then I realized that that would be okay with me, over and done with, then I laughed at myself. After a while the pain subsided, and I continued my walk. I am called fearless Fred for a reason," explained one retiree living in Las Tablas.

"Expats in Las Tablas often join local clubs and organizations to meet people and immerse themselves in the local culture. These can include language exchange clubs, where they can practice their Spanish and help locals with English, or sports clubs such as soccer or surfing, which are popular in the area. There are also various cultural and community groups that expats can join. These can range from art and music groups to volunteering organizations. Participating in these groups not only allows expats to meet people, but also to contribute to the local community and learn more about Panamanian culture. In addition to joining clubs and organizations, expats often meet people through social events and gatherings. These can include local festivals, concerts, and other public events. Many expats also meet people through their work or by simply striking up conversations with locals in cafes, restaurants, or other public places. Another popular way for expats to meet people in Las Tablas is through online platforms and social media groups. There are several online communities and forums for expats living in Panama, where they can connect with others, ask questions, and share experiences. Lastly, taking classes or workshops is another great way for expats to meet people. This could be a cooking class, a dance class, or a workshop on Panamanian history or culture. Not only does this provide an opportunity to learn something new, but it also provides a social setting where expats can meet and interact with others who share similar interests," said a retiree who moved to Las Tablas, Panama.

"Life for expats and digital nomads in Las Tablas, is often described as relaxed and laid-back. The small town offers a slower pace of life, with a strong sense of community and local culture. Expats can enjoy the beautiful beaches, local festivals, and traditional Panamanian cuisine. The cost of living is relatively low, making it an attractive destination for those looking to stretch their budget further. Despite its small size, Las Tablas is well-equipped with modern amenities, including reliable internet, making it suitable for digital nomads. The town is also known for its friendly locals who are welcoming to foreigners, making it easier for expats to integrate and feel at home. However, it's worth noting that Spanish is the primary language spoken in Las Tablas, so expats and digital nomads might need to learn the language or find ways to communicate effectively. The town is also quite remote, which might be a challenge for those who are used to city life or need to travel frequently for work. Overall, Las Tablas offers a unique blend of tranquility, cultural immersion, and affordability, making it an appealing choice for expats and digital nomads seeking a different pace of life," said one retiree in Las Tablas.

"Expats considering retirement in Las Tablas, should be aware of several key factors. Firstly, the cost of living is relatively low compared to many Western countries, making it an attractive option for retirees. However, it's important to understand that the local economy is primarily agricultural, which may limit job opportunities if you plan to work during retirement. The official language is Spanish, so learning the language will be beneficial, although English is also widely spoken. The healthcare system in Panama is generally good, with both public and private options available. However, it's advisable to have a comprehensive health insurance plan. Las Tablas is known for its warm, tropical climate, with a rainy season from May to November. It's also renowned for its vibrant culture and festivals, particularly the Carnival in February. The town is relatively small and rural, offering a slower pace of life, which can be a significant change if you're used to living in a bustling city. The local cuisine is a blend of Spanish, African, and Indigenous influences, with seafood being a staple. It's also worth noting that while Panama uses the U.S. dollar, credit cards are not widely accepted in smaller towns like Las Tablas, so it's essential to have cash on hand. Regarding residency, Panama offers several visa options for retirees, including the Pensionado visa, which provides several discounts for retirees. However, the process can be complex and may require the assistance of a lawyer. Finally, while Panama is generally safe, like any place, it has crime. Therefore, it's important to take standard precautions to protect yourself and your property," explained a retiree in Las Tablas.