Moving to Panama solo is a big step for anyone, at any age, at any stage of their life. Uprooting what you’ve done as a routine, or known for many years, can be a shock to the system. Moving to a new country involves careful planning, a healthy budget, a new home to live in, new friends, getting used to a new culture, and a lot of patience. Doing this with your family or a partner can seem tough enough but doing it solo can often seem so tough it’s overwhelming. Luckily, these challenges don’t have to overwhelm you if you choose not to let them, and if you remember that moving to Panama solo doesn’t mean you’re alone. Here are some things to expect and look forward to as you plan to take the leap and start your new adventure in Panama on your own.
Flexible Options for Living
One of the biggest advantages to moving to Panama solo is that you have a wide variety of choices when it comes to real estate. You’ll also have a lot of better options when if comes to cost of living. There are great apartments available in Panama City that are perfect for one person, and in locations that are suitable for socializing, outdoor exercise/activities, and access to both public and private transportation in and out of town if needed. There are also options to live a more isolated life out in the countryside if desired, while still being close enough to vibrant communities to ensure you’ll have access to social activities and events. Moving to Panama solo allows for a more flexible budget, too, as the costs for maintaining one person in Panama are very reasonable when compared to other parts of the world.
Many people who choose to live solo in Panama live in areas of Panama City such as Casco Viejo, El Cangrejo, and Obarrio, as they have great walking access to services, restaurants, and parks. For those looking for a more relaxed, non-urban lifestyle, Boquete is a fantastic place for living solo, particularly for retirees or those who want a tighter-nit community and don’t mind driving short distances from place to place. Regardless of what you choose as a lifestyle, you’ll find that there are many options for the solo expat, at many price points. This flexibility is a huge incentive, and one of the biggest factors in removing the barriers that may keep you from taking the leap.
Moving to Panama Solo Doesn’t Mean You’re Alone
There is a common (and understandable) misconception that moving to a new country solo means you’ll be alone are lonely. The truth is that many people who relocate to Panama are doing so without a family, partner, or local friends. Panama is a warm and welcoming country to people of all races, cultural backgrounds, ages, and lifestyles. You’ll find that once in Panama, you’ll meet lots of other solo residents, travelers, and visitors who are planning to make the move soon. There are expat meet-up groups spread throughout the country in various places, as well as buildings and sub-developments designed for solo living, to help you make the push to be social if you’re struggling to do so on your own.
Reaching out to others through curated community events is a great way to get the ball rolling, and there are other options for socializing as well. Local bars and restaurants that cater to expats and tourists often host solos even without a planned event happening. You’ll find these places in areas such as Casco, El Cangrejo, Coronado, Boquete, and even El Valle to a certain extent. You can also join expat Facebook groups for advice and feedback, as well as sign up for English-language newsletters online, or community WhatsApp groups. Also, almost all condo buildings in Panama (city or otherwise) have social areas for residents which allow you to meet your neighbors at the pool, taking in some sun, or hanging out by the BBQ.
Getting Over Your Fears
When it comes down to it, moving to Panama solo isn’t that much different than living in your hometown solo. In fact, in many instances it can even be a more rewarding experience as it is a target for many divorcees, widowers, and singles to relocate to. The biggest hurdle is getting over your fears. Yes, it will take some serious planning to move countries at any budget. Yes, you will have to adjust to a new culture, and new language to a certain degree. However, all things considered, the juice is certainly worth the squeeze when it comes to happiness, quality of live, and value.
Moving to Panama solo can be an extremely rewarding experience and a refreshing new lease on life if you allow yourself to absorb the good parts and overcome the hurdles. With proper planning, confidence, and a great community surrounding you, you’ll see why it was a great decision and one that could potentially change your life for the better. To learn more about how you can relocate to Panama, feel free to reach out to us here online, or give us a call. We’d be happy to walk you through the process and answer any questions or concerns you may have before you commit.
