I do not generally post articles that others have written. Occasionally I or my good friend that created my website will post something about Panama that has come out in an international publication, but it’s rare. I really should do more of it because now more than ever there’s a lot of good press about Panama. I am making an exception this time because something I read on ExpatExchange caught my eye. I am a member of ExpatExchange, a forum for Expat’s or those interested in becoming one that is segregated into different countries so people can create topics, ask questions and exchange information. I receive emails as people discuss topics, I almost never reply because I do not know how to using my Blackberry and am to busy doing other things once I am online with my Mac. But, I enjoy reading the banter between those that are here in Panama and those that are potential expats back in there home country investigating “their move” to Panama.
On ExpatExchange one guy, 802Mark, always has good information and he never sugar coats it, which I really like. Recently he was responding to a post and really articulated what it is like living here in Panama. I have had many very similar experiences as he mentions in his comment. I took the liberty to correct some of the grammar only so it would read more clearly, since it is a forum, I don’t think he was to worried about it. It’s really worth the read. I hope you do not mind 802Mark.

Enjoy!

“…It boils down to this. Do you love it when your sitting out and it’s spring weather and you have nothing that you have to do? Outside of what you want to do.

Do you love eating new foods and learning and seeing things that you have never seen? That’s what it boils down to, not the cost. You guys want something new in your life, so go for it and grab it or you could just stay home to what your use to your whole life. Panama changes people, many times for the better. It makes you say oh well, ok sure, tomorrow is fine, and not care if they don’t show up. It forces you to get off your ass and do things you never dreamed of. It pushes you to just take that extra step because you hear running water and you can’t wait to see it.

Want me to tell you how the people are here? Today my good friends Tom and whats her name, oh well doesn’t matter, hehehe, they took a hike up the mountain and got lost and ended up in someones yard. The people came out and not only showed them where they needed to go, but gave them fruit and water and told them they could sleep in their home if needed… WHAT?? YOU MUST BE KIDDING… well no I’m not. Someone posted they could live in the U.S. in some places cheaper then here… well maybe so, but show me that in the U.S.

Panama is a wonderful woman, she can be loving, she can be a mother and yes sometimes she can be a bitch, but in the long run she will force you to see a side of yourself that you never dreamed was there. You ever took a dug out up a river not sure where it was going and when you hit shore were surrounded by little kids all smiles and wanting to just touch your lilly white skin because it is something new to them? Sit with them and eat fresh seafood they just caught and drink from a coconut and watch as the sun dances on the water? Or maybe see so many stars at night that it reminds you of just how small we all really are? Does being with these people make you feel better when you do return to your a/c homes and makes you thank GOD for the things he his given you? If not don’t come here… because Panama will force you to look inside yourself and feel things you never knew were in you…”