Adaptation to civilian aspects of international life is unique to each U.S. Veteran based on personal need and expectation.
Many international, FMP U.S. Veterans relocate to the Republic of Panama (República de Panamá).
While it is billed as a Spanish-speaking nation, the country is officially trilingual, Spanish-English-Chinese.
Spanish, however, will help you get around much, much easier, but a smartphone translator usually works for minor transactions.
A large number of Panamanians have learned English under the previous administration.
The exceptions are some central provinces and the jungle area of the Darien Gap.
But, this is rapidly disappearing with bilingual schools in each province.
The three huge, indigenous Indian sectors that comprise a third of the nation are now getting English education under the current administration.
Most U.S. Veterans might think first of the two Panama Canals, which is near the international city of Panama and it’s Tocumen International Airport with its brand new terminal # 2 for international flights.
Still, the Republic of Panama or Panama is a blend of cultures just like the U.S. complete with first world metropolitan facilities, transportation options, and recreational conveniences (here though, that’s the nation’s pride and joy).
There are a few principal differences from living life in CONUS:
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- Everything is spread across a smaller land mass.
- The U.S. Dollar is used but at a much lower cost of living; try 1/3 on average.
- Life is lived with the benefits of a national law that mandates significant discounts for elderly males of 60 years and older or females of 55 years and older.
Restated for EMPHASIS: Adaptation to civilian aspects of international life in the Republic of Panama (República de Panamá) is unique to each U.S. Veteran based on personal need and expectation.
The most authoritative, stable source of civilian, non-veteran, information on cost of living, lifestyle and adaptation expectations is available from the non-commercial blog, The Panama Adventure
