Budget Rental Options In Boquete, Panama

May 25, 2009

"Have long been interested in two sites mentioned at length in your e-letters, Kathleen: Lake Chapala, Mexico, and Panama.

"Wanted to do the conference you just held but was unable to. Am considering ordering the kit from same.

"However, I'm concerned about the viability of such a move for me. Newly widowed, my only assets are a small 401(k) and US$1,600 a month in Social Security income.

"I am 73 years of age, in good health, and would like to follow the dream that my late husband and I shared. I don't know if my modest income would make this an impossibility.

"Have been following both the areas I mention for about three years, and, while Mexico looks to be less expensive, it also seems to have a lot of problems--for example, the economy, government, crime, etc.

"I know no one can guarantee success, but I wish I could get some idea about renting in the Boquete area or some other area away from the beach at a reasonable price. I am a massage therapist and writer and might draw on these skills to supplement my income."

-- Marianne W., United States

I'd say that Boquete could indeed be a good choice for you...and that, yes, you should give it a try by renting first, for a year, say.

Here are two current options that could make sense for you:

A one-bedroom, one-bathroom house, overlooking coffee plantations, with gas fireplace inside, wood-burning fireplace outside. Brand-new and fully furnished for. US$550/month. www.viviun.com/AD-129620
A one-bedroom, one-bathroom apartment, two years old, with appliances, cable, and Internet, for US$375/month. www.viviun.com/AD-127428

Go very modest with the one-bedroom apartment for US$375 per month, and you could live well indeed on your US$1,600 a month Social Security income.

Splurge on the bigger, more comfortable one-bedroom house for US$550 a month, and, still, you'd have money left over from your Social Security check each month living in this part of Panama.

I wish you could have joined us for the conference earlier this month, dear reader. You would have felt well at home among the group, and they would have shown you that you're not alone with your dreams.

The only way to know if retirement in Boquete is for you is to give it a try.

What's the worst that could happen? Maybe you find out Boquete's not a fit. Meantime, you'll be enjoying one of the grandest adventures of your lifetime.

Then you move on...or return "home." With a whole lot of memories and no regrets.

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