The investment and retirement haven of Boquete
Boquete is an attractive destination in the east of Panama, not far from the Costa Rican border. Part of Boquete's appeal is that, being nearly 4,000ft above sea level, it has a gentler climate than the coastal areas. This is especially good for tourists, investors and retirees looking for a life of guaranteed warmth but not wanting to be constantly baked.
It's a generally peaceful and healthy environment (provided you don't mind the humidity) with the added benefit of a relatively low cost of living. It is estimated that some 3,000 of the 19,000 inhabitants are non-Panamanian, many being American, Canadian and European.
Economy
Boquete has done well in recent years, attracting plenty of foreign investment, particularly in the hospitality sector.
Tourism and construction are the current pillars, boosting the economy at the same time as providing excellent new accommodation for visitors and settlers.
Tourism in Boquete
Boquete retains much of its original charm, the scenery boasting volcanic peaks, mountains, coffee plantations, rivers and waterfalls. It's a paradise for the nature lover. With the assistance of an experienced guide, visitors can observe rare tropical birds and an array of animals including the wild horses that still wander the foothills. It's the sort of experience that has been virtually lost in many more developed countries. If you have the energy to go further than just sightseeing, you can enjoy mountain climbing, canoeing, kayaking, rafting, mountain biking and so on.
Retirement
Those who have done their time in the hurly burly of the working week can slip into a lower gear in Boquete, in the company of fellow citizens of the world. In addition to those from North America, the area is now home to South Africans, Australians, British and Irish people, as well as Argentinians and Colombians. Some decide to simply switch off and relax, while others choose to remain active, as proprietors of restaurants, pubs, shops and small businesses.
