Expat Interview Erick’s Journey to Pedasí, Panama: Finding Paradise in Punta Mala

Relocating to Panama has become a dream for many retirees from around the world, and Erick’s story perfectly captures why so many are choosing this destination. In May 2024, Erick and his wife—along with their beloved dogs—packed up their life in Washington State, USA, and set out on a new adventure. Their journey led them to Pedasí, a charming beach town on Panama’s Azuero Peninsula, where they now happily call the Punta Mala area home.

From the Mountains to the Coast: Choosing Pedasí

When Erick and his wife first began their search, they envisioned themselves living in the cooler climates of Panama’s mountains. Places like Boquete and El Valle de Antón were on their radar. But after exploring the country, they quickly fell in love with Pedasí.

“The roads and the overall environment here are better than anywhere else we saw in Panama,” Erick shares. What started as a coastal detour became a permanent decision. The balance of infrastructure, natural beauty, and welcoming community sealed the deal.

Falling in Love with Pedasí’s Lifestyle

One of the biggest factors in their decision was the people. “The friendliness of the community here is something special,” Erick explains. Both locals and fellow expats welcomed them with open arms, making the transition to a new country much smoother.

They also found the cost of living in Panama to be far more affordable compared to the USA. From housing to dining to everyday expenses, their retirement budget stretches much further. “We’re able to enjoy more while spending less,” Erick notes.

Convenient Travel and Staying Connected

Even though Erick and his wife now live in a small beach town, they never feel far from family back in the United States. With direct flights from Panama City to many U.S. destinations, it’s easy for them to visit loved ones without hassle. This balance of tropical living with accessibility to family was a major reason Pedasí felt like the right choice.

Health Care That Makes Sense for Retirees

Another important consideration was health care. For Erick and his wife, Panama offered both high-quality medical services and much lower costs compared to the United States. Whether routine checkups or specialist care, they’ve found the system reliable and affordable.

Retirement Made Simple

Moving abroad can sound daunting, but Erick emphasizes how smooth the process was in Panama. “Getting our retirement visa was easy,” he says. The Panama Pensionado Visa remains one of the most attractive residency programs in the world, giving retirees discounts on travel, utilities, medical care, and more.

Loving Life in Punta Mala

Today, Erick enjoys full retirement without the worries he left behind in the U.S. The laid-back coastal lifestyle, warm climate, and daily connection to nature have created the retirement he always dreamed of. Whether it’s walking the beaches of Punta Mala, connecting with neighbors, or simply enjoying the slower pace of life, Erick couldn’t be happier with his decision.

Why More People Are Choosing Pedasí

Erick’s story reflects what many retirees are discovering: Pedasí, Panama is one of the best places to retire abroad. With affordable living, strong infrastructure, a friendly community, and easy access back to the U.S., Pedasí is becoming a top choice for those seeking a fresh start in retirement.

As Erick says with a smile, “We thought we wanted the mountains, but life led us to Pedasí—and we couldn’t imagine being anywhere else.”