5 WAYS LIVING IN PANAMA CHANGED MY LIFE FOR THE BETTER
1. TRAVEL & ADVENTURE
First and foremost, I came to Panama to fulfill my goal of traveling more and creating a sense of newness and excitement about life. Atlanta had become uncomfortably predictable. Over the past year, I have connected with a small, but fabulous group of friends who love hiking. We’ve ventured near and far to trails most locals never attempt. I have also traveled solo to El Valle de Anton, Bocas del Toro and Boquete checking mountains, beaches and waterfalls of my must do list.
2. IMPROVING MY SPANISH
Second, as a former Spanish teacher, maintaining my ability to converse in Spanish is a huge personal goal of mine. While I’ll probably never give myself enough credit to say I speak with native fluency, I’m also really happy that I can defend myself when I get the wrong vacuum cleaner delivered or carry on a conversation about politics with the Uber driver dujour. This gives me a great feeling of personal accomplishment as well as keeping my brain young and alive.
3. SAVING MONEY
Third, I had hoped to save money and I have been able to meet that goal. I am not living like a king by any means, but I also don’t want for anything either. I set myself a budget here and I am able to do all of the things that make me happy within that budget: day trips here and there, meeting up for dinner or drinks with friends and decking out my apartment with everything I need.
4. LIVING HEALTHIER
During the time I have been living in Panama, I have been living a healthier lifestyle than I was in the US. With the year round warm weather, I spend so much more time outdoors hiking, going to Zumba classes in the park, walking to and from the grocery store and eating smaller portions than I was a year ago.
5. DISCOVERING MY STRENGTHS
Finally, I’ve learned a great deal about who I am. In terms of labels, I am neither retired, nor do I consider myself a digital nomad. I’m just a mom with a crazy desire to see the world while my kids are in college. I accomplished this dream that I never really knew I had with a lot of hard work and determination, never settling along the way and always putting my financial, emotional and personal well-being first.
In the end, I might do a few things differently given the opportunity, but I don’t have a single regret. Living in Panama has been just what my life needed. It has invigorated my soul, taught me things I never knew about myself and the world and it continues to be a constant source of stimulation and growth. So, the answer to my question? Yes, yes, yes, I would do it all over again.
Are you ready to take on the adventure? What are some ways living in Panama could change your life for the better?
By Freya Plower