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This is an interesting discussion, but suddenly seems to have become overwhelmed by the subject of crime… Let me see if I can take it back to the original topic…
I’ve lived in Costa Rica for six years, in Manuel Antonio, on the Pacific Coast. While I’ve never lived in Panama, I’ve been there dozens of times, and even own property there. Both countries are beautiful, tropical paradises. They’re also surprisingly different from one another–geologically, culturally, politically, and in many other ways. You notice the differences the moment you cross the border–better roads, an indigenous presence, fewer trees, a military presence, less mountainous, etc.
From what of tasted of Panama, and despite the tribulations of living in Costa Rica (petty crime, inefficiency) I’d chose Costa Rica over Panama any day. I find this country more beautiful, geographically and climatologically diverse, more warm and inviting, and more prepared for foreign residents than Panama. One weekend I took my family to Africa Mia, in Guanacaste–a very African-like savannah in the middle of nowhere. The next weekend we went to metropolitan Escazu to see Avatar at the Imax theater. The next we went to Playa Ventanas, on the Ballena Coast (my favorite beach!). For someone who is motivated to suck the marrow out of life… there’s a ton of marrow here!
It’s easy to look at a statistical report card and make decisions about how a country must be. These stats are important to know, but more important is just how you feel when you’re here. Don’t ever make a decision to move to one country or another because of a crime stat you saw on a CIA site, or one person’s bad experience. Get down here and see for yourself!
There are challenges to living abroad. But that’s the price for living in paradise!
😆
