Boquete Panama – City of Coffee and Flowers
The small mountain town of Boquete is nestled in a valley o
f mountains with peaks that reach some twelve hundred meters above sea level. This picturesque small town is located in Chiriqui, Panama's most mountainous province. Boquete with the verdant mountains is only 40 miles from the border to Costa Rica away and through the beautiful village the Caldera River is tranqiuil flooding. Boquete is approximately 1.5-hour drive away from the capital city of David and 340 miles from Panama City. Due to its elevation, Boquete's climate is often referred to as "eternal spring, the weather here rarely registers below 60 or above 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
Because of the milder weather and fabulous scenery, Boquete has become a popular holiday and vacation spot with international travelers, and a growing number of expats who choose to live in the charming town. For these reasons the town has the largest expat community in Panama.
Frequent rainbows are the product of the "bajareque", a delicate drizzle that often comes with the north winds that blow down the mountains. The rainbows arch, often in multiplicity, spread over the Valley of Flowers and Eternal Spring.
Boquete is home to one of the best world class coffee plantations, winning many awards year after year. Most coffee is grown on large family-owned farms which offer tasting tours of their plantations. Since 1984 Boquete hosts the annual Festival of Flowers and Coffee (Feria de las Flores y el Cafe), held in the month of january, where it showcases the town's world class coffee and exuberant display of it lush flowers in the fairgrounds.
Boquete is "The Flower Capital of Panama.", and home to some of the best coffee plantations in the world.
Reasons why considering Boquete as a new home
• The climate is fantastic
Boquete enjoys a cool climate, which is a big reason Panamanians and expats alike are drawn to this gem. Due to its elevation some 3,900 feet above sea level, the temperature range is stable throughout the year in and around Boquete. The average low temperature hovers around 60 F, with extremes of 56 F and 62 F. High temperatures range from 79 F to 87. A blanket is perfect to feel cozy on chilly nights, and a ceiling fan will keep the air moving on warm days. Heating or air conditioning is obsolete, keeping utility bills low.
Boquete's international fame has been repeatedly asserted by organizations like AARP which named it a top retirement destination for it enjoys spring-like weather all year round. The only that differentiates the seasons is the rainfall during the summer (roughly from May to October) and ceases during the winter months (November to April). Even during these rainy periods, there is plenty of sunshine. Many days start out bright and clear, with blue skies and clean, white clouds. Morning is the time to get your chores and errands done. Later in the day, the clouds gather, the light dims, and the rain arrives. It may be drizzle or a deluge. It may last for minutes or for hours, but it cools the air and nourishes the earth.
Boquete is a perfect locale formulated by moist climate and fertile, volcanic soil, which gives rise to a rich agricultural bounty of coffee beans, oranges, strawberries, and much more. Rich, aromatic coffee beans are grown here on farms known as fincas that color the hillsides.
• Vibrant culture
Boquete possesses a unique cultural vibe. Painters, photographers, artists, musicians, actors, and sculptors will all feel welcome in this highland town. The population of the district of Boquete is around 20,000, so the town retains a relaxed and small-town feel. The smiling locals, or boqueteños, in their traditional clothes and hats, celebrate the town with expats, retirees, and tourists. Everything in Boquete is natural and cheerful. The mountains around Boquete are also home to the Ngobe-Bugle people. The indigenous group consists of artisans and farmers. Their attire is exceptionally unique where they wear chaquiras (bead necklaces), nahua (the garments of their native dress), baskets, and chacara (woven bags). Similarly, the Kuna people are also admired for their bright molas, a colorful textile art form.
Another highlight of Boquete's cultural vibrancy is the Boquete Jazz and Blues Festival, which occurs every February and gathers performers from around the world. The renowned music festival, which is the largest in the province of Chiriqui, is a lively event that takes place in various indoors and outdoors venues around town. Among them is the Boquete Community Players Theater – the home to plays, concerts, and a busy weekly market. The Boquete Community Players, an expat theater group, was established to promote an appreciation of arts and nurture a sense of community among the expats. Recently opened its new venue alongside the Caldera River, the group also hosts the annual Chiriqui Art Expo.
• Endless sources of adventures
Activities in this part of the world are both pastoral and thrilling, promising to satisfy all kind of adventurers. To really take in the relaxed lifestyle in Boquete, you can take tours of the coffee plantations and rainforests; go white-water rafting on the Rio Caldera, orchid spotting, or horse riding. For the thrill-seekers, zip lining can be a great activity. Hiking is also among the top favorite, and with a guide, you can reach the top of Barú Volcano, Panama's highest point and only volcano. Or go explore the Sendero de los Quetzales trail. The said areas can also be explored by vehicle, although the country's push for ecotourism would encourage exploration that leaves the least impact on Mother Nature. Many choose to live in Boquete have commented that their health improves thanks to their active lifestyle and outdoor pursuits, which can be enjoyed all year around.
You don't need to venture far to admire the spectacular flora and fauna of Boquete. The mountains and forests boast various beautiful flowers: lilies, roses, sunflowers, hibiscus, carnations, and orchids. There are also over 900 species of birds, including the Resplendent Quetzal which was regarded as sacred by the ancient Mayans.
- The hotspot for foodies
Boquete has also become a focal point for foodies and alternative health aficionados. Many small businesses offer delicious delicacies, such as European-style breads, organically produced smoked sausages, locally-sourced honeys, hand-made chocolates, and much more. There is even a micro-brewery in town.
Known for its hospitality towards both nationals and foreigners, there are many options for eating out in and around town as well. You can fill up on a hearty typical meal of roasted chicken, with rice, beans, and a salad for a few dollars. A number of mid-range choices include pizza, soups, sandwiches, and burgers. For a special occasion, it won't be difficult to find dining rooms that serve Peruvian, French, intercontinental, and fusion cuisine with fine wines.
• Panama government welcomes expats with attractive programs
Panama's Pensioner program (Pensionado) offers a lifetime visa for retirees, at significantly low cost and no minimum age requirement. Pensionados receive discounts of up to 50% on entertainment, 25-30% on transportation, 25% on restaurants, 30-50% on hotels, 25% on power and utilities, and 15% on hospital and private clinic service bills.
Known as pro-business and pro-investor, Panama is ranked the best country open for business, according to a list released by US News & World Report this year. The country has favorable corporate and personal tax laws. Foreign-generated income is not taxed, and new home purchases can be exempt from taxation for a certain number of years.
• Previous comers have paved the way
Thanks to an already-established expat community, newcomers to Boquete will find many of same conveniences they have enjoyed back home. Essential items like cellular phone service and high-speed internet are readily available.
Not only is Boquete is favorable for residence, international organizations such as Rotary International and Lions Club International have established their presence in the area. There is a list of other philanthropic initiatives that have been promoted by local expats. For instance, Animales de Boquete strives to control the animal population and improve overall animal health. Another called Amigos de Boquete feeds hundreds of local school children each day. An organization called Buenos Vecinos collects food and monetary donations to support the hungry and elderly.
• Low cost of living in Boquete
You can live comfortably in Boquete for very little. It is far less costly than living in the United States (60-70% less per some expats). One specific example is provided by one expat whom we talked to. He has said that the cost of living in Boquete ranged between 30% and 40% compared to what it was back home, on the California Gold Coast. Life here is naturally inexpensive. No matter where you are originally from, you are likely to save money here on everything from power costs, gas for cooking, to maid service.
Look at the following sample prices in Boquete:
• Real estate in Boquete
There are a lot of great real estate deals in Boquete. For example, a beautiful 3 bedrooms/ 2 bathrooms home of 115m2 (1237.85ft2) on a 429m2 (4617.72ft2) lot can be purchased for under $100,000.
Real estate in Boquete is competitively affordable, despite the recent price rises in tandem with growing popularity. Because it has been a popular location for a number of years, there is an array of real estate options. The town has both modern villas and traditionally modest homes as accommodation.
Property listings show plenty of choices in locations in and around Boquete like Chiriqui and David with a broad range of prices. For instance, a 2 bedrooms new condo in Las Perlas, city of David, Chiriqui - one of Boquete's most desirable areas can be found between $109,200 and $126,000. A house here offers great views of the surround areas and a nice patio. Another great option is a 5-bedrooms, two-story home located in the community of Santa Lucia, Chiriqui, Boquete, will set you back about $395,000. There are fruit trees on the property and a small deck on the back, promising a refreshing outdoor living. When it comes to finding a place to live, there is always something for every budget in Boquete.
Keep in mind that while many household expenses are low in Boquete, so are your living expenses, as we mentioned earlier. There is no need to pay for anything heat or air conditioning bills in the highlands. Many newer homes are exempt from property taxes for a few years. Homeowner's insurance is affordable, and there are no hurricanes.
Final note
Founded on April 11, 1911, Boquete, Panama has become a mecca for international tourism and a magnet for local and international residents from all across the world. A bowl-shaped valley tucked into the mountains of Panama's highlands, Boquete is a true cultural melting pot and until recently, one of the region's best havens. Whether it is the best option for you or more appropriate for others, it is undoubted that Boquete, Panama is indeed a treasure. If Boquete is the home away from home just like what you have already dreamed of, we look forward to seeing you.
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