Off Grid Island

23/04/2024

Cost of Living Comparison: Panama vs. the US and Canada

When considering a move to Panama, understanding the cost of living differences compared to the United States and Canada is crucial. Variations in costs exist depending on the specific regions, but national averages offer a general perspective. Here's a breakdown comparing Panama to the US and Canada.

US vs. Panama

Clothing: Clothing costs are slightly higher in Panama, by about 0.04%.
Restaurants:
Dining at a fancy restaurant with drinks and a meal is 57.6% cheaper in Panama.
Fast food is 19.8% cheaper in Panama.
A soft drink at a restaurant is 31.6% cheaper in Panama.
Groceries: 24.9% less expensive in Panama.
Transportation: 17.6% less expensive in Panama.
Housing: Housing is 51% less expensive in Panama.
Internet: 29.4% less expensive in Panama.
Childcare: Childcare is 70.6% less expensive in Panama.
Private Schools: 60-80% less expensive in Panama.
Entertainment: 37% cheaper in Panama.

Overall, Panama is 33.8% cheaper than the US before taking advantage of the Pensionado Visa, which provides additional discounts.

Canada vs. Panama

Clothing: Clothing is 0.07% cheaper in Panama.
Restaurants:
Dining at a fancy restaurant with drinks and a meal is 107% cheaper in Panama.
Fast food is 18.4% cheaper in Panama.
A soft drink at a restaurant is 15.3% cheaper in Panama.
Groceries: 28.2% less expensive in Panama.
Transportation: 40.4% cheaper in Panama.
Housing: Housing is 69% less expensive in Panama.
Internet: 28.3% less expensive in Panama.
Childcare: Childcare costs in Canada are 2.7 times higher than in Panama.
Private Schools: Canadian private schools are 226.8% more expensive.
Entertainment: 37% cheaper in Panama.

Panama is 79% cheaper than Canada before considering the Pensionado Visa, which offers further discounts.

Additional Benefits:
Living off-grid on an island with no utility bills and the ability to grow and catch much of your own food increases the cost savings further.

Secure your future home now. Respond to this email or contact us at [email protected] to learn more.

13/04/2024

Business Opportunities Available at Off-Grid Island

1,Charter Fishing Business: Join forces with a dedicated resident with a strong work ethic and deep love for Bocas. Seeking investors to capitalize on the thriving charter fishing industry.

2 Party Boat: Partner with Bocas's premier party groups to establish a sought-after party boat location. Benefit from our connections and assistance in setting up the entire operation.

3.AirBnB Rentals: Tap into the lucrative vacation rental market by offering your home for rent when you're away. Rentals command $150 to $500 per night, with high demand due to proximity to upscale resorts. Enjoy full management and cleaning services.

4.Clubhouse Restaurant Ownership: Take advantage of our pristine shoreline and abundant seafood supply by owning and operating a restaurant open to the public. Turn this opportunity into a profitable venture.

5.Mini-Convenience Store: Own and operate a convenience store on our property, catering to the needs of residents and visitors alike.

I6.Internet Business: Leverage blazing-fast internet connectivity to run your online business or collaborate with our team of online professionals for guidance and support.

7.Glamping Locations: Capitalize on the rising trend of glamorous camping by establishing your own glamping hotel or site. Provide unique accommodations for travelers seeking luxury in nature.

8.Purchase our Small Barge: Acquire our small barge at a discounted rate and tap into the growing demand for delivery services and transportation of large items to the island. Potential earnings exceed $2,000 per day.

We prioritize the well-being and success of our self-sustaining community residents. Contact us to explore these opportunities further, and secure your spot before home prices increase by $20,000 per unit on April 15th. Act now to capitalize on this exceptional offer below local market pricing.

08/04/2024

Governments Secret Crackdown on Preppers Threatens Your Right to Grow Food

Glenn recently had Representative Thomas Massie on his show to sound the alarm about an important yet often overlooked issue affecting what we eat. Whether you're trying to be prepared to weather a catastrophe or just trying to keep food on the table without resorting to eating bugs, it's more imp.....

07/04/2024

Welcome Retired Naval Officer Glenn and Jackie to Off-Grid Island

30/03/2024

Come and fish with us!!!

26/03/2024

Exploring Healthcare Options in Panama for Expats

When contemplating a move to a foreign country, healthcare and medical insurance often become significant considerations. In this email, we'll delve into the healthcare systems of both Canada and the US, as well as shed light on healthcare options in Panama. While certain aspects may not directly apply to you, we believe you'll find valuable insights into healthcare in Panama.

Canada boasts universal healthcare coverage for all citizens, contrasting with the private healthcare system prevalent in the US. However, if you're considering a move to Panama or splitting your time between Panama and your home country, it's crucial to understand your healthcare options.

In Panama, medical insurance is available at a fraction of the cost compared to the US, which is equally pertinent to our Canadian community. Here's a brief overview of healthcare expenses in Panama:

Regular doctor's visits range from $5 to $15 per visit.
Consultations with specialists may cost between $25 to $75.
Blood tests are approximately $15, while X-rays start at $18.
Dental care in Panama is excellent and typically costs one-third of US prices.

Moreover, healthcare insurance options in Panama vary widely, from private hospital plans resembling HMOs priced at $30 to $300 per month, to offerings from providers like Blue Cross Blue Shield. US and Canadian expats residing in Panama can opt for the GeoBlue Xplorer plan, providing comprehensive global coverage with access to the Blue Cross / Blue Shield network in the USA, priced at approximately $50 to $250 per month.

Panama boasts excellent healthcare facilities, including the renowned Johns Hopkins Hospital and the Stem Cell Research Institute frequented by celebrities like Mel Gibson and Tony Robbins. Advanced medical treatments such as Vitamin IV therapy are also available.

Should you require medical assistance, we can guide you to top-notch cardiologists, general practitioners, gynecologists, and more.

Why not embrace paradise living in Panama, relishing the tropical climate, warm hospitality, fresh natural cuisine, and diverse recreational activities? Join our off-grid community of like-minded individuals, starting at only $60,000, and experience comfort and camaraderie amidst breathtaking surroundings.

For further details or inquiries, feel free to contact us by simply replying to this email or visit our website.

Off Grid Island Resort Style Living Off Grid Starting at $100K Only a 15 Minute Boat Ride to the Mainland Experience the breathtaking serenity of waking up to panoramic ocean vistas from your very own slice of paradise at our exquisite resort. Savor the delight of enjoying crisp, pure water and indu...

22/03/2024

Come and fish with us

21/03/2024

Great for New Preppers

There is no doubt about it—we are entering dark times.The November presidential election is only a few months away, and following the chaos of the 2020 election, the American people are bracing for what is likely to be another tumultuous election year. The left's anti-Trump rhetoric is reaching an...

21/03/2024

How do you legally own or carry a firearm in Panama?

Panama is very safe for tourist safety. You are very unlikely to ever need a gun to defend yourself or your loved ones in Panama.

The Pinkerton Intelligence Agency has given Panama the highest rating Panama is far different then the US in regard to fi****ms. In the US, just about everyone possess a firearm.

Your average person in Panama does not own a gun, so many ask:
Can a foreigner own a handgun or any other firearm? The answer is yes.
It's important not to smuggle guns into Panama. You can legally get a permit, and there's no limit to how many guns you can own once approved. The process takes 3 to 6 months for foreigners and requires:
Having a bank account in Panama
Being a legal resident (not a tourist)
Taking a psychological evaluation
Submitting your gun(s) for a ballistic test
Passing a urine drug test
Doing a DNA test and submitting paperwork
Undergoing a background check by the Panama Police

Though it may seem like a lot, we have one of the few attorneys in Panama who handle the entire process for you.

If you decide to import your own guns, you can but it is more likely easier to purchase them here in Panama

Guns are approximately 50% more expensive in Panama compared to the United States. Importing guns into Panama can be a complicated and lengthy process, often involving various permits and paperwork.

To import guns, you typically start at a Panama gun shop, where they assist you in applying for an importation permit. You may also need the help of a licensed gun dealer to export your guns from your country of origin.

The importation permit process resembles the gun permit process and requires shipping your unloaded gun and all necessary paperwork to Panama, followed by a waiting period.

Once in Panama, your guns are stored in a government warehouse, where they may be subject to import duties based on their value. Hiring a customs broker may be necessary to navigate this process.

Considering the complexities involved, purchasing a gun locally in Panama may be a more convenient option for those who require one.

In Panama, having a gun permit means you can carry a concealed gun. It's a must to keep your gun concealed when carrying it in public.
However, there are restrictions. You can't take your gun, whether concealed or not, into places like banks, bars, nightclubs, and specific financial or government buildings.

In Panama, you can't own fully automatic fi****ms. However, you can buy handguns like Glocks, semi-automatic handguns, and revolvers, as well as rifles and shotguns. No fully automatic guns are allowed, but you can have hi-capacity magazines for any type of gun with no restrictions. Semi-auto rifles and handguns are allowed.
Silencers and armor-piercing ammo are not permitted, but hollow points and high-speed lightweight defensive rounds are okay.

Buying, selling, and receiving guns in Panama is legal, but getting the permit takes time. You can own as many guns as you want, but keep in mind there's no big game in Panama, so you won't need big gauge hunting guns.

Hurry! Limited lots left in our exclusive off-grid community! Join like-minded individuals in achieving total energy, food, and water independence. No hassle, no sacrifice—just turnkey living starting at $60,000. Secure your spot now before it's too late!

Here is our website

Off Grid Island Resort Style Living Off Grid Starting at $100K Only a 15 Minute Boat Ride to the Mainland Experience the breathtaking serenity of waking up to panoramic ocean vistas from your very own slice of paradise at our exquisite resort. Savor the delight of enjoying crisp, pure water and indu...

14/03/2024

Here are the top ten questions answered for those considering a move to Panama:

1.What's the cost of living? Living expenses vary based on preferences, but budgets range from $1000 to $5000 per month. Rural areas offer a simpler life for around $1200 a month, while $2000 a month on Off-Grid Island provides more amenities.
2.What's the healthcare like? Panama's healthcare system is rated the top in the world and includes public hospitals with low-cost services and private hospitals resembling North American standards. Costs are affordable, with doctor visits starting at $12 and emergency room visits under $500.
3.What's the crime rate? Like any country, Panama has crime, but per capita, it's lower than many Western nations. The safety index is comparable to North America, with precautions necessary in certain areas.
4.What residency visas are available? Panama offers various visas, including the Pensionado Visa for retirees with pensions over $1000/month and the Friendly Nations Visa for investors or workers from qualifying countries.
5.Do I have to pay taxes? Panama operates on a Territorial Tax System, meaning residents only pay taxes on Panama-sourced income, making it attractive for retirees and digital nomads.
6.Where are the best places to live? Popular locations include Panama City for city lovers, Bocas Del Toro for those seeking island living and clear water, Coronado for beach enthusiasts, and mountain towns like Boquete for nature lovers.
7.Can I work or open a business? Employment typically requires fluency in Spanish and a work visa, while opening a business is straightforward. We work with ex-pats to establish a business presence.
8,What's the weather like? Panama has a tropical climate, with temperatures ranging from 22°C to 33°C throughout the year. Dry seasons last from January to April, with rainfall increasing from April to December.
9.How do I buy a house, and what are property taxes? Real estate purchases are similar to North America but require careful attention. Property taxes are low, starting at 0% for the first $120,000 and a sliding scale beyond that.
10.What's the cost and quality of internet? High-quality internet is widely available, with speeds up to 1000 megs and packages starting at $25 per month. Satellite options, like those on Off-Grid Island, offer fast service for around $120 per month.

These answers provide valuable insights for anyone considering a move to Panama, covering essential aspects of life in this vibrant country.
At Off Grid Island, we work hard to help our clients transition. If you have any questions, we are here for you. We invite you to visit our site at

Off Grid Island Resort Style Living Off Grid Starting at $100K Only a 15 Minute Boat Ride to the Mainland Experience the breathtaking serenity of waking up to panoramic ocean vistas from your very own slice of paradise at our exquisite resort. Savor the delight of enjoying crisp, pure water and indu...