Well this is our third and final trip to Panama as we are now living here permanently, and about to start the visa application next week. We are renting a lovely home, have a golf membership enoying playing golf 3 times a week. It takes a while to get organized, just bought a car. Expats here very friendly and helpful. Going to the happy hours is a great way to meet some new people. Just remember this is not North America everything goes a lot slower pace here and you have to have patience. Definately knowing Spanish is helpful you do not need to be fluent. There are a few grocery stores to choose from selling North American products. Defiinately purchase Magic Jack as you can call from
Canada and USA free.