Expert: Jack Silvera - 8/16/2009

Question
Hello Jack- Are you currently living in Panama?  I'm A highly skilled Rn w/ 15+ yrs critical care experience. I would really like to relocate my wife & 10y/o son to Panama. Do you have a sense of the open RN positions there? We know that we would have to scale down greatly re housing. So, where are all of these "brand new" beachfront cottages for around 30k, that I keep hearing bits about? Also, I hear we are allowed to bring 10k in hshld items tax free-do you know if that is per family or per person? If you are able to cast light on any of these subjects, I would be most appreciative. Best Regards= JEFF


























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Answer
Hello Jeff:
Yes I am in Panama City.  
I don't know the availability of positions for resident nurses in hospitals.  The phone number of Hospital Punta Pacifica is (507) 204-8300.  Ask for Ms. DeSanctis.  I believe she is the Adminisitrator and can tell you if they require staff or can advise you where there might be an opportunity for you.  
Regarding beach villas for 30K.  I think it must be more like 300K.  The only homes for 30K around Panama City are in those projects with many identical very small single level houses which are not what you would be interested in.
There are certain tax exemptions in household items you can bring per person, but that depends on your immigrant status.  If you are able to get a job, your employer's lawyers can advise you on that.
If you have some time off, I would suggest taking a short vacation in Panama.  See for yourself before making any move.
Good luck.
Jack