JohnF13

I don't think it has anything to do with location.  It's more a function of a person's ability to adapt.  Those that make it here could probably make it anywhere ( mas o menos) because they have an innate ability to adapt and enjoy.  Doesn't matter where you are ( well, OK, for me the primary demand is no snow!) if you have the mindset, you will be fine.  I'm here and happy, but I'd be just as happy in Singapore.

Just read about it in La Prensa

Thanks.  Things change so fast I'm always concerned when I order something!

Where can I find a list of currently banned products?  

Panawanna, there are options out there.  You do have to make your own decision and not be swayed by slick marketing.  It is going to cost, but everything good does.  PM me if you want more info.

That's a lot of fish.

I suspect the lane closure is going to be a long term thing.  We have been down to David several times in the last few weeks and the lane closure has been there every time.  Another clue is that they have a road crew cleaning up Via Boquete in the area of the entrance/exit to the site.  I suspect ATTT have spoken to them about mud on the road.  Anyway, enjoy either way, a slowdown merely gives us time to check out the progress.

It is a long read, but very interesting:

https://www.theguardian.com/world/2017/jun/01/brazil-operation-car-wash-is-this-the-biggest-corruption-scandal-in-history?CMP=share_btn_link

While the water system is in dire need of overhaul, beware of a bank saying it.  "Collection deficiencies?"  Just means much higher costs to the consumer.

From what I understand, only certain crimes qualify for extradition and I doubt if any information provided to the USA qualifies as extraditable. I agree with Doug, I don't think Panama wants to bring him back and as it seems everyone is somehow involved in Odebretcht, why rock the boat?  The good thing is that Panamanians have long memories, so I would think that Mr. Martinelli has no future in politics here.

For those of you over 65 with World Wide Medical, expect a very big shock when your renewal notice comes in.  Mine is up over last year by 20% or so, that after a big increase last year.  Remember these increases are compounded year over year, so You can expect an even larger increase next year.  The company's reasoning?  11% for inflation ( what, are we in Venezuala?) and the rest because I am a year older.  At this rate of increase my premiums will double in 4 years - my income sure isn't doing that.  Add to that, if you have a pre-existing condition, then there are very few options available.

Thanks Bonnie

Need contact info for Destresno insurance, phone number and email please

WorldWide deals with two hospitals in David, Chiriqui and Mae Lewis.  You can likely get anything you need at either of those places, but for more advanced stuff they use a top hospital in Panama City (Cant remember the name).  There is also a very wide coverage around the World (hence the name I guess) if you are travelling.  If you need something really specialised, then they will likely have a hospital somewhere that covers it.  Best thing to do is check with the agents for the most up to date info.  Either Magda Crespo in San Francisco plaza or Gloria Destrenoso (sp?) in David.

I am with Worldwide too.  On a 3 day stay in Mae Lewis everything was covered ( never saw a bill) except Dr. Anguizola's fees.  I had to pay him directly, but WWM paid me back quickly.  Seems that some individual doctors are not in the plan so you have to adjust.

Not going to happen unless attitudes towards education of kids changes radically.  Most ridiculous phrase ever?  "Education es Primero".

Same down here in Potrerillos.  Bomberos took out a large wasp nest on the side of my house.  Also much rejoicing.

I think the big problem is that the roads are not "crowned" sufficiently, in the sense that the centre if the roadway should be higher than the edges, forcing water off the road quickly instead of having it run down the road in sheets until it can find somewhere else to go.  Add to this sometimes dubious construction practises where not enough substrate is used to support the tarmac, that results in indentations in the road surface wher the majority of vehicle wheels travel.  Water always finds the lowest point so will head for these depressons, setting up a perfect scenario for "water skiing with your car".  The govrnment is not going to fix this, we just need to be aware and drive accordingly.  That includes not travelling at high speeds in rain events.

Quote

Nope.  Old enough to not care.

I agree that we should move to biodegradable plastic.  However, I still feel this a "feel good, looks like we are doing something" move.  You REALLY want to help the environment?  Get the smoke spewing cars off the roads and stop garbage and field burning.  Unfortunately, that will likely result in demonstrations, so it's not gonna happen.

6 hours ago, Keith Woolford said:

Receiving a 'negative reputation' might discourage a member from posting again.

Just not us, huh Keith?  

On 5/4/2017 at 7:57 PM, Admin_01 said:

Your feedback and recommendation are noted. Thank you.

Going a bit further, please note that you are asserting something that is not correct, referring to "There is no policing or it...". All activity on CL is routinely monitored. Sometimes the monitoring is delayed, but eventually completed, typically within 24 hours. We suggest that you revisit Rule #7 at http://www.chiriqui.life/topic/6-terms-rules/.

Bud, are you saying that you monitor all reputation listings and verify if they are appropriate or not?  If so, then you are doing an heroic job!  My comment stands - if anyone upsets anyone else in the slightest perceived way it can result in a negative reputation.  Whether the comment is valid or not really cannot be objectively judged, it is all subjective.  Even a determination by yourself is subjective because it depends on your particular mindset.  None of this is meant to inflame passions or even promote arguments, it is merely my opinion.

The reputations thing is a waste of time.  Anyone that feels triggered by any comment you make can give you a negative reputation.  There is no policing of it and quite frankly it should be done away with.

Can't tell you much.  Blu phone, cost around $100, purchased from the Chino down from hotel alcala.  Embry Koonce, tel 6578-6701 is the guy who has it.

Dottie, you can get a new BLU phone with a larger screen at some of the stores in David.  Cost around $100 and most have dual sim slots.  Decent camera in them.  My buddy who is hell on his phones has one and he hasnt been able to kill it yet.