Boquete is a thriving valley town, standing in the foothills of the extinct Barú volcano in the Chiriqui province of Panama, near the border of Bocas del Toro. Famed for its California oranges, delicious coffee, cool spring air shimmering with rainbows, it is one of the fastest-growing retirement and expatriate communities in Panama. The statuesque landscape runs from 2500 to 10,000 feet high, richly lined with vegetation nourished by black volcanic soil.

The volcano marks the highest point of Panama, and holds a commanding view of the Pacific (and on a clear day, Atlantic) ocean. Rainforests in the surrounding hills are lush and verdant, and home to many rare species, including the highly prized quetzal, a brilliantly colored bird in danger of extinction.

Well removed from the cosmopolitan hubbub, Boquete is a full day's drive from Panama City, but easily accessible by domestic airline or charter to the city of David, a 30 minute drive away.

This town of 350 square miles has a population of just 15,000, a diverse mix of Panamanians, European settlers from the town's founding in 1911, and more recently North Americans, all drawn to the beauty and tranquility of this mountain retreat. Many retirees are establishing their homes in this peaceful community, lured by tits gentle climate and incredible vitality.

The rainy season runs from May to December, and average termperatures range from 65-75°F. The area receives generous rainfall, usually in the form of a light drizzle, creating misty rainbows. Known as the Valley of the Flowers, Boquete is awash with blooms that delight in the everlasting spring weather; orchids, lilies, sunflowers and hibiscus all adorn this alpine garden. The annual Flower and Coffee Festival is a dizzyingly colorful spectacle.

Coffee plantations line the high slopes, and the tight clusters of red berries are picked from October through February by workers from the nearby indigenous communities. The territory of the indigenous tribe Ngöbe-Buglé Indians lies in the hills above the valley, and their artesanal crafts can be found for sale in local markets.

Hiking and riding trails are plentiful, and river-rafting beckons the adventurous on the nearby Chiriqui Grande. For the less adventurous, the rivers offer plentiful trout-fishing, and there are volcanic hot springs to soothe body and spirit.

Useful Links:

Paradise Found: Where to Retire Abroad: A Fortune Magazine article listing Boquete as one of five special retirement destinations in the world.
Aeroperlas Regional Airline: Domestic airline with flights to major destinations within Panama
Mapiex: Charter airline within Central America, with scheduled and privately hired flights.

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