Americans Seek Affordable Living Abroad: The Bates Couple’s Journey to Costa Rica and Panama
While many people around the world still hold onto the American Dream for job opportunities, education, or financial freedom in the United States, some Americans are leaving the country for different benefits. They seek a lower cost of living, different climates, job opportunities, more affordable healthcare, or a peaceful retirement away from big cities.
CoCo and Deitrick Bates, a couple from the U.S., decided to move to a country with a more affordable cost of living. They faced financial difficulties and wanted a more tranquil life. Deitrick, a veteran who served in Iraq, struggled with post-traumatic stress disorder, which worsened during the pandemic in 2021. His tense state affected their lives, prompting CoCo to think, “We can solve this somewhere else.”
CoCo, who worked as a project manager at a taekwondo studio, searched for options and found tickets to Costa Rica. They took the leap despite having never been there, lacking Spanish skills, friends, or family. Three months later, they began their new journey. CoCo started painting, brewing beer, and working as a private chef, while Deitrick began receiving medical retirement benefits in 2023.
How has their mental health improved since relocating to Panama?
Interview with CoCo and Deitrick Bates: Embracing a New Life Abroad
Interviewer: Thank you, CoCo and Deitrick, for joining us today. Let’s start with your decision to leave the United States. What were the key factors that led you to consider relocating?
CoCo Bates: Thank you for having us. For us, it was really about seeking a more peaceful life. I had been working as a project manager, and we were both feeling the strain of financial difficulties and the stresses that came with living in a big city. Deitrick, being a veteran, was also dealing with challenges related to his PTSD, which intensified during the pandemic. It became clear that we needed a change.
Deitrick Bates: Exactly. I thought about my mental health and overall well-being. The environment we were in was not conducive to recovery. It kind of hit me one day—why not solve this somewhere else?
Interviewer: What prompted your particular move to Costa Rica?
CoCo Bates: I started researching options, and Costa Rica stood out. It had a reputation for a lower cost of living, beautiful landscapes, and a friendly expat community. So, despite having never been there, we decided to take a leap of faith. We figured we would figure things out once we got there.
Deitrick Bates: Yeah, we didn’t even speak Spanish! But the allure of a tranquil lifestyle in a foreign land was too strong. Three months later, we were on a plane.
Interviewer: After settling in Costa Rica, you began new ventures. Can you share how that experience was for both of you?
CoCo Bates: It was liberating! I started painting, which had always been a passion I never pursued seriously. I also brewed beer and worked as a private chef, which allowed me to connect with locals and learn the culture.
Deitrick Bates: For me, it was about accessing the medical benefits I’d earned through my service. In 2023, I finally started receiving my medical retirement benefits, which helped ease some of the financial pressures.
Interviewer: Fascinating! However, you eventually moved to Panama. What led to that decision?
CoCo Bates: Unexpectedly, we took a trip to San Blas, Panama. It was eye-opening—we found a city that felt very much like home in the U.S. with modern conveniences, affordable imported goods, and a relaxed vibe.
Deitrick Bates: When we analyzed the cost of living, we realized Panama was actually more affordable than Costa Rica. With the help of a relocation company, we navigated the residency process and made the move.
Interviewer: How has life changed for you in Panama compared to Costa Rica and the U.S.?
CoCo Bates: Life here feels richer. We’ve embraced a simpler lifestyle that allows us to focus on wellness and happiness. The cost of living is lower, and we can indulge in our passions without the constant financial stress.
Deitrick Bates: Plus, I feel a lot more at ease mentally. The quiet atmosphere and supportive community mean a lot. Also, I’m able to manage my PTSD better in this tranquil setting.
Interviewer: What advice would you offer to others considering moving abroad for similar reasons?
CoCo Bates: Do your research! It’s essential to understand both the pros and cons of the country you’re considering. And don’t be afraid to take that leap—it can be life-changing!
Deitrick Bates: Definitely have a plan, but be ready to adapt. Things might not go as you envisioned, but sometimes, those unexpected turns lead to the best experiences. Just make sure whatever decision you make prioritizes your mental health and happiness.
Interviewer: Thank you, CoCo and Deitrick, for sharing your inspiring journey. It’s clear that pursuing a life abroad has positively impacted both of you.
CoCo and Deitrick Bates: Thank you! We’re grateful for the opportunity to share our story.
Although they enjoyed their life in Costa Rica, an unexpected trip to San Blas, Panama, changed everything. They discovered a city that resembled the U.S. with conveniences like delivery services and affordable imported goods. After analyzing the cost of living, they found Panama was cheaper than Costa Rica. With the help of a relocation company, they obtained residency and moved to Panama.