Libertarian philosophy is hard to find if you are a purist. However, if the bureaucracy is limited enough you can enjoy most of the freedom without the written philosophy. We already know that laws can be less than effective even when they are as clear cut as the US Constitution... when the political class is unchecked by individual action.
Panama City, Panama, has a lot of advantages... unless you need a job. The pay scales are very low and non-citizens can't get jobs except in specific instances (like a unique skill.)
However an independent businessman can make a good living there, and the infrastructure is better than most of the US, so internet businesses can thrive. Panama has no income tax on money made that is not local, so that can be a great incentive. There is a free trade zone on the Atlantic end of the canal zone, too.
The cost of living is low, and there are special programs for expats on a pension (discounts on everything.) There are 10-20 year real estate tax breaks on new construction homes and on tourist business buildings, too. Even without those breaks you won't see $11,000 a year real estate taxes unless you have a property worth millions. High rise condos with ocean view go for as little as $50 per square foot in Panama City...but you can pay more for more luxury if you wish.
Panama is out of the hurricane belt, too.
Medical care is first rate at 60%-70% cheaper than in the Georgia, 80%-90% less than in CA, NY, DC.
I had dental work done for 70% less than in Georgia and the dentist was the best I have ever had (and I have a mouthful of crowns so I know the drill... pardon the pun.)
Maid and gardener service ... as low as $200-$300 a month for each, if that appeals to you.
The downside... you have learn to speak Spanish or you won't really enjoy the culture there.
Other options... Uruguay has cheap oceanfront property with no hurricane threats, and if you like the city, Montevideo is a beautiful place with first world infrastructure. Plus you can have a weekend in Buenos Airies Argentina too ... its a $50 airfare away.
I am also looking at some areas in the Caribbean, but I won't have a report on that until later this year.
I'd love to hear other alternatives, too.
Freedom |
