I am toying with the idea of leaving the U.S. once I retire and living in another country. Currently, it's possible for Americans to live in other civilized countries and spend roughly 30-50% of what it costs to live here in Texas. The recession and following unemployment cleaned out much of my savings but I still have two company pensions and social security once I claim them after age 65.
What I'd like is any ex-Pats among us to describe their experience leaving the country and what hassles/bureaucracies they experience either in leaving America or arriving in their new country.
I'm beginning to zero in on Panama for a number of reasons, especially Chiriqui Province (David, Boquete) but not committed to anything yet. It will be five years before I can retire but I want to do my research and make the best decision I can so I'm prepared for everything.
My main rationale is that I can afford to retire and live in Central/South America when I'm 65 or continue on the work in the U.S. treadmill until I am well into my 70s. While I would miss family members and few other things, the decision does not seem all that hard.