The Panama Podcast

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Welcome to Tocumen International Airport (PTY)—the newly expanded gateway to Latin America! In this episode of The Panama Podcast, we break down the jaw-dropping billion-dollar transformation of Panama's main international airport and what it means for travelers, expats, investors, and locals alike.

From smoother check-ins and gourmet dining to luxury lounges and global connectivity, PTY just became the crown jewel of Latin American air travel.

Listen now to discover:
✅ The $1.2 billion upgrade that transformed Terminal 2
✅ How Panama’s airport capacity more than TRIPLED
✅ This bigger, better airport means more direct flights to cities around the world.
✅ New restaurants, luxury amenities, and where to find the best wine
✅ Why this expansion means big things for real estate and tourism
✅ Insider tips on how this affects YOU—whether you live here or just love to visit!


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LINKS:
✅ Free e-Book: https://www.choosepanama.com/free-book.html
✅ Schedule a Call with the Choose Panama Team: choosepanama.com/contact 

✅ Watch the VIDEO version of this episode: https://www.choosepanama.com/blog/panamas-airport-just-got-way-bigger-and-nobody-noticed

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📌 Keywords:
Panama Airport Expansion, Tocumen International Airport, PTY Terminal 2, Panama travel 2025, Panama real estate, Panama tourism, moving to Panama, Panama expat tips, Latin America airport hub, Panama infrastructure update, PTY airport dining, Copa Airlines hub

🔖 Hashtags:
#PanamaPodcast #TocumenAirport #PTY #PanamaTravel #PanamaLife #ChoosePanama #PanamaExpansion #PanamaRealEstate #LatinAmericaHub #MelissaDarnay #AirportUpgrade

Support the show

Thank you for listening to this episode of The Panama Podcast. If you like it, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review. 

To get a copy of your FREE e-book, go to: https://www.choosepanama.com/free-book.html

Stay tuned for more stories of adventure, relocation, and life in Panama. For more information, resources, and to connect with our community, visit our website at www.ChoosePanama.com. Until next time ... Cheers! 

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How Learning to Dance Changed My Life isn’t just a catchy title—it’s a truth we’ve all lived! In this heartfelt episode of The Panama Podcast: Real Expats, we sit down with Javier Cabrera, co-owner of Let’s Dance in Panama City, to uncover how dancing can transform your life… emotionally, physically, and socially. 🕺

Your hosts Melissa Darnay, Amanda Gleeson and Stacey Jenks join Javier to share their personal journeys—how stepping onto the dance floor in Panama brought them joy, connection, and confidence. Whether you’ve got two left feet, no partner, or zero experience, this episode will show you why dance is for everyone… and why Panama is the perfect place to start.

👉 Thinking of trying something new in Panama? Let Dance can be part of your next adventure!

🎧 Tune in, laugh with us, and maybe even be inspired to salsa your way into a new chapter.

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LINKS:

 ✅ Free e-Book: https://www.choosepanama.com/free-book.html

 ✅ Watch the VIDEO of this episode: https://www.choosepanama.com/blog/dance-your-way-to-happiness-in-panama

 ✅ Contact Stacey Jenks: www.ChoosePanamaRentals.com

 ✅ Contact Amanda Gleeson: https://agleesonconsultingservices.com/

 ✅ Contact Javier Cabrera: www.LetsDancePanama.com 

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#ChoosePanama #MelissaDarnay #ThePanamaPodcast #LetsDancePanama #PanamaLife #ExpatLifePanama #RealExpats #DanceChangedMyLife #PanamaCityPanama #NewHobbies #DancingInPanama #LatinDance #SalsaPanama #ExpatAdventures

Support the show

Thank you for listening to this episode of The Panama Podcast. If you like it, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review. 

To get a copy of your FREE e-book, go to: https://www.choosepanama.com/free-book.html

Stay tuned for more stories of adventure, relocation, and life in Panama. For more information, resources, and to connect with our community, visit our website at www.ChoosePanama.com. Until next time ... Cheers! 

Send us Fan Mail

Looking for a beautiful, affordable place to enjoy your golden years? Discover why Panama is quickly becoming a top destination for retirees who want to age in place with comfort, safety, and style. From modern medical care to thoughtfully designed condos, this video explores everything you need to know about retiring smart in Panama.

Whether you're downsizing, planning ahead, or just want a better quality of life without breaking the bank, Panama offers unmatched benefits for aging gracefully—with sunshine, community, and peace of mind.

✅ Accessible healthcare
✅ Ocean-view living
✅ Innovative housing options
✅ Relaxed lifestyle
✅ Lower cost of living
✅ Easy to find affordable in-home care

Ready to find your forever home? 

📌 Listen now and see why aging in place in Panama might be the best decision you’ll ever make.

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LINKS:

✅ Free e-Book: https://www.choosepanama.com/free-book.html

✅ Watch the VIDEO version: https://www.choosepanama.com/blog/find-your-forever-home-aging-in-place-in-panama

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#choosepanama #melissadarnay #thepanamapodcast #aginginplace #retireinpanama #panamarealestate #retirementabroad #expatlife #healthyliving #retirementplanning #affordableliving #seniorliving #panamalifestyle

Support the show

Thank you for listening to this episode of The Panama Podcast. If you like it, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review. 

To get a copy of your FREE e-book, go to: https://www.choosepanama.com/free-book.html

Stay tuned for more stories of adventure, relocation, and life in Panama. For more information, resources, and to connect with our community, visit our website at www.ChoosePanama.com. Until next time ... Cheers! 

Send us Fan Mail

Ever wondered how expats in Panama manage to balance a thriving career and a laid-back tropical lifestyle? 🌴 In this episode of The Real Expats on The Panama Podcast, we pull back the curtain on Panama’s perfect life-work balance.

Host Melissa Darnay welcomes special guest Nataly Netchaeva, an international hair stylist whose vibrant career and personal journey showcase how Panama makes it possible to have both professional success and personal freedom. Joining the conversation are our insightful regulars: Stacey Jenks of Choose Panama Rentals (www.ChoosePanamaRentals.com) and Amanda Gleeson of Furnishing Solutions Panama (www.agleesonconsultingservices.com). Together, they explore how Panama’s expat-friendly culture, entrepreneurial opportunities, and unbeatable lifestyle create a dream scenario for those looking to live and work abroad.

If you’ve been thinking about relocating, launching a business, or simply living life on your terms, this is an episode you can’t miss!

👉 Listen now and discover the real expat experience in Panama.

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LINKS:
- Free e-Book: https://www.choosepanama.com/free-book.html

- Watch the VIDEO version of this episode: https://www.choosepanama.com/blog/panamas-perfect-life-work-balance-secret

To contact Nataly for the best hair of your life:
- Instagram: @nnnatstyle
- Facebook: @natalystylist
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#PanamaLife #WorkLifeBalance #ExpatLifePanama #ChoosePanama #MelissaDarnay #ThePanamaPodcast #PanamaLiving #PanamaRealEstate #MoveToPanama #InternationalLiving #PanamaExpats #PanamaBusiness #TheRealExpats #panamapodcast

Support the show

Thank you for listening to this episode of The Panama Podcast. If you like it, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review. 

To get a copy of your FREE e-book, go to: https://www.choosepanama.com/free-book.html

Stay tuned for more stories of adventure, relocation, and life in Panama. For more information, resources, and to connect with our community, visit our website at www.ChoosePanama.com. Until next time ... Cheers! 

Send us Fan Mail

Thinking about investing in Panama? Whether you're a seasoned investor, a future expat, or just curious about the booming Panama property market, this episode is your insider guide to what's really happening on the ground in 2025. 

In this episode of The Panama Podcast, Melissa Darnay breaks down the 7 hottest real estate trends shaping Panama’s future. From rising demand in beachfront communities like Playa Bonita and Coronado, to the explosive interest in pre-construction properties, you'll get expert insights on why North Americans are flocking to Panama—and what it means for property values, ROI, and lifestyle.

✅ Want to know why Panama is becoming the ultimate "Plan B"?
✅ Curious about pricing per square meter in top areas like Panama City and Boquete?
✅ Wondering if NOW is the right time to buy?

Tune in and discover how the Panama real estate market is evolving—and how you can take advantage of these exciting changes.

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✅ Get a Free e-Book: https://www.choosepanama.com/free-book.html

✅  Watch the Video Version of this Episode: https://www.choosepanama.com/blog/real-estate-market-in-panama-7-trends-you-need-to-know

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📌 SEO Keywords:
Panama real estate market 2025, investing in Panama, Panama property trends, real estate Panama City, buy property in Panama, Panama expat living, Panama condos for sale, Boquete real estate, Playa Bonita Panama, Coronado Panama real estate, pre-construction Panama, Panama Plan B investment, luxury real estate Panama, affordable beachfront property Panama, Panama real estate ROI

📣 Hashtags:
#ChoosePanama #MelissaDarnay #ThePanamaPodcast #PanamaRealEstate #InvestInPanama #BoqueteRealEstate #PanamaCityCondos #CoronadoPanama #PanamaLife #PanamaProperty #PlanB #PanamaInvestment #PanamaLiving #PreconstructionPanama

Support the show

Thank you for listening to this episode of The Panama Podcast. If you like it, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review. 

To get a copy of your FREE e-book, go to: https://www.choosepanama.com/free-book.html

Stay tuned for more stories of adventure, relocation, and life in Panama. For more information, resources, and to connect with our community, visit our website at www.ChoosePanama.com. Until next time ... Cheers! 

Send us Fan Mail

Thinking about moving to Panama? Before you pack your bags and chase that tropical dream, make sure you really know what you’re getting into. In this episode of The Panama Podcast, I’m sharing insider tips, expat mistakes to avoid, and the little details that can make or break your Panama experience.

From choosing the right neighborhood to understanding cultural quirks, I’ll guide you through the do’s, don’ts, and definitely don’ts of life in Panama. Whether you're planning to retire, invest, or start a new chapter in Central America, these tips will help you settle in with confidence—and without regrets.

Learn how to:
✅ Avoid common expat pitfalls
✅ Navigate cultural surprises
✅ Choose the right housing and healthcare
✅ Plug into the local community
✅ And actually enjoy the life you WANT—Panama-style

This isn’t sugar-coated—it’s real talk from someone who’s lived it.

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LINKS:

✅ Get a free e-Book: https://www.choosepanama.com/free-book.html

✅ Watch the video version: https://www.choosepanama.com/blog/tips-for-living-in-panama-without-regrets

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#choosepanama #thepanamapodcast #melissadarnay #livinginpanama #expattips #movetopanama #panamarelocation #retireabroad #panamalife #expatlife #digitalnomadpanama #expatsuccess #panamapodcast #noregrets

Support the show

Thank you for listening to this episode of The Panama Podcast. If you like it, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review. 

To get a copy of your FREE e-book, go to: https://www.choosepanama.com/free-book.html

Stay tuned for more stories of adventure, relocation, and life in Panama. For more information, resources, and to connect with our community, visit our website at www.ChoosePanama.com. Until next time ... Cheers! 

Send us Fan Mail

Is Panama really a foreign country… or does it feel more like the 51st state? In this eye-opening episode, we uncover the surprising ways Panama mirrors American life—and where it definitely doesn’t. From fast food chains and U.S. dollar currency to cultural differences you won’t see coming, this is the video you didn’t know you needed before moving or investing in Panama.

Whether you're planning your move, scouting investment property, or just curious about expat life, this episode gives you the real scoop—with no sugarcoating.

📍 Learn what’s familiar, what’s not, and why so many Americans feel instantly at home in Panama.
✈️ Thinking of relocating? This episode is your essential guide to the American comforts (and quirks) hiding in plain sight.

#choosepanama #melissadarnay #thepanamapodcast #expatlife #movetopanama #americanexpat #livingabroad #panamarelocation #investinpanama #retireabroad #expatlifestyle #panamacity #panamalife #usainpanama #digitalnomadlife

Support the show

Thank you for listening to this episode of The Panama Podcast. If you like it, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review. 

To get a copy of your FREE e-book, go to: https://www.choosepanama.com/free-book.html

Stay tuned for more stories of adventure, relocation, and life in Panama. For more information, resources, and to connect with our community, visit our website at www.ChoosePanama.com. Until next time ... Cheers! 

Send us Fan Mail

Inside the NEW Westin Residences at Playa Bonita | Invest in Paradise with Liz Larroquette

Looking for the next BIG opportunity in Panama real estate? 🌴 In this episode of The Panama Podcast, I sit down with Liz Larroquette, renowned investment advisor for Empresas Bern, to talk about the brand-new Westin Residences—a premier beachfront project in Playa Bonita, just minutes from Panama City.

This exciting, branded residence is backed by the marketing powerhouse of Marriott International, giving it unmatched global visibility and long-term value. If you’ve been waiting for a luxury investment that combines lifestyle, location, and international credibility—this is it.

What we cover in this episode:

✅ Why Playa Bonita is Panama’s best-kept secret for luxury living
✅ What makes branded residences like Westin stand out from traditional condos
✅ How Marriott’s global network will benefit homeowners and investors
✅ Project features, amenities, and what makes this launch so special
✅ Why now is the time to invest in Panama’s thriving coastal real estate market

Whether you're an experienced investor or just starting your property journey abroad, you won’t want to miss this insider look at one of Panama’s most exciting new developments.

👇 Listen now and discover if the Westin Residences could be your next big move.

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LINKS:

✅ Free e-Book: https://www.choosepanama.com/free-book.html

✅ Watch the video version of this episode to see renderings, plans and more: https://www.choosepanama.com/blog/inside-the-new-westin-residences-playa-bonita

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🔍 Search Terms:
Westin Residences Panama, Playa Bonita real estate, invest in Panama 2025, Empresas Bern projects, Liz Larroquette Panama, Panama beachfront condos, branded residences Latin America, Panama Marriott investment, real estate in Panama, Westin Panama City, luxury property in Playa Bonita

#choosepanama #melissadarnay #thepanamapodcast #westinresidences #empresasbern #investinpanama #playabonita #brandedresidences #panamarealestate #marriottbrandedhomes #propertyinvestment2025

Support the show

Thank you for listening to this episode of The Panama Podcast. If you like it, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review. 

To get a copy of your FREE e-book, go to: https://www.choosepanama.com/free-book.html

Stay tuned for more stories of adventure, relocation, and life in Panama. For more information, resources, and to connect with our community, visit our website at www.ChoosePanama.com. Until next time ... Cheers! 

Send us Fan Mail

Thinking about relocating or retiring abroad in 2025? Two Central American gems often top the list: Panama and Guatemala. But which one is truly the best fit for you?

In this episode of The Panama Podcast, we compare these two tropical havens in a fun countdown format! From cost of living and real estate to healthcare, safety, and lifestyle perks, we help you decide whether Panama or Guatemala is YOUR ideal paradise.

✨ Whether you’re dreaming of mountain retreats, ocean views, or a vibrant cultural experience, this video will help you make an informed—and exciting—choice for your future.

What you'll learn:

✅ Cost of living in Panama vs Guatemala
✅ Healthcare quality & accessibility
✅ Residency and visa options
✅ Real estate opportunities
✅ Safety, climate, and more!

🎧 Hosted by Melissa Darnay, founder of Choose Panama Real Estate and your guide to expat life in paradise.

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LINKS:

✅ Free e-Book: https://www.choosepanama.com/free-book.html

✅ Watch the Video Version: https://www.choosepanama.com/blog/panama-vs-guatemala-which-paradise-should-you-choose-in-2025
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Topics:
Panama vs Guatemala 2025, moving to Panama, living in Guatemala, best country to retire in Central America, Panama real estate, Guatemala expat life, expat destinations 2025, Panama retirement, Guatemala retirement, where to retire in 2025, Central America relocation

CHAPTERS:
00:00 - Introduction
01:16 - Weather
02:35 - Cost of Living
03:54 - Healthcare
04:28 - Strength of the Economy
05:30 - Retiree Benefits
06:32 - Access to Goods and Services
07:05 - Ease of Travel to Major Cities
08:08 - Food
08:49 - Clean Drinking Water
10:04 - Infrastructure

#choosepanama #melissadarnay #thepanamapodcast #panamavsGuatemala #expatlife #retireabroad #centralamerica #retirementplanning2025 #moveabroad #expatcomparison #panamarealestate #guatemalalife #costoflivingabroad

Support the show

Thank you for listening to this episode of The Panama Podcast. If you like it, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review. 

To get a copy of your FREE e-book, go to: https://www.choosepanama.com/free-book.html

Stay tuned for more stories of adventure, relocation, and life in Panama. For more information, resources, and to connect with our community, visit our website at www.ChoosePanama.com. Until next time ... Cheers! 

Send us Fan Mail

Is Panama the best place for expats to get medical care? The Real Expats Interview Dr. Charles Coates of ProCare Medical Clinic

If you've ever wondered what healthcare is really like in Panama, this episode is for you! The Real Expats sit down with Dr. Charles Coates, founder of ProCare Medical Clinic in Panama City, to discuss why Panama is becoming a medical paradise for expats.

From affordable pricing to top-notch care with English-speaking doctors, Panama’s healthcare system is a breath of fresh air for retirees, digital nomads, and anyone considering a move abroad.

💡 Learn about:
– How ProCare Clinic is redefining patient care
– The differences between public and private healthcare in Panama
– What medications are available and how much they cost
– Real-life expat experiences with Panama’s medical system

🩺 Contact Information:
📍 Dr. Charles Coates – ProCare Medical Clinic
Website: https://www.procareclinicpa.com
**Note: new website is under construction. 
PHONE: ProCare Clinic: +507-212-5355
WHATSAPP: +507-6615-5795

📍Melissa Darnay - Choose Panama Real Estate
Website: https://www.choosepanama.com 

📍 Stacey Jenks – Choose Panama Rentals
Website: https://www.choosepanamarentals.com

📍 Amanda Gleeson – Panama Relocation Expert
Website: https://agleesonconsultingservices.com/

📌 Keywords:
Panama healthcare, expat healthcare in Panama, ProCare Medical Clinic, Dr. Charles Coates, healthcare in Panama City, medical tourism in Panama, expat life Panama, moving to Panama, retire in Panama, private healthcare abroad

#choosepanama #melissadarnay #therealexpats #thepanamapodcast #panamamedicalcare #drcharlescoates #procareclinic #expathealthcare #healthcareinpanama #retireinpanama #medicaltourism

Support the show

Thank you for listening to this episode of The Panama Podcast. If you like it, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review. 

To get a copy of your FREE e-book, go to: https://www.choosepanama.com/free-book.html

Stay tuned for more stories of adventure, relocation, and life in Panama. For more information, resources, and to connect with our community, visit our website at www.ChoosePanama.com. Until next time ... Cheers!