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Thinking of launching a business overseas? If you've ever dreamed of starting a business in a foreign country, Panama should be at the top of your list! But what’s it really like to be an entrepreneur here? In this episode of The Panama Podcast: Real Expats, we’re diving deep into the pros, cons, and insider tips of doing business in Panama.

📢 Join our expert panel:
✅ Melissa Darnay, Founder and President of Choose Panama Real Estate - www.ChoosePanama.com.

✅ Stacey Jenks, Director of Choose Panama Rentals – a vacation property management expert - www.ChoosePanamaRentals.com 

✅ Amanda Gleeson, owner of Furnishing Solutions Panama – a turnkey decorator who turns a blank slate into your new home. https://agleesonconsultingservices.com/

✅ Special Guest: Andy Atkinson of Pacific Coast Cleaning Services – A seasoned businessman who has successfully built a company in Panama. https://www.instagram.com/pacificcoastcleaning/

🚀 In this episode, we’ll uncover:
✔️ The biggest advantages of starting a business in Panama 💰🇵🇦
✔️ The challenges expats face and how to overcome them 🏢⚖️
✔️ What industries thrive in Panama (and which ones don’t) 📈🔍
✔️ How to navigate Panama’s legal & tax system for businesses 📑💼
✔️ Essential tips to avoid costly mistakes when setting up shop abroad 

Is Panama really the BEST place to start a business abroad? Our panelists share their firsthand experiences, expert advice, and the truth about expat entrepreneurship.

What do you think? Are you considering starting a business in Panama? Let us know in the comments!

📌 Looking for business or real estate opportunities in Panama? Visit ChoosePanama.com for expert guidance.

🔥 LIKE, SUBSCRIBE & HIT THE BELL 🔔 so you never miss an episode of The Panama Podcast!

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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/the-hidden-paradise-where-startups-actually-succeed

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#PanamaBusiness #StartABusinessAbroad #EntrepreneurLife #RealExpats #ChoosePanama #MelissaDarnay #ThePanamaPodcast  #panamapodcast #PanamaEntrepreneur #ExpatsInPanama #BusinessOpportunities #PanamaInvesting #staceyjenks #amandagleeson #andyatkinson #bestplacetoopenabusiness #businessfriendlycountries #businessfriendly

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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Think you know Panama? Think again! Sure, you’ve heard about the famous canal, stunning beaches, and tax perks, but this country is full of surprises. From a river that flows in two directions to a failed Scottish colony that changed world history, these 13 incredible facts will make you see Panama in a whole new way!

Whether you’re a curious traveler, a history buff, or considering Panama as your next home, this episode will blow your mind with little-known secrets about this incredible country!

Listen now and discover:

✅ The only place on Earth where you can watch the sunrise on the Pacific and sunset on the Atlantic 
✅ How you can swim in two different oceans in a single day 
✅ The massive shopping mall that beats most malls in North America 
✅ A river that flows in two directions at once 
✅ The hidden Caribbean island filled with giant starfish 
✅ A Scottish colony in Panama that led to the creation of Great Britain 
✅ One of the world’s largest duty-free zones 
✅ And much more!

👉 Don't forget to hit LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and turn on notifications so you never miss an episode of The Panama Podcast!

📌 Thinking of moving to Panama? I’m here to help! Visit ChoosePanama.com for expert real estate and expat advice.

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LINKS:

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

✅ Watch the VIDEO version: https://www.choosepanama.com/blog/unveiling-13-of-panamas-most-intriguing-secrets

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TIMELINE:
0:00 - Introduction
0:51 - Sunrise over the Pacific and Sunset over the Atlantic
1:22 - Swim in 2 Oceans in One Day
1:43 - The Panama Canal 
2:14 - Largest Shopping Mall in Latin America
3:03 - More Bird Species than the US and Canada Combined
3:38 - Secret Starfish Island
4:04 - One of the Largest Duty Free Zones in the World
4:30 - First Transcontinental Railroad in the World
5:05 - Chagres River Flows in 2 Directions
5:49 - Scotland's Failed Darien Scheme
6:36 - Panama's National Beer
7:04 - The Central Hotel
7:33 - Hidden Tropical Fjord

#PanamaSecrets #ExplorePanama #ChoosePanama #MelissaDarnay #ThePanamaPodcast #HiddenGems #TravelPanama #ExpatsInPanama #RetireInPanama #LivingInPanama #PanamaAdventure

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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Thinking about moving to Panama? Whether you’re looking for beachfront luxury, vibrant city life, or a tranquil mountain escape, this episode breaks down the 5 best places to live or retire in Panama—so you can find the perfect spot to call home! 🌴✨

📍 In This Episode, We Cover:
✔️ Costa del Este – Panama City’s most upscale, modern community
✔️ Avenida Balboa – Stunning oceanfront living in the heart of the capital
✔️ Playa Bonita – Resort-style beachfront paradise just minutes from the city
✔️ Coronado Beaches – The ultimate expat beach town with all the conveniences
✔️ Boquete – A breathtaking mountain retreat with spring-like weather year-round

Panama offers low-cost, high-quality living, tax incentives, world-class healthcare, and an incredible expat community. But which area is right for you? Listen now to explore these top locations, including real estate prices, community vibes, and lifestyle perks!

🔔 Thinking about buying property in Panama? Work with a trusted buyer’s agent who speaks your language, protects your interests, and helps you avoid costly mistakes. Contact Choose Panama today!

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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/5-great-places-to-live-or-retire-in-panama

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TIMELINE:
0:00 - Introduction
1:24 - Costa del Este (Panama City)
3:21 - Avenida Balboa (Panama City)
4:55 - Playa Bonita (Just Outside of Panama City)
6:57 - Coronado Beaches Area
8:03 - Boquete

🔍 SEO Keywords:
Best places to live in Panama, retire in Panama, moving to Panama, expat life in Panama, Panama real estate, buying property in Panama, Panama cost of living, where to live in Panama, Panama retirement communities, beach living in Panama, mountain living in Panama, city life in Panama

📢 Hashtags:
#ChoosePanama #MelissaDarnay #ThePanamaPodcast #ExpatLife #RetireInPanama #PanamaLiving #MovingToPanama #PanamaRealEstate #BeachLife #BoquetePanama #CoronadoPanama #CostaDelEste #AvenidaBalboa #PlayaBonita #retireinpanama  #movetopanama 

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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Moving to Panama was the best decision I ever made! But don’t just take my word for it—real expats in Panama are here to share their personal experiences, insights, and tips on what life is really like in this incredible country.

In this roundtable discussion, we dive into:
✔️ Why we chose Panama over other countries
✔️ How much money we’re saving by living here
✔️ What it’s like to live in an apartment in Panama
✔️ The best (and most surprising) things about expat life
✔️ Challenges we faced—and how we overcame them

Panama offers a high-quality lifestyle, affordable living, and endless adventure. But is it the right place for you? If you’re considering a move, this episode is a must-listen!

🎥 Tune in now and find out if Panama is YOUR perfect expat destination!

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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/moving-to-panama-changed-my-life-and-saved-me-money

✔️ Choose Panama Real Estate: www.ChoosePanama.com

✔️ Choose Panama Rentals: www.ChoosePanamaRentals.com

✔️ Furnishing Solutions Panama: https://agleesonconsultingservices.com/

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🔍 SEO Keywords:
Moving to Panama, living in Panama, expat life in Panama, Panama cost of living, retiring in Panama, Panama real estate, best places to live in Panama, moving abroad, expat roundtable, Panama apartment living, is Panama right for you

📢 Hashtags:
#ChoosePanama #MelissaDarnay #ThePanamaPodcast #ExpatLife #PanamaLiving #MovingToPanama #RetireAbroad #PanamaRealEstate #PanamaApartment #panamapodcast

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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Think you have what it takes to live in Panama? Before you pack your bags, you’ll need to find out if you can handle the tropical heat, beachfront relaxation, in-home massages, and a cost of living that lets you enjoy life to the fullest!

In this episode, we break down what it's really like to live in Panama—the perks, the challenges, and the surprising luxuries that expats enjoy every day. From waking up to year-round sunshine to hiring a full-time housekeeper for a fraction of what it costs elsewhere, this is expat life in Panama, unfiltered!

🌟 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
✔️ Can you handle perfect weather all year long?
✔️ What it’s like to get in-home massages at local prices
✔️ Why hiring a housekeeper is not just for the rich
✔️ How many golf courses are at your disposal in Panama
✔️ Is eating fresh seafood every day really a challenge?
✔️ The expat lifestyle—is it too social for introverts?
✔️ Why Panama’s cost of living makes life more comfortable

💬 Do you think you could survive life in Panama? 

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LINKS:

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

- Watch the VIDEO version of this episode: https://www.choosepanama.com/blog/can-you-survive-living-in-panama

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🔔 Don’t forget to LIKE & SUBSCRIBE for more insider tips on living, retiring, and investing in Panama!

TIMELINE:
0:00 - Introduction
0:48 - Surviving Year-Round Tropical Weather
1:18 - Surviving In-Home Spa Treatments
1:50 - Surviving Cheap Domestic Services
2:31 - Surviving the Golf Course Dilemma
2:57 - Surviving an Overload of Fresh Seafood
3:25 - Surviving Restaurants that Actually Remember You
3:54 - Surviving the Low Cost of Living
4:34 - Surviving a Laid-Back Lifestyle
4:54 - Surviving Making New Friends Instantly
5:18 - Surviving Never Wanting to Leave

🔍 SEO Keywords:
Panama expat life, moving to Panama, living in Panama, Panama cost of living, retire in Panama, expat lifestyle, best places to live in Panama, Panama real estate, moving abroad, tropical retirement

📢 Hashtags:
#PanamaLife #ExpatLiving #ChoosePanama #MelissaDarnay #ThePanamaPodcast #RetireAbroad #PanamaRetirement #MovingToPanama

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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Thinking about experiencing the vibrant culture of Panama? This episode takes you deep into Panama’s most spectacular festivals and holidays, where tradition, music, and celebration come to life! From the electrifying energy of Carnival to the deep historical significance of Martyrs’ Day, Panama’s calendar is packed with events that will leave you in awe.

📌 What You’ll Discover in This Episode:
✔️ Panama’s biggest and most exciting festivals – when and where to experience them
✔️ Why Carnival in Panama rivals Rio de Janeiro’s famous celebration
✔️ How Panamanians honor their history on Martyrs’ Day
✔️ Why Mother’s Day is one of the most cherished holidays in Panama
✔️ Local insider tips on how to enjoy these festivals like a true Panamanian

Whether you're an expat, a traveler, or just curious about Panama’s culture, this guide will give you an inside look at the heart and soul of the country’s celebrations.

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LINKS:
- Get a FREE e-book: https://www.choosepanama.com/free-book.html

- Watch the VIDEO version of this episode: https://www.choosepanama.com/blog/unveiling-panamas-most-spectacular-festivals-holidays

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TIMELINE: 
00:00 - Introduction
01:01 - New Year's Day / Ano Nuevo
01:48 - Martyr's Day / Dia de los Martires
02:37 - Boquete Flower Festival
03:23- Carnival / Carnaval 
04:06 - Holy Week / Semana Santa
05:03 - Labor Day / Dia del Trabajador
06:10 - Independence / Fiestas Patrias
08:14 - Mother's Day / Dia de la Madre
08:52 - National Mourning Day
09:25 - Christmas / Navidad

🔍 Keywords:
Panama festivals, Panama holidays, Carnaval in Panama, best festivals in Panama, Panama culture, expat life in Panama, Panama traditions, Panama celebrations, living in Panama, traveling to Panama

📢 Hashtags:
#PanamaFestivals #PanamaHolidays #ChoosePanama #ThePanamaPodcast #MelissaDarnay #PanamaCarnaval #PanamaCulture #ExpatLife #TravelToPanama #panamapodcast

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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Thinking about moving to Panama? You’re in the right place! This episode of The Panama Podcast features a special segment called "Real Expats of Panama"—advice for expats, by expats.

Join real estate expert Melissa Darnay, vacation rental guru Stacey Jenks, turnkey property director Amanda Gleeson, and special guest Jerry Givens as we share why we left our home countries and chose Panama. From the unbeatable lifestyle to the incredible real estate opportunities, we discuss what inspired our moves, what we wish we knew beforehand, and what life in Panama is really like.

📌 What you'll learn:
✅ Why we chose Panama over other destinations
✅ The biggest surprises (good and bad!) about expat life
✅ Cost of living, real estate, and investment opportunities
✅ Our best advice for future expats

🎥 If you're considering Panama, this is a must-watch! Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell icon for more insider expat tips!

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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/moving-to-panama-in-2025-what-no-one-tells-you

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Episode keywords:
Panama expat advice, moving to Panama, living in Panama, expat life in Panama, Panama real estate, invest in Panama, retire in Panama, cost of living in Panama, Panama expat stories

#RealExpatsOfPanama #ThePanamaPodcast #ChoosePanama #MelissaDarnay #ExpatLife #PanamaRealEstate #MovingToPanama #PanamaPodcast

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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Thinking about moving to Boquete, Panama? 🌄 This charming mountain town is already one of the coolest expat destinations in Panama—literally and figuratively! With its perfect spring-like climate, stunning landscapes, and thriving expat community, it’s no wonder so many people are drawn to Boquete real estate.

And now, there are two brand-new real estate projects that make owning a home in Boquete even more exciting! Whether you’re looking for affordable real estate in Panama, a vacation getaway, or an investment opportunity, these projects offer incredible value in one of Panama’s most desirable locations.

In this episode, we’ll cover:
✅ Why Boquete is a top choice for expats
✅ The details of these two amazing new developments
✅ How Boquete real estate compares to other parts of Panama
✅ The affordability and investment potential of these properties

If you’ve been dreaming of owning a home in Panama, don’t miss this episode.

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LINKS:

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

- Watch the Video Version to see floor plans and locations: https://www.choosepanama.com/blog/boquete-panamas-coolest-expat-area-gets-2-amazing-new-projects

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TIMELINE: 

0:00 - Introduction

1:32 - Overview of Boquete

2:47 - PINOALTO by Empresas Bern 

4:47 - Boquete Town Center by Emporium Developers 

7:18 - Comparison and Final Thoughts

#BoquetePanama #PanamaRealEstate #MoveToPanama #AffordableRealEstate #BoqueteHomes #ExpatLife #LivingInPanama #RetireInPanama #PanamaInvestment #ChoosePanama #MelissaDarnay #ThePanamaPodcast #panamapodcast 

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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What happens if you have a medical emergency in Panama? 🏥 Don’t panic—we’re here to give you the essential information you need about emergency care in Panama. Whether you're a resident, expat, or just visiting, knowing how Panama’s healthcare system works could save you precious time, money, and stress.

In this episode, we break down the 10 most important things you need to know about emergency services in Panama. From private hospitals and ambulance response times to evacuation services and how to communicate in a crisis, we cover it all. You'll also learn about the quality of healthcare, access to English-speaking doctors, and what insurance options you should consider before an emergency strikes.

Panama’s healthcare system is modern, reliable, and much more affordable than many other countries, including the U.S. However, there are key differences that you should be aware of to make sure you’re prepared for any crisis situation.

Save this video so you’ll have all the info at your fingertips when it matters most!

Don't forget to hit that subscribe button and turn on notifications for more tips, insider information, and stories about living and thriving in Panama.

LINKS:
- Free Book: https://www.choosepanama.com/free-book.html
- Insurance in Panama: https://youtu.be/6oVbYpLzwog

- Watch the VIDEO version of this episode: https://www.choosepanama.com/blog/panama-emergency-care-what-you-need-to-know-in-a-crisis

TIMELINE:
0:00 - Introduction
1:07 - Emergency Numbers
2:17 - Public Vs. Private Hospitals
3:07 - Cost of Emergency Care
3:48 - Ambulance Services
4:14 - Evacuation Services
6:03 - Pharmacy Availability
6:54 - Specialist Availability
8:08 - Language Barrier
8:51 - Telemedicine Services
9:24 - Quality of Emergency Care

#PanamaEmergencyCare #PanamaHealthcare #LivingInPanama #PanamaMedicalServices #EmergencyPreparedness #ExpatLife #MoveToPanama #PanamaPodcast #ChoosePanama #MelissaDarnay #ThePanamaPodcast

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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Is Panama's tap water really safe to drink? 💧 In this episode, we answer one of the most common questions for travelers and expats: Can you drink the water in Panama straight from the tap? Spoiler alert: Panama is one of the few countries in Latin America where you can safely drink tap water!

But how does Panama manage to provide clean, drinkable water in a region where bottled water is often the norm? We explore the country’s water infrastructure, from modern treatment plants to high-quality natural water sources. I also put Panama’s tap water to the test using a diagnostic strip that measures 16 key markers of water quality, including pH balance, chlorine, and lead levels. Find out if the results match Panama's reputation for safe drinking water!

Plus, we discuss the benefits of having access to clean tap water:
✅ Cost savings compared to constantly buying bottled water
✅ Convenience—you can cook, clean, and hydrate without worry
✅ Eco-friendliness—no more plastic waste!

We also cover exceptions, like rural areas where water quality can vary and when it’s still smart to carry bottled water. Whether you're moving to Panama, planning a visit, or just curious about international water quality, this video has all the answers you need.

Don’t forget to hit that subscribe button and turn on notifications so you never miss an insider tip about life in Panama!

LINKS:

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

- Watch the VIDEO version of this episode: https://www.choosepanama.com/blog/is-panamas-tap-water-really-safe-to-drink

TIMELINE:

0:00 - Introduction

0:55 - Panama's Water System

1:39 - Water Quality Testing

2:55 - Results of the Test

3:29 - Benefits of Panama's Drinking Water

4:27 - Closing

#PanamaTapWater #PanamaPodcast #MoveToPanama #LivingInPanama #PanamaWaterSafety #PanamaExpatTips #SafeDrinkingWater #PanamaTravelTips #ChoosePanama #MelissaDarnay #thepanamapodcast

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!