The Panama Podcast

Send us Fan Mail

Moving to Panama at 80 may sound impossible, but for American expat Benny Rains, it’s the best decision he’s ever made. In this inspiring episode of The Real Expats segment of the Panama Podcast, Benny shares his story of retiring in Boquete, Panama, building his own slice of paradise, and proving that you are never too old to start over.

Boquete is one of the most sought-after destinations for retirement in Panama, thanks to its year-round spring-like weather, breathtaking mountain views, and welcoming expat community. Benny didn’t just dream about moving abroad—he did it. His story is living proof that adventure has no age limit.

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to create a new life in Panama as an expat, this conversation will inspire you to take action. Whether you’re 40, 60, or even 80, Benny’s journey shows that expat life in Panama is about living with vitality, purpose, and joy.

***********************************************

Get a FREE Copy of Panama Uncorked: 

https://www.choosepanama.com/free-book.html

Watch the VIDEO version of this episode: https://www.choosepanama.com/blog/what-happens-when-you-move-abroad-at-80

***********************************************

📌 Related Resources
Download your FREE guide to Panama, "Panama Uncorked." Go to ChoosePanama.com/free-book

📢 Hashtags
#choosepanama #melissadarnay #thepanamapodcast #realexpats #movingtoPanama #retireinPanama #BoquetePanama #expatlifePanama #PanamaRetirement #livinginPanama

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 overseas but not sure where to go—Panama, Portugal, Costa Rica, Mexico, Colombia, Ecuador, or Cyprus?

This 15-question quiz will help you cut through the confusion and find out which country is truly the best fit for your lifestyle, investment goals, and future.

We’ll walk you through the top 15 factors that matter most to expats and retirees—like taxes on foreign income, property ownership laws, residency options, clean drinking water, modern infrastructure, healthcare, and more.

This isn’t a generic travel quiz. It’s a powerful tool to help you decide where you should move, retire, or invest abroad.

📝 Take the quiz online: https://ChoosePanama.com/Test
📥 Download the Country Comparison Chart after the quiz!

Whether you’re considering moving to Panama, retiring in Portugal, or investing in Costa Rica, this quiz will help you make a smart, informed decision.

****************************************************************

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/which-country-is-best-for-you-take-this-quiz

****************************************************************

#choosepanama #expatquiz #panamapodcast #retireabroad #movingoverseas #panamavsportugal #costaricavspanama #bestplacestoretire2025 #expatlifestyle #where2move #panamaexpats

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

Buying a car in Panama is very different from buying one in the U.S. or Canada, and in this episode of The Real Expats of Panama, we sit down with Fernando Tristán, Vice President of Sales at Grupo Sílaba and President of ADAP (Association of Car Dealers of Panama), to uncover everything you need to know. 🚗🇵🇦

Whether you’re an expat considering your first car purchase in Panama, curious about car dealerships in Panama, or want insider advice on navigating financing, insurance, registration, and gray-market imports, this episode has the answers.

Fernando also shares why Grupo Sílaba is one of the leading dealership groups in Panama, with the second-highest sales volume in the country, and explains the important role ADAP plays in protecting both dealers and consumers.

👉 Learn about:
✔️ How the car buying process in Panama differs from the U.S.
✔️ What documents expats need to buy a car in Panama
✔️ Whether foreigners can finance a vehicle or need to pay cash
✔️ Insurance, warranties, and registration tips
✔️ The rise of electric & hybrid cars in Panama
✔️ The truth about gray-market vehicle imports

If you’re planning to live, invest, or retire in Panama, knowing how to buy a car the smart way is essential.

****************************************************

LINKS:

- Free e-Book: choosepanama.com/free-book.html
- Buy Real Estate: ChoosePanama.com
- Rent in Playa Bonita, Panama: ChoosePanamaRentals.com
- Amanda Gleeson: https://agleesonconsultingservices.com
- Grupo Silaba: https://silaba.com/

- Watch the VIDEO version of this episode: https://www.choosepanama.com/blog/what-you-must-know-before-getting-a-car-in-panama

********************************************************************

#ChoosePanama #MelissaDarnay #ThePanamaPodcast #LivingInPanama #MovingToPanama #ExpatLifePanama #GrupoSilaba #CarDealershipsPanama #BuyingACarInPanama #ADAPPanama

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

In this episode of The Panama Podcast, Melissa Darnay counts down the Top 10 Health Benefits of Living in Panama—and some of them just might surprise you. If you're looking for Healthy Living, stay tuned for how life in Panama can tick all the boxes. 

From year-round sunshine that boosts your mood and vitamin D levels, to clean, non-GMO food, free-range eggs and meat, ocean air rich in negative ions, and a naturally active lifestyle, Panama offers a wellness-friendly environment that’s hard to match.

If you’re struggling with chronic pain, seasonal allergies, stress, or just want to age more gracefully—Panama might be the wellness upgrade your body’s been begging for.

Hear Melissa’s personal story of overcoming years of ankle pain… simply by moving to a climate that supports healing.

Discover how everyday life in Panama can naturally lead to weight loss, better sleep, fewer medications, and a stronger immune system—without trying.

*******************************************************
📘 Download your FREE copy of “Panama Uncorked” – a no-fluff guide to life, real estate, and relocation in Panama: ChoosePanama.com/free-book

📲 Ready to explore your healthiest chapter yet?
Schedule a free call with Melissa's team at: ChoosePanama.com/contact

✔️ Watch the VIDEO version of this episode: https://www.choosepanama.com/blog/want-to-feel-better-look-younger-and-live-healthier-move-to-panama

*********************************************************

🎯 Keywords:
Health benefits of living in Panama, moving to Panama, Panama lifestyle, expat health Panama, Panama relocation, expat life, Panama real estate, healthy living abroad, wellness in Panama, Panama free-range food, Panama sunshine, allergy-free living

#choosepanama #thepanamapodcast #melissadarnay #panamarelocation #healthylivingabroad #expatlife #moveabroad #panamalifestyle #wellnesstravel #lifeinpanama #livingpainfree #retireinpanama #expatwellness #healthylivinginpanama

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

Join us for an unforgettable evening at Efímero Nikkei Cuisine, one of Panama City’s most unique and upscale dining experiences. In this episode, we explore the vibrant expat lifestyle in Panama—and what better way to do that than over an elegant meal blending Japanese and Peruvian fusion cuisine?

🎤 We sit down with restaurant owner Fady El Deek, who shares the inspiration behind the name Efímero—Spanish for "fleeting"—and why every bite at his restaurant is designed to be a one-of-a-kind, ephemeral experience. Whether you're living in Panama, thinking of moving, or just visiting, this episode offers a delicious glimpse into fine dining in Panama City and the connections that make expat life so rich and rewarding.

If you love discovering new restaurants, making new friends abroad, or you're curious about what life as an expat in Panama is really like—this one's for you.

📍Location: Efímero Nikkei Cuisine, Panama City, Panama
🥢 Cuisine: Nikkei (Japanese-Peruvian fusion)
👫 Experience: Dinner with expats, cultural insight, and amazing food

*******************************************************************

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/dinner-with-new-friends-at-efimero-in-panama-expat-life-adventures

*******************************************************************


#EfimeroPanama #NikkeiCuisinePanama #PanamaCityRestaurants #ExpatLifePanama #ChoosePanama #MelissaDarnay #ThePanamaPodcast #FineDiningPanama #MovingToPanama #PanamaFoodie #LivingInPanama #PanamaExpatAdventures

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

Want to know how the ultra-wealthy legally keep more of their money?
In this episode of The Panama Podcast, Melissa Darnay reveals the smart, fully legal offshore strategies that billionaires—and savvy expats—use to protect their wealth in Panama.

From Panama foundations and territorial taxation to anonymous property ownership and offshore banking, you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at the exact tools used to minimize taxes, preserve generational wealth, and safeguard assets.

These are not shady tax evasion tactics. These are Panama's legal financial loopholes—available to anyone who knows where to look.

✔️ Thinking about retiring in Panama?
✔️ Curious about offshore investing or asset protection?
✔️ Wondering why Panama is a top destination for high-net-worth individuals?

This episode is your playbook.

👉 Schedule your complimentary call at ChoosePanama.com/contact and start protecting what you’ve worked so hard to earn.

Chapters include:
• No Global Taxation
• Anonymous Property Ownership
• Private Interest Foundations
• Offshore Banking in Panama
• Estate Planning Without the Taxes
… and more!

#ChoosePanama #MelissaDarnay #ThePanamaPodcast #OffshoreBanking #PanamaFoundation #LegalTaxLoopholes #WealthProtection #RetireInPanama #ExpatsInPanama #OffshoreInvesting #AssetProtection #TaxStrategy #PanamaRealEstate

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

If you’ve been searching for the perfect blend of luxury, privacy, and modern design in Panama City real estate, look no further than The Ivy.

In this episode of The Panama Podcast, real estate expert Melissa Darnay dives deep into one of Panama’s most talked-about new developments—The Ivy, a 46-story luxury condo tower in the heart of Santa María Golf & Country Club. From architectural design to amenities, pricing, and investment potential, this episode is your ultimate insider’s guide.

Here’s what you’ll learn:
✅ Why The Ivy is one of the most exclusive new real estate projects in Panama
✅ Floorplans and layouts starting at 160m² with 3 bedrooms, en-suite baths, and maid’s quarters
✅ Premium amenities like a rooftop pool, yoga deck, cocktail lounge, game room, and cinema
✅ Spectacular golf course, skyline, and ocean views
✅ What makes Santa María one of the best neighborhoods in Panama City for high-end living
✅ Pricing starting at $600,000, with strong appreciation potential

Whether you're thinking about retiring in Panama, buying a second home, or investing in luxury pre-construction real estate, The Ivy is a project you’ll want on your radar.

👉 Want full details, floorplans, and availability? Visit: https://www.choosepanama.com/theivy.html

****************************************************
LINKS:
- Free e-Book: choosepanama.com/free-book.html
- Learn about The Ivy Residences: ChoosePanama.com/TheIvy

- Watch the VIDEO version of this episode: https://www.choosepanama.com/blog/would-you-live-in-the-ivy-residences-in-panamas-90210
- Buy Real Estate: ChoosePanama.com
- Rent in Playa Bonita, Panama: ChoosePanamaRentals.com
****************************************************

#choosepanama #melissadarnay #thepanamapodcast #theivy #santamariapanama #panamarealestate #luxurycondospanama #movingtopanama #investinpanama #retireinpanama #panamacitycondos #realestatepanama2025 #condolivingpanama

SEO Keywords Integrated:
Panama City real estate, luxury condos in Panama, The Ivy Santa María, Santa María Panama real estate, best neighborhoods in Panama City, Panama pre-construction condos, Panama retirement, invest in Panama, condo living in Panama, high-end real estate Panama

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?

In this episode of The Real Expats of Panama, meet Brittani Panezo, a dynamic expat who turned a simple vacation into a brand-new life. She opens up about embracing the Panama lifestyle, finding love, launching her own business, and navigating the real-life expat challenges that come with relocating to a new country.

Whether you’re craving a slower pace of life, looking to start over somewhere beautiful, or just curious about what it’s really like to live in Panama, Brittani’s story is equal parts inspiring and informative.

 In this episode, you’ll learn:
✅ What it’s like to go from tourist to full-time expat
✅ Tips for adjusting to the cultural differences in Panama
✅ How Brittani built a new life (and love!) from the ground up
✅ What no one tells you about the challenges of expat life

********************************************************************
LINKS:
- Free e-Book: choosepanama.com/free-book.html
- Buy Real Estate: ChoosePanama.com
- Rent in Playa Bonita, Panama: ChoosePanamaRentals.com
- Amanda Gleeson: https://agleesonconsultingservices.wordpress.com/
- Brittani Panezo: ParadiseTravelLatam.com

********************************************************************

#expatlifestyle #movingtopanama #panamaliving #realexpatsofpanama #expatstory #choosepanama #melissadarnay #thepanamapodcast #lifeinpanama #digitalnomadlife #expatbusiness #panamastory #panamainspiration

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

Discover the Secret to Luxury Living in Panama City—Without Breaking the Bank!
Thinking about moving abroad? Wondering where you can enjoy an upscale lifestyle without paying New York or Los Angeles prices? In this episode of The Panama Podcast, real estate expert Melissa Darnay breaks down 7 powerful reasons why luxury living in Panama City, Panama, is more accessible than ever.

From affordable cost of living and low property taxes in Panama to domestic help you can actually afford, Panama City is quickly becoming the top destination for expats, retirees, and digital nomads looking to upgrade their lifestyle. Whether you're coming from Toronto, Dallas, Miami, or New York, this episode will open your eyes to a whole new level of comfort, convenience, and cost-effectiveness.

Learn how you can enjoy:
✔️ Ocean-view condos with low HOA fees
✔️ $10 opera tickets and $9 VIP movie nights
✔️ In-home chefs, housekeepers, and personal drivers
✔️ Fine dining in Panama City for up to 50% less
✔️ Living well for less—without sacrificing luxury

Whether you're planning to retire in Panama, invest in Panama real estate, or simply enjoy a better quality of life, this episode is a must-watch.

👉 Ready to explore your luxury life in Panama? Schedule a free consultation at https://ChoosePanama.com/contact

🔍 SEO Keywords:
luxury living in Panama City, cost of living in Panama, Panama real estate, retire in Panama, Panama lifestyle, Panama for expats, affordable luxury abroad, move to Panama from USA, Panama City expat life, Panama property taxes, low cost of living countries

📌 Hashtags:
#ChoosePanama #ThePanamaPodcast #MelissaDarnay #LuxuryLivingPanama #PanamaCityLife #MoveToPanama #PanamaRealEstate #RetireInPanama #LivingInPanama #ExpatLife #AffordableLuxury

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

You Asked, We Answered! | Panama Q&A with Melissa Darnay, Stacey Jenks and Amanda Gleeson... the Real Expats of Panama.

Have questions about moving to Panama, buying real estate, expat life, or starting a new adventure abroad? In this special Q&A episode of The Panama Podcast, I’m answering the questions YOU sent in! From the cost of living and healthcare to residency visas and how to navigate the grocery store, no topic is off-limits.

Whether you're just dreaming or already packing your bags, this episode is packed with helpful insights, practical tips, and even a few funny stories from our own experience as expats and in Panama.

💬 Got a question you want answered in a future episode? Drop it in the comments below!

📞 Ready to start your Panama journey? Visit https://www.choosepanama.com/contact to schedule your free consultation.

#choosepanama #melissadarnay #thepanamapodcast #panamaqanda #expatlife #movetopanama #livinginpanama #panamarealestate #retiretopanama #panamatips #panamalife #digitalnomadpanama

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!