The Panama Podcast

Melissa Darnay
  • 5.0 (6)
  • PLACES & TRAVEL
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Welcome to The Panama Podcast: From Dreaming to Doing! Imagine trading your “someday” for today—living the life you've always dreamed of in a tropical paradise. That’s exactly what your host, Melissa Darnay, has been doing since 2012. And now, she’s here to show you how you can do the same! Get ready for your weekly escape filled with sunny Panama inspiration, laugh-out-loud expat adventures, and insider secrets that’ll make your move to Panama smoother and more exciting. Melissa is not just an expat—she’s the CEO of Choose Panama, a luxury real estate company, and she’s passionate about helping people like you find your dream property and live their best life in paradise. Whether you’re curious about living in Panama, investing in its booming real estate market, or simply looking for ways to make the most of your expat life, this podcast is for you. With interviews from expats, local professionals, and experts in everything from law to healthcare, you’ll have all the tools you need to start living your tropical fairytale. So, what are you waiting for? Dive into The Panama Podcast and let’s make your “someday” a reality!

  1. 3D AGO

    Skip Portugal, Go Panama: Here's Why

    Send a text For years, Portugal has been one of the most popular destinations for Americans looking for a second residency, better lifestyle, and lower cost of living abroad. But immigration rules have tightened, taxes have changed, and property prices have surged. So many people are now asking a new question: Is Panama the smarter alternative in 2026? In this episode of The Panama Podcast: From Dreaming to Doing, Melissa Darnay breaks down the real comparison between Portugal and Panama—not from a travel perspective, but from the standpoint of residency options, taxation, property costs, and long-term strategy. You’ll learn: • How Portugal’s D7 visa and citizenship path compares to Panama residency • The truth about territorial taxation in Panama vs worldwide taxation in Portugal • Real 2026 property prices per m² in Lisbon vs Panama City • Typical HOA costs and property taxes • The difference in flight times from the U.S. • Why some Americans are choosing Panama instead of Europe If you’re evaluating where to live, invest, or retire abroad, this episode will help you think through the decision with clarity. Because relocating internationally isn’t just a lifestyle choice. It’s a strategic one. Learn More About Living in Panama Schedule a consultation: https://choosepanama.com/contact Explore properties in Panama: https://choosepanama.com Watch more episodes of The Panama Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@choosepanama Connect with the Choose Panama Team: Instagram https://www.instagram.com/choosepanama LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissadarnay Topics Covered Panama vs Portugal Moving abroad in 2026 Second residency options Territorial taxation countries Retiring overseas Panama residency visas Portugal D7 visa Buying real estate in Panama Cost of living Panama vs Portugal Hashtags #choosepanama #melissadarnay #thepanamapodcast #panamavsportugal #movingabroad #secondresidency #retireoverseas #expatliving #panamarealestate #costofliving #portugalexpats #planBcountry 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!

    8 min

  2. 5D AGO

    Living in Panama on $4,000 a Month | Here's What You Get

    Send a text Can you live well in Panama on $4,000 a month, especially if you already own your home? This video dives into the real cost of living in Panama, breaking down expenses beyond just scraping by. We'll explore detailed budget planning for a comfortable lifestyle, including private health insurance, amenities, and dining out, to help you understand the true cost of living abroad and if you can retire in Panama comfortably. #melissadarnay #thepanamapodcast #choosepanama 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!

    9 min

  3. MAR 2

    I Challenged the Ocean in Panama... and Lost BAD | "The Gringa and the Sea"

    Send a text I challenged the ocean in Panama… and lost BAD. This is the very true (and very humbling) story of how I learned the difference between a calm, civilized beach and the full force of the open Pacific Ocean. If you're thinking about living in Panama, retiring near the sea, or moving abroad for a beachfront lifestyle, this story matters more than you think. Not all beaches are created equal. In this episode, I share: The difference between Playa Bonita and Pedasí What “middle of the ocean” really means in Panama Why choosing the right coastal lifestyle is critical And how Panama gently (and sometimes not so gently) reshapes you Panama offers everything from protected bays with calm waters to world-class surf breaks with powerful waves. Whether you’re a land mammal who wants an ocean view without the chaos… or an experienced water athlete chasing big surf… there is a place here for you. The key is choosing the right ocean for your lifestyle. If you're considering moving to Panama, retiring in Panama, or investing in beachfront property, schedule a complimentary consultation with my team: 👉 https://ChoosePanama.com/contact And if you’d like a free copy of my book, Panama Uncorked: Everything You Need to Know to Visit, Live and Invest in Panama, just let us know during your call — it’s my gift to you. Panama isn’t just a change of zip code. It’s a change of perspective. About Me: I’m Melissa Darnay, Founder of Choose Panama and host of The Panama Podcast. I help North Americans confidently relocate, retire, and invest in Panama — with clarity, strategy, and a little humor along the way. #LivingInPanama #MoveToPanama #ExpatLife #PanamaRealEstate #RetireInPanama #PanamaBeaches #PedasiPanama #PlayaBonita #ChoosePanama #melissadarnay #thepanamapodcast 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!

    10 min

  4. FEB 28

    Air Quality in Panama | Should You Be Worried?

    Send a text Air quality is a critical factor often overlooked until it impacts your daily well-being. This video explores the concerns around dirty air and its effects on health, energy, and overall quality of life. We discuss why understanding air pollution and maintaining healthy air is vital, especially when considering a move to a new environment like Panama. #melissadarnay #thepanamapodcast #choosepanama 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!

    7 min

  5. FEB 26

    Lost on Panama? How Successful Expats Pick Their Area

    Send a text If you're considering moving to Panama but aren't quite sure where to settle, this episode is for you. We discuss the journey of buying property and the decision-making process when investing in Panama. It's about navigating that 'in-between' phase of living in Panama while figuring out your ideal home. ✨ #melissadarnay #thepanamapodcast #choosepanama 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!

    34 min

  6. FEB 17

    Why Smart People Are Retiring to Panama Now

    Send a text Are you a retiree looking for your slice of paradise? 🌴 Many people are choosing Panama for its financial freedom and independence, offering a lower cost of living without sacrificing quality. Discover how you can manage your living expenses and potentially even save money while enjoying sunshine and ocean views! ☀️ #melissadarnay #choosepanama #thepanamapodcast 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!

    8 min

  7. FEB 15

    Hottest Investment Projects in Panama Today (2026)

    Send a text The current real estate market in Panama has seen significant changes, making it crucial for potential buyers to act decisively. Opportunities for investing in Panama are diminishing, as inventory thins and prices adjust. If you're considering buying real estate in Panama, especially for panama condos, now is the time to explore available property in Panama before deals become even scarcer. #melissadarnay #choosepanama #thepanamapodcast #panama #panamarealestate #panamatrealestatemarket 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!

    8 min

  8. FEB 6

    The Most Savage Panama Questions We Got

    Send a text We're diving into a lively podcast episode today, opening the mailbag to your unfiltered comments! This session is all about engaging with our audience participation, tackling questions and answers, and sharing feedback examples, both curious and spicy. Get ready to hear our candid thoughts and boost engagement with this fun conversation. We even address some of the more cringe comments we've received, making for a truly funny and engaging discussion. #melissadarnay #choosepanama #thepanamapodcast #amandagleeson #staceyjenks #therealexpats #choosepanamarentals  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!

    26 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
6 Ratings

About

Welcome to The Panama Podcast: From Dreaming to Doing! Imagine trading your “someday” for today—living the life you've always dreamed of in a tropical paradise. That’s exactly what your host, Melissa Darnay, has been doing since 2012. And now, she’s here to show you how you can do the same! Get ready for your weekly escape filled with sunny Panama inspiration, laugh-out-loud expat adventures, and insider secrets that’ll make your move to Panama smoother and more exciting. Melissa is not just an expat—she’s the CEO of Choose Panama, a luxury real estate company, and she’s passionate about helping people like you find your dream property and live their best life in paradise. Whether you’re curious about living in Panama, investing in its booming real estate market, or simply looking for ways to make the most of your expat life, this podcast is for you. With interviews from expats, local professionals, and experts in everything from law to healthcare, you’ll have all the tools you need to start living your tropical fairytale. So, what are you waiting for? Dive into The Panama Podcast and let’s make your “someday” a reality!

Information

  • Creator
    Melissa Darnay
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    132
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Panama Podcast
  • Show Website
    The Panama Podcast

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