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Panama Vs. Hungary: Which Is Better for YOU?

10/29/2025

Panama vs old world Europe — which country is better for expats, retirees, and investors? In this episode of The Panama Podcast, real estate expert Melissa Darnay compares living in Panama vs living in Hungary, revealing the truth about cost of living, residency programs, real estate fees, property taxes, weather, and lifestyle in both countries.

If you’ve ever thought about moving to Panama or retiring overseas, this side-by-side comparison will help you decide whether Panama or Hungary is the better choice for your next chapter. From the Friendly Nations Visa to low property taxes and affordable healthcare, Panama continues to be one of the best countries for expats in 2025 and into 2026.

Meanwhile, Hungary offers stunning architecture, delicious wines, and European charm — but with cold winters, higher transfer taxes, and more red tape. Melissa shares her personal experience exploring Budapest, and the wine regions of Eger, Villány, and Lake Balaton, and explains why Panama’s warm climate, stable economy, and easy residency make it the clear winner for most North American expats.

✅ What You’ll Learn:
✔️ Real Cost of Living: Panama vs Hungary
✔️ How to Get Residency in Each Country
✔️ Real Estate Fees, Taxes & Closing Costs Compared
✔️ Lifestyle & Culture Differences for Expats
✔️ Why Panama Wins for Quality of Life in 2025

📘 FREE BOOK: Panama Uncorked — Learn everything you need to know about living and investing in Panama → https://www.choosepanama.com/free-book.html

🌎 JOIN THE VIP PROGRAM: Get insider access to Panama’s best properties before they hit the market → https://www.choosepanama.com/vip

#choosepanama #melissadarnay #thepanamapodcast #panamavshungary #livinginpanama #movingtopanama #expatlife #retireinpanama #panamarealestate #expatlifestyle

Why Expats Love Panama’s Medical System

10/28/2025

The reasons expats love Panama's Medical system can be said simply: Affordable healthcare. Yes, affordable healthcare for expats in Panama is real.

n this episode of The Real Expats of Panama, Melissa Darnay and her co-hosts sit down with Carolina Tristán of MiniMed to uncover Panama’s newest and most talked-about innovation — the Affordable Health Membership for Expats.

👉 Imagine unlimited doctor visits, lab work, and imaging — with no age limits and no pre-existing condition restrictions — all starting at just $20 per month. This is healthcare the way it should be: affordable, accessible, and designed specifically for North Americans living in Panama.

🎧 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
✅ How MiniMed’s Expats Health Membership makes high-quality care accessible for everyone.
✅ Whether MiniMed accepts Medicare or Medicare Advantage.
✅ What services are included: unlimited doctor visits, diagnostics, imaging, and ambulance services.
✅ How the program differs from traditional private insurance.
✅ Expansion plans for clinics and bilingual support for expats across Panama.
✅ Why Panama is becoming one of the best countries in the world for expat healthcare.

💡 If you’ve ever worried about the high cost of healthcare back home, this episode will open your eyes to what’s possible when you move to Panama.

📍 Watch more episodes of The Real Expats of Panama: www.youtube.com/@ChoosePanama

Hosted by: Melissa Darnay — www.ChoosePanama.com
Stacey Jenks — Vacation Property Management Expert
Amanda Gleeson — Turn-Key Decorator 🔗

Learn More About MiniMed Panama:
Website: https://minimedpanama.com/
Contact Carolina Tristan: [email protected]

📘 FREE RESOURCE: Download your free tell-all guide, Panama Uncorked:
👉 https://www.choosepanama.com/free-book.html

#choosepanama #thepanamapodcast #melissadarnay #panamahealthcare #minimedpanama #expatlife #expatsinpanama #healthcareforretirees #retireinpanama #expatinsurance #affordablehealthcare #panamamedicalcare #expatcommunity #northamericanexpats #livinginpanama

Is Panama Really Cheaper than the US?

10/27/2025

Thinking about moving to Panama and wondering if the cost of living in Panama is really cheaper than in the U.S.? In this video, I break down real numbers—side by side—comparing Panama vs. USA prices for housing, utilities, healthcare, transportation, dining out, and groceries. You’ll see exactly how much you can save by living, retiring, or investing in Panama.

From $300-a-year home insurance to $25 oil changes, and from $5 restaurant lunches to $30 unlimited cell plans, you’ll discover where Panama truly shines and where it costs about the same as back home.

Whether you’re considering retirement in Panama, looking to buy real estate in Panama, or just curious about everyday living expenses, this episode will give you the insider perspective you can’t find on a spreadsheet.

💡 Want to save money and find your dream property in Panama? Join my VIP program for exclusive listings, investment opportunities, and expert relocation advice: ChoosePanama.com/vip

📚 Get your free e-book Panama Uncorked → ChoosePanama.com/free-book

Watch next:
👉 10 Reasons to Move to Boquete
👉 Why Panama Is Safe from Hurricanes
👉 7 Things You Must Know Before Visiting Panama

#CostOfLivingInPanama #MoveToPanama #RetireInPanama #PanamaVsUSA #PanamaRealEstate #ChoosePanama #MelissaDarnay #ThePanamaPodcast

October 26th, 2025

10/26/2025

Looking for the best real estate investment in Panama City? 🏙️ Meet Generation Tower, the newest development in Costa del Este, Panama’s business hub with over 120 multinational companies and nonstop rental demand. Designed for investors and renters alike, this project is a triple-threat investment — offering short-term rentals, long-term corporate rentals, and dedicated independent living units.

Why investors love Generation Tower:

✅ Located in Costa del Este, the strongest rental market in Panama City
✅ Pre-construction pricing starting at $275,000
✅ Legal license for Airbnb-style short-term rentals
✅ Independent Living floors (6–10) with 9.1% ROI
✅ Developer financing available — no bank hassle
✅ Delivery in 2027 Whether you’re an investor seeking high returns or an expat looking for lifestyle and income potential, Generation Tower Panama offers the flexibility and location that make it a smart addition to any portfolio.

📘 Get your FREE tell-all book, Panama Uncorked → https://www.choosepanama.com/free-book.html

🌎 Learn more or contact us directly → https://www.choosepanama.com

#ChoosePanama #MelissaDarnay #ThePanamaPodcast #PanamaRealEstate #CostaDelEste #GenerationTowerPanama #InvestInPanama #PanamaProperty #PanamaCityPanama #PanamaInvestment #MedicalTourismPanama #IndependentLivingPanama

9 Panama Property Tips You Need To Know!

10/25/2025

How to invest wisely overseas is one of the most important decisions you can make for your financial future. In this episode of The Panama Podcast, I’ll share insider tips on international real estate investing, global diversification, and how to avoid costly mistakes when buying property abroad. Whether you’re looking for a Plan B, retirement haven, or an international lifestyle upgrade, this guide will help you make smart choices and maximize your returns.

You’ll learn:
✅ Why location is the #1 factor in overseas investments
✅ How to spot profitable international real estate deals
✅ Common mistakes to avoid when investing abroad
✅ The best strategies for overseas retirement planning
✅ How Panama stacks up against other countries for foreign investors

If you’ve ever dreamed of owning property in paradise while protecting your wealth, this episode will give you the tools to invest with confidence.

📘 Get my FREE tell-all book, Panama Uncorked: https://www.choosepanama.com/free-book.html

👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell so you never miss an insider tip about living and investing overseas!

#InvestOverseas #InternationalRealEstate #PanamaRealEstate #GlobalInvesting #PlanB #RetireAbroad #ChoosePanama #MelissaDarnay #ThePanamaPodcast

What's NEW in Panama in 2026? Insiders Reveal

10/13/2025

Thinking about moving to Panama in 2026? In this special 100th episode of The Panama Podcast, I share my predictions for Panama in 2026—covering real estate, expat lifestyle, cost of living, healthcare, and the hottest areas to watch. If you want to know what’s heating up, what’s cooling down, and the surprises coming next year, this countdown is your insider guide.

From pre-construction opportunities in Panama City, Playa Bonita, and Boquete, to rental demand, healthcare memberships, and the lifestyle perks expats love, you’ll discover exactly why Panama continues to be one of the best places to live, retire, and invest.

📖 Get my FREE tell-all book Panama Uncorked:
👉 https://www.choosepanama.com/free-book.html

💎 Join my VIP Program and get insider access:
👉 https://www.choosepanama.com/vip

If you’ve been dreaming of a Plan B or a forever home in the tropics, now is the time to see why Panama should be at the top of your list for 2026.

#choosepanama #melissadarnay #thepanamapodcast #panamarealestate #expatsinpanama #retireinpanama #planbpanama #panamalifestyle #panama2026

7 Surprising Reasons Life in Panama Feels Like Winning the Lottery

10/12/2025

Considering a move? Experience the dream! This video covers why moving to Panama could be the perfect choice. We explore the amazing Panama lifestyle and how you can retire in panama on a budget, plus tips for expat life in panama.

#ChoosePanama #MelissaDarnay #ThePanamaPodcast

What Makes Playa Bonita (Panama) So Special?

10/11/2025

What makes Playa Bonita Panama so special? In this episode of The Panama Podcast, real estate expert Melissa Darnay sits down with both full-time and part-time expats who call Playa Bonita home. From the luxury condos at Casa Bonita to the private Pearl Club Beach Club, you’ll hear first-hand what life is really like in one of Panama’s most exclusive beachfront communities.

Whether you’re thinking about retiring in Panama, buying a vacation home, or simply curious about expat life in Playa Bonita, this interview reveals the lifestyle, amenities, and insider secrets you won’t find anywhere else.

✅ Why expats choose Playa Bonita over other Panama beach towns
✅ What daily life looks like in this gated beachfront community
✅ The perks of living near Panama City while enjoying oceanfront tranquility

If you’re exploring the idea of moving to Panama, investing in real estate, or finding your own slice of tropical paradise, Playa Bonita might just be the hidden gem you’ve been looking for.

Learn more about Playa Bonita and The Westin Residences: https://www.choosepanama.com/westinresidences

#PlayaBonitaPanama #ChoosePanama #MelissaDarnay #ThePanamaPodcast #PanamaRealEstate #ExpatLifePanama #RetireInPanama

10 Mistakes People Make Moving Abroad

9/18/2025

Thinking about moving abroad to Panama, Portugal, Costa Rica, or beyond? Before you pack your bags, watch this video on the biggest mistakes expats make when relocating overseas. From budgeting mishaps to healthcare surprises, I’ll walk you through the top 10 mistakes to avoid when moving abroad—so you can save money, stress, and time.

With over a decade of experience living in Panama and helping hundreds of North Americans relocate, I’ve seen the good, the bad, and the “what were they thinking?” If you want to make your international move smooth, safe, and successful, this countdown is for you.

What you’ll learn in this episode:
✅ The #1 mistake expats make when moving abroad
✅ Why visiting first is non-negotiable
✅ How to budget realistically for life overseas
✅ The truth about healthcare abroad (and what to research)
✅ Why waiting too long could be the biggest regret of your life

Don’t let simple mistakes derail your dream of living abroad. Watch now and start planning your international move with confidence.

👉 Get my FREE tell-all book Panama Uncorked here: https://www.choosepanama.com/free-book.html

#choosepanama #melissadarnay #thepanamapodcast #movingabroad #expatliving #panama
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!

13 Years of Panama Real Estate Experience in 8 Minutes

9/17/2025

Considering a move? Get the inside scoop on purchasing property with advice from a seasoned expert. Learn essential tips about the Panama real estate market and discover Panama homes for sale. Avoid common pitfalls and confidently begin investing in panama and living in panama.

Buying real estate in Panama can be the opportunity of a lifetime—but it’s also full of pitfalls. In this episode, Panama Real Estate Mistakes Everyone Makes, you can Learn from My 13 Years of Real Estate Experience in 8 Minutes. Join me as I share insider tips about buying property in Panama so you can avoid costly mistakes and move forward with confidence.

As a licensed real estate broker in Panama who has been in this industry for 13 years, I’ve seen everything—from delayed closings to nightmare contracts. This countdown reveals the biggest mistakes expats and investors make when buying real estate in Panama, and how you can protect yourself.

✅ Why the attorney you hire matters (and how to pick the right one)
✅ The truth about Panama real estate brokers—and how to know who’s licensed
✅ What happens with the 10% deposit (and how to safeguard your money)
✅ Hidden pitfalls of tax exonerations you need to check before signing
✅ The difference between titled property and Rights of Possession (ROP)
✅ Why due diligence in Panama is your best friend
✅ The mindset that will keep you sane during the buying process

If you’re serious about buying real estate in Panama, don’t go in blind. Learn from my experience and save yourself months of stress and thousands of dollars.

Get your FREE copy of my tell-all book, Panama Uncorked, here:
👉 https://www.choosepanama.com/free-book.html

If you enjoyed this video, please like, subscribe, and hit the bell so you don’t miss more Panama real estate tips.

#choosepanama #melissadarnay #thepanamapodcast #panamarealestate #livinginpanama #expatlife
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!