🎉 Our One-Year “Pana-Versary” in Panama!

Without further ado—it’s September 9, 2025, and today marks a very special milestone: our one-year“Pana-Versary” in Panama City, Panama! 🎉

Wayne and I are so grateful you’ve joined us in reflecting on this journey. As proud citizens of the United States and now proud residents of Panama, we are continually amazed at how blessed we are to call both countries “home.” Each offers us something unique, and together, they’ve given us a life we never imagined.

Pinching Ourselves Daily

If you had asked us years ago whether we’d live outside the United States, we would have laughed at the thought. Yet here we are, in awe of this unconventional and joy-filled life. Some might say this lifestyle is reserved only for the rich or the famous—but by God’s grace, we are proof that dreams can be lived by those willing to step out in faith.

When we left Boone, NC, on September 9, 2024, it wasn’t just any date. It was my parents’ wedding anniversary (Walter & Barbara Brown), a memory we wanted to honor and carry forward. That afternoon, we boarded a nonstop flight to Panama City with only seven suitcases and a mix of emotions: excitement, joy, uncertainty, and maybe a little bit of “are you out of your mind?” But we knew one thing with certainty—we had God and each other, and we trusted the rest would unfold.

The Gift of Community

In just one year, we’ve met so many new friends—both Panamanians and fellow expats. While this blog can’t capture every detail (you can view our timeline here), we want to highlight the people who’ve touched our hearts.

Panamanians have welcomed us like family: neighbors, patrons, managers, officials, real estate agents, even security guards and police officers. Many go out of their way to ensure we are okay, often bridging the language gap with simple kindness. While Spanish is the national language (and we speak little of it), warm smiles, gestures, and even hugs from our favorite café owners have spoken louder than words.

Cost of Living Highlights

One of Panama’s biggest blessings is affordability—and the flexibility it gives us in shaping our lifestyle.

🏠 We currently live in a 2-bedroom, 3-bath condo overlooking both the city and ocean, fully furnished and equipped, for $1,400/month. Friends nearby pay even less, around $1,000—and in Panama, almost everything is negotiable.

🍽️ Food has been another highlight. Here’s what you can expect in Panama City:

• Breakfast: $4–11

• Lunch: $5–14

• Dinner: $11–25

• Average daily food budget: ~$36 per person

Local fondas (traditional eateries) are our favorite budget find—you can enjoy a full meal of rice, meat, vegetables, salad, and a drink for around $5. For groceries, we typically spend $75–175 at places like Rey, Riba Smith, Organica, and Foodie, depending on cravings. (Pro tip: international brands cost more!)

Beyond cost, the variety of cuisine has been a delight. From Panamanian and Italian to Peruvian, Greek, French, and even Texas-style barbecue, the options feel endless. A few of our favorites include:

• The Wallace (Scottish pub fare)

• The Bench

• Mentiritas Blancas (specialty coffee)

• Tres Cosechas

• Unido Café

• Krume Bakery

Living Transformed

Every new discovery here reminds us of Romans 12:2: “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”

This year abroad has truly renewed ours. Life outside your home country might sound impossible to some—but have you ever considered it for yourself? If you’ve already made the leap, we’d love to hear where you chose and how it’s going.

What’s Next?

Stay tuned for Part II of our Pana-Versary series, where we’ll share details about the extraordinary Pensionado Visa discounts and so much more that make retiring in Panama even more rewarding.

For now, we’re celebrating this milestone with gratitude, joy, and excitement for what’s yet to come. 🥂