Moving abroad is a life-changing decision that comes with excitement, challenges, and opportunities. For Sarah, a seasoned expat and entrepreneur, Panama became the perfect place to build not just a new life but also a thriving business.
In this blog, we explore Sarah’s inspiring journey, her challenges, and the lessons she’s learned while building IGo Panama—a platform designed to support expats and small businesses.
Why Panama? Sarah’s Journey Begins
After living in Asia for 12 years, Sarah was ready for a fresh start closer to her family in the United States. Panama and Costa Rica stood out as options for their proximity, lifestyle, and business potential. Ultimately, Panama won her heart with an incredible offer from the International School of Panama.
But Panama wasn’t just about work. It was here that Sarah met her husband, Ernesto, and embarked on a journey that would see her transform from an empty-nester to a business owner making a real impact in the expat community.
“Panama was the right mix of personal and professional goals for me,” Sarah shares.
Starting Over: The Reality of Moving to Panama
For Sarah, moving to Panama was a relatively smooth experience, thanks to her international background and the supportive environment of her new workplace. However, she acknowledges that this isn’t the reality for everyone.
While Panama offers a welcoming culture, breathtaking nature, and a lower cost of living, the processes involved in settling, starting a business, or even handling daily tasks can be a challenge for newcomers.
“Panama’s relaxed approach can be a double-edged sword. While it feels freeing at first, the lack of transparency and structure in processes can be frustrating,” says Sarah.
From Expat to Entrepreneur: Building IGo Panama
After years of navigating Panama’s systems and starting a hospitality business with Ernesto, Sarah realized how difficult it could be for expats to find reliable resources and services. This led her and Ernesto to take over IGo Panama, a platform designed to bridge the gap for expats and small businesses in Panama.
What is IGo Panama?
- Verified Business Directory: Includes only legally registered businesses and ensures reliability through verified user reviews.
- Resource Library: Provides accurate blogs and videos on everything from legal advice to settling in Panama, created by industry professionals.
- Community Connections: A Facebook group and personalized support to help expats find their footing in Panama.
“IGo Panama connects people with trustworthy resources and businesses, ensuring a smoother experience for everyone,” Sarah explains.
Overcoming Challenges: Lessons from Sarah’s Experience
Despite her extensive international experience, Sarah encountered unexpected hurdles when starting a business in Panama, particularly in rural, off-grid locations. From navigating government paperwork to dealing with non-transparent processes, the journey wasn’t easy.
Key Advice from Sarah:
- Hire a Good Attorney: Investing in quality legal support upfront can save you time, money, and headaches.
- Understand the Processes: Bureaucracy in Panama can be slow and repetitive, so plan for extra time.
- Leverage Community Support: Online platforms and local expat groups can make a big difference in your transition.
Why Sarah Chose Rural Panama
Unlike most expats who gravitate towards Panama City, Sarah and Ernesto chose the northern Caribbean coast to build their hospitality business. For Sarah, the rainforest and close-knit community reminded her of her upbringing in rural Michigan.
“Living off-grid might seem isolating, but the sense of community in rural Panama is incredible. Everyone helps each other, and there’s a real connection,” she shares.
Advice for Future Expats
Sarah’s years in Panama have taught her invaluable lessons, which she’s eager to share with those considering the move:
- Do Your Research: Verify all information and rely on trusted sources for real estate, legal advice, or business opportunities.
- Invest in Professional Support: Hire experienced attorneys and accountants to avoid costly mistakes.
- Be Patient: Panama’s relaxed culture can be frustrating, but adaptability is key.
- Find Your Community: Building connections is essential for settling in a new country.
“Moving to Panama isn’t just about finding a new place to live—it’s about embracing a new way of life,” Sarah emphasizes.
Discover IGo Panama
If you’re considering a move to Panama or are already here and looking for support, IGo Panama is the perfect resource. From verified business directories to expert-written guides and an engaged online community, IGo Panama makes the transition smoother for expats and tourists alike.
Visit their website to learn more and start your journey to a better life in Panama.