Retire in El Valle de Anton, Panama - EP 207

Mar 30, 2025

Patty Blue Hayes, an author and former communication coach, shares her transformative journey from California to El Valle de Antón, Panama. After a challenging divorce, she embarked on a cross-country RV trip that ultimately led her to fall in love with Panama. Patty discusses the hurdles of navigating a tricky real estate market and the trials of renovating her fixer-upper home. She also highlights the vibrant community and food culture, all while emphasizing personal growth and resilience through her relocation.

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ANECDOTE

Impulsive Trip to Panama

Patty Blue Hayes, while on an RV trip, impulsively flew to Panama after seeing a house online.
She never saw that house, but the trip sparked her move.

ANECDOTE

Night Drive and Bait-and-Switch

Patty drove to Altos del Maria at night, a drive she advises against due to its challenging nature.
Despite initial plans, she never saw the house that first interested her, possibly due to a bait-and-switch tactic.

ADVICE

Don't Rush into Buying

Don't buy property in Panama during your first few weeks.
Explore different areas and climates before committing to a purchase.

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Patty Blue Hayes was living in San Luis Obispo, California, recovering from a “near-death” divorce. Seeking a fresh start, she bought an RV and embarked on a cross-country journey across the United States. During one of her late-night real estate scrolling sessions, she came across a listing for a home in Panama that caught her eye. Intrigued, Patty parked her RV at the airport, booked a flight, and flew to Panama with the determination to see the house in person.

However, Patty never did visit the property. Instead, she fell in love with Panama the moment she landed. Her love affair with the country was instantaneous. Eventually, she sold both her RV and home and made the bold decision to move to Panama.

But the journey to find her dream home wasn’t smooth sailing. Several homes she was interested in fell through, and Patty admits it was the hardest time she’d ever had trying to spend money. After much searching, she finally settled on a dilapidated fixer-upper in El Valle de Antón, Panama.

Tune in to episode 207 of Retire There with Gilen & Gene to hear the story of what it's really like to purchase and renovate a home in Panama.

Find out more about Patty by visiting her website, PattyBlueHayes.com. Her books include: (1) Wine Sex and Suicide-My Near Death Divorce; (2) The Self Care Workbook for Emotional Healing and Self Discovery After a Breakup; and (3) How to Change Your Life With Easy Mindfulness Micro Habits-Declutter Your Mind Stop Negative Thinking and Empower Yourself.

Patty’s casita in El Valle de Anton “Spacious Casita with Bamboo View” can be found on Airbnb.

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