It is said that once you drink water from the Chagres (the historic river that supplies both the Canal and the Panama City metropolitan area,) you’re bound to make this country your home in one way or another. Mica Harvey, a Canadian-born digital nomad, has clearly understood the scope and meaning of the metaphor. This is her story.
1. What made you consider Panama as your latest destination as a digital nomad?
Panama was chosen because it was a middle ground where my partner and I could get our PR in case the world further shut down because of COVID. I am Canadian, he is Australian and Panama is somewhat in the middle. Another important thing for us is the climate. even though I’m Canadian, I dislike the cold! So, warm weather, proximity to beaches and surfing for my partner was important! Also, PTY is a great international airport and we travel regularly.
2. So, what do you do for a living? How does your business impact the world and the local community?
I own and operate Virtual Assistant Assistant, a website that is a resource for outsourcing services! Not only do we provide a review and rating platform for outsourcing services, we also provide a personalized “match-making” service (like a broker) to help people find the right VA based on their unique needs.
I also own and operate the “Women in Panama” Facebook page, a comfortable place where women can ask questions, plan meetups, etc. in a safe and comfortable environment. We host lunches/meetups, have had book clubs, fitness meetups, etc.
My new business is providing a fitness community where women are coached and supported in a welcoming environment with workout plans, meal plans, and much more.
3. How has setting up shop in Panama changed your business for the better?
I feel that Panama has a great group of expats in business who like to network. I’ve met a lot of like-minded individuals and been able to build and develop my business further. Luckily, my businesses operate online, so I can work within any time zone.
4. Is Panama the wonder hub for digital nomads as it is often advertised? How does the truth differ from the myth in your experience?
Panama is great in many ways but I highly suggest visiting before making the leap to move –and traveling throughout the country to find which area best suits your needs! Originally, we settled in the city for the proximity to the airport, but found it to be quite isolating, lonely, and expensive. The beaches/outdoors in other regions work better for us… we only need to commute a bit longer to get to the airport.
5. Any interesting culture shock experiences?
The biggest shock for me moving to Panama is the lack of English. I thought that because of the canal and the history with the US that there would be stronger English speaking. I am aware that Panama is Spanish speaking, but I have lived in other Spanish speaking countries (and other languages i.e.: Turkish, Portuguese, French, German, Italian, plus others) and haven’t had as much difficulty navigating through day-to-day life.
6. Any advice for business-minded expats/digital nomads considering relocating to Panama?
Visit/travel here first to ensure you know where you want to settle. Ideally, have knowledge or general understanding of Spanish. Be patient – things take longer than expected… luckily I’ve lived in the Caribbean before, so I was used to this! Be social! Get out to meetups – business or expat events – to meet people (Women in Panama FB group!). Be prepared to be wet. Either in sweat because of heat/humidity or rain.