Our Journey to Paradise

Follow Us to Paradise

Join us as we embrace a new life in Panama, where our family is redefining what it means to live with purpose and community. Discover the truth behind our adventure and how you can be a part of it.

A Leap of Faith

Our Story of Reinvention

A Movement Rooted in Panama

When we came to Panama, it wasn’t just to find paradise — it was to build a life that connected us to the people, the culture, and the land. Over the years, we’ve invested not only in our businesses but in the heartbeat of the community.

We believe paradise is more than a destination. It’s about lifting each other up, protecting the environment, and creating opportunities that last for generations. That’s why we’ve worked hand in hand with our neighbors to start programs that bring real change: community gardens and solar power for schools, local businesses like Salt Creek Soaps, reforestation projects, and reef restoration partnerships that connect youth across borders.

This site is a record of our commitment. It shows the work we’ve done, the partnerships we’ve built, and the impact that continues to grow. We’ve been featured on House Hunters International, CNN Destinations, and Do Panama — but the real story is here, with the community we call family.

Follow Us to Paradise isn’t about escaping to an island. It’s about becoming part of it. Together, we can create something that matters — for Panama, for the people, and for the future.

Start at the Beginning

Embark on our journey from the very first episode. Discover how our family’s story unfolds in Panama, and be inspired to watch our series from the start.

Our Commitment to Panama

Living the Dream: Challenges and Triumphs

Embracing life in Panama has been a journey filled with both trials and triumphs. Our commitment to this vibrant community and its natural beauty drives us every day. From the lush rainforests to the bustling local markets, we’ve found a home that challenges us to grow and inspires us to give back. Our dedication to conservation and community building is unwavering, and we invite you to be a part of this rewarding journey.

Latest Insights and Stories

Baseball Days and Donations

Baseball Days and Donations

Today our hearts are overflowing! ❤️ A surprise box 📦 traveled all the way from the middle of the United States — sent with love by my cousins, Elizabeth Recker Whannel and Jay Whannel — packed FULL of baseball gear ⚾️ for the kids of Salt Creek. There aren’t enough...

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Together for the Islands

Together for the Islands

Our Dream: To Live With Purpose and Create a Difference When we first came here, our dream wasn’t just to build a resort — it was to become part of the island community. From the beginning, we’ve looked for ways to connect with the culture, support the people who live...

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Let’s Give Back

Let’s Give Back

Remember that soap project we told you all about and so many people were so supportive. ( It is still going strong by the way thanks to everyone who is following along) We wanted to give even more so we took sometime to reset, readjust and refocus our plan. The...

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The Coconut Oil Project

The Coconut Oil Project

The coconut oil project is moving forward. 75 Boxes for Christmas orders are shipping out this week. We are so grateful for the love and support. Not only for those of you ordering, but also Panama and especially for Aero Naval for always asking if there is anything...

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The truth is. It’s been a hard 2 weeks…

The truth is. It’s been a hard 2 weeks…

Today is my Birthday. The truth is, it’s been a hard two weeks. Two weeks ago, with tears in our eyes, we had to tell more than 40 employees that their jobs were being put on hold. It was the only way to keep them safe. In those two weeks, we took the food from our...

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House Hunters International

House Hunters International

We’re thrilled to announce that we were featured again on HGTV, this time on House Hunters International, continuing our mission to shine a light on Bocas del Toro and Panama. Through these TV stories, we’re not just telling our story — we’re inviting the world to see...

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