Asados del Campo is an open air restaurant specializing in roasted meats. Asados del
Campo is located in Coronado on the Panamerican hwy across from the
Coronado mall.
Hours: Monday to Thursday 12:00 noon – 9:00 p.m., Friday to Sunday 12:00 noon – 10:00 p.m.
Information & Delivery: 240-1615
Bayview Restaurant specializes in seafood and located on the oceanfront in El Palmar.
Hours: 11:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. daily. Saturday 11:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.
Information & Reservations: (507) 240-9621, (507)240-9875
Bamboo Express specializes in traditional chinese food located in the Coronado Mall.
Hours: 11:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. everyday
Beruit has a new location in Playa Blanca. Beruit Specializes in authentic Lebanese food.
Hours: 11:00 am – 10:00 pm everyday
Information & Reservations: (507) 908-8081
Bruschetta is
located in El Valle de Anton across from the church at the end of the
town center. The restaurant is attached to the Anton Valley hotel.
Hours: 7:30 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. daily. Closed Wednesday.
Information & Reservations: (507) 983-5118
Buona Cucina located on calle Idaan behind Todos El
Carbon before the Coronado gates, serves authentic Italian. The
restaurant has recently undergone renovations.
Hours: 12:00 noon - 9:00 p.m. Wednesday - Sunday. Closed Monday & Tuesday
Information & Reservations: (507) 345-4677
Cafe Soleil
is open for breakfast and lunch. Serving smoothies, fresh fruit and
sandwiches, this open air cafe is perfect for a quick snack on the go.
Hours: Wednesday Sunday8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Closed Monday and Tuesday.
Information & Reservations: (507) 6781-9110
Cafe Viana is a small cafe located just before the
Coronado gates on the left hand side. Their menu changes from daily as
items such as muffins, scones and quiche are freshly baked.
Hours:
Monday, Tuesday & Thursday 8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Friday & Sunday
9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m., Saturday 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Wednesday closed.
Information: (507) 345-3400
California Burger
has great burgers and cold beer. Build your own burger, how you like
it! California Burger is located in Coronado across from the Coronado
Mall.
Hours: Weekdays open from 11:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. and weekends from 11:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. Closed Tuesdays & Wednesdays.
Information & Reservations: (507) 345-9985
La Casa de Lourdes a small hotel and restaurant located in El Valle. They are open for lunch and dinner sittings. Hours: 12:00 noon - 3:00 p.m. & 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. daily
Information & Reservations: (507) 983-6450
Las Camisones specializes in Spanish/Panamanian dishes. They are located in San Carlos on the Interamericana at km 104.
Hours: 12:00 noon - 9:30 p.m. everyday.
Information & Reservations: (507) 993-3622
Carlitos Pizza
is located in San Carlos across from the El Palmar entrance. They are
well known for their empanadas coming in several varieties and made
fresh daily!
Hours: Open every day expect Wednesday from 11:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. Closed Wednesday.
Information & Delivery: (507) 240-8526 (San Carlos) (507) 908-7074 (El Valle)
Cholos authentic Mexican restaurant serves fresh Mexican dishes and frozen margaritas. Cholos in located in Las Lajas. Hours: Thursday to Sunday 12:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Information & Reservations: (507)240- 4004
Coronado Café serves
up a great breakfast! The Café and restaurant offers indoor seating
with ac, and outdoor seating on a comfortable patio. Coronado Café is
located in Coronado inside Las Pergolas plaza, above Philipe Mota.
Hours: Wednesday to Sunday 9:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. Closed Monday & Tuesday
Information & Reservations: (507) 345-3245
Dominos Pizza the popular American chain is located on the 3rd level of the Coronado Mall.
Hours: Monday to Sunday 12:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Information & delivery: (507) 240-1919
Don Chachos Grill is located in Coronado. Don Chachos is specializing in rotisserie chicken and grilled meats. Hours: Everyday 11:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. Information & Reservations: (507) 240-1930
Don Lee is a popular Chinese food chain. They are located in the Village mall.
Hours: Monday to Thursday & Sunday 8:00 a.m. – 10:30 p.m. Friday & Saturday 8:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m.
El Galeon specializes in Seafood dishes. They are located five minutes past the entrance to Santa Clara.
Hours: Everyday 12:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m. Information & Reservations: (507)993-3078
El Meson Suizo,
specializes in Swiss specialty dishes and seafood. The restaurant is
located on the Panamerican hwy just after the turn off for El Valle, on
the right hand side.
Hours: Everyday 11:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. Closed Tuesdays.
Information & Reservations: (507) 240-8657
El Pampero is located on the Panamerican Hwy in the district of Chame, across from Banco nacional. Specializing in Chorizo made in house!
Hours: Sunday to Thursday from 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Friday & Saturday 8:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Information: (507) 240-6755
El Parque, has both Chinese food and local Panamanian dishes. They are located inside the town of San Carlos on the main road.
Hours: Every day except Tuesday from 9:00 a.m. – 8:30 p.m., Tuesday 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Information: (507) 240-8202
El Rincon Del Chef is located in Coronado. Rincon Del Chef is specializing in Baby Back Ribs.
Hours: Tuesday to Friday from 1:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Saturday & Sunday from 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. Closed Monday.
Information & Reservations: (507)240-1941
Green Leaf is located in the Village Mall. They serve an English Breakfast, crepes and sandwiches.
Hours: 8:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. everday
Information:(507) 6225-6367
Gourmet Pizza is located inside Coronado past the
gates. The restaurant is on Ave. Roberto Eisemann, just before the fire
station on the right hand side.
Hours: Monday to Thursday 11:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. Thursday to Sunday 11:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Information & Delivery: (507) 345-4585 or (507) 345-4586
KFC is located in the Village Mall across from the El Rey shopping center.
Hours: Monday to Thursday 11:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. Friday to Sunday 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Information & Delivery: (507) 236-5555
La Ruina Taberna Antigua has pub food & Panamanian dishes they located in Gorgona.
Hours: 12:00 noon. – 9:00 p.m. Thursday 12:00 noon - 10:00 p.m. Friday– Sunday. Closed Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday.
Information: (507)6527-8462
LA TECA opened
in Coronado February 2013. Specializing in Spanish cuisine, LA TECA
offers a fine dining experience. The restaurant is located in the
Village Mall on the first floor above Don Lee.
Hours: Tuesday to Sunday 12:00 noon – 9:30 p.m. Closed on Sunday & Monday.
Information & Reservations: 240-2101 or 240-2102
Locos Backyard Grill makes everything in house, they have great fresh cut fries. Locos is located in Gorgona. Now open Thursday’s!
Hours: Thursday to Saturday from 5:00 p.m. – till the last person leaves. Closed Sunday - Wednesday.
Information & Reservations: (507) 6233-7298
Luna Rossa
specializes in authentic Italian dishes and deserts. They are located
in Coronado on calle Roberto Esiemann across from La Cosita.
Hours: Wednesday to Friday & Sunday 12:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. Saturday 12:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.
Information & Reservations: (507)240-1455
Manglar Lodge Restaurant is a restaurant and hotel located in El Palmar. They serve fresh seafood, burgers and more.
Hours: 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. daily
Information & Reservations: (507) 240-8970
McDonald’s is located in the Coronado Mall.
Hours: 7:30 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Nitro City Action Sports Resort is a sports resort with a restaurant inside. Nitro City is located in Punta Chame.
Hours: Every day except Saturday 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. Saturday 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m.
Information & Reservations: (507)223-1747
O'Pedros is an Irish pub located at the Los Madarinos hotel in El Valle
Hours: 7:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m. everyday.
Information & Reservations: 983-6645
Pantay has fresh seafood daily. The restaurant is located in Coronado on calle Roberto Esiemann before the Coronado gates.
Hours: Wednesday to Sunday from 12:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Closed Monday & Tuesday.
Information & Reservations: (507) 6444-1586 or (507) 345-4025
Paraiso Bar & Restaurant is located 3km up the El Valle and has a little bit of everything, from burgers to fresh seafood.
Hours: Monday & Wednesday 9:30 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. Thursday 9:30 a.m.
– 10:00 p.m. Friday & Saturday 9:30 a.m. – 12:00 a.m. Sunday 9:30
a.m. – 8:30 p.m. Closed Tuesday.
Information & Reservations: (507) 6613-0513 or (507)6835-1611
Picasso Bar & Restuarante
offers a fusion of fresh salads, oriental flavors, grills, wood-burn
pizza and more! Picasso is located inside the Coronado gates on Ave.
Roberto Esienman, across from the fire station.
Hours: Wednesday to Saturday 5:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. Saturday Brunch 10:00 a.m.- 1:00 p.m. Closed Sunday, Monday & Tuesday Information & Reservations: (507) 345-3777
Pio Pio
is a fast food chain specializing in fried chicken, located in the El
Rey mall. Hours: Monday to Wednesday 7:00 a.m. – 10:30 p.m. Thursday to
Sunday 24hrs.
Prime 19 is located on the 18th hole of the
Buenaventura Golf Course. Prime 19 is a steakhouse that offers serveral
imported cuts of meat.Hours may change by season and day of the week.
Hours: Sunday - Thursday 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Friday - Saturday Open 10:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Information & Reservations: (507) 908-3333
Punta Chame Villas is located at the end of Punta Chame. The restaurant specializes in seafood and offers breakfast, lunch & dinner. Hours: 7:30 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. everyday
Information & Reservations: (507) 240-5590
Rancho Los Toros Is a large ranch located in the district of San Carlos.
Hours: Open for special events & weekend dinner sittings
Information & Reservations: (507) 6619-1693
Rincon Catracho is a small open air restaurant located in Gorgona.
Hours: Thursday to Sunday from 12:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Information: (507) 240-5807
Steak 2 Restobar is a stea house located just before the Coronado gates.
Hours: 12:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. everyday Information & Reservations: (507) 345-4677
Subway the popular sandwich chain is located in the El Rey Mall beside Pio Pio.
Hours: Monday to Sunday 8:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Tai Kai Sushi is located in the JW Marriott hotel serves Japanese creations and fresh sushi.
Hours 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. reservations are recommended on weekends
Information & Reservations: (507) 908-3333
Tamarindo is located in the JW Marriott hotel, they serve International food. They are open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Hours: Everyday from 7:30 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.
Information & Reservations: (507) 908-3333
Terrazas Del Mar offers fine dining at the beach specializing in international dishes and seafood.
Hours: Everyday from 11:30 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Information & Reservations: (507) 345-4077 or (507) 6612-0095Trattoria serves Italian food, and brick oven pizza. They are located on calle Idaan behind Todos El Carbon before the Coronado gates.
Hours: Every day except Tuesday from 12:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. Tuesday 4:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. Closed Wednesday
Todo Al Carbon serves local Panamanian dishes, located in Coronado on Roberto Eisenman, before the Coronado gates.
Hours: Tuesday to Saturday from 10:00 a.m. -9:00 p.m. Sunday from 9:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. Closed Monday.
Information & Reservations: (507) 240-1106
Todo Sabor
Located in the San Carlos town square, Todo Sabor serves creative and
fresh authentic Italian meals by award winning chef Alfredo Ziino
Hours: Open everyday expect Tuesday. Monday - Friday from 11:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. Saturday & Sunday 11:00 a.m. - 10:30 p.m.
Information & Reservations: 6277-4073/ 6263-5804
Toti's Marisquería is a seafood restaurant located on the Panamerican highway in Chame.
Hours: 11:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. Monday - Thursday and 7:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m. Friday - Sunday
Information & Reservations: 6753-8358
Ty's Sports Bar is a pub style restaurant located in El Valle.
Hours: Wednesday - Sunday 11:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. Closed Monday & Tuesday. Will open 7 days a week in January.
Information & Reservations: 6780-7251 or 6780-7253
Xoko
offers a variety of Mediterranean & Panamanian dishes. They are
located on the Panamerican Hwy at the Santa Clara turn off, on the ocean
side.
Hours: Monday to Thursday from 12:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Friday
from 12:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. Saturday from 12:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.
Sunday from 11:00 a.m. – 9:30 p.m.
Information & Reservations: (507) 993-3876
XS Restaurant is located one block off the Panamerican hwy across from the entrance to Santa Clara.
Specializing and burgers and fresh cut fries.
Hours: Wednesday & Thursday from 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Friday to Sunday 8:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. Closed Monday & Tuesday.
http://www.playacommunity.com/en/restaurant-guide
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Thursday, December 19, 2013
Monday, December 9, 2013
First flight of Air France at Tocumen International Airport • Panama
Air France highlights "tremendous potential" of Panama and optimistic future glimpsed in its operations. Monday, November 25, was held at the Tocumen International Airport
(TIA), the arrival of the inaugural flight of the French airline Air
France, marking the beginning of his frequently Paris - Panama, offering
three weekly flights and adding a connectivity more directly to the
heart of Europe, thus crystallizing the efforts of President Ricardo
Martinelli to benefit the country as a positive impact on the Panamanian
economy.
During
the welcome ceremony of the French flight, President Martinelli said
that the new route of Air France is the result of the trip he took to
France in May this year. He
said that "personally" he dealt with the negotiations in France, where
the company expressed a desire to establish an Air France direct flight
between Panama and Paris.
He added that the load factor of the Air France flights to and from France is pre-selling until April. "I'm
sure seeing the Panamanian company potential, within a year could be
making a daily basis, enabling more European tourists visit the
destination Panama," the visibly moved President.
The
Boeing B777-200 aircraft with capacity for 309 passengers, was received
with the traditional baptism of fire Tocumen International Airport. The
President of the Republic of Panama, Ricardo Martinelli, Ambassador of
France, airport authorities, journalists, special guests with airline
executives also welcomed the first flight, which is part of the
expansion of Air France Latin America.
Its
executives reported that Air France started with three flights a week
linking the Charles de Gaulle airport in Paris with Tocumen Mondays,
Thursdays and Saturdays, a frequency that provides 900 seats per week
from the European market.
The
Boeing B777-200 offers three classes, with 35 Business seats are
completely bed, semi Premium Economy and Economy reclining seats with
individual screen for each passenger.
Directors
of Air France stressed during reception at Tocumen International
Airport, the "tremendous potential" of its new route between Paris and
Panama, from Monday connected to two of the "hub" or distribution
centers passengers more dynamic in the world. "Expectations
for the future are quite optimistic," said executive vice president of
international Air France, Patrick Alexandre, noting that the airline
aims to increase as soon as the frequency of its flights possible.
Meanwhile,
the CEO of Copa Airlines, Pedro Heilbron said that Copa is a strategic
partner that has an excellent hub connections, and "makes connecting
passengers and Air France to reach Copa Panama that can connect to both
routes. This new stage will be ideal for the connectivity offered
Tocumen International Airport, which allows the plug between the two
airlines. "
Panama
attracts the French for business and investment, with an economy that
exceeds 8% annual growth for its major infrastructure, its parks, its
history and for being a destination for sun and beach safety. In addition to its golf courses, and cruises.
Translation provided by Google.
Saturday, November 30, 2013
Surfing in Panama
Panama Surf Report
By Jon Hanna of Panama
Surf Tours
Panama has some of the best surf breaks in all
of Central America! Whether you like point
breaks, beach breaks, hollow tubes, or long peelers, Panama has a variety of surf breaks
to accommodate your style.
Unlike Costa
Rica, Panama
is still virgin and you can catch most of the best surf spots by yourself with
your buddies. Few people know about Panama's surfing potential, which
is a big plus for surfers who visit! However, you better go soon because Panama is
becoming more and more popular for surfers from around the globe.
Panama's roads are of the best in Central and South America, with 4 lane highways all over the country
for quick access to the surf breaks. The transportation system is very good,
and buses and taxis are readily available from the international airport.
However, if you are strapped for time, and would like to be picked up and
guided to the best surf spots and hotels, try a surf tour by
Panamasurftours.com .
Panama is also one of the safest places
in the world, so no worries about getting mugged by thugs at the beach, as
frequently happens in El Salvador, Mexico, and other countries in Central
America. In general, you can surf, roam the streets, party, or shop care free,
at any time day or night.
Panama also has an excellent communications
system so you can easily call your girlfriend, family or business back home at
any time without any hassle. You can even rent a cellular phone for your surf
trip, so you can be always in communication.
Panama's hospitals are of the best in Central America, so in the event that you got beatings on
the rocks or reef while surfing (God Forbid), you can be guaranteed that you
will be assisted by well trained health care professionals.
The Pacific side is best in the months
between April and November. The Caribbean side
is best between December and March, but can get swells any time of the year
except the time between September and November. We recommend you look at the
swell history for individual surf spots on Magicseaweed.com for more specific information.
Finally, Panama is still inexpensive. At the
beaches, you can generally get a great meal for under $4, and budget hotels
range from $20 to $50 per room per night, depending on your style. Bus
transportation can cost anywhere from $0.30 to $15 depending on where you are
going.
Pacific Ocean
We will start from the beaches in the province of Darien
and work upwards along the coast through Panama City,
then the Panama Bay Area beaches, then the Peninsula
area of Los Santos and finally the provinces of Veraguas and Chiriqui.
Darien
The province
of Darien is located below Panama City on the east side of the Panama bay, and
is basically unexplored. There are a few breaks that people have surfed,
however, only a few surfers have ever ventured into this territory.
Punta Jaque
Is a rock bottom point break with rights
that is best at medium tide.
Jaque Beach Break
A black sand bottom beach break that
breaks right and left and is best at medium to high tide, but can be surfed at
low tide as well.
Panama City
Panama City has a few different surf
breaks, however, we do not recommend them due to the city pollution that has
gone into the ocean in front of the city—the government is in the process of
cleaning it up. Also, there must be a really big swell for these spots to
break.
Playa Las
Bovedas
This spot is located directly in front of
the Presidential Palace in the area of "Las Bovedas". It is a rock
bottom point break with rights and lefts, and it is best at medium to high
tide. The area is known for it's rich history with statues of famous people of Panama. At the
entrance there is a great restaurant called "Restaurante las Bovedas",
which has great seafood and a wonderful atmosphere. This restaurant was built
inside of an old jail that the Spaniards used to drown pirates. They would lock
them in the cell, and when the tide came up, the water would fill the cell.
Panama Viejo
This spot is located directly in front of
the old Spanish ruins of Panama Viejo ("Old Panama"). It used to have
a sand bottom, but many years ago they took most of the sand for building, and
now there are only mud flats with some sand. You can surf here on a big swell
at high tide, it breaks right and left but is a weak wave. Also, they recently
built a highway called "Corredor Norte" that runs over the water in
front of Panama Viejo, so the swell has to go through the pilings which weakens
it even more.
Boca La
Caja
This spot is located in front of the
"Corredor Norte", in front of the area of "Boca La Caja"
which is a somewhat dangerous area of the city with many thugs. We do not
recommend going to this spot unless you are with a local. The break is a rock bottom,
right break that is surfed at medium to high tide.
Isla
Chepillo
This spot is an island in the Panama Bay
located East of Panama City. You can only get there by boat. If you don't have
your own boat, then you have to drive to the town of Chepo, and catch a boat from there. The boat
men charge about $40 to take a group of 4 to 6 surfers out there. There are are
two point breaks. One is a right point that breaks over sharp rocks and can be
surfed at all tides. The other is a center peak breaking over rock, and can be
surfed at medium to high tide.
Pacific
Coast Beaches Near Panama City
The Pacific coast area near Panama City is much
cleaner than the city breaks, and gets much better surf. These surf breaks are
located by about an 1 hour drive west from Panama City,
over the Bridge of the Americas,
and up the coast on the Pan-American highway.
We will list them in order as you go along the highway.
Playa Malibu
This spot is located near the town of Gorgona. You must turn
off the main highway, into the town of Gorgona,
go straight until you get to the end of the road at the beach. Look to your
left, and you will see a river. The break is located directly in front of the
river, and is a sand bottom right and left break best during medium to low
tide. The right is good at low tide, and the left is good at medium tide going
up.
This spot is one of the best and most
consistent spots in the Panama Bay area and you can get some good tubes and
long rides when there is a good swell. However, you should go by 4x4 truck and
park on the beach in front of the break because if you leave your car on the
road or near the river and walk down, your valuables in your car are very
likely to get ripped off by the locals.
Playa
Serena
This spot is located in the town of Coronado. You must go
into Coronado, pass the gate, straight until you see two big Condo towers on
the beach, in front of a rock point with a large concrete wall. The break is a
right point break with good tubes at the point, then after the rocks, the wave
tends to mush out but keeps a long rippable wall. You can get rides as long as
200 yards. There must be a good swell for this spot to work well.
Playa Teta
To the Gringos, this spot is called
"Tits", not for naked women, but for the river that runs in front of
it called "Rio Teta", which means "Tits river" for the
shape of it. It is located about 2 miles past the town of Coronado, taking a left off of the main
highway, then going down a dirt road for about 10 minutes. Park at the end of
the road under the mango tree, then walk down the trail. This spot has 3
different breaks.
The Front
(Frente de Teta)
Is the rock/sand bottom break that is
located directly to the right of the river mouth, or in front of the river
mouth, depending on how the river is flowing at that time (it changes from time
to time). The front has long lefts at low tide, and rights and lefts at medium
to high tide.
The Point
(Punta de Teta)
Is the point break that is located
directly to the left of the river mouth. It is a point break over rock bottom
that breaks left and right, with good tubes at the peak and long rides. It is
best at medium tide going up.
Rinconsito
Is the rock bottom point that is located
directly to the left of Punta Teta, and it is a long right break. You can get
rides of up to 200 yards long on a good swell. This spot is named after the
famous break in California
called "Rincon", so the Panamanians called it "Little
Rincon", or "Rinconsito".
Playa El
Palmar
This beach is located after the town of San Carlos, taking a left off of the main highway, right
after you pass the bridge
of San Carlos. Go down
the asphalt road about 1 mile to the beach. This beach has 3 breaks.
Frente
Palmar (Palmar Front)
Is a beach break with rock bottom on the
left hand side. It is very crowded on weekends, and there is a surf camp
located directly in front of it, so it can get crowded. The beach break is a
close-out, and mainly beginners go there to surf.
Punta
Palmar (Palmar Point)
Is a rock bottom point break directly to
the right of the beach break, and has right peeling waves at medium to high
tide. There must be a good swell for this spot to break well, but when it is
good, it can get very powerful and fun.
Hawaiisito
(Little Hawaii)
Is a rock bottom point break to the left
of the beach break, down to the left of the concrete wall. It breaks to the
left at full high tide, and can be fun, but this spot is quite weak, and can
only handle a small swell of about 3 to 4 feet, otherwise it closes out.
Playa Rio Mar
This beach is located after Palmar, in
the town of Rio
Mar. After you pass the town of San Carlos on
the main highway, you will go over a few hills, then you will see a sign to the
left to enter Rio Mar on an asphalt road,
which takes you to the beach. The restaurant charges $5 to park the car under
the tree, in front of the beach. If you don't pay the $5 for parking, the
restaurant owner will flatten your tires, so beware! There are some rental
cabins there with a pool too. Rio Mar has 2 breaks
Frente Rio Mar (Rio Mar Front)
Is the beach break, with rocks spread
throughout various parts of it. It is best at medium to high tide, and has
rights and lefts.
Punta Rio Mar (Rio Mar Point)
Is the point break down to the right. At
low tide, you have to walk down the beach for about a mile to the point, and
then walk through the rocks, and paddle out where there is a long rock ledge
that sticks out into the ocean. The wave breaks right and left, but the rights
are best and it only breaks at low tide.
Los
Santos: Pedasi / Tonosi
The province
of Los Santos has some of the best
surf in Panama, as it is
located out on the peninsula
of Panama. That is the
part of Panama that looks
like a boot that sticks out in the Pacific ocean.
To get there, you go down the Pan American
highway, then take a left at Divisa, then go through Chitre, then through Las
Tablas, then to Pedasi. At Pedasi, the beaches begin, and run all the way
through Tonosi to the end of the road at Cambutal. There are dozens of
unexplored beaches in this area, but we will name the known surf breaks from
Pedasi over to Cambutal.
Playa
Lagarto
Is in the town of Pedasi. Just ask anyone for directions to the
beach, and follow the dirt road for about 10 minutes to the beach. This break
is a beach bottom break that breaks at all tides with some rocks on each end,
but gets good rights and lefts and can be very powerful when it is big.
However, when it gets too big, it closes out.
Playa El Toro
Is also in the town of Pedasi. It is right next to Lagarto, but is the
point before Lagarto where the road ends. It is a rock bottom point break with
lefts and rights, and it gets really good when there is a good swell. It is
best surfed at medium tide.
Playa
Destiladeros
Is a beach near Pedasi with several
breaks. It has a right point over rock bottom, a left point over rock bottom,
and a beach break with pebble bottom. It is best at medium tide.
Ciruelo
Is a rock bottom point break located 20
minutes past Pedasi, right before Venado. You can see it from the road, but you
must turn off at the store, and park, then walk down the hill to the break. It
is rarely surfed, but can get really good left tubes when there is a good swell
and no wind.
Playa Venao
Is a sand bottom beach break located 30
minutes past Pedasi. You will see the sign to turn off into Venao. This spot
catches just about any swell, so it is a good bet when there is little or no
surf anywhere else. It is best surfed at medium to high tide. At low tide, it
tends to close out. Also, on swells over 8 to 10 feet, it tends to close out.
There are some small beach cabins there, and a restaurant.
Playa
Madrono
Is a sand bottom beach break located
about 5 minutes past the entrance to Venado. You have to park the car on the
main road, then walk down the cow pastures to the river, then follow the river
out to the beach for about a 30 minute hike.
Bring your shoes and prepare to step in
cow dung! Also bring along a bottle of water because there is nothing at the
beach. The surf can get really good, with hollow tubes at low tide, but be sure
to go early in the morning before the wind starts.
Playa Raya
Is a beach point break with sand bottom
that is located about 10 minutes past Venado. It is named "Raya" for
the big manta rays and sting rays that are seen in the water there. To get
there, you have to park on the main road, then walk across the cow pastures to
the beach. It is about a 45 minute hike down the hill to the beach. At low
tide, you will see miles of secluded beach, with a right point break on the
left side of the sand bar, and a left point break on the left side of the sand
bar. The waves can get huge, up to 15 or 20 feet on big swells, with big tubes.
Bring a bottle of water as there is nothing out there.
The wild life is incredible here and the
big sea turtles come up to lay eggs on the beach. Be careful though, lots of
big sharks here!
Playa
Guanico
Is located about 1 hour past Venado. It
has several breaks including 2 rock bottom point breaks with rights and lefts,
and one beach break with rights and lefts. There is a small town there with a
store, and there is a Frenchman building some cabins, but they are not open for
business yet.
Cambutal
Is located past Venado, then past Tonosi,
in the town of Cambutal.
It has several great surf breaks including beach breaks and point breaks and
catches just about any swell so it is rarely under 4 to 5 feet and as big as 15
to 20 feet.
To get to the surf breaks here, you need
a 4x4 because the road is very muddy and you have to go through a river. There
are no surf camps or hotels there, so bring your tent, or stay at the town of Tonosi, which is about 40
minutes away by car. Each break will be mentioned in order as you drive along
the road from the beach break at the town of Cambutal to the end of the road, which is
Corto Circuito.
Cambutal Beach Break
Is located directly in front of the town
of Cambutal. It
is a fun beach break with rights and lefts and is best at medium to high tide,
but can be good at low tide as well.
Punta Negra
Is located down the road, around the
first point. You will see it below as you go along the road that runs next to
the cliff. It is a point break over rock bottom that is best during medium to
high tide.
411
Is located about 30 minutes from the town
of Cambutal, and it is a point break with a long right hander over rock ledge
bottom. You can see how the surf has carved the rocks into shelf plates. This
is one of the most famous breaks in Cambutal, and is best during medium to high
tide.
Dinosaurios
(Dinosaurs)
Is located directly next to 411. It is a
rock bottom break with rights and lefts at medium to high tide, but can also be
surfed at low tide. It is very powerful and can get very big surf.
Horcones Beach Break
Is located down the beach from
Dinosaurios. It is a sand bottom beach break with rights and lefts. There is
one spot that is in front of a small river mouth that gets really good at
medium to low tide, but is also good at high tide.
Dos Rocas
Is a rock bottom point break down at the
end of Horcones Beach Break. It has two large rock boulders that stick out so
you will immediately see where it is. It can get good rights at medium tide.
Corto
Circuito
Is the daddy of Cambutal. It is located
at the very end of the road, after Dos Rocas. It is a rock bottom point break
with a very powerful peak that breaks over a rock ledge and throws a huge tube,
then peels down the point for about 100 yards with a great wall that you can do
tons of turns on.
For more information: http://www.panamainfo.com/en/surfing-panama
Panama Surf Report
By Jon Hanna of Panama Surf Tours - See more at: http://www.panamainfo.com/en/surfing-panama#sthash.eeeWwaF8.dpuf
By Jon Hanna of Panama Surf Tours - See more at: http://www.panamainfo.com/en/surfing-panama#sthash.eeeWwaF8.dpuf
Panama Surf Report
By Jon Hanna of Panama Surf Tours - See more at: http://www.panamainfo.com/en/surfing-panama#sthash.eeeWwaF8.dpuf
By Jon Hanna of Panama Surf Tours - See more at: http://www.panamainfo.com/en/surfing-panama#sthash.eeeWwaF8.dpuf
Monday, November 11, 2013
Scientific Reasons to Visit Panama • Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute
Smithsonian science: leadership in carbon research
Long before atmospheric carbon concentrations crossed the 400 parts per
million threshold, Smithsonian scientists were examining the
complexities of carbon flows on tropical landscapes. Decades of
breakthrough research recently led to a new milestone for carbon
science: the most highly detailed carbon stock map for any nation to
date.
Panama’s high-fidelity carbon map is only part of the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute’s carbon science story. STRI researchers are at the frontier edge of how tropical forests, which contain Earth’s largest terrestrial carbon stocks, are already responding to higher carbon concentration and climate change.
Panama’s high-fidelity carbon map is only part of the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute’s carbon science story. STRI researchers are at the frontier edge of how tropical forests, which contain Earth’s largest terrestrial carbon stocks, are already responding to higher carbon concentration and climate change.
http://www.stri.si.edu/english/research/features/index.php
Visit the Smithsonian in Panama
The Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute has the responsibility of disseminating research results and implementing public education programs to increase understanding and awareness of tropical environments. For example, STRI currently organizes day visits to three youth-oriented education facilities: Barro Colorado Island, Culebra, Bocas del Toro and Galeta. To reach adult audiences, including important decision-makers as well as the general public, the Institute coordinates communication activities such as seminars, conferences, media releases, and book launches.A visit to Barro Colorado offers the opportunity to discover the splendor of a humid tropical forest.
Barro Colorado, the largest forested island in the Panama Canal waterway, is part of the Barro Colorado Nature Monument (BCNM) and is the site of an internationally recognized biological research station.
The wildlife there is extremely diverse. There are probably thousands of insect species and more than 120 species of mammals, nearly half of which are bats. If you are patient and observant, you will discover amazing things. You will learn about research in progress and about the rich natural history of Barro Colorado. We hope to pique your interest in tropical ecosystems, because you are key to the protection of this natural environment.
Did you know that... ?
-
The Barro Colorado Nature Monument includes Barro Colorado Island and five surrounding mainland peninsulas: Gigante, Peña Blanca, Bohio, Buena Vista, and Frijoles.
- The annual precipitation on the Island averages 2,600mm.
-
Five monkey species, all native to Panama, live on Barro Colorado Island: Spider Monkey, White-faced Monkey, Geoffrey's Tamarin, Howler Monkey, and Night Monkey.
-
225 species of ants have been documented on Barro Colorado Island.
-
Barro Colorado Nature Monument is home to the "50-hectare Plot", an integral part of the Center of Tropical Forest Science's "Earth Observatory" which spans three continents. It allows scientists to measure precisely, instead of guess, tree population fluctuations in tropical forest.
-
Barro Colorado Island is one of the most studied places on Earth and has become a prototype for measuring diversity of plant and animal life around the world.
Friday, September 27, 2013
Whale watching in Panama • Now is the season
When one thinks of whale watching, places like Hawaii, Mexico, Alaska,
New England, even Dominican Republic, Australia and Tonga instantly come
to mind. But, few ever think of Panama as a whale watching destination,
but it is actually a mecca for Humpback whales.
Along with Costa Rica, Panama is the only place in the world where Humpback whales migrate from both the Southern and Northern hemispheres to breed and give birth. During the months of July to October there are several thousand Humpback whales that travel over 5,000 miles, (the longest migration known by a mammal) from Antarctica to the warm, shallow and safe calving grounds on the Pacific side of Panama. From December to March, Panama receives a few hundred Humpback whales from North America for the same reason, which gives the waters off Panama seven months of Humpback whale activity.
Beyond the well-known Panama Canal, there is a country with one of the largest biodiversities in the world, with 975 species of birds, making it a bird watcher’s paradise. National parks cover 30 per cent of the country. Exploration of this verdant country uncovers lush virgin rainforests, two oceans only 50 miles apart, cute mountain towns, coffee plantations, canopy zip line attractions, river rafting, big game sport fishing and three unique island archipelagos. It is home to seven unique indigenous populations, and several UNESCO world heritage sites.
Panama is also a haven for over 30 species of cetaceans, (whales and dolphins) that are found in its waters. The most common are the year round populations of Pantropical Spotted dolphins, Bottlenose dolphins, and the Humpback whales during their breeding seasons. Other species that are occasionally seen are Spinner dolphins, Long Beaked Common dolphins, Bryde’s whales, Sperm whales, Pilot whales, Blue whales and even Orca whales. The dolphins and Humpback whales are so prevalent they can even be seen among all the ships at anchor waiting to transit the world famous Panama Canal in front of Panama City.
It is very easy to find the whales and dolphins during the peak Humpback season, July-October. Whale Watching Panama, the only dedicated Whale Watching tour operator in the country, boasts a 99 per cent whale sighting record in the Pearl islands, 35 miles South of Panama City. The Pearl islands are easily accessible by a one-day tour from Panama City. Located just 12 miles from the canal entrance sits Isla Taboga, which offers a 75-80 per cent success rate of Humpback whale sightings.
One of the great advantages to whale watching in Panama is the enjoyment of often being the only boat on the water viewing the whales. The whale watching boats take no more than 10-15 people at a time, ensuring everyone a fantastic view of the animals at all times.
Another fun aspect about whale watching in Panama is the climate. Many whale watching destinations around the world are quite cold, but in Panama, you can whale watch in a T-shirt and shorts, and even stop if you get too hot for a refreshing dip in the 80◦ F waters.
Whale Watching Panama pioneered the business of Whale Watching in Panama, after it’s founder, Anne Gordon de Barrigón, went on weekend trip one February in 2008 to Contadora island in the Pearl islands. She hired a local fisherman to take her out to find some dolphins. In no time they found about 40 Spotted dolphins and four Humpback whales. Anne was already involved in tourism, running cultural tours to her husband’s Emberá Indian village in the rain forest of Panama. She quickly realised if the dolphins and whales were so easy to find, even out of the peak whale season, this would be a great tour option to offer.
Anne and the Whale Watching Panama expert naturalist guides are Ambassador members of Planet Whale, a global platform for responsible whale and dolphin tour operators around the world. If you are looking for a unique, beautiful and uncrowded destination for observing whales and dolphins, be sure to place Panama at the top of your list.
By Anne Gordon de Barrigón
www.WhaleWatchingPanama.com, Anne@WhaleWatchingPanama.com
To book a tour: Ellie@WhaleWatchingPanama.com
http://caymannetnews.com/2013/07/25/whale-watching-a-fascinating-pastime-in-panama/
Along with Costa Rica, Panama is the only place in the world where Humpback whales migrate from both the Southern and Northern hemispheres to breed and give birth. During the months of July to October there are several thousand Humpback whales that travel over 5,000 miles, (the longest migration known by a mammal) from Antarctica to the warm, shallow and safe calving grounds on the Pacific side of Panama. From December to March, Panama receives a few hundred Humpback whales from North America for the same reason, which gives the waters off Panama seven months of Humpback whale activity.
Beyond the well-known Panama Canal, there is a country with one of the largest biodiversities in the world, with 975 species of birds, making it a bird watcher’s paradise. National parks cover 30 per cent of the country. Exploration of this verdant country uncovers lush virgin rainforests, two oceans only 50 miles apart, cute mountain towns, coffee plantations, canopy zip line attractions, river rafting, big game sport fishing and three unique island archipelagos. It is home to seven unique indigenous populations, and several UNESCO world heritage sites.
Panama is also a haven for over 30 species of cetaceans, (whales and dolphins) that are found in its waters. The most common are the year round populations of Pantropical Spotted dolphins, Bottlenose dolphins, and the Humpback whales during their breeding seasons. Other species that are occasionally seen are Spinner dolphins, Long Beaked Common dolphins, Bryde’s whales, Sperm whales, Pilot whales, Blue whales and even Orca whales. The dolphins and Humpback whales are so prevalent they can even be seen among all the ships at anchor waiting to transit the world famous Panama Canal in front of Panama City.
It is very easy to find the whales and dolphins during the peak Humpback season, July-October. Whale Watching Panama, the only dedicated Whale Watching tour operator in the country, boasts a 99 per cent whale sighting record in the Pearl islands, 35 miles South of Panama City. The Pearl islands are easily accessible by a one-day tour from Panama City. Located just 12 miles from the canal entrance sits Isla Taboga, which offers a 75-80 per cent success rate of Humpback whale sightings.
One of the great advantages to whale watching in Panama is the enjoyment of often being the only boat on the water viewing the whales. The whale watching boats take no more than 10-15 people at a time, ensuring everyone a fantastic view of the animals at all times.
Another fun aspect about whale watching in Panama is the climate. Many whale watching destinations around the world are quite cold, but in Panama, you can whale watch in a T-shirt and shorts, and even stop if you get too hot for a refreshing dip in the 80◦ F waters.
Whale Watching Panama pioneered the business of Whale Watching in Panama, after it’s founder, Anne Gordon de Barrigón, went on weekend trip one February in 2008 to Contadora island in the Pearl islands. She hired a local fisherman to take her out to find some dolphins. In no time they found about 40 Spotted dolphins and four Humpback whales. Anne was already involved in tourism, running cultural tours to her husband’s Emberá Indian village in the rain forest of Panama. She quickly realised if the dolphins and whales were so easy to find, even out of the peak whale season, this would be a great tour option to offer.
Anne and the Whale Watching Panama expert naturalist guides are Ambassador members of Planet Whale, a global platform for responsible whale and dolphin tour operators around the world. If you are looking for a unique, beautiful and uncrowded destination for observing whales and dolphins, be sure to place Panama at the top of your list.
By Anne Gordon de Barrigón
www.WhaleWatchingPanama.com, Anne@WhaleWatchingPanama.com
To book a tour: Ellie@WhaleWatchingPanama.com
http://caymannetnews.com/2013/07/25/whale-watching-a-fascinating-pastime-in-panama/
Thursday, August 15, 2013
The Best Places to Vacation in Panama
Posted on June 14, 2011 by Jessica Ramesch
http://internationalliving.com/2011/06/the-best-places-to-vacation-in-panama/
After five years of writing about Panama for International Living, you’d think writing about the best places to vacation in Panama would be a cinch. The more you know, the easier it should be…but the opposite is often the case. I know so many great places to vacation in Panama that it’s hard to narrow it down to just a few.
There are places like the jungles of the Darien that appeal to the adventure traveler in Panama, and places like Isla San Jose that offer eco-tourists in Panama a bit of luxury in a green environment. But there are a few vacation spots in Panama that no traveler should miss. Three spots that represent three different “faces” of Panama.
The best places to vacation in Panama: the islands
At the top of the list are the islands of Kunayala, also known as the San Blas islands. Here, the Kuna (among the world’s smallest people) live much the way they did when the Americas were first “discovered.” The Kuna are autonomous and thus govern the region. They try to keep tourism from running rampant and favor eco-friendly lodgings that fit in with their traditional huts.
Sapibenega The Kuna Lodge tends to get good reviews, but I say go for Yandup instead. The island is close to the Ukupseni community, which many agree is one of the most beautiful. Beware, first-time visitors feel like they’re dreaming when they see the baby-blue waters dotted with itty-bitty islands. White sand beaches are everywhere you look; swim from one to another. Visit the website to find out about rates and transportation.
Remember, you’ll be in traditional dwellings no matter where you stay in Kunayala. Don’t expect air conditioning and don’t “bug out” if there are a few bugs.
Highland vacations in Panama’s Boquete region
Once you’ve had your fill of the beach, consider a visit to the little mountain town of Boquete and neighboring Volcan. You can get there via a six-hour drive from Panama City, but I prefer to fly an hour to David City and rent a car there.
It’s a 45-minute drive from David to either Boquete or Volcan. In Boquete, be sure to visit The Rock, the best restaurant I’ve been to in years. Head to Volcan for strawberries and a thick, goopy cream called nata or fresh raspberry milkshakes…there are multiple stands but I like Alina’s best. Just ask any local where to find it!
There’s so much to see in this area, you may want to invest in a guidebook like Moon or Lonely Planet. From ancient petroglyphs to horse farms to a completely unique bi-national forest and an 11,000-foot volcano, this region has enough treasures to keep you busy for days.
My top pick for places to vacation in Panama
Believe it or not: Panama City is my top pick for best places to vacation in Panama. I can’t help being biased; I choose to live here and absolutely love it. Here’s what you do: contact Los Cuatro Tulipanes and rent a real restored colonial in Panama City’s historic quarter, Casco Viejo.
Spend a day or two sitting in the majestic plazas and see operas and whatnot at the National Theater, a little jewel if I ever saw one. Plaza Bolivar is my favorite spot here—it’s lined with cafes and it’s the site of the famous Salon Bolivar, where Simon Bolivar tried to create a league of nations and thus unify the region. Longing for the beach? Drive 10 minutes to the Amador area and catch a ferry to Taboga Island. It’s just 12 nautical miles away…perfect for a day trip.
When you get back from the beach, take a quick shower and get ready for a night on the colonial town. On any given evening in Casco Viejo you’ll find a venue offering live jazz, salsa, classic rock and more.
Panama’s art community gathers here and holds events that vary from film screenings to “artblock” parties that continue from one block to the next. Dress is typically casual or bohemian chic and restaurants range from fancy to those of the neighborhood dive variety.
http://internationalliving.com/2011/06/the-best-places-to-vacation-in-panama/
After five years of writing about Panama for International Living, you’d think writing about the best places to vacation in Panama would be a cinch. The more you know, the easier it should be…but the opposite is often the case. I know so many great places to vacation in Panama that it’s hard to narrow it down to just a few.
There are places like the jungles of the Darien that appeal to the adventure traveler in Panama, and places like Isla San Jose that offer eco-tourists in Panama a bit of luxury in a green environment. But there are a few vacation spots in Panama that no traveler should miss. Three spots that represent three different “faces” of Panama.
The best places to vacation in Panama: the islands
At the top of the list are the islands of Kunayala, also known as the San Blas islands. Here, the Kuna (among the world’s smallest people) live much the way they did when the Americas were first “discovered.” The Kuna are autonomous and thus govern the region. They try to keep tourism from running rampant and favor eco-friendly lodgings that fit in with their traditional huts.
Sapibenega The Kuna Lodge tends to get good reviews, but I say go for Yandup instead. The island is close to the Ukupseni community, which many agree is one of the most beautiful. Beware, first-time visitors feel like they’re dreaming when they see the baby-blue waters dotted with itty-bitty islands. White sand beaches are everywhere you look; swim from one to another. Visit the website to find out about rates and transportation.
Remember, you’ll be in traditional dwellings no matter where you stay in Kunayala. Don’t expect air conditioning and don’t “bug out” if there are a few bugs.
Highland vacations in Panama’s Boquete region
Once you’ve had your fill of the beach, consider a visit to the little mountain town of Boquete and neighboring Volcan. You can get there via a six-hour drive from Panama City, but I prefer to fly an hour to David City and rent a car there.
It’s a 45-minute drive from David to either Boquete or Volcan. In Boquete, be sure to visit The Rock, the best restaurant I’ve been to in years. Head to Volcan for strawberries and a thick, goopy cream called nata or fresh raspberry milkshakes…there are multiple stands but I like Alina’s best. Just ask any local where to find it!
There’s so much to see in this area, you may want to invest in a guidebook like Moon or Lonely Planet. From ancient petroglyphs to horse farms to a completely unique bi-national forest and an 11,000-foot volcano, this region has enough treasures to keep you busy for days.
My top pick for places to vacation in Panama
Believe it or not: Panama City is my top pick for best places to vacation in Panama. I can’t help being biased; I choose to live here and absolutely love it. Here’s what you do: contact Los Cuatro Tulipanes and rent a real restored colonial in Panama City’s historic quarter, Casco Viejo.
Spend a day or two sitting in the majestic plazas and see operas and whatnot at the National Theater, a little jewel if I ever saw one. Plaza Bolivar is my favorite spot here—it’s lined with cafes and it’s the site of the famous Salon Bolivar, where Simon Bolivar tried to create a league of nations and thus unify the region. Longing for the beach? Drive 10 minutes to the Amador area and catch a ferry to Taboga Island. It’s just 12 nautical miles away…perfect for a day trip.
When you get back from the beach, take a quick shower and get ready for a night on the colonial town. On any given evening in Casco Viejo you’ll find a venue offering live jazz, salsa, classic rock and more.
Panama’s art community gathers here and holds events that vary from film screenings to “artblock” parties that continue from one block to the next. Dress is typically casual or bohemian chic and restaurants range from fancy to those of the neighborhood dive variety.
Friday, July 12, 2013
Panama Real Estate • Can you find the Hot Deals?
Written by Matt |
Wednesday, 22 May 2013 19:15 |
But today, accessing the market’s true offering is growing increasingly difficult for foreigners trying to search on their own for high-end real estate. Why? Because Panamanians have begun to re-establish this place as a very closed and homogenous playing field. As challenging as it is to say, local Panamanians with their inside connections, high-level government contacts, connected attorneys, and local affiliations like church and synagogue groups are at a noticeable advantage in 2013 when it comes to getting access to what is truly on the market. Many of my clients have commented on Panama’s fragmented real estate listing environment which makes things very difficult for an uninformed buyer to find top properties in upscale locations. Why? Because these properties rarely make it on the market. Rather, they are being sold through an elite and oftentimes closed network of real estate agents, attorneys, developers, and private connections. Nowadays I canvas buildings (and in fact entire neighborhoods) which are controlled by a small group of families. It’s in these circles that the only way to have access to the best properties in these areas is to “know someone who knows someone.” In this sense, most foreigners are out of luck. Furthering the difficulty for foreigners, I’ve seen a number of luxury property sales of unlisted properties close via private transactions, meaning there is no transparent system in place to identify a true market value. Going along with the theme, high-end listings that do make it to the open market usually have very few pictures because the sellers don’t want their neighbors to know the property is for sale, putting the overseas buyer attempting to research online at an even bigger disadvantage. Nonetheless, properties are still moving under the current conditions. It isn’t so much that investing in real estate in Panama is difficult. But to get the special stuff — the real estate that’s usually sold below the radar — what’s clear is that you need to be working with the right team. Rafael Mas, Commercial Director with Grupo Corcione in a brokers-only sales meeting revealed that over 70% of their 3500 – 4000 square foot units in the ultra-luxury Valery Point development (located in the new Santa Maria Golf Course Community) have already been sold. More than 90% of the buyers have been local, with price points averaging over $900,000 per unit according to Mas. This is amazing! Some foreigners are still wiggling their way into the elite end of the Panamanian real estate market, as evidenced by another developer’s comments, who preferred to stay off the record: “Europeans have been interested in our product” which happens to be two-per-floor 500-meter oceanfront condos ranging in the $1-2 million dollar mark. “But this year, it’s been Panamanians who have bought the most. We don’t do much marketing and generally tend to fly below the radar, so they are really finding us. This year, Panamanians have been number one.” So in order to dig a little further, I did some research and tapped my good friend, the Director of CompreAlquile.com, a popular online listing portal. According to his exclusive statistics, it appears at first glance that there is plenty of published inventory: In Punta Pacifica alone, for instance, there are currently 54 condos for sale listed at over $1,000,000. But what we quickly determined was that because of the nature of the market (one in which sellers who choose to list their properties may use multiple listing agents), many of these listings are either duplicate listings, sold properties, or bait-and-switch units used to bring in captive buyers. This cements the fact that there is plenty to choose from online, but what you will find is not necessarily an accurate or complete representation of what is actually on the market. I’ve decided that it isn’t so much that investing in real estate in Panama is difficult. But to get the special stuff — the real estate that’s usually sold below the radar — you need to be working with the right team who can leverage local connections and turn over stones that may be covering that truly special, one of a kind property that is in fact for sale. While foreign buyers still have the same rights and protections under Panamanian law as their local competition, it’s become increasingly important to become aligned with a trusted, informed, and most importantly connected property agent. http://www.thepanamareport.com/real-estate/investment/are-foreigners-disadvantaged-in-panama-real-estate.html |
Monday, June 10, 2013
Coming to Panama
The Isthmus of Panama forms a bridge between South and Central
America, and borders Costa Rica to the west and Colombia to the east.
Panama City has flights to and from all Central American countries and
both North and South America. Major US airlines such as American,
Continental and Delta fly to Tocumen Airport in Panama City on a daily
basis; Copa Airlines is the national airline.
Photographer: Francis Torres
Location: Punta Culebra
Year: 2011
Panama uses the US dollar as its currency. Don’t be confused by its official name, the Balboa—bills are exactly the same. Panamanian coins are of the same value and size as US coins, which are also accepted.
The climate in Panama varies very little throughout the year. There are only two seasons: the dry season, from January to mid-April, and the rainy season, from mid-April to December. Temperatures usually range between 70°F and 90°F, but it can get a little cooler in the highlands, especially in the province of Chiriqui.
Spanish is the official language, but many people speak English as a second language. The country’s population of almost 3 million reflects a history of mixed ethnicities, due largely to the significant influx of immigrants that arrived during the construction of the Panama Canal. In terms of religion, the Isthmus is predominantly Roman Catholic, but there are some small groups of Muslims, Protestants, Hindus and Jews.
The capital of Panama is a modern, thriving metropolis, with plenty of restaurants, shops and entertainment. Among its main attractions are the Casco Antiguo (or Old District), Panama Viejo (or Old Panama, dating back to the 16 th Century), the Calzada de Amador and, of course, the Panama Canal. For shopping, head to Via España or to one of the new shopping malls, if you want to avoid the heat.
Panama 's economy is based on the service sector, which accounts for three-fourths of the country’s GDP. Besides the Canal, Panama City boasts an important international banking center, while Colon City, on the Caribbean coast, is home to the one of the largest free zones in the world.
http://www.stri.si.edu/english/research/applications/coming_to_panama/index.php
Photographer: Francis Torres
Location: Punta Culebra
Year: 2011
Tamandua mexicana, or the Northern Tamandua:
This nocturnal mammal feeds on ants, termites and other insects with its
long tongue. It uses its claws to scratch soil and tree trunks in
search of food...
Panama uses the US dollar as its currency. Don’t be confused by its official name, the Balboa—bills are exactly the same. Panamanian coins are of the same value and size as US coins, which are also accepted.
The climate in Panama varies very little throughout the year. There are only two seasons: the dry season, from January to mid-April, and the rainy season, from mid-April to December. Temperatures usually range between 70°F and 90°F, but it can get a little cooler in the highlands, especially in the province of Chiriqui.
Spanish is the official language, but many people speak English as a second language. The country’s population of almost 3 million reflects a history of mixed ethnicities, due largely to the significant influx of immigrants that arrived during the construction of the Panama Canal. In terms of religion, the Isthmus is predominantly Roman Catholic, but there are some small groups of Muslims, Protestants, Hindus and Jews.
The capital of Panama is a modern, thriving metropolis, with plenty of restaurants, shops and entertainment. Among its main attractions are the Casco Antiguo (or Old District), Panama Viejo (or Old Panama, dating back to the 16 th Century), the Calzada de Amador and, of course, the Panama Canal. For shopping, head to Via España or to one of the new shopping malls, if you want to avoid the heat.
Panama 's economy is based on the service sector, which accounts for three-fourths of the country’s GDP. Besides the Canal, Panama City boasts an important international banking center, while Colon City, on the Caribbean coast, is home to the one of the largest free zones in the world.
http://www.stri.si.edu/english/research/applications/coming_to_panama/index.php
Wednesday, April 17, 2013
Theatre of Panama
Panama and Coclé Theatre
Panama and Coclé Theatre is a new community
theatre created in 2012 in the interior of Panama by T Rob Brown, Artistic
Director, and his wife Yolanda Van Der Kolk.
The company is
made up of local residents, many of which have never performed on stage before
joining PaCT. Specializing in murder mystery musicals, the company performs
dinner-theatre style shows in local area restaurants.
The first show
was presented in June 2012 by Picasso Bar + Restaurant in Coronado, performing two sold out shows of
"Pinchin' de Picasso" written by Yolanda Van Der Kolk. The second
show "Dancing with the Dictator, Eh" , a hilarious spoof on Newfies
and on Canadians, written by Rob Brown finished a run at Cami-Es Restaurant in
Farallon in early March.
The next show is
a murder mystery musical with all original music, story by Yolanda and music by
Tara Van Der Kolk. "Lucky 13" is set in the 1920's and will
include an art show and storybook set, painted by Yolanda Van Der Kolk.
Dates and
location TBA - see www.retirementdetectives.com
for more information.
The Theatre Guild of Ancon was founded in 1950 by a group of
Panamanian and American citizens who were interested in developing English
language theatre in Panama.
Our productions run the gamut of the theatrical spectrum – from modern,
controversial dramas, to comedies and family entertainment, to musicals. Our
stage has been the first step for performers such as Robert Loggia and Ruben
Blades, and for successful directors such as Bruce Quinn.
The Theatre Guild of Ancon is the only voluntary working
theatre of its kind in Panama.
We provide a training ground for the future performers and technicians in the
theatre arts, a place for everyone to exercise their creative muscles, and a
place for those who seek quality theatre in the English language, to enjoy. It
is our intention to provide a creative avenue for all.
Improv8 directed by Danielle Miles – Now taking reservations!
Point Break Live Panama! directed by Giancarlo Benedetti / Rob Gettman
Deep Fried Comedy III directed by DFC Troupe
Rocky Horror Picture Show directed by Melanie Lee
Project 1984 directed by Matthew Addis
http://anconguild.com/
Boquete Community Players
Boquete Community Players are a talented bunch of people
living in Boquete, Chiriqui, Panama in the Highlands near the border of Costa Rica,
who enjoy live theatre and events produced, directed and performed by people
from all around the globe who have decided to make this mountain community
their home.
BCP's own facility includes a 112 seat theatre, a lobby/lounge, a party room
and a wraparound patio on the river in downtown Boquete. We welcome new members
and are always looking for more volunteers, so come and join the fun!We hold a number of recurring events to which we welcome all, no matter from where you hail, and no matter what your mindset. There is something for everyone at the BCP Theatre and Event Center.
Today, the BCP Theatre & Events Center is the hub of the ExPat community’s entertainment life. The Tuesday Morning Meeting is now held there….a weekly meeting that presents speakers who are authorities on subjects of interest to ExPats that provide vital information to make living in our new home town even better. There is also a period where announcements are made about new businesses, activities and services that share information with us all. The TMM is held every Tuesday at the BCP Events Center beginning at 10:30 am and ends around 12 noon.
2013 Theatre Line-Up
May 22nd - 26th Bench Warmers
New One Act Plays A series of new one act plays, whose authors are
winners of the BCP Bench Warmer New play contest. Last year we had
entrants from the United States
and many home grown right here in Panama.
“A delightful and fun filled evening.”
July 31st - Aug 4th Proof by David Auburn Winner of the 2001 Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award for Best Play. Proof combines elements of mystery and surprise with old-fashioned storytelling to provide a compelling evening of theatre.
October 16th - 20th Hank Williams: Lost Highway
“A delightful and fun filled evening.”
July 31st - Aug 4th Proof by David Auburn Winner of the 2001 Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award for Best Play. Proof combines elements of mystery and surprise with old-fashioned storytelling to provide a compelling evening of theatre.
October 16th - 20th Hank Williams: Lost Highway
Music & Lyrics by Hank Williams, Sr. by Randal Myler
and Mark Harelik
“Exhilarating! Serves up classic country
with the edges raw and the energy hot.” – Rolling Stone
In the span of his short life, Hank Williams changed the landscape of American popular music forever.
Lost Highway follows Williams from his roots in Alabama to his meteoric rise to stardom on the stage of the world-famous Grand Ole Opry. This toe-tapping musical tribute showcases what Williams did best: performing, and features over 20 of Williams's best loved songs, performed live by Hank and the Drifting Cowboys, including timeless classics such as “Move It On Over”, “Jambalaya”, and “Your Cheatin' Heart”.
A humorous and heartfelt tribute, Hank
Williams: Lost Highway reveals an intimate portrait of the passionate and
troubled man behind the music.
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