Panama Adventure Tours

Panama is the land of Adventure. Panama offers clear blue waters for snorkeling and diving, rainforest adventures, vibrant communities, and idyllic islands. A tour of Isla Bastimentos reveals an ecosystem rife with both terrestrial and aquatic wildlife, while a Panama Canal tour showcases the manmade "eighth wonder of the world." Whether trekking through rainforest or enjoying the laid-back nightlife of Bocas del Toro, you'll forever associate Panama with the best in natural and cultural landscapes. Pick your passion: http://www.adventure-life.com/panama/

For a list of  tours while in Panama: http://www.uncoverpanama.com/panamatours.html

Monkey Island Tours • Panama Canal Adventure

Monkey Island is located at Gatun Lake in the valley of the Chagres river between Panama and Colon Provinces in the Republic of Panama.

 

 

Its surface area is 164 square miles. Gatun lake is the second largest artificial man-made lake in the world. This lake was created in 1907 and took 6 years to flood. It was created to help the transit of ships across the isthmus. This lake is the reservoir of water needed for the operation of the Panama Canal. It is surrounded by nature and history everywhere – the flora and fauna makes this place a must-see while visiting Panama.

You can take a boat tour through the Panama Canal into secret waterways to find hidden islands where Capuchin and Howler monkeys can be seen leaping in the trees above. Occasionally, they become curious of visitors and venture down to take a closer look.
A Panama Canal tour provides a unique opportunity for viewing wild monkeys in their natural habitat. Other animals you might spot on this tour includes Two and Three-toed Sloths, Crocodiles, and turtles that are native to Gatun Lake.

The boat ride to and from the island passes through the Panama Canal, giving you the chance to spot huge container ships during their passage across the world.

The World's 8 Best Places to Retire in 2014

By Kathleen Peddicord December 31, 2013 10:42 AM

 

If you could retire anywhere in the world, where would you go? As we find ourselves at the beginning of a brand new year, that's a question worth asking. The very good news is that we are living in a time when it's not only possible, but easier than ever to launch the retirement adventure of your fondest day dreams almost anywhere on earth that appeals to you.

Specifically, here are the best, most comfortable, affordable, convenient and rewarding spots worldwide for retirement in 2014. Which one is calling your name?

1. Coronado, Panama

Monthly budget: $1,800

Monthly rent: $600

Panama caters to foreign retirees like no other country in the world. Day-to-day living is affordable, the approach to taxation is favorable and property prices remain a bargain outside the capital city. The country boasts perhaps the world's most generous incentive program for retirees and uses the U.S. dollar as its currency, meaning no exchange-rate risk for retirees whose retirement income is also denominated in greenbacks.

Panama City is being remade in real time right now thanks to a myriad of public works projects, including the expansion of the Panama Canal. Panama also offers some of the most advanced medical care facilities in the region. Many Panamanian doctors are U.S.-trained, and Panama City's hospitals are first-rate.

My top recommendation for retirement in Panama in 2014 is Coronado, a beach community on the country's Pacific coast about an hour outside the capital. Life here could be comfortable, convenient and turn-key, as this area is home to one of this country's most established communities of foreign retirees.

http://news.yahoo.com/world-39-8-best-places-retire-2014-154245784.html

For more hot retirement countries.

http://panamavacationrentals.co/

For vacation rentals and real estate investment.

Panama Restaurant Guide

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 3^rd 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 

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.

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.

For reservations

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/

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

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

Incredible Culinary Experience at Miraflores Locks Restaurant

Story by Tamara Rowe
Photos by Tamara Rowe
www.UncoverPanama.com

Almost every visitor to Panamá will take in one of the great Wonders of the World, the Panamá Canal.  Between the Bridge of the Americas and The Centenary Bridge sits Miraflores Locks, the most visited of all the locks.  This is also the location of the current expansion where two new locks are being constructed.

 Although I have visited Miraflores locks many times proudly touring friends and family as part of their Panamá experience, I was not aware of the elegant restaurant located on the second floor.    

Our friends and lifelong residents of Panamá, Luz and Jorge Patton, asked if we ever had the pleasure of dining at the Miraflores Restaurant & Bar.  They told us this is one of the finest restaurants in Panamá and where they frequently enjoy dining.  Luz was happy to make the necessary reservation for the four of us for the following week.

Upon entering this beautiful restaurant we were given the opportunity to either sit outside on the veranda and watch the ships as they pass through the canal or to dine indoors.  We choose indoor dining enabling us to more appreciate the charm and ambience of this lovely restaurant.  We were easily distracted as we passed by the huge buffet displaying a multitude of mouth watering main dishes, salads and deserts.  Putting imaginary blinders on, we made it to our seats.

No sooner seated and we were warmly greeted by Executive Chef Diego Garcia Vela and to our delight, he informed us he had personally prepared a five course meal for us to enjoy.
Our dining experience began with a lovely glass of white wine accompanied by the most delicious garlic bread.  I could have eaten the entire basket but managed to refrain knowing there were five courses to come.  Our first course was a wanton consume followed by Chef Diego and staff delivering a dazzling display of Tatacki Tuna, ever so lightly seared and accompanied by salsa Nikkei.  An explosion of flavours melting in your mouth!  Next, octopus with a sour tamarind sauce; simply delightful.  Our main course was a clever combination of beef, Serrano ham and feta cheese rolled and presented in a bed of pea puree.  As soon as our coffee and tea orders were taken dessert arrived; a lovely chocolate crêpe Suzette with grapes flambé.  This was an absolutely deliciously memorable dining experience!

Originally from Lima, Peru, the land of the Incas, Chef Diego has always been curious in the culinary arts.  As a young boy, his parents took him to dine in the finest restaurants of Peru and other countries enabling him to experience new and different cuisines.  After completing his education in Peru at the Ibero-American School of Hospitality and Tourism, he followed with several internships at some of the finest restaurants in Lima to gain more knowledge and experience.  He attained a position at Iquitos Fitzcarraldo Restaurant & Bar in the jungles of Peru which afforded him the opportunity to experiment with different techniques using exotic products such as lizard, ostrich and camu camu, a fruit found only in the Amazon, creating new dishes.

Chef Diego joined Miraflores Restaurant & Bar just a little over one year ago and “wants people to come to Miraflores not only to visit the Canal, but to visit also for the cuisine of the restaurant and to have an amazing experience where they can use all of their senses”.

The Miraflores Restaurant & Bar is operated by one of Panamá’s most exquisite hotels, the El Panamá Hotel.  To ensure seating, please make reservations by telephoning either 232-3120 or 232-3122 or visit their website:  www.elpanama.com.

Thank you Miraflores Restaurant & Bar for the warm ambience, flawless service, a wonderful dining experience and thank you Chef Diego for the deliciously brilliant meal, simply stunning in every way.

Whether you are a long term resident or simply a one time visitor to Panamá, I highly recommend that you experience the Miraflores Restaurant & Bar.

Lake Gatún Peacock Bass Fishing Trip

Lake Gatún, Arenosa, Panamá, S.A.
Story by Kevin
Photos by Mike & Kevin

Lake Gatún (Lago Gatún) was created between 1907-1913, by the building of Gatun Dam.  During its creation, Lake Gatún was the largest man made lake in the world. As an integral part of the Panama Canal, which forms a freshwater bridge between the Atlantic Ocean and the Pacific Ocean, Lake Gatún carries ships through the Isthmus of Panama. 

To this day there are areas that have been virtually untouched by humans.  The area flooded in the creation of Lake Gatún  encompasses approximately 200 square miles, a vast area with unfathomable opportunities for sport fishing.  

My fishing buddies and I had high hopes of catching multiple Peacock Bass during our fishing adventure at Lake Gatún. Arriving at Arenosa, a small village about 45 miles from Panama City located on the western end of Lake Gatún, our guide was waiting with a 24 foot pontoon boat ready for an unforgettable fishing trip (driving directions & map). We jumped aboard and set off to catch buckets full of fish. Luckily our captain knew his way around the lake and managed to maneuver around all of the former jungles tree stumps.

Arriving to our first fishing hole, we threw our lines into the lake. Two fish immediately caught on the first cast, catching 5 or 6 Peacock Bass in just 10 minutes time. Our captain had us bring in the lines . . . off to the next fishing hole. 

With our lines back in the water, WHAM! 10 more fish in just about 10 minutes. What a great time! With so much action on the fishing poles, everyone had a great time.  And, if no fish were caught within the first 5 minutes of fishing, then our captain whisked us off to another location.

This went on all day. 10 different fishing holes, we caught fish every spot!
Needless to say, the day spent fishing for Peacock Bass went by very fast.  Fun was had by all.  We will defiantly be back for more!
Our guide we used has a dedicated website at: http://pesca-arenosa.weebly.com/.  I highly recommend them.

Related Article: Fishing in Santa Catalina
Kevin
www.UncoverPanama.com