Panama
10/12/09 – 11/10/09
Mountains to beaches, jungle to metropolis, farm to canal, Panama is a study in contrasts with a flavor for just about anyone. The potential for growth in Panama seems unlimited, as evidenced by loads of foreign investment. Adding to the straight investments, the monetary and tax incentives to retire in Panama are quite attractive, and it shows!
After crossing the border from Costa Rica, we spent some time in the lush mountain town of Boquete, which has recently become a haven for ex-pat retirees. In spite of the daily rainfall, we enjoyed walking around the laid-back town, which is remarkably integrated considering the large influx of North Americans. Due to this diversity, one can choose a $4.00 traditional Panamanian meal, a $65.00 wine and food pairing or anything in between. There are lots of excellent, cheap house rentals available, for those who want to try Panamanian living without much risk. We took up temporary residence in one of the apartments at the affordable yet perfectly located El Oasis Hotel.
Boquete hills
One of our favorite spots in Panama is in the town of Gamboa, which lies a mere 35 minutes from Panama City. Gamboa is an old canal zone town with large historic homes, canal frontage and access to the jungle surrounding the Chagres River. We spent a few days at Gamboa Rainforest Resort, birdwatching at the famous Pipeline road in Soberania park.
Chagres River
Pipeline Road in Soberania National Park
Watching the boats cross the Chagres from Los Lagartos Restaurant at Gamboa Rainforest Resort
After days of paperwork and administrative tasks dealing with our shipping processes, we took advantage of the beaches in Panama on Contadora Island. This small island is part of the Pearl Island chain in the Pacific and is a great spot to get away from it all. We stayed at the lovely Contadora Island Inn, which is a nice bed and breakfast in the middle of the island. Everything is within walking distance on the island, so we enjoyed exploring all the deserted beaches and snorkeling in the coral fields accessible from the shore.
Contadora Island beach
Incoming!
Of course, not to be missed is the fantastic Panama City, where we spent several days throughout our visit. The city has everything from skyscrapers and malls to historic buildings and wildlife-filled parks, not to mention access to the canal. We loved Dos Palmitos, a bed and breakfast on Ancon Hill near the canal administration building but also really enjoyed our stay at the Veneto Hotel and Casino in the heart of the city near shopping, nightlife and of course, gambling!
A Man, A Plan, A Canal, Panama!
Murals at the Canal Administration Building
Goethels Monument with Bridge of Americas in the distance
Panama skyline from the Veneto rooftop pool
While we tried to do as much as possible in Panama, the shipping procedures took much of our time and took priority over sightseeing. However, we loved everything we got to see and do and hope to return soon to explore the many other fascinating areas of this diverse country.
Mountains to beaches, jungle to metropolis, farm to canal, Panama is a study in contrasts with a flavor for just about anyone. The potential for growth in Panama seems unlimited, as evidenced by loads of foreign investment. Adding to the straight investments, the monetary and tax incentives to retire in Panama are quite attractive, and it shows!
After crossing the border from Costa Rica, we spent some time in the lush mountain town of Boquete, which has recently become a haven for ex-pat retirees. In spite of the daily rainfall, we enjoyed walking around the laid-back town, which is remarkably integrated considering the large influx of North Americans. Due to this diversity, one can choose a $4.00 traditional Panamanian meal, a $65.00 wine and food pairing or anything in between. There are lots of excellent, cheap house rentals available, for those who want to try Panamanian living without much risk. We took up temporary residence in one of the apartments at the affordable yet perfectly located El Oasis Hotel.
Boquete hills
One of our favorite spots in Panama is in the town of Gamboa, which lies a mere 35 minutes from Panama City. Gamboa is an old canal zone town with large historic homes, canal frontage and access to the jungle surrounding the Chagres River. We spent a few days at Gamboa Rainforest Resort, birdwatching at the famous Pipeline road in Soberania park.
Chagres River
Pipeline Road in Soberania National Park
Watching the boats cross the Chagres from Los Lagartos Restaurant at Gamboa Rainforest Resort
After days of paperwork and administrative tasks dealing with our shipping processes, we took advantage of the beaches in Panama on Contadora Island. This small island is part of the Pearl Island chain in the Pacific and is a great spot to get away from it all. We stayed at the lovely Contadora Island Inn, which is a nice bed and breakfast in the middle of the island. Everything is within walking distance on the island, so we enjoyed exploring all the deserted beaches and snorkeling in the coral fields accessible from the shore.
Contadora Island beach
Incoming!
Of course, not to be missed is the fantastic Panama City, where we spent several days throughout our visit. The city has everything from skyscrapers and malls to historic buildings and wildlife-filled parks, not to mention access to the canal. We loved Dos Palmitos, a bed and breakfast on Ancon Hill near the canal administration building but also really enjoyed our stay at the Veneto Hotel and Casino in the heart of the city near shopping, nightlife and of course, gambling!
A Man, A Plan, A Canal, Panama!
Murals at the Canal Administration Building
Goethels Monument with Bridge of Americas in the distance
Panama skyline from the Veneto rooftop pool
While we tried to do as much as possible in Panama, the shipping procedures took much of our time and took priority over sightseeing. However, we loved everything we got to see and do and hope to return soon to explore the many other fascinating areas of this diverse country.
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