Lin and Dave Gillingham,
Finca Los Monos Botanical Garden has gained an international recognition for it’s collection of tropical plants. Growing in the lush climate are heliconias, gingers, palms, flowering trees, fruits and spices. Situated on Isla Colon, ten minutes from the historical town of Bocas, the botanical garden is set on a 9.6 hectare (24 acres) span across a narrow part of the island. There are stunning views east of the Bocas archipelago & west of the mainland mountains.
The gently rolling hills are covered with huge tropical trees, home to orchids, bromeliads, ferns and aroids and a wide variety of wildlife. Howler monkeys, night monkeys, white faced Cappuchin monkeys, sloths, anteaters, iguanas, raccoons, reptiles and numerous bird species maintain a healthy life on the property. Now available for rent are a brand new rainforest house & luxury villa at the edge of the garden. Both sleep 6 people with three bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms. A tranquil setting and a nature photographer’s heaven.
Finca Los Monos is open to researchers, students, school groups and visitors for education and recreation. The garden is sustained by plant and flower sales, landscaping consultancy, tours and special functions. We offer a complete wedding package which includes all the planning, venues, decorations, flowers and catering. Regular garden tours are offered Mondays at 1pm & Fridays at 8.30am. Private tours are by arrangement. Bird Watching tours with a guide. Half Day Retreats include the garden tour, followed by exclusive use of the pool and a tropical buffet lunch with an open bar.
Panama Private Tours Customized Tours Spend time in a small paradise Day Tours $130 lunch included
San Blas
Jungle Tour
Railway TouR Fishing Trips
2 Days one Night $170 4 meals included
Embera Indians
Unforgettable encounter with a living Indian culture
City Tour
English-Español-Français Whalewatching: July to Mid October 100% success seeing whales for 7 years
CONTACT +(507) 6980 4710 www.panamatours.info
Editor's Message Dear reader Welcome to Panama Mag, a magazine that paints a simple yet full picture of the Panama city – a place where history is part of the present moment and where luxury can be found amongst the simplest pleasures. Miguel is from Spain and I’m from Iran. In 2014 we took our first trip to Panama. The first morning at hotel we didn't know too much about the place or its surrounding area. We thought it would be great if we had an english printed touristic source that explained the city, some nice restaurants, activities, tours and areas. The second time we came to Panama, we asked our selves “Why not a touristic magazine?” So we decided to live in Panama and “Yes, make Panama Mag”. Our hope is that you will find their contents useful for planning your journey through the country’s biggest landmarks as well as its lesser known attractions. If this is your first time coming to Panama, then get ready to be enticed by its endless wonders from white sandy beaches to towering skyscrapers and a slew of shopping, dining and entertainment options to say the least. Recurrent visitors would know exactly what we are talking about, and to them we first wish a hearty welcome back and remind them of the fact that they will always discover something new and wondrous on each visit. We would love to hear about your experience, so please get in touch and share your thoughts and memories of Your Panamanian experience with us by emailing us at contact@panamamag.com. Nasim & Miguel Editors
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Isla ColĂłn (00507) 757-9718 (00507) 6612-1088 (00507) 6930-4196 puntacaracol@puntacaracol.com reservations@puntacaracol.com www.puntacaracol.com
Bocas Del Toro
P A N A M Ă
This is the start of something wonderful
Edition N°3 June - July
Panama Mag team
CITY KNOWLEDGE MAP
BEST POOLS
PLACES OF INTEREST
BEST HOTELS
HEALTH INSPIRING BIOGRAPHY INSPIRING BIOGRAPHY ACTIVITIES OUT OF THE CITY
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CASCOÂ VIEJO
KN CI OW TY LE DG E
Casco Viejo is the historic and cultural district of Panama City. Declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1997, Casco Viejo was established around 1673 by the Spanish colonialists, the Catholic Church, and other settlers. Casco Viejo went on to experience decades of neglect around the 1950s. The streets are filled with buildings that served as homes, cathedrals and churches and government buildings over centuries. Some of these structures have been painstakingly restored and now host museums, gourmet restaurants, quaint shops and upscale residences. In Las BĂłvedas you can cross the romantic Walk Esteban Huertas, who borders on the sea and offers magnificent sights. In the Park Bolivar a series of tables under umbrella creates a Bohemian atmosphere with musicians who delight the retainers and plays their melodies in the square. The mixture of the historical and the modern lives in harmony in Casco Viejo, making an agreeable experience and especially, memorably.
Tel: (507) 6938-8473 Avenida A con Calle 5, Casco Viejo
E TY CI EDG L W O KN
EL CANGREJO
Founded in the 1950s , it was once the most modern and exclusive neighborhood of Panama . Currently, El Cangrejo is a bohemian area of contemporary architecture, abundant green areas, parks , embassies and restaurants , a neighborhood with a strong cultural identity. El Cangrejo has an intense nightlife, with a variety of restaurants with a varied offering international cuisine, bars, hotels and casinos. One of it's cultural epicenters is the AndrĂŠs Bello Park , where art festivals, mini concerts and political meetings are held. You can see various monuments and sculptures , such as Einstein's head in Plaza Einstein in which converge the street Arthur Motta and calle San Juan Baptist de La Salle , sculptures of Joseph San MartĂn , Manuel Belgrano and Roberto Duran.
H o t e l O c c i d e n t a l A v . S a m u e l L e w i s T e l : + 5 0 7 6 8 9 7 - 6 9 9 9
 Tel: (507) 395-9559
Hotel Crawn Plaza, Planta Baja
@rogersaladebelleza
E TY CI EDG L W O KN
COSTA DEL ESTE
The Costa del Este project was presented to the public inn 1995, and since then it has become one of the largest real estate developments in Panama City. The 310-hectare area has become an important and unique place in the city, where several skyscrapers are being constructed. One of its sections, where the Industrial Park is now located, was known as the "Vertedero de Panamรก Viejo" because it is a piece of land created by an artificial deposit of material that was extracted to build the Panama Canal for years. This large tract of land was neglected, but recently it has become the Industrial Area (used for distribution centers and merchandise). The remaining sections were mangroves and jungle, where the most modern buildings in this city were constructed. To enable the land of mangroves, millions of tons of earth and rock were poured, mostly from a hill near the Villa Guadalupe area, which was removed completely.
PUNTA PACIFICA
KN CI OW TY LE DG E
Punta Pacifica is an area of reclaimed land, a residential area in the district of San Francisco in Panama City. Made few years ago, located in the city center, in front of the Pacific Ocean, just 15 minutes from Tocumen International Airport, near the financial district, is characterized by its large real estate development. In this area is located the Multiplaza Pacific Mall. Punta Pacifica has access to the South Corridor, is one of the most exclusive residential areas of the city, and consequently of the Republic of Panama. A hospital in the most advanced built (with membership Memorial at Johns Hopkins Hospital, the only hospital in Central America in collaboration with Johns Hopkins Medicine International) in this area and also a large-scale shopping center. Has excellent private schools, many shops, supermarkets and other convenience you can imagine.
E TY CI EDG L W O KN
AVENIDA BALBOA
Balboa Avenue is the most modern and broad gauge of Panama City. It has six road lanes, a central island and two jetties. It is approximately 3.5 km long and is located along the Pacific Ocean, so it is one of the biggest attractions for real estate development in the city. Along the avenue lies one of the main financial centers of the city. The route is connected to the South Corridor across the bridge of the Slaves, and to via Israel by the bridge Paitilla. Its traffic is estimated at 75 000 vehicles day. It was completely remodeled and expanded in late 2009 with the opening of the coastal strip, becoming a tourist attraction and important meeting point for the city of Panama.
In Avenida Balboa
E TY CI EDG L W O KN
SAN FRANCISCO
This corregimiento was created on August 9, 1926, three years after President Belisario Porras officially founded the community of San Francisco de la Caleta. This name is believed to have its origin in the image of a saint found by fishermen from this place, on the beach known as Playa Trujillo. The saint was identified, by the devotees, as Saint Francis of Assisi. The Claretians later built in this community the well-known Church of San Francisco de la Caleta, which was inaugurated on July 2, 1933. The Recreational Park Omar Torrijos, one of the most extensive parks of the city, with a route of approximately 5 km. In addition to the many cultural and recreational facilities that this park has, the National Library of Panama is located there. The ATLAPA Convention Center, the largest in the country and one of the most important in the region, is also housed in this district. 4 This center, which covers about 8 ha, houses most international events, exhibitions and concerts. Are held in the city.
MOËT & CHANDON Champagne & Lounge Tapas Bar & Restaurant · Lounge
Multiplaza Pacific Mall, Level 2 PH: (+507) 388-6741
San Francisco, Calle 69 Casa115 PH: (+507) 203-4574
AMADOR CAUSEWAY
KN CI OW TY LE DG E
It's a road that connects the mainland of Panama City with four Pacific islands, which form a small archipelago. The islands of this archipelago are Naos, Perico, Culebra and Flamenco. This road was built in 1913 by the US government with rocks excavated of Corte Culebra during construction of the Panama Canal. The site was originally part of a US military complex known as Fort Amador, established to protect the entrance to the Canal. The place was transformed into a thriving tourist attraction, after these areas were reversed under the Torrijos-Carter Treaties. Currently, it is one of the most popular sites in the city, has many recreational facilities such as restaurants, bars, nightclubs and a convention center and a paved sidewalk, widely used for walking, jogging or biking. It offers excellent views towards the entrance of the Panama Canal and the Bridge of the Americas, as well as to the city and Panama Bay views. Near its entrance we can find the Biodiversity Museum, designed by Canadian architect Frank Gehry.
E TY CI EDG L W O KN
PANAMA LA VIEJA
Archaeological site where it was located in Panama City since it's founding in 1519 until 1671. The city was moved to a new location , some 10 km southwest , to be destroyed in an attack by English pirate Henry Morgan , at the beginning of the decade 1670. From the original city, considered as the first European settlement on the Pacific coast of America, are today several ruins that make up this archaeological site. Opposite the old Plaza Mayor are the ruins of the cathedral ; whose tower, 30 meters high, it is unusually located next to the apse. Originally made of wood, the cathedral was rebuilt with stronger materials, between 1619 and 1626. The ruins of the tower were intervened architecturally to allow visitors to use it as a lookout .
CANAL DE PANAMA
KN CI OW TY LE DG E
The Panama Canal is an inter-oceanic navigation route between the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean that crosses the Isthmus of Panama at its narrowest point, whose length is 65 km. There are locks on each end to lift boats up the Gatun Lake, an artificial lake created to reduce the amount of work required for the excavation of the canal, 26 meters above sea level, then down to the level of the Pacific or the Atlantic. Since it's opening on August 15, 1914, it has managed to shorten time and distance maritime communication, boosting the economic and comercial exchange by providing a relatively cheap path between the two oceans and decisively influencing patterns of world trade, driving economic growth in developed countries and on way of developing, in addition to providing the basic impetus for economic expansion in many remote regions.
CITY MAP Canal de Panama El Cangrejo
San Francisco
Obarrio
Costa del este Marbella Panama Viejo
Punta Paitilla y Punta Pacifica
Casco Antiguo Albrook
Amador Causeway
Language: Spanish-English
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The tap water is OKAY!
1-THE SPIRITS OF PANAMA • Known as the most popular drink in the country • Source of pride for Panamanians • Made out of sugar cane juice transparent, • Some drink it with milk. its name Herrerano. 2-RON ABUELO • Aging cane molasses in white oak • Reputation as a world-class rum. 3-CHICHA FUERTE • Made from germinated. 4-CARTA VIEJA • Born in 1915 in the province of Chiriqui • Gold medal for Carta in The International Competition of Rum, held in Madrid, in 2014.
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Two basic seasons in Panama: the dry season from December to April and the rainy season from May to November.
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The only place in the world where you can see the sun rise on the Pacific and set, on the Atlantic
The national sport is baseball
PLACES OF INTEREST CASCO ANTIGUO
EL CANGREJO Plaza de Einstein Parque Andres Bello Iglesia de Carmen Via Argentina Via España Teatro la Quadra Hoteles Y Casinos
Plaza Mayor Plaza Herrera Plaza y Palacio Bolivar Plaza de Francia Palacio de Justicia Teatro Nacional Palacio Municipal Palacio de las Grazas Iglesia de San José Iglesia de San Francisco Iglesia de San Felipe Iglesia de la Merced Convento de los Jesuitas Convento de Panama
PUNTA PACIFICA Multiplaza Pacific Mall
OBARRIO Hoteles Y Casinos
CAUSEWAY
ALBROOK
Museo de la Biodiversidad Calzado de Amador Isla Naos Isla Perico
Parque Metropolitano
Isla Culebra
Mirador Miraflores
Isla Flamenco
Museo Canal de Panama
Albrook Mall
CANAL DE PANAMA
Plaza de la Independencia The Cathedral Metropolitana
P l a z a H e r r e r a
It was originally used for bull fights and first known as Piazza del Triunfo. Later, in 1887, being renamed for one of Panama's independence heroes. The construction of this building lasted over 100 years It is an important landmark of Casco
The center is an obelisk topped by a rooster, a symbol of the French nation.All around are busts of Panamanian engineer Pero J. Sosa and French citizens (most of them
Antiguo. It has been used as a bullring.By 1890 it was transformed into a park
were from France and French islands such as Guadeloupe or Martinique) who were prominent in the
with elements of the French construction of the Canal. This impressive monument influence. and The palace honors those 22,000 workers and engineers who died
was the former town hall, but was demolished in 1910.
(due to Yellow Fever & Malaria) trying to build the canal.
Pla za d e
Fra nci a
I g l e s i a de S a n J o s e I g l e s i a d e
Famous for the distinctive
e heatr nal T Natio
baroque Altar de Oro (The Golden Altar), which was saved from Panama Viejo and transported into the "new" city. The only thing of value salvaged after Henry Morgan sacked Panama Viejo. IGLESIA SANTO DOMINGO AND THE FLAT ARCH
The Arch stood as a testament to the fact that Panama was spared from major seismic activity. Originally constructed in the 17th century, the church and convent of Santo Domingo were never rebuilt after a fire that destroyed them in 1756. The only thing that did survive – for centuries – was the Flat Arch (Arco Chato) sitting at the entrance.
Located on the second floor of the Municipal Palace building, the Museum of History presents documents, artifacts, sculptures from throughout Panama's history. You are certain to leave with a better understanding of Panama and it's history. History musuem of Panama
INSPIRING BIOGRAPHY Ricardo Martinelli Born on March 11, 1951, he's a Panamanian politician and businessman who was the 36th President of Panama from 2009 to 2014. Born in Panama City, Ricardo Martinelli is the son of Ricardo Martinelli Pardini and Gloria Berrocal Fabrega. His father is of Italian descent, and his mother is of Spanish descent. He completed his secondary education at Staunton Military Academy in Staunton, Virginia, in the United States. In 1973 he graduated with a Bachelor of Business Administration degree from the University of Arkansas. He earned a Master of Business Administration degree from the INCAE Business School in 1977, graduating from its campus in Nicaragua. Martinelli began his career as a credit officer at Citibank in Panama. After several years of banking, he purchased the business of a client, in turn becoming an entrepreneur, buying or starting additional businesses. His net worth was estimated at $1.1 billion or more, according to press reports. The Economist stated on his winning the 2009 election, that voters "want him to run the country as well as he manages his businesses."
He is currently the president and director of the board of Panamanian supermarket chain Super 99 and of two other companies.
Martinelli introduced a number of measures designed to alleviate poverty, including a $100 monthly pension for the elderly, an increase in the minimum wage, and subsidies for students to meet the cost of uniforms and supplies. He also increased the minimum wage, making it the highest of Latin America
Martinelli served as president from 2009 through 2014, during which time the Panamanian economy grew robustly and steadily. As lauded by The Economist, "Though it lies in Central America, the poorest and most violent region in the West, the country’s 3.6m citizens are now richer than most Latin Americans." As reported in the New York Times: "Panama is booming, with an average economic growth of 9 percent in the past five years, the highest in Latin America." This prosperity widely benefits Panama, with unemployment declining from 6.6% to 4.1%. Income disparity also declined: according to The Economist, "the incomes of the poorest 10% are now 35 times lower than those of the richest 10%, rather than 60 times lower, according to the finance ministry." Gross domestic product grew by nearly half, while GDP per capita, according to the World Bank, rose 11%, from $9,982 (2010) to $11,036 (2014).
He also implemented measures to help Colón, an impoverished city on the Gulf Coast. This included projects like a new highway connecting Panama and Colón, the Canal expansion, construction of a new hospital and other public works intended to help reduce unemployment and poverty. The government also announced a $9 million project to rehabilitate Colón’s seaside park
THOU E TO C F IT Y
The island of Achutupu can be found within what is today known as the Comarca de Guna Yala, a thin 226 kilometer-long strip along the Caribbean coast. Formally known as San Blas, and later as Kuna Yala, the Comarca de Guna Yala is home to the Kuna people, an indigenous group of Panama and Colombia. The Comarca consists of nearly 378 small islands and, according to the Kuna people, there is one island for each day of the year. Despite its numerous islands, however, the Kuna only inhabit 59 of them.
F O TY I UT C O E TH
San Blas Islands
The Economics of Kuna's is mainly engaged in agriculture, fishing, handicraft production, and tourism. The type of agriculture practiced in the district of Guna Yala is for subsistence purposes. Coconuts are produced as a source of income. The fishery is artisanal, usually using wire (line) or networks. Most fishing is for sale. The seafood is especially intended for sale, for which planes come daily to the islands. Especially sells lobster, crab and ultimately the squid and octopus.
The production of molas is the main activity of women guna and is for many families, the only source of income or at least the principal.
THOU E TO C F IT Y
F O TY I UT C O E TH
Among the most important traditions of Guna: "Ico-inna" or Feast of the needle, for a more accurate translation is the feast of puberty or what the Western world is known as the party or wedding. where a young girl after her first menstrual period is made a party where it pierces the septum of the pubescent female placing a ring with coconut oil as an antiseptic. In childhood between 4 and 5 takes place the ceremony of "innasuit" or baptism is performed in the first haircut, which was attended by all the people in the community, she is assigned a name in the language Guna to the female. This name is next to the name given the country's official language. The Night festival or "inna-mutiki" is a party where all the people involved to celebrate a wedding or a new marriage in the village or community, this festival usually lasts for several days until the end of the whole liquor that has garnered the families. The Kuna worship a god named Erragon, whom they believe came and died just for the Kuna people. Today their chief lives on an island called Acuadup, which means "rock island". Many Kuna are hunters and fishermen. On some of the islands, children can attend school. Most of the men now speak Spanish, although the women carry on older traditions. Overall you can have wonderful experiences of snorkling, fishing, sailing and diving. you can also walk around in villages and learn about their culture. If you go to San blas Islands don't forget to take your passport, some bottles of water and snacks (as they charge you higher), cash in small notes, camera (bear in mind the Kuna normally expect payment of $1 if you take photos of them), Towel and swimming gear. A change of clothes, Insect repellent, and if you have your snorkling equipments take them with you.
TOURS TO
SAN BLAS EVERYDAY
BEST PACKAGES IN THE MARKET LAND TRANSPORTATION SAILING CHARTERS
FULL
DAYTOURS EVERYDAY
FOR RESERVATIONS CALL 396-7105 / 6088-9000 www.lamtourspanama.com
THOU E TO C F IT Y
It is located on the western coast of Panama, and it is also the second most developed province in the country, after the Panamá Province. Its capital is the city of David. It has a total area of 6,490.9 km², with a population of 416,873 as of the year 2010. The province of Chiriquí is located in the western region of Panama. It is bordered to the north by the provinces Bocas del Toro and Ngobe-Buglé, to the west by Costa Rica, to the east by the province of Veraguas, and to the south by the Pacific Ocean, specifically the Gulf of Chiriquí. Until the arrival of the Spanish conquistadores, Chiriquí was populated by a number of indigenous tribes, known collectively as the Guaymí people. The first european to visit and describe Chiriquí was Gaspar de Espinosa, in 1519. The province was officially established on May 26, 1849, when Panama was still part of Colombia. Chiriquí was Abraham Lincoln's favored destination for Linconia, a project of colonization by free blacks.
F O TY I UT C O E TH
Chiriqui
Chiriquí was the province in which Manuel Noriega rose in the military ranks which included helping bring Omar Torrijos back into the country after a coup d'état. To help he lined up jeeps with their lights on the runway in David to allow Torrijos' aircraft to land. Chiriqui was also the heart of a short lived pro-democracy guerrilla movement in the late 1960s and early 1970s. After the dictatorship by Manuel Noriega from 1983 to 1989, Guillermo Endara became president of Panama and gave the charge of governor of Chiriquí to Edgar De Puy.
Strategically located between the highlands and lowlands of the ChiriquĂ province, Finca Ceriana Nature Reserve forms part of a privately protected area for the conservation of flora and fauna in the region. One of Finca Ceriana's unique characteristics is the number of bird species and other animals from the upper and lower mountain areas.
The property is part of the biological corridor that hosts the famous VolcĂĄn lagoons. Apart from being an important migration zone for birds, the biological corridor is vital for the wellbeing of the protected areas of La Amistad International Park and Baru Volcano National Park. We offer various kinds of tours in order to open this beautiful area to those who love nature and coffee!
PH: (+507) 6679-2323 / 6438-6874
tours@fincaceriana.com
www.fincaceriana.com
Send us your Photos and win this month's Panama Mag Photo Chance to win ROUND-TRIP ticket to Panama city
We want to see Panama through YOUR eyes !!!
Competition
The WINNER of the Previous competition IS:Â
Melanie Shreitter
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Contact@panamamag.com
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Step up your warm weather wardrobe while adding inches to your frame with this Nautica sandals and summer accessories. Steven's Panama
t s e B
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n i y l t i l i C h c a m to a Pan
Riande Airport Hotel Casino The fascinating pool is situated in the heart of the hotel and is surrounded by typical tropical gardens. Have a refreshing drink and lie down on the hamacas could be the best idea of your day. Let yourself in the jaccuzi and Feel the stress disapear with the bubbles. and is open from 7am to 11pm. One of the greatest places to relax in a sunny day
Intercontinental Miramar Apart from being located just in front of the Pacific and offering spa, sauna and gym, the Intercontinental Miramar Panama Hotel has an immense swimming pool with sun loungers and towels available for the guest. Next to the pool is the Bay View restaurant that organizes cultural nights and overlooks the marina.
El Panama Hotel The Panama Hotel is another complete establishment with 3 restaurants, casino, parking, bars, nightclub and, of course, one of the biggest pools in Panama City. There are sunbeds with towel service as well as a bar and a restaurant where you can enjoy the national cuisine between two swim baths.
Waldorf Astoria The iconic Waldorf Astoria has brought their brand to Panama City and featured a nice swimming pool to enjoy and relax. Take to the tranquil terrace for drinks, light meals, and snacks as you view the magnificent sunset at the Bungalow Terrace & Pool Bar.
Hilton The Hilton has an incredible pool area that overlooks Panama City’s beautiful Cinta Costera. The hotel also features a casino, Spa, Gym, and several great restaurants. Nice place to chill during the day.
Riu Plaza The Riu Plaza has one of the largest swimming pools in Panama City . It has a nice bar next to the pool and always a good music to chill. One of the only places where you can practice your freestile, breaststroke, backstroke and butterfly style.
Best Hotels Panama city
-George Bernard Shaw
Ultra-modern hotel located in the heart of the city, just a few minutes walking distance to the Iglesia del Carmen Metro Station. The hotel offers several on-site restaurants, a Convention Center & Casino to enjoy.
It's a pleasant 5 star hotel, located in the old part of Panama. Guests of the hotel enjoy a unique location of the hotel, which is known for its proximity to the palace and museums and also to convention centers and banks.
This hotel in Panama is the tallest and largest building in Central America, with a landmark address that's redefining luxury in Panama. Steps from Punta Pacifica's sophisticated shops and nightlife, five minutes from the financial district and minutes from Panama City.
A nice boutique hotel located right at the entrance of Casco Viejo so you’re near lots of restaurants and nightlife. Also features a rooftop bar view of the Panama City skyline.
Located in the heart of the financial district, the Riu Plaza Panama Hotel offers you a unique urban experience so that you can enjoy your vacation or business trip.
Features a spa and an outdoor swimming pool. It offers chic rooms with flat-screen TVs and sofas. Le Meridien is within 5 minutes’ drive of Pánama City’s Exhibition Centre and its port.
SURPRISING What is the concept of Mentiritas Blancas ? Mentiritas Blancas is an artisan bakery and specialty coffee shop founded in Panama City. Everything we do, we try to do it in the best possible way. We seek to provide the customer with a pleasant gastronomic experience, which is an interaction between coffee, pastries and the environment, since we know that coffee, more than a cup, is an experience.
O
ur pastries are homemade, handmade, all made from scratch, Each cup of coffee is made by order of the customer, always looking to offer you a product that goes with your preferences and tastes. Our goal is to "find what your cup is, and enjoy it." All our recipes are made with studying and dedication. My wife, her cousin Melissa and I, who are the owners, are every day behind the bar and in the kitchen ensuring that everything that comes out meets the standards that our customers deserve. We are not only a name, we are the producers of all the desserts and coffees that are offered, which made us 100% artisans in our business. There is a Panamanian saying that says "The eyes of the master fatten the horse." And this is about us that how we care and guarantee that what we offer is the BEST.
What are the specialities ? Our coffee and our pastries. In our cafe, we have one of the best cappuccinos in the city. We try to provide best services to every customers with very high quality coffee of different origins, seeking to provide them with the best possible coffee experience. Our resposteria has earned its reputation for nothing more than its quality. Our Red Velvet cookies and our Brownies are our star desserts. When it comes to salty food, our buffalo chicken is the favorite, as they have that spicy little flair that Panamanians like so much.
Mentiritas Blancas
How did you become interested in this profession ? It was an accident. Before going to barista, I was a clinical psychologist. At some point I realized that I need to change my routine. Psychology is a beautiful career but maybe it was not for me. At that moment my wife and her cousin Melissa have already started the bakery in the first stage of Mentiritas Blancas and I joined the project later. I went to Colombia and I worked with Cecilio Martinez, Barista of CafĂŠ Cultor, my first mentor, who made me become passionate for coffee. And then I returned to Panama and felt as if I had disconnected from the matrix. There, I began to search for good coffee, good coffee shops and I joined this wonderful movement.
*At the end of the day, we are looking for provide an experience to every customer, whether you like, black coffee, coffee with milk, cookies or salty foods. Now we are rambling on the brunch plates, and our "Aguacatadas" toasts that has homemade guacamole and a fried sunny side egg fly!
It's nice to see how the project is growing, to see that people come back, that they become "familiar faces". That people come back MORE than for a compromise, that they tell you that they can no longer drink coffee, that they have learned, that your desserts are phenomenal and that you have the honor of being part of a birthday celebration or a wedding.
you do not need to be a special person to do something important and feel satisfied. And that is Mentiritas Blancas, a reflection of our desire. we have to make and work on what we believe, without doubts and mistakes.
PanaMoty
Bed & Breakfast + Tours Best package for our special guests
Unforgettable Tours
Come to our B&B and enjoy the tours or Call us and Experience with Moty your Private Tours in Panama city and around.
Birding In Panama Birding in Panama is hot stuff… its one of the hottest places in Central America to go birding in. Panama is a tropical rain forest with a huge flora and fauna including a surprisingly long bird list of nearly 950 species for you to see! There are specialist (bilingual) guides and comfortable lodges all very short distances from bird watching sites - just what a birder loves, besides the terrific hospitality, good accommodation and typically tasty Panamanian cuisine. Birding abounds both in the National Parks and in many other localities. A few of the best places are: Parque Metropolitano, Parque Soberanía, Parque Chagres, Pipe Line Rd, Piña Rd, Water Tank Rd, Achiote Rd, Escobal , Sierra Llorona etc. Panama is a veritable paradise. Come and check for yourself. Birding abounds both in the National Parks and in many other localities. A few of the best places are: Parque Metropolitano, Parque Soberanía, Parque Chagres, Pipe Line Rd, Piña Rd, Water Tank Rd, Achiote Rd, Escobal , Sierra Llorona etc. Panama is a veritable paradise. Come and check for yourself.
CANOPY ZIP-LINE TOUR Rapidly gaining a reputation throughout Panama as one of the finest canopy tour sites operating in the country, Panama Outdoor Adventures in Rio Piedra in the Province of Colon features 9 cables along its course of tree-top zip-lines. Each span sends the guest soaring through the jungle at heights that only the tree dwellers of the canopy can experience. The longest line on the tour is 225 meters long and provides a glimpse of one of the most stunning views of the jungle in the region. Along the way, there are opportunities to take in the incredible variety of life that makes up the canopy environment. Aside from the magnificent trees themselves, countless plants thrive on limbs and vines, twisting and weaving through the forest in mazes of vibrant foliage.
VISIT RAQUEL'S ARK Donations are accepted. any th m g wi n i t a. c era nam y int als of Pa Enjo im di, e an mun of th coati . a t e tc .. th, p on, e a slo acco r Hug a with play
Call 64669530 or Raquelframe@gmail.com
CANOPY - ZIPLINE
Activities
(+507) 6510-2774 Â 838-8751
azuerozipline@gmail.com reserva@zippanama.com THE LONGEST ZIPLINE IN PANAMA!
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ART ART Galleries Galleries & & Museums Museums
Carlos Weil
Driving down the city streets amidst the noise, the traffic jams, you face chaos: the rising buildings, roadblocks, the bustle of shoppers, demonstrations of the man alone or the crowd against infrastructure work in progress—this is the concert of a city changing and growing disproportionately. You make a turn to a quieter space and come around to an art gallery; you are forced to pause in a unique atmosphere. All of a sudden, your relationship with the surroundings changes, the noise and the movement ceases, you are with yourself again. The overwhelming presence of art beckons you to a more intimate perception of life, a thousand objects of art invite you to recall,imagine, observe, and discover the mystery conveyed by each artist, your own sensations and thoughts come into play, and you take the pulse of the sensitivity and development of a country. Panama has become a hub for multiple supplies and as such, it could honor its role of multiple relationships, by opening the doors to Latin American art and the scope of local art. Giving art a space in our private lives means that we are creating a cultural sensitivity towards the acquisition of art in our homes with the same passion that we wish for exclusive garments or a luxury brand car.
In face of the challenge, our responsibility lies in placing our country in the right position, so that our talents reach the benchmarks, and that Panama be regarded as a destination for seekers of cultural goods. Our interest is focused on Latin American art supply and as part of Latin America, Central America and why not? PANAMA.
The Museum of Modern Art is a place that fuels creativity, ignites minds, and provides inspiration. With extraordinary exhibitions and the world's finest collection of modern and contemporary art, MoMA is dedicated to the conversation between the past and the present, the established and the experimental. Our mission is helping you understand and enjoy the art of our time PH: (+507) 392-9458 www.momamuseumpanama.com Calle 53 Este, Obarrio, Panamรก FREE Entrance
International Cuisine
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Donde El toro 1
A welcoming spanish restaurant, with very attentive staff. Great food , wide variety of Meat, fresh SEAFOOD well prepared, Tapas, Paella and international food with GOOD prices. There are also two Nice terraces where you can enjoy your drinks. *Fridays: - Promotion from 6 pm Gin is $5. Everyday: -Paella for 2 with one Bottle of wine $38 Calle Eusebio A Morales. El cangrejo. Tel. +507 `6736-4051
Diablicos 2
This place is perfect if you want to know how is the local culture in Panama and it's nicely decorated with diablicos! This place offers Panamanian cuisine, well prepared and presented. and the drinks are excellent. On Thursdays, Fridays & Saturdays from 8:30pm, It has a show with the most variety of dances that you can enjoy for 30-40 minutes. Calle Central de Casco Antiguo Tel. +507 2289495
Guadua 3
On entering you are struck by its ultra-clean appearance and tasteful decor. The attractive and varied menu is all about ecuadorian food. The food is well prepared, really fresh as well and the service is really good. Calle 68 E, Casa 9 a una cuadra de la Vía Porras a la altura de la Casa de Carne - San Francisco. Tel. +507 209-4254
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Rincon Aleman
Abou Shawarma
This place is as German as one might find in Germany. " Clean, good service, acceptable price ". It’s a perfect place to go drink great beers and eat German sausages and food ( Traditional German dishes are done very well ). The owner takes excellent care of his guests and by the end of the night you feel like you are friends.
This is a great place to enjoy a good meal and yet experience the culture and flavor of Lebanon. The restaurant is highly recommended by lebanese people in panama. The food, service and atmosphere are all quite good and the dishes are very reasonably priced
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Tel.+507Â 2640590
Tel.+507 6606-9818
Unagi fusion
Mar de grau 2
It is difficult to order in this place: almost all choices are excellent. Do not miss the arroz con mariscos and jalea de mariscos. Servings are generous and outstanding in flavor. Try the hot sauce with caution: is really picante!! Overall an excellent value for your money, particularly in the area it is located. Tel.+507 264-6950
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This Asian restaurant is well decorated with lots of asian paintings and decorations. There is such a wide variety of food on the menu that everyone can find something they like. The Entire staff are helpful and the service is quite quick. Tel.+507 387-2940
Panama
Venezuela
Peru
Mexico
El Trapiche (Via Argentina)
Viarepa (San Francisco)
Asu Mare (Cangrejo)
Mordida del Burro (Cangrejo)
Diablicos (Casco Antiguo)
Merey Bistro (Balboa)
Segundo Muelle (Balboa)
Tacos la Neta (Casco Antiguo)
Tinajas (Marbella)
El gran Rincón (Via España) Panaderia los venezolanos
Mar de Grau (Marbella)
Los Tarascos (Via Brasil)
Nazca 21 Casco Antiguo)
Taco T (San Francisco)
Brasil
Japan
China
Makoto (Obarrio) Hikaru (Obarrio) Ginza (El Cangrejo) ZK Nikkei (Punta Pacifica)
PF Chang's (Punta Pacifica) Golden Dragon (San Francisco) Golden Unicorn (San Francisco) Palacio Lung Fung
Donde Jose (Casco Antiguo)
Argentina
Os Sangrados do carne Caminitos (Costa del Este) La Pampa (Bella Vista) Sabor Brazil (Marbella) 9Reinas (Bella Vista) Brazzeiro (Soho Mall) Los Años Locos (San Francisco) Delicias Brasileras (Casco Antiguo)
Spain
French
Lebanon
India
Angel (Via Argentina) Taberna 21 (Via Argentina) Jaleo (Urraca) Al Andalus (San Francisco))
Petit Paris (Via Argentina) Chez Titi (El Cangrejo) Simplemente Frances (Bellavista) Rausch (Obarrio)
Al Basha (Obarrio) Beirut Habibi's (Obarrio) Fenicia (El Cangrejo)
Cocina de la India (Balboa) Avatar (Via Argentina) Sabor de la India (Marbella) Massala (Bellavista
HEALTH ??? TAMARILLO EatingWhat More is This of ThisFruit Will Make You Live Longer The researchers characterize 10 portions as 800 grams of fruits and vegetables a day. For context, one medium apple is around 182 grams. Already eating plenty of fruits and vegetables cut people’s risk You can Just dig a spoon in, eat it of early death from heart disease and cancer. But the raw, or cook it and make a researchers estimated that if people ate up to 10 portions a day, smoothie or juice. Normally it is there would be a 24% lower risk of heart disease, 33% lower risk served with desserts and you can of stroke, 28% lower risk of cardiovascular disease, 13% lower find this fruit in most of the risk of cancer, and a 31% lower risk of dying early when supermarkets in Panama City. compared to not eating any fruit or vegetables.
Tamarillos or tree The taste is something between By now tomatoes we know that areeating more fruits and vegetables is good kiwi, passionfruit, mango and for our health, but a new study suggests that eating even more egg-shaped fruits native tomatoes. It has a different taste produce can prevent millions of deaths each year. but once you try it you would like to South and Central In the report, published in the International Journal of to eat it Every Single Day !!! America.The plant is a Epidemiology, researchers from Imperial College London fast-growing tree that conducted a meta-analysis of 95 studies looking at fruit and grows intake. up to 5They meters. vegetable estimated that 7.8 million premature Tamarillosglobal are high in potassium, calcium, iron, manganese, copper Peak production is deaths could be avoided yearly if people ate 10 portions of fruitsA, C, E and B6. Also is very good for Cholesterol Diseases. and vitamins after 4 years andreached vegetables a day.
HOTSPOTS
Upscale, popular nightclub known for great dancing and drawing a large and beautiful crowd. Expect to be elbow-to-elbow on the dance floor. During the week, Casa Jaguar doubles as a restaurant and art gallery. Dress code enforced. Great place for live music. Good drink selection. Not over priced. Gets crowded after midnight. $10 cover so be ready. Great for dancing...two rooms offer house music and more contemporary pop and latin. The place is air conditioned which also makes a big difference!
A trendy restaurant that becomes a night club and lounge with a roof terrace after midnight. A Panamanian night out with exquisite drinks, dinner and live DJ to electrify the ambience. The decor have a clever contemporary twist with unique artwork and beautiful chandeliers. The service is great, and staff is friendly. If your looking for a progressive latin dance floor then head to ZAZA
This restored theatre has turned into one of Panama’s top spots to party at! Every Thursday Teatro Amador features underground electronic music by local and international DJs as part of their Late Night Music series. Then on Friday the atmosphere becomes hot and tropical with latin and salsa sounds for their Dizzfruta night And on Saturday anything goes with their PUNCH party series featuring the latest crossover music.
Buy one beer and get the second one FREE. *By presenting this coupon* Thursdays 5:00 PM - 23:00 PM
After work 2x1 Mondays - Fridays 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm
FREE
One Sangria or Beer with your lunch or dinner Calle Eusebio A Morales, El Cangrejo
Saturdays LIVE MUSIC
Wednesdays
Monday to Friday / 5pm to 8pm #LAZOTEA
food, drinks & Music
From 5pm to closening
Wednesday COCKTAILS
Capital Bistro Panama
Casa Casco Rooftop A fantastic panoramic view awaits you to enjoy the high cocktails to the rhythm of the best DJ in the city, with a chillout and cosmopolitan style decorated with the city, the sea, the mountains and the old town in the background to enjoy moments of relaxation and fun. We wait for you in the Terrace of CacaCasco so can live long afternoons and nights.
Tantalo Rooftop It’s located in Casco Viejo and has a great view of the Panama City skyline and historical buildings surrounding Casco. It’s open everyday but the best days to go are Wednesday for their latin night as well as Friday and Saturday. Here there is always something new to entertain tourists and local people. Cover is typically $10 after 9pm.
360° Rooftop This is one of the newest rooftops of Casco Viejo, situated on Plaza de la Independencia and have a 360 degrees view over all casco. A very nice place to chill down while enjoying some cool drinks and good tapas on their grass terrace style. The music & athmosphere is very good and relax
Capital Bistro Panama The view from the bistro rooftop is over the water to Panama City. In the evening it is magical as the lights start coming on. Great spot to feel the sea breeze while drinking a cocktail. The music is really good and the staff very friendly. The food of the restaurant is something you'll remember. We highly recommend this place for dinner or even just have a drink and enjoy the view!!!
Capital Bistro Panama
The Roof The Roof is located in the top floor of the Best Western Hotel in Via Argentina neighborhood and offers a great central view of the city. Stop by on Thursdays and enjoy 2 x 1 on local beers. Beautiful pool to enjoy on the sunny afternoons whith a refreshing drink. Live the experience.
Gatto Blanco It’s located in Casco Viejo and has a great view of the Panama City skyline. The music is just perfect for the athmosphere of the spot, ALWAYS good dj's. Tuesdays is happy hour 2X1 in all the cocktails and have Jam Sessions. If you are a musician you can bring your own instrument and jam with the others. Or simply come & enjoy the show.
SORTIS CASINO
STARBAY CASINO
Your luck begins in the moment that enters to the biggest casino of Panama. Prepare yourself to live through exciting moments with tables of smart, such discharges as blackjack, roulette, dice and poker; or, try luck in one of the slot machines. Independently of what you chooses, you will receive a pushing energy that promises to raise your adrenaline.
A modern center of entertainment located in the Hotel Hilton in the Avenue Balboa and Aquilino de la Guardia, relies on different environments providing varied options for your amusement: More than 450 modern slot machines, Electronic roulette of last generation, 27 Card tables, 2 Restaurants to enjoy a gastronomic fascinating experience, Extensive list of drinks, liquors and wines, A varied billboard of spectacles, TOP Permanent Security, Valet Parking...
CASINOS you must see
Live, Laugh, Love MONDAYS
TUESDAYS
WEDNESDAYS
THURSDAYS
Live, Laugh, Love FRIDAYS
SATURDAYS
SUNDAYS
Brunch - Septima
360° Rooftop
From 11am to 4pm Open brunch & mimosas for 25$
Late Brunch & OPEN MIMOSAS for 25$
Lobster Night - Bazaar Hard Rock
1400 Rooftop
Cafe Madero
All Lobster you can eat anD Sangira you can drink for 39,99$.
Open Sangria for ladies from 9pm to 12am Open bar in vodka-ron-margaritas from 9pm to 12am for 10$
From Monday to Sunday (from 5pm) order any Burger and have a free coronita.
360° Rooftop
Bodega del Casco
Mahalo
2x1 Coronas and CuERVO from 7pm
All night 2x1 Jager shots 5$ all black label drinks
From 9am to 3pm Brunch in terrace
Sea Food Night - Intercontinental
Sunset hour - Barlovento
St Frances Cafe & Market
From Monday to Friday (from 5:307:30pm) Happy Hour on buffalo wings
From 6:30pm to 9pm large choice of happy hours
From 9am to 4pm All kind of choices for Brunch
Ron abuelo night - Le Meridien All ron Abuelo drinks at half a price!
A Â great Place to Live
Good Reasons You Should Move To Panama Lots of Opportunities for Expats Low Cost of Living U.S. dollar as the official currency One of The Best Places in The World to Retire
THE BEST FOREIGN EXCHANGE RATES
Calle Ricardo Arias, Edificio Dinamar, Local #1 Â ( Inside the City Market ) Tel: (00507) 263-9400
POLS
ATTORNEYS Corporation & Foundation Packages Immigration services for Residency / Citizenship Real Estate Services Complete Corporation or Foundation Packages only 1000$ + taxes
CALL FOR A FREE CONSULTATION
+( 507) 227-6645
WWW.POLS.COM.PA
When you arrive to Panama
Corró-Fernandez & Asociados LUIS ADOLFO CORRÓ FERNÁNDEZ ATTORNEY & FOUNDER OF THE FIRM CORRÓ-FERNÁNDEZ & ASOCIADOS EX LEGAL ADVISER OF MIGRATION (2002-2004) AND THE NATIONAL OFFICE FOR REFUGEE ATTENTION (1992-2000) MIGRATION AND REFUGEE AUTHORITY
Panama City - Boquete - Bocas del Toro PH: 730 - 8344 www.hablayapanama.com
Helpful Tips
Carry small change – Taxi drivers and shop assistants will not accept 20 $ bills to pay for inexpensive items. Be sure to break notes before going shopping or getting a taxi in case you are left with no other option but to pay with a 20. Free Internet ( Wigo ) - In Panama city most of the time you have free wifi in the streets. The first time you access the network, you’ll have to go to the webpage to register for a free account. You only have to do this once and your device will be recognized by the network from then on.
Shopping - if you want to buy some souvenirs from markets, or souvenir's shop, be careful to first visit the other shops and ask different prices. as you are tourist they would raise the prices a lot. Dress Code - Panama City is a place where people live & work not a beach town. Do not wear shorts out in the evenings because you risk not being able to get into some of the bars, restaurants & nightclubs.
Activities – Coffee tours are 25 $, a two-tank dive is around 60 $, most day hikes are around 50 $. A visit to the Panama Canal is 15 $. The popular San Blas island cruise is about 400 $ for 4 or 5 days. Transportation - Use Uber to get around. Taxi drivers like to rip tourists off so save some money and have a pleasant transportation experience by downloading Uber. most of your rides within the city will cost approximately $3.