Discovering Panama is still on a to-do list of many lovers of Central America. Let us delve a little deeper into this country full of pleasant surprises for the visitor, who is gradually seduced by its culture, food and the atmosphere of safety that we breathe in its streets.
Located on the southeastern tip of Central America, its privileged geographical location protects it from the dreaded hurricanes that periodically afflict the neighboring Gulf of Mexico. It has also been free of earthquakes in the past 100 years, so nature has been especially kind to this Central American country.
To the north, Panama overlooks the deep turquoise blue of the Atlantic Ocean, while in the south, its shores are washed by the waters of the Pacific Ocean. Between both coasts opens the intricate Panama canal which plays a vital role in the transport and connection with the rest of the world. This magnificent piece of engineering has largely determined the economic development of the country, making it a meeting point of the entire American continent, the Hub of the Americas.
Currently, its population exceeds 3.5 million inhabitants. Different ethnicities and racial mixing between them have contributed decisively to a unique folklore of exquisite cultural richness, with an atmosphere of tolerance and harmony in which everyone has a place. It is a young population with a high birth rate, which leads it to becoming a growing country that enjoys a superb education and health system.
If anything defines Panama, it is the country’s economic development, it being considered as one of the fastest growing countries in the world, due in large part to its strong banking and financial fabric in which the major international financial institutions are present: European, American and Asian banks are represented in the heart of Panama city. The financial market with strong real estate development and the dynamism of its tourist market make the Panamanian economy a healthy and thriving one. In the capital, countless international companies and financial institutions of the five continents converge.
Panama City offers a variety of destinations and attractions: a living nature of beautiful beaches dotted with palm trees and mountains dressed in a colorful riot of flora, dominated by the national flower, the orchid. Pieces of history are still alive in the winding streets of the old town, which contrast sharply with the design of modern buildings that cut the horizon in a continuous struggle to reach the sky.
The cultural richness is one of the attractions of the country, with the mixture of traditions of the seven indigenous groups of Panama, which can be found settled in semi-autonomous territories where they keep their ancient customs alive. They cultivate music and dance, and show a developed skill in a unique fine craft. These pieces are true gems, elaborated with techniques and inspiration that have their roots in pre-Columbian times. For the shopping enthusiasts, we recommend not forgetting to take home the “molas of Guna,” the “chaquiras and chácaras of Ngäbe,” tagua miniatures and baskets of the Emberá and Wounaan, among other handicrafts.
The cuisine also reflects the influences of different peoples that make up the nation. The plates offer the Spanish, indigenous and African influences. The essential requirement is to taste the Carimañolas for breakfast, cassava dough stuffed with minced meat. For lunch, the Ceviche in any of its variations is a must, as this plate of fish and seafood marinated with lemon and cilantro deserves a place on the table for its freshness and flavor. At dessert time, do not forget to try the bienmesabe of Arab origins, introduced to the local cuisine by the Spanish, and to which the Panamanians gave their personal touch. These are our recommendations, but we guarantee that there is an endless supply of delightful dishes for all tastes.
All of the above make Panama the perfect tourist destination for all those who want to enjoy the charm of endless beaches, tropical forests, where to practice all kinds of water sports, live an adventure … all in a secure environment with all the commercial, financial and leisure offer of a modern and developed country.
Ready to get to know Panama? BlueBay Group will soon open its hotel BlueBay City Panamá****, in the very heart of the financial and commercial district.
