The Panama Gringo

Two Motorcycles for Sale in David, Panama

By The Panama Gringo | January 1, 2009

2007 Kawasaki Ninja 250R

· Only 3,300 miles

· Parallel twin engine with 13,000 rpm redline

· Up to 70 mpg

· Perfect shape

· Black & red striping

· 6-speed transmission with positive neutral finder

· Never abused by lady rider

· New price in Panama $5513 incl. tax

Price $3600

2000 Kawasaki W650

· Only 1,700 miles

· 680 cc parallel twin engine

· Excellent shape

· Blue & silver

· 6-speed transmission with positive neutral finder

· Electric and kick starter!

· Alloy spoke wheels

· These were sold for only 3 years in the USA and are now highly sought after by enthusiasts. It is a recreation of the 1960’s Kawasaki W1 which was modeled on the BSA Rocket of the time. Some reviews rate this a better bike than the modern Triumph Bonneville. A perfect bike for the mountain roads of Panama

Price $4200

Contact Don @ (507) 6441-0047 banhamdonald@hotmail.com

Topics: Panama - Best Shopping, Panama - Gringo Owned Business, Panama - Relocation | No Comments »

Watch Where You Are Walking!

By The Panama Gringo | December 28, 2008

On a recent trip to Panama City, the Gringo nearly twisted his ankle. So very quick tip for all you explorers - look where you are going, Lawsuits against the government and Hole property owners are very hard to win in Panama, therefore many of the streets and sidewalks have obstacles that you would not normally have to watch out for in the United States and Canada.

Here you can see what I almost walked into in a section of town called Obarrio - the banking district. Uneven sidewalks, unc Hole2 overed holes, and cracks are everywhere — but it truly is part of the charm of the city.

Just pay attention to where you are going - including looking down. Also - if you are drinking — don’t drive and don’t walk - take a cab.

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GiGGi Travel Agency Brings Excitement to Panama Vacations

By The Panama Gringo | December 24, 2008

Panama boasts of an abundance of beautiful scenery and wildlife which is perfect for the adventures of ecotourism. Panama City is also one of the most developed and cosmopolitan cities in Latin America. The best way to experience everything Panama has to offer is to use an experienced guide who will cater a vacation plan to your exact wishes.

GiGGi Travel is an established Travel Agency with over 5 years of experience operating in Panama. They offer packages to a number Giggi-graphic of exotic locations with flight, hotel and transport included, as well as all types of tours. A long list of satisfied customers, the Panama Gringo included, will vouch for GiGGi as being one of the best in the business. Professional and fun loving, the folks at GiGGi understand what it means to be on vacation and do everything in their power to take the work out of your hands and meticulously care for every detail.

GiGGi Travel has taken concept of quality AND quantity and applied it to their business. Over the last 5 years they have worked hard to build contact bases in every sector, which has enabled them to use their connections to your benefit. With an extended network of partners and associates GiGGi Travel is able to provide the highest quality and a great variety of services.

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Will the City Build a Public Tramway to Amador?

By The Panama Gringo | December 22, 2008

Trolley cars used to be the norm in Panama City, but have long since been replaced by other means of transportation… until now. Plans for a tramway system that runs from Tramway Casco Viejo to Amador and the Frank Gehry Biodiversity Museum have been completed and a budget is currently in the works.

The five and a half mile line is estimated to cost about $35 million, and a ride on the tram may cost just $2. This would ease the struggles of many residents, visitors, and workers to find parking in some of these areas, and offer quick, efficient transportation.

The proposed line would start in the Plaza Cinco de Mayo and travel down Central Ave and into San Felipe. Upon arriving at the Plaza Santa Ave the line would split into two paths, one ending at Cathedral Square and the other continuing down 12th Street to the seaside Avenue of the Poets.

The proposed trolleys would be the old-fashioned kind, designed after the ones that were used in Panama of old. The electric-powered trolleys would even get their power fashionably, from artistic poles in the historical sectors of the tramway’s path. In the more developed, modern areas, high-tech “invisible” wires will be used.

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Topics: Panama - News | No Comments »

The Diablo Rojo - The Fastest Way through Panama City!

By The Panama Gringo | December 16, 2008

Okay, so taking the Diablo Rojo is probably not the fastest way through Panama City… not even close! It is, however, probably the cheapest, at just 25 cents a ride.

Think you’re brave? Then take a ride on the Diablo Rojo… for you Gringos out there, that’s Spanish for Red Devil. A word to the wise… keep an eye, and a hand, on your wallet. Pick-pocketers on these buses are notorious, and Gringos are always seen as an easy target.

To get a taste of the real Panama, take a ride on one of these guys! Follow the link to see photos of Panama City’s famous Diablo Rojo!

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Topics: Panama - Adults Only, Panama - Travel Tips | No Comments »

Have Dental Issues? Go to Pacific Health Center in Panama City

By The Panama Gringo | December 15, 2008

A personal report directly from the Panama Gringo

Last week, the Gringo traveled to Panama City from Houston on a mission. After several difficult dental implant surgeries in the United States, I was determined to find a better way. Honestly, I was just sick and tired of dealing with a dentist treating 3 to 5 patients at the same time, feeling rushed and like I was on an assembly line even though I was Pacificclinic spending over $3,000 an implant. I immediately thought about Panama because of the quality health care providers I had met on my previous trips. Personally being in the medical business my entire adult life, it is easy to tell the difference from people who practice medicine because they really care about helping people and those who do it to maximize their incomes. I have found many medical providers in Panama who still practice the “art of medicine, dentistry and providing care” - it is refreshing.

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Topics: Panama - Business, Panama - Gringo Favorite | 3 Comments »

Comfortable, fashionable Hotel in Panama City

By The Panama Gringo | December 12, 2008

The Hotel DeVille may be small in size, but it is great in service, as its brochure boldly states. Trust this Gringo, the Hotel Deville lives up to its claims. It is centrally located in the financial heart of Panama, and provides the personalized attention, security and technology that you would hope to find in any hotel. Junior_suite

All of the rooms at Hotel Deville are Suites; 23 junior suites, 4 luxury suites, 4 grand suites, and 4 grand luxury suites. Rooms start at 260 and go up to 450 for the grand luxury suites. All rooms have telephone service and internet access, cable TV, a VCR and movies on request, butler and concierge services and more.

Outside view of Hotel Deville inPanama City, Panama The business center has computers, copying machines, faxes, binding materials, and translation services. The staff is friendly and helpful; they really want you to get whatever it is done you need to in Panama. Whether you are there for business or pleasure, the staff can make your stay more comfortable and aid you in whatever area you may need Lobby of Deville Hotel - Panama City Hotel assistance in.

And make sure you try Ten, the bistro connected with Hotel Deville. It is a dining experience all in itself.

For more information on the Hotel Deville, or to make reservations online, click here.

Topics: Panama - Places to Eat, Panama - Places to Stay | No Comments »

World Class Traveler’s Magazine - Panama Q Magazine

By The Panama Gringo | December 4, 2008

One of my favorite reads regarding the country of Panama is Panama Q magazine. Each issue of the magazine features something great about the country of Panama; an inside look at its people, its most interesting places, and its great culture.

Panama Q also hits on topics that are of interest to investors and expats such as finance, medical tourism, and real estate investment and development. They report on new businesses, growth and expansion of current companies, and Panama’s business market’s influence on the world market.

Spot on reviews of things to do and places to see in Panama round out the content of Panama Q magazine. Panama Q is designed to attract travelers looking for the best that Panama has to offer.

Check out the Panama Q magazine web-site here.

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Apartment Building for Sale in Panama

By The Panama Gringo | November 26, 2008

If you’re like me, just thinking of a traditional retirement bores me to death. I have always been a hard worker, and while I am looking forward to “retiring” in Panama someday, I guarantee you I won’t be the Gringo who sits by the pool all day and reads the paper. I like to keep my hands moving.

If you are like me, then you may be interested in a certain investment opportunity I stumbled across the other day. Steve Rich from www.panama-offshore-services.com has posted this unclassified ad for an entire apartment building for sale on Calle 50:

$1,538,000 ($1,250/m2)

13 Apartments all having 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms plus maids room,
living & dining room, and walk in closet for master bedroom
Ocean views
24/7 Security
Swimming pool & social area
Elevator
1 underground secure parking space per apartment
13 year old building with 6 years property tax exemption left
All 13 apartments are vacant
Entire building refurbished and in living condition, but could use
further light cosmetic work
Calle 50 near the new tall Global bank building

You can send Steven an email at marketingposi@yahoo.com

Topics: Panama - Business, Panama - Relocation | No Comments »

Informational Article on Real Estate in Panama

By The Panama Gringo | November 22, 2008

Anyone that has, or has had Real Estate interests in Panama knows that the world that lies within can be a treacherous one. I have found this fantastic article written by Kent Davis who has written a great guide to Panamanian Real Estate. The article is posted here in full to read but feel free to check out more of his work at www.buscapanama.net

Blood on the Streets:

Everything that is wrong with Real Estate Agents in Panama and Why I am One of Them

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The Human Rights Project - You Can Make a Difference

By The Panama Gringo | November 21, 2008

I was recently contacted by the Human Rights Project regarding their new mission: “To exceed the act of inspiring and successfully move people from apathy to activism.”

The Gringo Report has teamed up with the Human Rights Project in calling others to action.

To get the ball rolling, the Human Rights Project has developed a beautifully illustrated full color book entitled, The Trouble with the Alphabet, written and illustrated by Caryn Book_image West. The book takes you around the world to 26 countries A-Z where children are suffering. Each country featured is also connected to a charitable organization that receives part of the proceeds from each book purchased, as well as all purchases from TheTroubleWiththeAlphabet.com.

Check it out and do your part to make a difference.

Topics: Panama - Gringo Favorite | No Comments »

Feast on Thanksgiving Dinner in Panama

By The Panama Gringo | November 14, 2008

Still trying to decide how to spend your Thanksgiving in Panama? The American Society of Panama is holding its annual Turkey Dinner on Friday, November 21^st 2008. The Thanksgiving Celebration will be held at St.Mary’s Church Parrish Hall, Balboa, and the feasting will be from 6:30 to 9:30 pm.

The cost is $25 dollars for non-members, $20 for members, $10 for children 11-16 and free for kids under 10. Children over 16 years of age must pay full price.

On the menu are all the traditional Thanksgiving favorites: dinner rolls and butter, roast Mconners_pecanpie turkey with stuffing, gravy, cranberry chutney, mashed potatoes with herbs, Waldorf salad, broccoli salad, candied sweet potatoes, and corn pudding. As far as dessert goes, you have your choice of pies: apple, pecan, pumpkin, cherry and blueberry. Wine is available for adults (1-2 glasses) and soda and water will be on hand as well. It is sure to be quite the feast!

If you want to join the American Society of Panama at their Thanksgiving dinner, make sure and purchase your tickets by Wednesday November 19^th.

Tickets are available at Rosalind Baitel “Promises” Golf Plaza Calle 74 S.F. 270-7457 and at Dr. Charly Garcia’s Dental Clinic 264-4380 / 264-3348

Or contact American.Society.Panama@gmail.com

You can also get tickets by calling any one of the following board members:

Sandra Abell 315-0565 John Beavers 233-5318

Phil Edmonston 215-1575 Robert Emerick 314-0480

Michael R. Fraser 207-7491 Dr. Charly Garcia 6618-8877 / 270-0931

Cedric Gittens 223-5526 Eunice Greaves 6616-1896 / 229-4009

Thomas R. Lord Jr. 315-2408 Marilyn Johnson 6583-1165 / 250-0799

William E. Mariano 264-1465 Starr McCamant 240-8281

Rita Sosa 260-0671 Pascale Schwander Taylor 6757-4787

Topics: Panama - Family Friendly, Panama - Gringo Favorite, Panama - Places to Eat | No Comments »

Panama President Martin Torrijos Comments on Obama’s Election

By The Panama Gringo | November 12, 2008

Panama’s President Martin Torrijos had the following to say regarding the recent Presidential election in the United States: MartinTorrijos

Obama’s victory awakens great expectations in Panama and Latin America, where relations between the United States and our region are expected to be boosted and lead to new forms of cooperation.

The quote is taken from the article entitled “Obama’s Victory sets off Optimism in Latin America” which can be read by clicking here.

Topics: Panama - News | No Comments »

Panama Tourism Reaches Record-Breaking Numbers

By The Panama Gringo | October 29, 2008

Panama’s tourism industry shows no signs of slowing down, which is good news for the economy and everyone conducting business in Panama.In a recent article for La Prensa, Roberto González Jiménez reported these numbers:

Between January through September 2008 Panama received more than 1.1 million tourists, reflecting an increase of 13.1% or 128,452 more travelers than during the same period of time from the previous year, according to the Panama Tourism Authority.

So it looks like despite any recession the world economy might be facing, the influx of tourists traveling to Panama for vacation has not slowed down. This is actually the first time ever that the first 9 months of the year have seen more than 1 million tourists.

As the United States tries desperately to boost their economy, no doubt Panama will see the same effect it did back in 2003 when tax cuts in the US caused a major surge in Panama’s economy. No doubt a worldwide stimulation of the economy will have an even more profound affect on Panama.

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Obama or McCain - Which U.S. President is Best for Panama?

By The Panama Gringo | October 26, 2008

Let’s face it, the topic you can’t escape no matter where you are in the world is the upcoming Presidential elections in the United States. Everyone has a reason for why they are voting for so and so, or why they aren’t voting for so and so.

So, that being said, what are the reasons expats in Panama are or aren’t voting for so and so?

If Obama takes office the best possible outcome sees relations between the United States and left-wing Latin countries improving, the global economy staying strong, benefiting Pan6 Panama’s current housing and industrial plans. If Obama’s plans don’t go over so well in the United States, Panama could actually reap even more benefits. As wealthy United States citizens flee increased taxes, they may just wind up in Panama, boosting investment in banks, real estate, and other offshore businesses and assets.

If McCain manages to get himself elected despite Obama’s popularity and his proposed plans get the United States economy back running again, Panama could see lots of overflow from a rich America. A good U.S. economy means more people traveling and more people investing in Panama’s economy which would mean a win-win situation for both countries. However, if McCain in office leads to more conflict between the United States and Russia, Iran, or pretty much any Pan6(a) other country Panama could be ill-affected, and if the Unties States economy continues on its dismal course, the Panama housing boom could very well slide to a stop as well.

There are a number of possibilities as to how each candidate would actually handle his position in office, making it impossible to predict the actual influence this election will have on Panama is.

What are your feelings? Do you think McCain or Obama is the better choice for the United States? Do you think McCain or Obama is the better choice for Panama?

Guide to Make Money and Travel Full-Time

By The Panama Gringo | October 20, 2008

Chris Guillebeau is the mastermind behind “The Art of Non-Conformity,” an online blog that touches on unconventional strategies for life, work, and travel. He is also a friend of this traveling gringo. Chris is an amazing character who has spent time the last ten years self-employed, four of them in West Africa as a volunteer aid worker.

Ugwy-cover-image-150x150

Chris’ most recent project is a series of Unconventional Guides and other informational products. These will be available for purchase and expound upon the topics he regularly tackles on his blog: Life, Work and Travel.

The Unconventional Guide to Working for Yourself is an authoritative look at being self-employed. It explains how you can make money and spend your time traveling and doing what you want to do. As Chris explains it is for “Anyone hoping to escape the tyranny of a conventional working life, anyone interested in setting up a microbusiness to earn additional income, and anyone who believes in hard work.”

For a more comprehensive review of the material covered in the Guide, visit The Art of Nonconformity.

Topics: Panama - Gringo Owned Business | 1 Comment »

Bet$Win 2009 Passport to Paradise Contest

By The Panama Gringo | October 20, 2008

Win a 5 day/4 night trip to Waikiki Beach!

2 Round-trip tickets to Honolulu, Hawaii, rental car and $500 cash included

How to Win: Sweepstakes Prize Drawing

Drawing Date: 3pm. Jan. 31 , 2009 in Bet$Win Sports Café at Veneto.

Prize:

2 -Round.Trip. American Airline tickets to Honolulu, Hawaii.

5 - Days/4 Nights Hotel at world famous Waikiki Beach.

Rental car to use.

$500 Cash to use for Tickets to Pro Bowl, food, anything you like.

How to Play: Present $50 worth of B$W tickets to Supervisor at any Bet$Win location and receive your Passport to Paradise. Fill out info and sign on the back side. Deposit in tumbler. Any B$W ticket from Oct 13, 2008 until time of drawing is valid.

Rules:

Offer valid until time and date of drawing.

Only one winner per drawing.

Must be 18 yrs or older to participate.

Must be present at day and time of Prize drawing to win.

Must qualify for Immigration Purposes (visa required for US entry).

Winner must be identified via Cedula or Passport at moment of claiming Prize.

Employees of Bet$Win or their family members not eligible to win Drawing.

Topics: Panama - Adults Only, Panama - News | 2 Comments »

The Cost of Living in Panama

By The Panama Gringo | October 13, 2008

Panama City has been transformed from a run-down third world city, to a bustling metropolis with a first world infrastructure. Hip neighborhoods attract more and more positive attention from outside investors, pursuing creative business adventures at third world costs.

In a place where you can live at 1/10 the value of the United States, investment or retirement in Panama has proven to be one of the best lifestyles one can adopt.

Courtesy of our friends at Semusa Realty in Panama City, here is a pricing chart identifying some of the basic costs for living in Panama City.

MONTHLY EXPENSE (In US Dollars)	PANAMA *
Residence (House or Condo) • 3 Bedroom • 2,000 Square Feet	Investment - $ 200,000 Rent - $ 1,500.00
FIX COST
Electricity	$175
Water (Very Safe to Drink The Best in Latin America )	$20
Phone (Includes Monthly Fee and Estimate Usage)	$50
Live-In Maid (If you can afford Highly Recommended)	$150
Cell Phone	$ 50
Condo Maintenance Fee	$ 200
Internet Services (Residential)	$ 30
Cable Service	$ 50
Gasoline ($2.35 Per Gallon Estimate)	$ 50
Groceries (Monthly for Family of 4)	$ 500
Fire Insurance (Building & Content)	$ 50
Health Insurance (Basic Coverage for Family)	$ 150
Car Insurance (Based on a $ 30,000 Auto)	$ 100
Gas (Cooking & Water Heater) Note: Some Condos include it on the Maintenance Fee	$ 30
OTHER REFERENCE COST
Mortgage Interest Rates (Usually about 2 point higher than US Very good for Latin-American Standards)	%6- %8
Property Tax (Yearly) • Land • Betterments	From 0% to 2% From 0% to 2%
Taxis within Panama City	$1.50
Sales Tax	5%
Dinner at Fancy Restaurant (For Two with Wine)	$ 60
Movie Theater	$ 3.50
Bottle of Wine (Plenty of Variety) Mayor Re-Export Business from the Colon Free Zone	$ 8
Schools	$ 6,000 Capital Donation $ 6,000 - $8,280 Tuition
Gymnasium Monthly	$ 65
Dentist	$ 35
Doctors Appointment	$ 40

Note: All indicated cost are estimates based on a family of four, cost may vary

Topics: Panama - Relocation | 1 Comment »

Panama is the Place to Escape the United States Recession

By The Panama Gringo | October 9, 2008

As the US economy continues to decline Americans are being forced to change the way they handle their dollars as they slide in value against the British pound and the Euro. As businesses buckle down to face the brunt of a world recession many are left wondering how the US is going to weather the storm and if, when the dark clouds of decline finally rise, the economy will be able to recover.

Many businesses have already taken steps to recession-proof themselves by trying to draw in foreign sales. In recent article from Business Week it was stated that “the strongest U.S. companies may be the ones with the biggest footprint abroad.” By having their fingers in multiple national markets, businesses are able to watch the local economies and push and pull their investments accordingly.

Other businessmen and women are taking this advice to heart and personally locating oversees, where the economy may be more stable, and where their hard-earned dollars have more buying power. Moving abroad won’t solve all your problems; after all, analysts are predicting a world wide recession. Moving will, however, afford you opportunities that would never be attainable in the US, especially considering the country’s current economic situation. Although the markets are constantly changing, and prices for living abroad in certain countries are on the rise, the fact of the matter is the U.S. dollar still goes farther in Central and South America

Life abroad is full of opportunities. In addition to a new culture and in many instances a new language, life in Central and South America also offers much in the way of investments, business opportunities, and savings.

Margaret Malweski, author of GenXpat: The Young Professional’s Guide to Making a Successful Life Abroad identifies one of the biggest draws to living abroad. She says, “You may be middle class back home, and suddenly you’re dealing with the upper classes.” Americans abroad often find they have the time to invest and do projects that they actually want to work on, instead of rigidly fulfilling their duties at a 9-5 job in a place where everyone is wrapped up in their career, and struggling to make things work.

Young businessmen and women do best to set themselves up now as being capable of handling the challenges of an international life and career, because the rewards are great. In an honest evaluation many businessmen and women who are already well established in their careers discover that they can actually handle the majority of their work from overseas, perhaps commuting back to the States on a semi-monthly basis for work purposes. Retirees often find that pensions that are not even close to being sufficient in the States are more than enough to live on comfortably in Central and South America.

Staring a seemingly inevitable recession in the face, many Americans have found the solution to their economic problems in relocating abroad.

Online resource sites such as “The Expat Guy” provide basic information to Americans interested in relocating abroad.

Real Estate in Central and South America are also feeling the effects of the recession. How so? Stay tuned.

Topics: Panama - Relocation | 2 Comments »

Delicatessen and Gourmet Groceries in Casco Antiguo

By The Panama Gringo | October 8, 2008

Shopping for high quality groceries and special products can be a little difficult in Panama City, which is why Super Gourmet first opened in Bocas del Toro in 2007. Now, after enjoying seven years of success providing the best in deli products and other hard to find products, Super Gourmet has opened up a second location in Casco Antiguo.

At Super Gourmet you can find gourmet products that are hard to find elsewhere such as Pan1 imported cheeses and beers, fine wines and high quality cigars. Super Gourmet is located in Casco Antiguo behind the Canal Museum. The original Super Gourmet in Bocas del Toro is found on Main Street.

Super Gourmet is open from Monday to Saturday 8 am to 7 pm. Orders may also be placed by telephone.

Tel: (507) 212-3487 (Casco Antiguo)

(507) 757-9357 (Bocas del Toro)

E-mail: info@supergourmetcasco.com (Casco Antiguo)

labocaloca@cwpanama.net (Bocas del Toro)

Topics: Panama - Best Shopping, Panama - Places to Eat | No Comments »

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