If you are going to Panama, do yourself a big big favor and stop in at La Fortuna on via Espada. You can buy extremely nice suits, jackets, pants and shirts from a group of skilled tailors at sharply discounted prices. It is the norm to buy a $1000 suit for $350 except it has a custom, perfect fit.
Here is how it works:
1. First you call Carlos Aleman – the preferred guide and driver of the Panama Gringo and he will take you right to La Fortuna. Call him at 507-6645-7075. More Info about Carlos here
2. Upon arrival to La Fortuna, take a minute to visit the real Tailor of Panama in the back of the store.
3. Then start looking around at the 500 plus fabrics. There is no extra charge for larger sizes and the selection is overwhelming.
4. Get measured by some of the most skilled tailors in the world – generations of experienced talent and incredibly friendly people.
5. Your clothes begin the birth process with tender loving care.
6. You might be asked to come back in a day or so for a fitting. The craftsman at La Fortuna are very proud of their work and rightfully so. Be patient and let them do their magic.
7.. Finally, make sure you stop and see “the boss” and get a picture with the real tailor of Panama.
The Panama Gringo has purchased 10 suits, 7 shirts and several pair of pants from La Fortuna. Trust me – you want to make time to do this. If you are in town for 3 to 4 days – you can leave with your clothes. If not – they will ship them to you. don’t miss this place.
Related posts:
- Stay connected CHEAPLY when you go to Panama – the real deal on the phone cards.
- The Real Deal on Real Estate in Panama
- Panama City Airport – First Class Airport with many airlines, great stores and airline clubs
- Panama Hats… not really Panamanian, but a great gift idea!
- 4 Tips to Buy Real Estate in Panama
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Your site is frickin’ hilarious. None of this cultural assimilation: let’s see what happens when a no-nonsense gringo dives into the Panamanian deep end head first. It’s classic stuff really!
-Matt
Thanks Matt…. I think you are delivering a compliment or at least a sideways one
.
Besides I love your site – very well written and delivered – you provide the backbone of information for a person considering expating there or long term stays.
I thought might sight might serve the week at a timers (much like I visit) well.
Nevertheless, I think we agree on how much we like the country of Panama.
Hello Bob,
Don’t know who you are! However toured your web site, and liked it very much.
I am in Panama ever several months for three weeks and I would like very much to chat with you.
I arrive 10/15/07, and will be in country until 11/1/07.
If you be so kind to email back I would greatly appreciate.
Kindest regards,
Bob
My parents met and married in Panama in 1934. My father was the Heavyweight champion of the canal zone, stationed at Clayton Army Base. My mother was with a Hollywood troupe and was the “torch” singer at Kelley’s Ritz. They returned to the sttes in 1936. My sister and I have always hoped to trace their charming love story. So we plan to visit next August with my two daughters. Owning property in Panama would be a plus.
1. We want to see the ruins and find the old Ritz
2. We want to see Clayton
3. We would like to visit Colon
4. And visit one of the island communities.
5. We would appreciate a trusted tour guide
6. We are LDS and would like to visit the Mormon Temple which should be completed by then.
7. Healthcare? Do we purchase insurance?
8. I am an operating room nurse, what if we live in Panama, Can I work as a nurse?
9. My husband loves to play poker…where are the casinos?
I look forward to any and all your sage advice
Warmest Regards,
Eileen
Love the information, thanks. My wife and I would like to retire to Panama in about a year, can you offer any suggestions? She likes cooler weather, so we were thinking of Boquete. International Living Magazine has lots of information, too, but it may be tainted by commissions. Thanks for any help you can offer!
Hey,
Is there a custom shoe maker in Panama?
I will be there in 3 weeks.
Thanks,
Michael
Hey Panamagringo-
I am going to Panama in late March of this year. Is La Fortuna open on Saturdays?
Thanks-
Paul Z.