Quality Asian Food in Panama City
Panama City boats many potential dining experiences for all palettes, and the avid foodie  within myself has tried a little of nearly all Panama has to offer. After spending a few weeks in Panama I began my search for some authentic Korean fare which landed me in a quaint little restaurant named Chinni Chinni (which translates to “good friendship” in English). I knew I had found a diamond in the rough the second we walked in and saw the place was filled with Asian diners.
We started our meal with a large bowl of Cha Jang Myun ($8), which are spaghetti like noodles dressed in a black bean paste and often accompanied by bits of pork, potato, onion or other vegetables. I had never experienced Cha Jang Myun previously so I couldn’t really compare it to others, but I enjoyed the simplicity and the textures of the noodle dish. Our next course was a soup named, doenjang jjigae ($10), which contained a soy bean paste, tofu, kimchi and other vegetables. The soup had a very unique flavor, texture and mild spiciness that I loved and left me reluctant to share the large ceramic pot with fellow diners.
Our third and final course was introduced by a table covered in about 12 different “banchan” or appetizer like accompaniments. For our main dish we ordered the Samgyeopsal ($25)- unsalted thickly sliced bacon accompanied by fresh diced garlic cloves and prepared on a small table top gas grill. We grilled the meat ourselves and wrapped the strips inside large lettuce leaves along with steamed white rice, kimchi (fermented spiced red cabbage) and other sides. This dish has always been one of my favorites and the Chinni Chinni version did not disappoint in any way. The kimchi was the best I have ever tasted and the sides all seemed very fresh.
Dining at Chinni Chinni is always a treat. The atmosphere and décor of the restaurant is very simple and relaxed. Large white screens surround most of the tables which adds a nice touch of privacy, and the staff is very friendly and usually very prompt. Chinni Chiini is located on Via Porras just past the Super 99. They have private dinig rooms available and can serve parties of up 50 people.
Source: Quality Asian Food in Panama City
Labels: Living in Panama
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Considering Staying in Residential Pedasi
When considering places to stay in Panama many often opt for the bright lights and modern conveniences of the city. However, for those who prefer to trek off of the beaten path Pedasi, Panama has much to offer. In Pedasi you will find a plethora of activities available such as world class surfing, diving, snorkeling and hiking. The waters near Pedasi are also well known for fantastic sport fishing and nature lovers can explore the utopia of wildlife that covers the Azuero Peninsula on which Pedasi rests. On my first trip to Pedasi I was fortunate enough to spot several exotic birds as well as a surprising howler monkey dancing down the road in front of our truck.
During trip to Pedasi and every time since we chose to stay in Residencial Pedasi, a small surfer hostel type hotel. This small 15 room hotel is definitely not for those searching luxury outside of the city. Yet, the rooms were clean, comfortable and came at a great price. At only 30 dollars a night for a double room one could easily overlook the serious lack of décor and sporadic hot water in the shower. After all, when visiting such a beautiful location who wants to spend their time cooped up indoors? Wifi internet was available, as well as a computer for rent in the lobby area. The overall atmosphere of the hotel is very laid back, tranquil and private. Also, the little old lady who runs the place was very friendly and didn´t seem to mind us waking her because we locked ourselves out of our room at midnight. Beaches are only about a 5-10 minutes away from Residencial Pedasi. The hotel is located near the entrance of Pedasi in front of the Banco Nacional de Panama. Reservations can be made by calling +507-995-2490 or you can check out their web site at www.residencialpedasi.com
Source: Considering Staying in Residential Pedasi
Labels: Living in Panama
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Hello world!
Welcome to Gringo Central. This is your first post. Edit or delete it, then start blogging!
Source: Hello world!
Labels: Living in Panama
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A Night Out at Tomate y Amor
Tomate y Amor, which means Tomato and Love, is the new gem in Panama’s culinary offer. We can definitely say that the chef and owner Zena Sabagh infused love in this restaurant. 
Their staff is very attentive and professional. From the moment we drove in, a friendly valet greeted us. Then when we walked in, two waiters guided us to our table, making sure we see the small steps they have in the entrance.
The place is beautiful, from the art to the glassed kitchen where you can see the wood-fired grill. The music’s volume was perfect where we could enjoy it and also talk.
Their International menu is very assorted. While we waited for our food they brought us hot bread with butter which we couldn’t stop eating. For appetizers we ordered White Cheese and Spinach and Artichokes dip. For dinner, we had Chicken a la Kiev, Corvina, Rib Eye Steak and, of course, Tomato Soup. We finished the evening with a Crème Brûlée. Everything was delicious.
After dinner we went up to their Club Urbano located on the second floor and enjoyed their drinks. Please try the Strawberry Caipiriña.
Their prices a reasonable and it was just a very nice evening.
Tomate y Amor is located in Calle 48 Bella Vista. It’s open for lunch from 12:00 – 2:30pm and for dinner from 6:30 – 10:30 Monday to Friday. On Saturdays and Sundays, they’re open for lunch and dinner until 11pm. For reservations call 265-7526. www.toamteyamor.com
Source: A Night Out at Tomate y Amor
Labels: Living in Panama
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Dinner and a Show at Las Tinajas
Las Tinajas (named after a clay pot used to keep drinking water fresh) is an authentic Panamanian restaurant in a charming old colonial house and has a menu of food based on traditional Panamanian recipes.
The menu features a series of appetizers that are unique to the area. Ceviche de Corvina, tropical white fish marinated in tangy lemon mixture, is on the top of the list. The assorted seafood plate is made up of squid, clams, shrimp, and fish is a great option for two people. Another favorite is La Carimonola, a yucca croquette filled with a seasoned mixture of meats.
A variety of their main dishes are also great, but there are two general favorites. The Plato Tipico is a typical Panamanian meal of rice, tamale, roasted pork, and plantains. Ropa Vieja is shredded flank steak seasoned in garlic, green pepper, and seasoned with a pinch of cumin.
If you have a penchant for coconut or caramel, the Flan de Caramelo and Flan de Cocó are two desserts that you want to try.
Once you decide on what you are going to eat, you can get ready to sit back and watch one of the scheduled shows about Panamanian folklore and local dances. The performers of these shows are dressed in elaborately stitched traditional clothes, with gold and pearl hair combs and jewelry inspired from traditional symbols that date back as far as the 1500’s.
The good food and a relaxing atmosphere make this a perfect place to go to wind down and spend a nice evening out.
Las Tinajas is located in Panama City on 51 street, in the Bella Vista area. For any other information about hours or shows, please call (507) 263-7890 or visit their website.
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Source: Dinner and a Show at Las Tinajas
Labels: Living in Panama
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More Benefits to the Relocating in Panama
Panama has had close ties with the United States since back when it was trying to win independence from Colombia. The relationship between the two countries was further solidified when the U.S. offered its support in constructing the Canal. Both of these facts contribute to the standing relationship that the remains today. Visitors to Panama find many similarities between this Central American  gem and the U.S. and that is precisely what draws many retirees to Panama.
To start off with, when you arrive in Panama there is no need to worry about exchanging money, converting pesos to dollars or anything like that. The official currency of the country is the U.S. dollar. While you may be trying to break away from some aspects of life in the States, rest assured fast food will follow you wherever you go. McDonald’s, Burger King, Wendy’s, TGI Fridays – they’re all here! Hotel chains similar to those in the States are more than common, as are rental car companies. Even condo units are owned and operated by American based companies and given names such as Pacific Winds and San Francisco Bay. (For information about renting a condo through ThePanamaGringo.com click here.)
Eating and staying at American places will cost you standard American dollar, but it isn’t the only way to live. You can still live for cheaper in Panama than you can in the United States. In addition, you don’t have to pay taxes on any income you earn while outside of the country, and you can save money on property taxes as well…
There are so many benefits to retiring abroad. For those of you who think you wouldn’t be able to make it in South or Central America, I think you should give Panama a shot. It’s a lot more like the States than you might expect. That isn’t, of course, to downplay Panamanian culture or the Panamanian mindset, which is very different than that of the States. I’m just saying, there are a whole lot of people down here trying to make relocation more comfortable for you. Why not give it a shot?
Source: More Benefits to the Relocating in Panama
Labels: Living in Panama
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Buy or Rent in Pedasi
Hey guys – I know I have posted about this place before, but the owners are still dropping the price in hopes to getting it sold or rented fast. Here is the info on the house:
Charming 2 bedroom home on large lot centrally located in Pedasi, Los  Santos. Plenty of room to put in a guest house with private entrance and a pool/ rancho. House is ready to move in and comes with all the amenities; oversized fridge/ stove, washer/ dryer, tankless water heater and air conditioning. Ideally situated for home and/or business. Excellent rental potential if so desired.
Just a 2 minute drive or short walk/ bike ride to the beach!
The Pedasi area is well known for its excellent fishing, surfing and long beautiful beaches! Owners must return to Canada and are looking for a quick sale. They will also consider long term rentals.
For more info/ photos please email. You can also see photos of our home by clicking HERE.
or by cutting and pasting the address below in your browser:
http://www.tropilandpanama.com/pedasi_home_for_sale.html
Source: Buy or Rent in Pedasi
Labels: Living in Panama
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Martinelli Designates Angelmira Correa As Governor of Kuna Yala
Angelmira Correa - Governor-designate of the Kuna Yala Region
By DON WINNER for Panama-Guide.com - This afternoon in a press conference held in the headquarters of the Cambio Democratico political party in Costa del Este, Judy Meana, the spokesperson for President-elect Ricardo Martinelli, announced the designation of career educator Angelmira Correa as the next Governor of the Kuna Yala region, and Alberto Gomez as the Vice Governor. “Anglemira Correa has been chosen by the President-elect, Ricardo Martinelli, for her professional capabilities and her achievements in the field of education, having served the Kuna Yala community for more than 32 years,” said Meana. The Governor designate helped establish 23 new schools in the region with funding from the World Bank, worked as a teacher in five different villages during more than 17 years, and has represented Kuna Yala women as a teacher in Colombia, Cuba, and Costa Rica. With this designation, she will become the first Kuna Yala woman to hold the position of Governor. At the press conference she said her priorities would be “to address the primary problems affecting our region, which are drugs, corruption, education, and health.” Her designation follows the resignation of Martinelli’s first extremely controvertial pick, Rogelio Alba, who was forced to resign the designation because of the various drug and corruption related investigations pending against him.
Copyright 2009 Text and Photos by Don Winner for Panama-Guide.com. Go ahead and use whatever you like as long as you credit the source. Salud.
Source: Martinelli Designates Angelmira Correa As Governor of Kuna Yala
Labels: Living in Panama
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The Love Affair Between the Trumpitos and the Speculators
By Jerin Tate for Panama-Guide.com - About three years ago when the real estate boom was in full swing, suddenly a whole bunch of Donald Trump wannabes (I call them Trumpitos) sprang up all over Panama. The big problem is that none of these guys had any experience in any kind of real estate. The bottom line was making as much money as possible before everything came crashing down. Back in those days all you had to do was sell 30% of the building and a bank would finance you for the construction. Apartments were being snatched up at an amazing rate, but mostly by speculators. Their plan was to buy a few apartments, and then flip them for an immediate profit or hold on to them and double their money. This was actually making a lot of people a lot of money. Panama had a full on real estate boom, but actually had very few finished buildings. The buildings that were finished had been constructed by the guys who had been around for a while and were relatively good quality. This made the Trumpitos drool even more, and in 2006 the rush was on. (more)
I don´t recall the exact numbers but thousands of building permits were issued. In 2007, the speculators drove the prices to ridiculous levels which started to drive away the people who originally came for the good deals. In December of 2007, the world recession was starting, but Panama kept building (or planning). In February of 2008, I knew of a large apartment in Punta Pacifica that a client that had purchased in 2006 for $350,000. We had buyers lined up to get it, and it finally sold for $850,000. That was the peak of the Panama real estate boom. A few months later similar apartments in the same building couldn´t sell for $550,000.
The problem is that the wave of apartments that came available in late 2008 were the first ones built by the Trumpitos. The apartments were of rather poor quality, very late in delivery, and not even the same size and layout as purchased. Another thing started happening. The Trumpitos were discovering that apartments they sold 3 years ago could be resold for 3 times the original amount. They started trying to kick people out of their contracts in order to resell the apartments at current prices. This drove even more people away from preconstruction projects.
All of a sudden credit started getting tighter, buildings started to finish up one after the other, and the Americans and Europeans were mysteriously slowing down their buying habits. You had a bunch of apartments that were empty, owned by speculators, and very few buyers. The good deals (but advertised as Not Distressed!) listings started to come online. A lot of these good deals were actually equal or very close to the 2006 preconstruction prices. Right around the middle of August, it was obvious to anyone who had a brain (which wasn´t too many people at the time) that any pre-construction project not yet under construction was not going to happen. However, the powers that be kept pushing Panama as invincible. Finally in September of 2008, the whole world economy came crashing down.
Time to throw in the towel and try to salvage what little bit of a market (Venezuelans) was left, right? Wrong, full steam ahead. The Trumpitos started a campaign of, “What recession?” and claimed that things had never been better. Let´s get this straight: first home markets all over the world are falling apart; nothing is selling even for primary residences in the world´s strongest markets? No more SUVs, boats, or similar “toys” are selling anywhere? But by some miracle, Panama, with an overbuilt second home/luxury/ vacation home market is not affected in the least bit? “Not at all,” they would say. As a matter of fact, it´s better than ever.
The goal, get as many suckers as they could to sit money in a project that is never going to be built, and sit on that money until the last possible minute. This money is put in high yielding savings accounts and are a small form of profit for the Trumpitos. Imagine, you have 5 projects (a small number for a lot of the Trumpitos), and can find just 10 people in the whole world to buy preconstruction on your semi-ocean view city center built on 600 mts2 of land “Jewel of Panama”. Average cost of apartment is $350,000 and at 30% down for each apartment you have $1,050,000 per building, or $5,250,000 total sitting in a high yield account. Of course all 10 of your buyers think the building is 90% sold, so they put up with the delays in beginning of construction that seem to pop up every 6 months.
I am not sure whether the Trumpitos are in actual denial or know exactly what is going on and are milking it for everything. In my past experiences working with them I get the feeling that they are genuinely thinking that things are OK with the market, but that would seem unlikely unless they were all complete idiots (well, actually….never mind). None of the Trumpitos will admit that they are not selling anything, especially to each other. A strange phenomenon that I am starting to see lately is with the new buildings that are getting ready to come available. The speculators who purchased 3 years ago are about to owe lots of money when these buildings finish and they are scrambling to sell them off before they default on the contracts and lose their deposits. They are pretty much screwed and starting to sell with little or no profit just to keep from losing money, and we are starting to see 2006 prices resurfacing. Doesn´t matter, there aren´t many buyers even at those prices. But in the same buildings, you are seeing 2006 prices from the speculators and 2009 prices from the Trumpitos in denial on the units they never sold. On the same floor of the same building, you can see one apartment for $400,000 and the one right next to it for $225,000. Everybody has heard of those, right? Oh wait, the real estate agents, who work on percentage commission, never said anything about the apartment next door that is nearly half the price? That´s strange. So all of the new buyers coming into Panama (Show of hands, please. Anybody? Nobody? Didn´t think so) have the opportunity to buy at these mythical 2006 prices that we always hear about, but the Panama real estate market seems to be controlling its news and image better than Kim Jong Il. It’s a dangerous mix of denial, media control, and greed.
They have finally admitted that things are slowing down in the last few months, but still insist that anyone can make a profit by investing in their projects. You can see how the Trumpitos and the speculators have completely destroyed any integrity this market might have once had. I am thinking it is only a matter of time before it is time to give back the money on one of these projects and the money has somehow disappeared as well. But that is just my speculation, and speculation is harmless, right?
Copyright 2009 by Jerin Tate for Panama-Guide.com. Go ahead and use whatever you like as long as you credit the source. Salud.
Source: The Love Affair Between the Trumpitos and the Speculators
Labels: Living in Panama
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"Real Estate Prices Have Not Gone Down"
 By MARY TRINY ZEA for La Prensa - If you are waiting for real estate prices to drop due to the global economic crisis, you should know that prices are not coming down, and some sellers are even raising their asking prices. “I would not say prices have fallen; there are fewer buyers,” said Wilson Ruiz, the Vice President of the Panamanian Association of Real Estate Agents and Promoters (Acobir.) Lower demand has caused “the buyers want to negotiate more,” said Wilson, but this is not necessarily reflected in prices, but with offers of cruises, cars, and other incentives. The office of Economic Subjects of the Chamber of Commerce, Industry, and Agriculture of Panama (CCIAP) reported that the price per square meter on Ave. Balboa and San Francisco has dropped between 15% to 20% from 2008 to 2009 as a “product of the crisis.” Manuel Ferreira, who is in charge of this office, said their report was based on information provided to them by real estate companies. “The companies negotiate with the buyers, depending on the size of the purchase, if it has financing, or other strengths,” he said.
‘Precios del mercado inmobiliario no han bajado’
Acobir niega que los precios de los proyectos se hayan abaratado. La Cámara de Comercio indica que las empresas sí han reportado una baja.
acuerdo. El precio baja según la negociación con el cliente, por su tipo de compra y financiamiento: CCIAP LA PRENSA/Gabriel Rodríguez
MARY TRINY ZEA mzea@prensa.com
Si usted estaba esperanzado que los precios del mercado inmobiliario bajaran por la crisis, sepa que estos no han disminuido, e incluso algunos se atreven a decir que subirán.
“No diría que los precios han bajado; ha disminuido la cantidad de clientes”, dijo Wilson Ruiz, vicepresidente de la Asociación Panameña de Corredores y Promotores de Bienes Raíces (Acobir).
La caída de la demanda ha provocado “que los clientes quieran negociar más”, señaló Wilson, pero esto no necesariamente se refleja en precios, sino con ofrecimientos de cruceros, carros, y otras ofertas.
La dirección de Asuntos Económicos de la Cámara de Comercio, Industrias y Agricultura de Panamá (CCIAP) reportó que el precio del metro cuadrado en la Avenida Balboa y San Francisco bajó 20% y 15% de 2008 al 2009 “producto de la crisis”.
Manuel Ferreira, encargado de la dirección, dijo que se basaron en información proporcionada por empresas de bienes raíces.
“Las compañías negocian con los clientes, dependiendo del tamaño de la compra, si tiene el financiamiento y otras fortalezas”.
Source: "Real Estate Prices Have Not Gone Down"
Labels: Living in Panama
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within myself has tried a little of nearly all Panama has to offer. After spending a few weeks in Panama I began my search for some authentic Korean fare which landed me in a quaint little restaurant named Chinni Chinni (which translates to “good friendship” in English). I knew I had found a diamond in the rough the second we walked in and saw the place was filled with Asian diners.
