Welcome to the Panama Weekly News Roundup! Here’s the latest.
Panama Independence Day: Top 10 facts about the country.
TODAY is Independence Day in Panama, celebrating their separation from Colombia on November 3, 1903.
1. Actually November is a whole month of independence celebrations in Panama. They also celebrate their independence from the Spanish empire which began on November 10 and was completed on November 28, 1821.
2. The Panama Canal was built by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers between 1904 and 1914.
3. During this period, around 5,600 workers on the canal died from accidents or disease.
Source: Express UK
Spend a night in an incredible tree house in Panama
An amazing suspended tree house overlooking lush jungle is open to travellers for just £85 a night, giving visitors the chance to spend a night in a wooden structure high among the treetops with the Caribbean Sea just a short walk across the road.
The tree house is open to nature to allow the guest to experience the wonder of the jungle and all the spectacular birds, tree frogs, monkeys and other creatures that inhabit this part of the world. The quirky property is located between Paunch and Bluff in Panama, just over three miles from Bocas Town. Despite being located in the jungle it is just a ten minute walk from the nearest beach. The tree house is owned by Todd and Diane Sherman, who live on the same two-acre plot.
Source: Lonely Planet
China’s new relations with Panama and Costa Rica are another step towards a Beijing Consensus in Central America.
Increased trade, aid, investment, and diplomatic engagement between China and both Costa Rica and Panama signal a more general projection of Chinese economic and political standards in international trade policy, writes Sophie Wintgens (Université Libre de Bruxelles).
China’s strategy towards Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) fulfils four main interests:
securing energy, mining, and agricultural resources abroad to maintain domestic economic growth
getting political and economic support in regional and international forums
encouraging nations to recognise China instead of Taiwan
opening new markets for Chinese goods
Over the past 15 years, China has become an obvious trading partner, a major source of foreign direct investment, and a key provider of financing to an increasing number of South American countries.This trend is now extending into Central America, where China’s growing diplomatic involvement and economic activity reveal a strengthening of ties to Beijing.
Source: London School of Economics
El Valle de Anton: A weekend escape and retirement heaven
Let’s talk about El Valle, Panama. When you think about retiring in Panama, relocating to Panama for work, or just visiting Panama, you most likely imagine a tropical paradise. You’re not wrong. That’s most of Panama in a nutshell. There are, however, a few exceptions, and they’ll totally change your view on the diversity of Panama’s landscapes, culture, and climate.
El Valle, Panama is special. It’s a small mountain town tucked right into the middle of the country that will remind you of a different time. It’s got small-town charm, and the type of place where you can walk and bike and be greeted by your neighbors. It’s where locals and expats share a common love for nature, community, and serenity. It’s as authentic as it gets, and is only getting better over time.
Source: International Relocation Firm Blog
