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Weights and measures and loss of hectares of native vegetation

March 18, 2013 by 5 Comments

Panama is a small country and changes can be made rather quickly, when desired. It usually it takes forever to change things because the average Panamanian like all people everyplace resists transitions unless there is a force pushing hard. The change to the metric system has been fast because the government has leverage with businesses and the people need to adjust. First it was weights, no more pounds, now grams and kilograms. Romero, in an effort to dull the effect shifted their signs from pounds to 454 grams, leaving prices the same. In time they will follow other businesses and move to grams and kilograms, it takes time for the public to understand change.

Between now and some time in April the gallon will go extinct in Panama. Some gas stations are already making the change.

Prices in Liters

Prices in Liters

This Delta station is not selling discounted combustibles, they have switched to liters, there are about 3.7 liters in a US gallon. The gallon, the mile, the yard, the foot, and the acre are going extinct in Panama. Panama is joining most of the rest of the world in abandoning the imperial system of measurement for the much more logical metric system. Will the United States realize it needs to make the change too, or will people refuse the change saying it is being dictated by the outsiders, a plot to internationalize?

Speaking of acres or really hectares, I took this photo of Volcan Baru this morning in a clear moment. You can see some of the areas of deforestation on the slope facing Jaramillo. We need to stop the destruction or whether it is measured in gallons or liters we will not have sufficent potable water for much of anything.

Volcan Baru

Volcan Baru deforestation


Filed Under: Community, Featured, General Interest, Shopping, Survival Kit Items

Daredevils in my driveway

July 6, 2011 by 5 Comments

Yesterday I was sent a series of photos showing why women live longer than men. Each showed a man on a ladder in a precarious position. Today I watched the men replacing my electrical pedestal in my driveway. These men were hired by Casa Gala to repair the damage done by their delivery truck.

High risk high tension

They are handling a live wire with an aluminum ladder perched on a pickup truck supported by a wavering pipe they need to replace. Better them than me, but wow.

The best I can say is that Casa Gala made good on the damage their employees did without me needing to resort to threats or lawyers. That makes them a winner in my book. I am writing this long before the job is done so I do hope we have no fatalities in the workplace.


Filed Under: Featured, General Interest, Shopping, Survival Kit Items Tagged With: , ,

Casa Gala and Rube Goldberg, a Panama connection.

June 21, 2011 by 5 Comments

I have been off line several days, it all started when I bought a new stove. The connection between buying a stove and lossing internet connectivity is a Rube Goldberg experience.

I bought the stove at Casa Gala in Terronal Plaza in David. It is a nice Italian model, good lines, great shiny body and really hot burners, five of them. Mayra and I negotiated and had the price reduced and delivery included. Because of my trip to Penonome last week I needed to postpone my delivery until last Thursday; they deliver to Boquete on Thursdays.

On Thursday 16 June I waited for Casa Gala, they never arrived, they never called. At 1:30pm we called and were assured the stove was on the truck, the truck was on the road and the stove would be delivered. At 5pm with no stove in the house we called again, the stove was in the truck, the truck was on the road, but the truck was in David, broken. We were assured a 10am delivery on Friday.

Ten AM Friday, no stove, another call; the stove is in the truck, the truck is on the road and the road is in Boquete. Later that afternoon the truck arrived, the stove arrived, the delivery people installed the stove and things were looking pretty good.

Then the lights went out. In backing out to get back on the road the truck tore down the electrical line to my house. We took pictures, we called Casa Gala, we called Union Fenosa. Casa Gala said get an estimate for repair, the driver moaned they will make me pay for the repair and Union Fenosa said, too late for today, we will come tomorrow. We ended up tying the power line up to trees until they showed up. To their credit they arrived at 9 pm that night but the driver did not find the downed line because we tied it up and never considered calling us. They came again Saturday.

I knew that there was no way Union Fenosa would reconnect the power until the entire pedestal was repaired. Who would accept liability for power lines tied to trees with rope? Apparently Union Fenosa did. They reconnected everything, they said call us when you fix the pedestal and were off to the next disaster.

Only then, after they left, did we discover that the surge from the reconnection of the power line burned out the Internet connection. They failed to shut the breakers when they did the reconnection.

Rube Goldberg is alive and well in Panama and we are waiting to see if Casa Gala really pays for the repairs or if we will need Sam Spade and Perry Mason to resolve the entire matter.


Filed Under: Featured, General Interest, Shopping, Survival Kit Items Tagged With: , , ,

Out with the Old in with the new, a bit ahead of schedule

December 20, 2010 by

It has been a challenging few days. One of Santa’s bad elves visited my car last week and appropriated my camera, my computer and my passport. If you happen to see any of the above please let me know.

The Police and DIJ have been great in doing what they can. They responded to the scene very quickly and did a good late night search. Short of a stroke of luck all of the above is gone to fund Christmas for some thief and his family or his drug habit.

My priority was replacing my passport. Replacing a stolen US passport is not too difficult if you live near the consulate, I do not. I needed a copy of the police report.  That required me visiting the Personneria in the Municipal Palace in Boquete and filing a denuncia against the thieves, who are unknown. Then I waited a few days for a copy, only to return and be told to come back again later. I did and finally had the report and added it to the pile of papers including a lucky find, a copy of my birth certificate.

On Sunday I went searching for a place to get passport photos. I found Arrocha in David open and willing.  When I asked for passport photos I received exactly what I asked for, photos good for a Panamanian Passport, 2 x 1.5 inches, not the 2 x 2 needed for a US passport. If you ever need to do this ask for US Visa photos, that worked.

Today I left David on AeroPerlas to make my way to the US Embassy in Clayton. There has been a rumor the domestic airlines are not giving the jubilado discount; they gave it to me with no problem. The flight was effortless and I found myself in a taxi with a driver who knew the US Embassy was in Clayton, based upon his circuitous path I am not sure if he new where Clayton was located. Thirty minutes and $3 later we were at the gate and he was not allowed to enter. Security does not allow the common people into the gate.

A short walk and traditional Homeland Security search, without the naked scanner later, I was in the large waiting room. Number twenty in a  sea of people, most looking for Visas to the US. The clerks behind what appeared to be bullet and pepper spray proof glass. I was pleasantly surprised to be called quickly, less than ten minutes in a multitude of people. The clerk took my documents, said she would photocopy them, presented me with a bill for $135 and a request to wait till the Consul called me by name. I have no idea if he was the consul,  but he did call in about twenty minutes, apologizing for the delay. My only surprise is that I was treated with respect and concern about my ability to wait until the passport arrives. Score one point for the US embassy.

I had planned on an extended day of waiting, my return flight was not until 4pm, and I was done before 11 am. What would be the most illogical thing to do a couple of days before Christmas in Panama? Go to Albrook Mall of course. Among the mobs and the alleged sales I discovered a few things of interest. Sadly I did not have a camera, it is probably in Costa Rica by now.

I saw the newest controversial National Police Car, this Lamborghini. (not my photo)

It was confiscated from David Murcia, a Columbian drug lord who had residence in Panama, until he was returned to Columbia stripped of his assets. If you go speeding down the Interamerican Highway and see a National Police Lamborghini in the rear view mirror you should probably pull over and take a better photo.

Lunch was as big a surprise, Johnny Rocket Hamburgers is in Albrook Mall. I had a Route 66 burger with onion rings and it was excellent. It was too much too eat but never the less t was all consumed.

Wandering around in an effort to kill three hours and digest the gut bomb, I went shopping for computers and cameras. I managed to hang on to my iphone and did some great price checks of the local stores against Amazon.com. Everything I looked at from Apple Laptops, Ipads and cameras from anyone, cost more in Panama. Some things cost only about 10% more, other things 100% more than Amazon pricing. The 10% is import duties, so it is forgiven, but 100%!!!

Upon returning to David I asked about the prices and was told that in Panama prices are increased in December because people need to buy gifts. I am not sure if that is true, but I think Panama needs a bit more competition. The best prices I found were at Panafoto, on some things.

Well the old is gone now, the new is still in an Amazon warehouse, but my courier will arrive soon.


Filed Under: Shopping, Survival Kit Items Tagged With: , , , ,

Furniture from Marco Bogazzi

October 11, 2010 by 10 Comments

A few weeks ago I received an email from Marco Bogazzi inquiring about an ad on BoqueteGuide. I sell a few ads to businesses who are interested in reaching those of you who read this blog, usually to businesses I know.

Marco told me he makes furniture in Caldera and he sent excellent references and a link to his website. I liked what I saw, but after a recent experience, not a great one, with kitchen cabinets I wanted to see the real thing not photos. I ordered an entertainment center from Marco. He worked from a drawing I sent him and produced a quality result.

Marco has two buildings for fabrication in Caldera. He and his wife immigrated to Panama, not to retire but to realize the dream of making custom, quality furniture from designs Marco helps to create. In his previous life Marco did design work in the US for other companies, at times he would see the result of his labors, at times they would never be produced. Marco desired control from beginning to end. When Gina at Rancho Caldera gave him the opportunity, he moved to Caldera and set up shop, at first working for Gina, now as an independent business.
marco1.jpg

The small wood shop employs several local people, trained by Marco. He, being an Italian American can, and is taking advantage of a treaty between Panama and Italy, that allows Italian citizens to work legally in Panama.
marco.jpg

After the cutting of the wood and assembly of my cabinets Marco moved them from the shop above into a separate facility for staining and finish. After the disappointment in my kitchen cabinets, I wanted to see the work in progress so I visited. The quality of the work was excellent, the multi layered finish perfect.

We scheduled a time and date for delivery and despite the remoteness and difficult access to my house, the schedule was kept.

marco2.jpg

Marco and team showed up installed everything, and Marco returned a week later to add glass and knobs I purchased. Consider me a satisfied buyer, this is one local contractor I will and do recommend. Check his website out for more ideas about his products.

If you want to work in Panama and can establish Italian citizenship you might want to research this law for both residence and work permits.

The Law 15 of February 1, 1966 covered by the Treaty Friendship, Commerce and Navigation between the Republic of Panama and the Republic of Italy, allows that citizens of each of the contracting parties enjoy in the territory of the other national treatment with regard to admission to business or professional of any kind and the pursuit of such activities with the exception of the exercise of the retail trade.

The Treaty had been kept in force until the entry of the Decree Law No. 3 of February 22, 2008 which suspends the granting of this type of residence permit. In 2009, through the efforts of the Embassy of Italy and several law firms, the National Migration restored the effects of the Treaty of Friendship signed between Panama and Italy.


Filed Under: Shopping, Survival Kit Items Tagged With: ,

Volcan for a Sunday Shopping fest

July 19, 2010 by 2 Comments

Volcan has become closer to Boquete Panama with the Ruta Sur completed from Potorillos to just below Volcan. Mayra and I decided to escape from the rain in Boquete and try the rain in Volcan for some variety. The rain felt the same, but I was introduced to Collegio San Benito and it’s unusual stores.

San Benito is a Catholic High School dedicated to providing an education in agriculture for the poorest of the poor in Panama. In its long history it has had many students pass though it’s gates. In the past many from remote areas lived on campus, now there are only five resident students and they earn their lodging, meals and education working on the large campus. The campus is a dairy farm and a high school. It is also home to three stores open to the public that provide revenue for many projects. You enter from a drive way directly across from Berards market in Volcan.

One store was laden with over the counter pharmaceuticals, chocolate and lots of other goodies.
SanBenitod.jpg

On our way to the Lands End store, we needed to purchase a cell phone case from this local vendor.
SanBenitoe.jpg

The Store was busy, but Mayra found space to dive into things.
SanBenitoa.jpg

I was lucky enough to find this treasure for a new raincoat.
SanBenitob.jpg

And our little cell phone bag seller was warmer and with some cuddly company be the time we left. We provided the bear, another person the down coat.

SanBenitoc.jpg

The third store was low key featuring used items of household goods, new furniture and art for sale. If you want to explore for yourself the hours are, Closed Monday, Tuesday to Friday 1:30- 4:45 pm, Saturday and Sunday 9:30am -11:45am, 1:30pm- 4:45pm

hours.jpg


Filed Under: Chiriqui, General Interest, Shopping, Survival Kit Items, Travel in Panama Tagged With: ,

San Mateo Municipal Market, David

June 29, 2010 by 3 Comments

Panama is not famous for it’s municipal markets, in the past David had two, both dirty, old and awful. Last year they closed one and built one. The new San Mateo market is finally open after sitting vacant for a year.
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The market is located just across from the Romero’s in San Mateo, the one next to McDonalds.

It has at least eight mini restaurants, two butchers, a sea food market and a bunch of vegetable stands.
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I would love to say I was inspired, unfortunately although clean there was nothing notable, nothing exciting, nothing to inspire me to return.

One surprising observation was across the street behind the market, a new Mexican Restaurant, called Cochabamba. I was sure it was a franchise, it has all the trappings, but if it is I cannot find it online. I have not tried it, not sure I will, but if someone does please let me know.

P1030588.jpg


Filed Under: Food, Shopping, Survival Kit Items Tagged With: ,

Conway David Panama

October 23, 2009 by 9 Comments

The worst kept secret in David is no longer a secret.

Conway will be opening in David on the Interamerican Highway in the same center as El Rey. The rumor is they will be open for Christmas. Looking at the interior it will be a push.conway.jpg

If you do not live here this will not mean too much. If you ever visited a Conway in Panama City you know it is massive department and furniture store a magnitude beyond anythng else in Chiriqui.

If you do live here it demonstrates the rapid pace of change in this provence.


Filed Under: Shopping, Survival Kit Items Tagged With: ,

Moving Furniture in Boquete Panama

September 17, 2009 by 4 Comments

I received an email from a friend in Panama City asking a curious question. What businesses would not be in Boquete Panama if not for ex-pats?

My response included a list that had some curious anomalies. It included several things French, Le Crepe and the Boulangerie then it flew to furniture stores and banks. Boquete has at least five banks, more than most towns its size.

Today I visited three of the furniture stores, one moving, one recently moved and one recently opened.furniture_boquete_panama001.jpg

Casa Colonial was on the David hiaghway until a recent move to Volcancito. Owner Krystyna and her husband are recent transplants from the US and have the largest showroom in the immediate area. The only larger facility is the Zapadora in Potorillos. They are laden with containers of pottery from Mexico and furniture from India, a large selection.
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Back on the David Highway is Inguana, someplace I have shopped in the past. They feature furniture from Indonesia and the owner is currently in Indonesia on a buying trip. The Iguana is defining my statement about being ex-pat focused, they are closing the Boquete Store and moving to David in about two weeks.furniture.jpg

But fear not, all is not lost for furniture buyers. Jackie Athanasiadis has opened a new furniture store, Mali Chic. It features furniture from Indonesia and is located in Alto Boquete, near the High School. Both the store and decor are beautiful. Jackie has been in Boquete for twenty years and has made a guess that the market is here for quality imports.

Of course there are other furniture options, David has several stores and there are local craftsmen that produce products of various quality and price. Furniture shopping can be fun here.


Filed Under: General Interest, Shopping, Survival Kit Items Tagged With:

Perched on Jaramillo again

May 14, 2009 by 9 Comments

Another disjointed rambling post but this time back on the mountain top of Alto Jaramillo Boquete Panama. Back from two months of self imposed wandering from house to house as our remodeling project moved from stable construction to interior resurrection. 

The interior is mostly done, new bathrooms, tile, paint, a new entryway and more exterior work coming over the next month. What has been interesting beyond the construction has been the acquisition of stuff. Stuff like window coverings, furniture, parts and pieces. I will share some of the vendors we used and where they were strong.

First I needed some design help, I found it at the Zapadora where both Diane and Elizabeth came to visit and helped me visualize potential changes. Because of their ideas we made massive design changes for very little money.

Our un-named contractor has been very flexible and helpful by ensuring some of my wilder ideas were tempered by the realities of what can be done in Panama. His constant site visits and supervision have allowed me to rely on him for big voids in my knowledge.

In searching for Bathroom fixtures we used Elmec and Arc Mandarin in David, both helpful. Gissel as Arc Mandrin is from Boquete and will work with you on prices. Jose at Elmec is bilingual and also very helpful but less giving of discounts. 

We have purchased a great deal of furniture in the past month, most for the Playa Blanca Condo, little so far for here. Most furniture came from Conway in Panama City, they delivered to Playa Blanca and after a lot of shopping in Panama we discovered they are an excellent value. Other pieces came from Ingana 2 in Boquete. What amazed me at Ingana was the sales lady. In 2007 I purchased a dresser and returned it for a credit, the credit memo is lost in space but she remembered, located it and with no argument provided the credit on new purchases. Great customer service like that is rare anyplace, practically nonexistent in Panama.

Novey has been a great addition to David, between Novy and Do It Center we found most of the little things we needed like bathroom towel bars, kitchen stuff etc. We also discovered some nice treasures and simple things like curtain rods at La Reina in Boquete.

Lumicentro in David has good value on light fixtures and a broad selection. I did the entire house for under $200.

One of the great finds was Almacen y Tapiceria Penco in David. They are located just around a corner from the Alcala Hotel and saved both time and money on custom draperies and reupholstery. Jose there is both bilingual and very knowledgeable. One other gem was the discovery of the window covering section at Furniture City. There we discovered some new ideas in large expanse coverings and Simone. With his help we created solutions that should be installed later this month.

Many trips to David later things are coming together. I am still on the quest for a bedroom set, maybe Conway will open in David, it is rumored.

Finally we have internet that is fast, again. The pain of using Cable Onda and their murderously slow speeds is over. So hopefully I can catchup in the next few days and start doing regular blog updates again.


Filed Under: Constuction, Shopping, Survival Kit Items Tagged With: ,
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