One of Panama’s unique New Years traditions is that of the Muñecos or dummies. These life sized effigies are an old Panamanian tradition. They are stuffed with firecrackers and lit and beaten at the moment of the New Year.

According to local folklore, by beating and setting the effigies aflame, the sins and evil spirits are warded off for the upcoming year. The fire crackers are added to help drive the evil forces away, as it is believed that ghosts are afraid of light and noise.

[ more ]

By Shannon Roxborough

The breathtaking view could be somewhere in Florida, or in California, or on any number of tropical islands: pristine white sand, sparkling turquoise waters, coconut palms swaying in the breeze. The sun-drenched landscape is dotted with Spanish-style homes. But this isn't Sarasota or the Bahamas. It's Panama, the S-shaped nation on the Central American isthmus sandwiched between the Caribbean Sea and Pacific Ocean.

Much has changed in Panama since Manuel Noriega was deposed in 1989. It's well on its way to becoming another Florida. You see, Panama has attracted plenty of attention over the last several years, not only from the American media praising its virtues but from second-home buyers, retirees and adventurous types seeking opportunities.

Drawn by dirt-cheap prices, an attractive package of government incentives and the romance of life in an exotic locale that is both far-flung and a relatively quick flight from Miami, Americans are arriving in large numbers. (By some estimates, as many as 50,000 have settled here.)

[ more ]

The ultimate in beachfront comfort and the most sophisticated luxury homes you have ever seen, with the beauty of a white-sand beach and the majestic Pacific Ocean with its blue water caressing the shores right at your feet.

The most modern, master-planned gated residential community designed exclusively for those who want nothing but the very best and where the sky is the limit!

Over top amenities include:

• Fully-equipped gym 
• Restaurant
• Bar
• Tennis courts
• Putting green
• Swimming pools
• Mile of white sand beach

more details  |  gallery  |  video