Discover Panama

Puente de las Americas (Bridge of the Americas)You are invited to discover and take the challenge of this unique little country that bridges the North and South American continents. To this day there is no highway that connects them. Balboa, the first European explorer crossed the isthmus from the Atlantic side and saw the Pacific Ocean in 1513.  In 1996 I trekked through the “Darien Gap“ from Panama to Colombia. This is still one of the remote areas in the world in very rich in biodiversity. The natural beauty and wildlife are also found in many parts of the country. 25% of Panama is national parks and protected reserves.

In contrast Panama City is a bustling cosmopolitan city reminiscent of LA or NYC with a skyline of tall modern buildings. It is flourishing with investments from foreign banks (over 360 in Panama City), the expansion of the canal project, construction of new condos, and luxury apartment projects like Trump Tower in Punta Pacifica. Plus the newest addition to the city called Costa del Este.

 

Tourists from all parts of world are amazed to see local Panamanians, business entrepreneurs, retirees, indigenous Embera-Wounaan and Kuna women in native dresses scurrying on the streets speaking on cell phones.  Panama is progressing and prospering while other places are struggling during the current economic crisis.

Wheelchair accessibility is not always easy but the Ley 42 is a law that recognizes the rights of persons with disabilities. The government agency SENADIS (National Secretariat for the Integration of People with Disabilities) www.senadis.gob.pa suggests and offers assistance to make ramps and other equipment mandatory. Our company Vaya con Silla de Ruedas, S.A.  “Go with Wheelchairs” is committed to help this effort to make Panama accessible to all. Take the challenge and experience this diverse land of nature and people