Saturday, November 16, 2013

Visiting Panama For An Adventure Holiday

By Bonnie Contreras


Visiting Panama for cultural purposes can be both eye opening and enticing. The unique location between North and South lends itself to such a diverse population. The fascinating history behind this country has everything to do with the evolution of the culture and should be explored.

Hiking is a favourite activity that can be enjoyed by various age groups and fitness levels. "Sendero Los Quetzales" is one of the most beautiful trays in this country. This trial meanders 8 km of pristine countryside and takes between 4 and 7 hours to complete. It is also favoured among trail runners for its varying landscape.

"Volcan Baru" is a sight that many adventurers have set their hearts on climbing. This volcano has a view of both the Pacific and Carribean oceans at the summit. The going it tough and it is a hard climb to the top, definitely not for the faint hearted. When weather is bad it is recommended not to attempt the climb. Cloud cover makes visibility poor and the view hazy if at all visible. The park can be entered either on the east or the west side of the volcano.

Home stays are a wonderful way to learn Spanish and immerse oneself in this fascinating culture. These programs are run through companies specializing in cultural exchanges. The process is quiet simple and inexpensive. These companies have a database of families who are willing to welcome a foreigner into their homes. They are giving a subsidy by the company to provide adequate care for the individual. This guest then effectively becomes part of the household for a specified time. They eat and cook with the family, do chores and odd jobs and most importantly, learn the language. With very little or no English being tolerated in the households this is an ideal way to learn.

The art scene in this country is a cultural experience that cannot be missed. Its influences stem from both modern and traditional sources. The most famous is called "Mola" and it consists of various intricate patterns, often symmetrical in design, that are fashioned out of bold colours. This was traditionally a wall hanging but has since developed into paintings and textile design as well. The modern art scene has developed significantly over the last years and there are many galleries that feature both local and international pieces.

Snorkeling is an activity that everyone visiting this country should try. The underwater scenery is pristine and varies ocean climates exist. It is particulary interesting to see the difference between the subclimates in the two oceans. With the Pacific and the Caribean being right on the doorstep the options are endless. For those who are very comfortable in the water there is also scuba diving on offer.

The Festival of the Black Christ is one of the more unique festivals. It is celebrated in the town of Portobelo each year on October 21st. It features a life sized Black Christ statue in the main event, a parade. Pilgrims come from all over to witness this event each year. There are also a variety of other festivals including a Jazz Festival and an Anthem Festival. Planning a visit to coincide with one of these festivals is a great way to be immersed in the culture.

Visiting Panama for outdoor and adrenaline activities can be the experience of a lifetime. The wide array of activities offers some of the most spectacular scenery available and the most enticing ways to see them, be thrilled today. You will not regret visiting a great place like this.




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