My recent trip to Panama as part of the KAMBIA Business Site Visit provided an incredible opportunity to explore the country’s rich cultural heritage, indigenous communities, and economic initiatives. Through this experience, I engaged with the Piriatí Emberá, Guacuco Guna, and Membrillo communities, learning about their traditions, challenges, and entrepreneurial efforts. I also visited the Panama Canal, gaining insight into its historical and current economic significance. This blog shares key takeaways from the trip, along with images and videos that bring these experiences to life.
DAY ONE - Buckle up for a bumpy ride, fueled by some delicious plantain chips!
Piriatí Emberá: A Community Rooted in Tradition and Growth
Location: Situated in the district of Tortí along the Pan-American Highway in East Panama.
Population: Approximately 165 homes with around 780 inhabitants.
Economy: Primarily based on agriculture, with families cultivating rice, plantains, yucca, and corn for personal consumption and sale. Artisanal crafts, especially traditional Emberá jewelry, also contribute to their income.
Community Initiatives: The community has established a thriving Community Bank, providing access to credit for local businesses and home improvement projects. Additionally, an environmental committee began a Model Farm in 2012 to promote sustainable agriculture and ensure food security.
Global Brigades offers medical training to assist women doulas and pharmacists. After completing training, support and supplies are provided.
Kambia’s Impact: Kambia supports Piriatí Emberá by facilitating access to community-owned banks, which provide small loans to help entrepreneurs expand their businesses. This financial support has empowered families to invest in farming and improve their homes.
Obstacles are integral to growth and development. As a student on this study abroad, your role will be to assist communities with their entrepreneurial ventures and financial opportunities.
Hotel Avicar in Panama
Hotel Avicar is a charming resort located in the lush landscapes of Panama, providing an ideal setting for travelers seeking a unique experience surrounded by nature. The hotel is well-known for its stunning gardens, which are home to an array of beautiful flowers and vibrant wildlife, including a variety of hummingbirds that flit about the grounds. This makes it a perfect destination for birdwatching enthusiasts.
Hummingbirds and Wildlife
The gardens of Hotel Avicar attract numerous species of hummingbirds, offering guests the chance to observe these mesmerizing creatures up close. With their iridescent feathers and incredible agility, hummingbirds are a delight to watch as they hover around the colorful blooms in search of nectar. Additionally, the property is home to playful plantain-eating squirrels, adding to the lively atmosphere of the resort.
Beautiful Flowers
The hotel’s landscape is adorned with a variety of tropical flowers, enhancing the natural beauty of the surroundings. Guests can take leisurely strolls through the gardens, enjoying the vibrant colors and fragrant scents that fill the air. This serene environment is perfect for relaxation and contemplation.
Birdwatching Opportunities
Birdwatching is one of the main attractions at Hotel Avicar. The diverse ecosystem surrounding the hotel makes it a prime spot for observing various bird species in their natural habitat. Whether you are an experienced birdwatcher or a casual observer, the opportunity to connect with nature and witness the local avian life is a highlight of any stay at this resort.
Curious about your living arrangements during your study abroad? Check out this beautiful resort, with lots of hummingbirds and plantain-eating squirrels.
For more information about Hotel Avicar, you can visit their official website: Hotel Avicar.
Panamanian Climate
Panama is characterized by a tropical climate, which means it experiences warm temperatures and high humidity throughout the year. The country has two main seasons: the dry season, which typically runs from December to April, and the rainy season, which lasts from May to November. During the dry season, temperatures can range from 24°C to 30°C (75°F to 86°F), while the rainy season sees slightly higher temperatures, often reaching up to 32°C (90°F).
Typical Temperatures
The average daily temperatures in Panama are generally warm, with the following typical ranges:
Dry Season: 24°C to 30°C (75°F to 86°F)
Rainy Season: 25°C to 32°C (77°F to 90°F)
Humidity Levels
Humidity in Panama is consistently high, often ranging from 70% to 90%, which can make the warm temperatures feel even hotter. The combination of heat and humidity creates a tropical environment that is both lush and vibrant.
Refreshing Pool Days
With such warm temperatures and high humidity, taking a swim in a pool on a sunny day in Panama can be incredibly refreshing. The cool water provides a perfect escape from the heat, allowing you to relax and rejuvenate. Whether you are lounging by the poolside or enjoying a leisurely swim, the experience is enhanced by the beautiful tropical surroundings and the sound of nature. Imagine soaking up the sun, sipping on a refreshing drink, and enjoying the serenity of a pool on a warm Panamanian day!
Guacuco Guna: Preserving Culture Through Art and Enterprise
Location: Located in Panama Este, along the Pan-American Highway.
Population: Comprises about 30 homes with approximately 165 residents.
Governance: As an indigenous Guna community, it is governed by the Guna Congress alongside the traditional Panamanian legal system.
Economy: The community relies on agriculture, producing corn, rice, yucca, plantains, and coffee.
Cultural Practices: The Guna people are renowned for their vibrant textile art known as "molas." The Guna community is known for traditional body art using natural dyes, with specific practices in Guacuco Guna.
Kambia’s Impact: Supports local entrepreneurs, particularly women engaged in traditional arts such as molas, by providing financial resources and business training to expand their markets. This initiative not only empowers women but also fosters community development and cultural preservation. The program focuses on several key areas:
Financial Support: Kambia, by helping create community banks, provides microloans and grants to local artisans, enabling them to invest in their businesses, purchase materials, and scale their operations. This financial assistance is crucial for women who may not have access to traditional banking systems.
Business Training: Comprehensive workshops and training sessions are offered to help entrepreneurs develop essential skills in marketing, financial management, and product development. This training equips women with the knowledge needed to successfully navigate the business landscape.
Market Expansion: By connecting artisans with broader markets, including online platforms and international trade fairs, Kambia helps to increase the visibility of their products. This not only boosts sales but also promotes the unique cultural heritage represented in their crafts.
Cultural Preservation: By supporting traditional arts such as molas, Kambia plays a vital role in preserving indigenous crafts and cultural expressions. This not only enriches the local culture but also educates others about the significance of these art forms.
Through these initiatives, Kambia is making a significant impact on the lives of women artisans, contributing to economic growth, and ensuring the sustainability of cultural traditions within the community.
Traditional music and dance are integral components of the Guna's lifestyle. These cultural expressions reflect their history, beliefs, and social values, serving as a means of storytelling and community bonding.
Key Aspects of Guna Traditional Music and Dance
Instruments: The Guna use various traditional instruments, such as drums and flutes, which play a crucial role in their musical performances.
Ritual Significance: Many dances are performed during rituals and celebrations, marking important events in the community.
Storytelling: The lyrics of traditional songs often convey stories of ancestors, nature, and cultural heritage.
Community Participation: Music and dance are communal activities, encouraging participation from all age groups, which strengthens social ties.
Through these vibrant expressions, the Guna people preserve their cultural identity and pass it on to future generations.
DAY TWO - Journey across a bridge spanning the Panama Canal, indulging in more plantain chips and visiting VA&VEN (Go and Come) on the way!
Membrillo: Sustainability and Community Development
Membrillo is a rural Emberá community where agriculture, fishing, and traditional crafts play an essential role in daily life. During my visit, I learned about their strong sense of community and commitment to sustainable practices.
Geographical Location
Membrillo is situated in the province of Chiriquí, surrounded by beautiful mountains and rich biodiversity. The community benefits from a temperate climate, which supports agriculture and various outdoor activities.
Cultural Aspects
Traditions: The people of Membrillo celebrate numerous local festivals that showcase their heritage.
Crafts: Handicrafts and artisanal products are common, reflecting the community's artistic skills and cultural identity.
Community Life:
Life in Membrillo is marked by strong community ties. Residents often come together for various social events, and there is a focus on mutual support and collaboration.
Overall, Membrillo represents a vibrant community that embodies the rich cultural tapestry of Panama.
Kambia’s Impact:
Through its community banking initiatives, Kambia has helped Membrillo residents access financial resources that support small businesses and local development projects. Their renowned artisans create exquisite art that is sold across Panama.
Soapstone: An Overview
Soapstone is a metamorphic rock composed primarily of talc, with varying amounts of chlorite, pyroxenes, micas, carbonates, amphiboles, and other minerals. Its softness and workability make it an ideal medium for carving and crafting. The stone is typically gray, bluish, green, or brown, and it has a smooth, soapy feel, which is how it gets its name.
Abundance of Soapstone in Panama
In Panama, soapstone is relatively abundant, particularly in regions where geological conditions favor its formation. The country’s diverse geology, combined with its rich mineral resources, makes it a significant location for soapstone deposits. Local artisans often source soapstone from these deposits to create various crafts and artistic pieces.
Making Crafts with Soapstone
Crafts made from soapstone in Panama include decorative items, sculptures, and functional objects such as bowls and figurines. The local artisans often incorporate traditional designs and cultural motifs, making each piece unique and reflective of Panama’s rich heritage.
La Guana Resort, Panama
A premier destination in Panama offering a unique blend of luxury and nature. Nestled in the heart of the lush Panamanian landscape, our resort provides an ideal escape for those seeking relaxation and adventure.
Accommodations
Experience comfort in our elegantly designed rooms and suites, each equipped with modern amenities and stunning views of the surrounding nature.
Dining
Enjoy a culinary journey at our on-site restaurant, featuring a menu inspired by local flavors and international cuisine.
Amenities
Spa and wellness center
Outdoor swimming pool
Fitness center
Guided tours and excursions
Activities
Explore the beautiful surroundings with various activities such as hiking, bird watching, and water sports.
isit our website: La Guana Resort.
Stuck in traffic on our way back to the hotel!
Day 3: Our Trip to the Panama Canal
The Panama Canal: A Historical and Economic Powerhouse
Another fascinating aspect of this trip was visiting the Panama Canal, a global trade hub that has shaped Panama’s economy since its opening in 1914. Originally controlled by the United States, the canal was officially transferred to Panama in 1999 and remains a crucial part of global maritime trade.
The Role of Mosquitoes in Delaying Construction
When the French first attempted to build the canal in the 1880s, thousands of workers died due to yellow fever and malaria, significantly setting back progress.
It was later discovered that mosquitoes were the cause of malaria, leading to widespread mosquito control efforts before construction could effectively continue under U.S. leadership in the early 1900s.
Expansion and Current Operations
In 2016, Panama completed a major expansion, adding a new set of locks to accommodate larger ships, significantly increasing global trade capacity.
Ships must wait in line for access, sometimes for days, before being able to pass through.
It takes approximately 10 hours to traverse the canal, and a Panamanian captain is required to sail every foreign ship through the passage.
Tolls and Economic Significance
The toll for passing through the canal varies by ship size and cargo.
The highest toll ever paid was by the Norwegian Bliss cruise ship, which paid $978,000 to cross.
Some ships pay extra tolls to jump the line, ensuring quicker passage and minimizing delays.
As we say goodbye to Panama City, we celebrate the rich history and vibrant culture of this remarkable country!
Fun Facts About Panama
Canal Engineering Marvel: The Panama Canal, completed in 1914, is one of the most significant engineering feats in history, connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.
Biodiversity Hotspot: Panama is home to over 10,000 species of plants and 1,500 species of animals, making it one of the most biodiverse countries in the world.
Currency: While Panama uses the Panamanian balboa as its official currency, the US dollar is also widely accepted and used in everyday transactions.
Indigenous Cultures: Panama is home to several indigenous groups, including the Kuna, Ngäbe-Buglé, and Emberá, each with their own unique traditions and languages.
World's First Transcontinental Highway: The Pan-American Highway runs through Panama, making it a crucial link for travelers and trade between North and South America.
Unique Wildlife: The country is famous for its wildlife, including the harpy eagle, sloths, and a variety of colorful frogs.
Two Oceans: Panama has coastlines on both the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean, offering diverse marine ecosystems and beautiful beaches.
Cultural Melting Pot: The country's culture is a blend of indigenous, Spanish, African, and Caribbean influences, reflected in its music, dance, and cuisine.