Discover the allure of the Panamonte Inn & Spa, a historic haven nestled in the lush highlands of Boquete, Panama. This century-old retreat has hosted dignitaries and celebrities alike, offering a blend of rustic charm and modern comforts. As Panama emerges as a coveted destination for travelers and ex-pats, the Panamonte Inn stands as a testament to the region's rich heritage and promising future.
The Panamonte Inn & Spa, with its storied past, has been a beacon of hospitality since its inception in 1914. Situated in the picturesque Chiriqui Province, this establishment has welcomed a host of notable figures, including American Presidents Teddy Roosevelt and Richard Nixon, the Shah of Iran, Reza Pahlavi, and celebrities such as Sean Connery and Ingrid Bergman. The inn's charm has also attracted modern travelers from Europe, the U.S., and Canada, as well as Panamanians seeking a tranquil escape from the bustle of Panama City.
The Panamonte Inn & Spa exudes a "Scandinavian cottage" or "Russian dacha" vibe, offering a range of accommodations from cozy twin-bed rooms to larger suites with wet bars and private patios. The 19 rooms, each uniquely furnished, evoke a bygone era of highland travel. Since 1946, the Elliot-Collins family has owned the inn, with Mrs. Inga Collins currently at the helm. Guests often find her by the stone fireplace in the cocktail lounge, sharing tales of the inn's history and the surrounding natural beauty.
The cocktail lounge, a highlight of the Panamonte Inn, serves as a social hub where guests and locals mingle. With its European flair, Californian touches, and Old West accents, the lounge features Spanish-style wrought iron lamps, brass candles, and sheer curtains that complement the open windows. Overstuffed couches and wicker chairs provide a relaxed setting, while fresh Bird of Paradise flowers and the scent of highland air and oranges create a romantic ambiance. The lounge's redesign, by Michelle Fogarty de Brewer, masterfully blends mountain and tropical elements, enhancing the inn's understated elegance.
Boquete is buzzing with excitement as it becomes an increasingly popular destination for travelers and ex-pats. Often compared to Costa Rica, Panama is now seen as the rising star in Central America. Boquete's recognition as one of the Best Places to Retire by Modern Maturity and International Living magazines has sparked a land rush. The town's idyllic setting at 3,500 feet, beneath the dormant Baru Volcano, and its year-round temperate climate make it an attractive locale. Boquete's ex-pat community, now estimated to be around 600 strong, continues to grow, contributing to the town's development and the flourishing coffee industry.
Adjacent to the inn, the Panamonte Estates offers an exclusive residential experience with 26 home sites boasting mountain views and modern infrastructure. Nearly half of the properties have been sold, with prices ranging from approximately $66,000 to $145,000. This enclave promises a serene lifestyle in one of Boquete's most sought-after locations.
Panama, with its vast tropical rainforests, is a biodiversity hotspot. The country, though smaller than the state of Maine, boasts over five million acres of national parks and nearly one-third of its land dedicated to conservation. With over 1,500 islands and the proximity of the Atlantic and Pacific coasts, Panama offers a unique opportunity to swim in both oceans in a single day. The nation is home to 944 bird species, 218 mammal species, 226 reptile species, and 164 amphibian species, many of which are endemic. Boquete, in particular, is a haven for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers, offering activities like whitewater rafting, volcano treks, hot springs visits, bird watching, and coffee farm tours.
Boquete's coffee industry is renowned for its high-quality Arabica beans, cultivated in the region's rich volcanic soil and diverse tree canopy. The meticulous process of coffee production, from berry picking to roasting, is an art form in itself. Visitors can immerse themselves in this world through various tours, such as the one offered by Terry and Hans Van Niekerk, which provides an in-depth look at the journey of the coffee bean.
The Boquete dining scene, though modest, is evolving with standout eateries like Boquete Bistro and Hibiscus offering a fusion of Latin, American, and French cuisines. The Panamonte Inn itself boasts the best dining in town, with Chef Charlie Collins at the helm, serving fresh seafood, steaks, and local specialties. The inn's spa, managed by Kate Traicos, provides a range of treatments from massages to facials, with plans to expand its offerings, including the introduction of yoga classes.
Under the management of E. David Brewer, the Panamonte Inn & Spa is poised for growth, with plans for new rooms and spa enhancements. Brewer's extensive experience in luxury hospitality ensures that any expansion will preserve the inn's unique charm. Boquete's connectivity is also a draw, with online resources like Jetsetters Magazine, Jetstreams.com, and Beach Booker providing valuable information for travelers and residents alike.
In conclusion, the Panamonte Inn & Spa represents the essence of Panama's allure for ex-pats and travelers. Its blend of historical significance, natural beauty, and evolving amenities make it a cornerstone of Boquete's charm. As Panama continues to gain recognition as a premier destination, the Panamonte Inn stands ready to welcome a new generation of adventurers and settlers to its tranquil paradise.
The Grandest Slam – The Masters Golf Tournament in Augusta, Georgia
"That's Tiger's ball!" a man shouts as the little white orb shoots past me and skids to a halt some fifty feet off the fairway, perched atop needles that have settled under the high pines of the ninth hole. (Opening photo: The scoreboard below the club house, right of the first fairway.)
The Berkshires: A 24-Hour Journey Through America's Cultural Gem
Nestled in the rolling hills of western Massachusetts, the Berkshires region is a cultural treasure trove, earning its reputation as "America's Premier Cultural Resort." This idyllic county, spanning approximately 25 by 50 miles and bordered by New York, Connecticut, and Vermont, is a haven for art, music, and history enthusiasts. With renowned venues like Tanglewood, the summer home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra, and the Jacobs Pillow Dance Festival, the Berkshires offer an unparalleled cultural experience. The area is also steeped in literary and artistic history, with the former homes of Norman Rockwell, Edith Wharton, and Herman Melville open to visitors. This article takes you on a whirlwind 24-hour tour, showcasing the rich cultural tapestry and historic charm of the Berkshires.
Rafters Rapture - Chiriqui Panama River Running
Hector Sanchez has the style and good looks of a man who has spent a lifetime outdoors. Held together by a wiry, near six-foot physique he appears every bit the “best river guide in Panama ” as touted by Lonely Planet and other travel guides. Before starting Chiriqui River Rafting in 1994 Sanchez spent two decades as civilian Director of Outdoor Recreation for the U.S. Army South in Panama. As a young man he received the Carnegie Medal for courage and outstanding bravery when he saved a drowning swimmer in Rockaway Beach , California. Today, he is standing in front of four new clients beginning his talk on safety with a company video featuring rafts and kayaks careening down Chiriqui River waterfalls. Three minutes into the video he switches it off and informs us that “you won’t need most of this instruction.” The four novices, here for a day’s outing with Sanchez’ company, breathe a sigh of relief and take this as a sign they didn’t make the wrong decision after all.
