Last night, Panama`s Chinese community gathered at the Endara Museum in Casco Viejo to celebrate the roots of their arrival in Panama, more than a hundred years ago. Specifically, 123 years!

The museum featured beautiful photos of the early waves that came in the “Sea Witch” a boat that arrived with 705 Chinese men and women.  Also photos from their activities, their participation in Panama`s first carnivals and in commerce, of course.

I personally enjoyed very much to see how the room was filled with a kaleidoscopic combination of dozens of descendants of those early waves. There is nothing that defines Panama more than diversity, and last night it was a celebration not only of the Chinese culture but of Panama`s amazing, beautiful and endlessly interesting cultural diversity.

Yesterday, and after many frustrating moments with my computer and my many i-stuffs, I can say a very proud  i-didit !! Arco Properties has now officially a YouTube Channel so you can explore properties and Casco events with us. Just look for: ArcoPropertiesCasco

Here are the first two videos, both beautiful apartments with multiple bedrooms.  More coming! enjoy these two and three plus bedrooms. Amenities include rooftop terraces and parking:

Art Deco Apartment: 3 bedrooms + office:

Casa Garay : 2.5 bedrooms + parking

The other day I was talking to a friend and he told me how amazed he was at the number of activities his kids were, and all of them between a few blocks from each other. Knowing how parents struggle to get their children to the numerous classes they always inscribe them, I thought this was worth mentioning. So, here it is!

Music classes: general music appreciation classes at the Danilo Perez Foundation. Here they would learn the different instruments, and tune their ears to great music.  Location: Plaza Herrera

Painting classes: the Olga Sinclair foundation has an amazing way to get your kids inspired. Look for the ultra purple building next to the Danilo Perez Foundation!

Martial Arts (boys and girls!): kids will love their “ninja class” at the Top Level Gym in Calle 4ta. They have crossfit as well for parents and the mini crossfit for children.

Photography classes: run by photographer Tarina Rodriguez and organized through Esquina Photo (Ingrid Moore), I consider photography a fabulous gateway to all art appreciation because of its instant gratification! Tarina is great with kids as well!

And depending on the time of the year, Los Del Patio art center has yoga for kids and a bunch of other stuff. And the best (for the parent) is that commuting time is basically zero: walking from one street to the next, sometimes door to door. Priceless!

My belly was hurting from so much laughter! Outside my office I heard this really loud noise, children screaming laughing and things falling down, stumbling. I went out and the APROJUSAN kids where playing “congelada” (frozen) and it was to die for.  I really can´t remember the last time I played it, but I do remember having tons of fun with it.

Basically, someone is “it” and if he/she touches you, then you are frozen. You can be “defrosted” by a friend that runs and touches you, and there are “havens” (determined in advance) where “it” can´t reach you. The game allows for “chains” which are made by children holding hands, one touching the “haven” and the idea is to reach a “frozen” one to “defrost” him in a safe way. I loved it because it quickly makes kids run like crazy, work in a team, focus on a goal and make the best to “save” their friend.  What could be better!!! In the meantime, it is all chaos… fantastic. At the end, kids where exhausted, sweating, smiling, rushed with endorphins.  As healthy kids should be.

Welcome Casa Nuratti! right next to Tantalo, this is a spot for the young soul. The design concept brings hip and recycling together in a fresh, young look and feel.  Art hidden in every corner: from photos and crafts from local artists to a a tribute to Blek Le Rat, the graffiti French artist who back in the 50`s invented the “stencil graffiti” concept.  You`ll enjoy Nuratti, but specially the roof terrace bar which has a small pool to freshen up. Will it be open to more than guests? I still have to ask!

My favorite part was the thought put up on every room door. Each one is identified with a phrase that opens a question or a riddle that hints you into different parts of Panamanian culture and geography.

Congratulations guys!

There are so many ways you can work out to get fit! if you were lacking ideas and inspiration, a walk around Casco Viejo (specially Plaza Francia) at 5 p.m. ish can help you… Or join Top Level Gym! (Calle 4ta, Santa Familia) and you can be part of this group that meets around 7 p.m.

or: Jiu Jitsu Classes at TLGym!

Have dinner and enjoy a theater play at the same time! Tantalo just sent us this event which promises to be a lot of fun. Make your reservation as space is limited!

Last Wednesday was Esquina Photo`s Marrueco`s photo show. I loved it! The artist, a Brazilian lady who has been all over the world, was there, and many well known photographers in Panama like Alfredo Maiquez.

Check this out! my collection now includes: lemon grass, rosemary, basil, chili peppers, tomatoes, red berries and… welcoming squash and watermelon! yes, those are the seeds you see sprouting in the little egg container. Exciting! I think I`ll put those in the roof terrace later and give some away to friends who are starting their own.

If you are thinking about it but need some inspiration, don´t miss this Ted Talk about urban gardening:

http://blog.ted.com/2013/04/12/10-amazing-comments-from-renegade-gardener-ron-finley/

Casco keeps attracting young, creative entrepreneurs! Welcome to Itav and Nina, from OnPlog, Casco`s newest rock bar at Calle 11. Just a few steps away from La Rana Dorada!  Loved the decoration, using recycling materials, they really did a good job. Don´t miss the umbrellas at their patio! great spot, congratulations!

Check out their FACEBOOK page for events.