To all those who enjoy the rich Spanish culture.

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Family and Culture

The family is the center of Panamanian life. Families who live in the city are typically smaller than those who live in the more rural areas. Extended family members are very important. Grandparents are usually the caregivers and family time is important.

Panamanians are warm and love to be in close when communicating. They like to touch when speaking to one another.

Dancing the night away at Carnival is the highlight of social activity for families.

Sancocho

What's Cooking?

It is a staple for many large families. It is enjoyed even in hot weather. The recipe can vary but it is prepared in the same manner.

Necessary ingredients:

9 cups water

1 whole chicken

2 plantains, peeled and cut into 2-inch pieces

1 onion, chopped

½ cup chopped fresh cilantro

5 cloves garlic, chopped

1 ½ teaspoons salt

3 pounds yuca (cassava) roots, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes

6 small red potatoes, quartered

1 (15.25 ounce) can of corn, drained or small ears

Combine water, chicken, plantains, onion, cilantro, garlic, and salt in a large pot. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium; cook until chicken is longer pink at the bone and the juices run clear, about 45 minutes. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh, near the bone should read 165 degrees F (74 degrees C).

Remove the chicken and let cool. Add yuca, potatoes, and corn to the soup; cook over medium heat until yuca and potatoes are softened, about 30 minutes.

Lights, Cameras, Art!

Panama is rich in many art forms. It highlights artists with unique perspectives and abilities.

Romel Bravo is a 26-year-old artist who uses scraps and other discarded items to create beautiful sculptures. He sees what many see as trash as an opportunity to take recycling to another level. His work highlights social responsibility while showing the unexpected beauty of nature.

Jordana Brewster is an American actress born in Panama. She is the most recognized Panamanian actress. Her work in the Fast and Furious movie collection and her appearance on the soap opera All My Children give rise to her versatile talent. She has gone on to star in many more movies and television shows.

The Lay of the land

Panama is a country on the isthmus linking Central and South America. The Panama Canal, a famous feat of human engineering, cuts through its center, linking the Atlantic and Pacific oceans to create an essential shipping route, in the capital, Panama City. Panama has a dry humid tropical climate. It is rolled with wetlands, tropical forest mangroves, coral reefs and tropical Islands

Panama's current population is 4,529,774. It is a very popular tourist spot because of it's great weather, beautiful beaches and diverse activities. Brush up on your Spanish, it is the main language spoken here.

Islands of fun

There is much to see and do in Panama. Take in the beauty of the island by starting your trip with a hike, or maybe you want to explore the Spanish-founded town which is home to the oldest church in the Western Hemisphere, or just kick back on one of its beautiful beaches. Have a nightcap There is something for everyone!