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Panama City has been a whirlwind of social activity since
the day I arrived. I had a contact here who welcomed me
into his circle of friends and I have had the pleasure of
experiencing a social fabric that is warm and easy going.
I felt like a guest on "Lifestyles of the Rich and
Famous". And a very welcomed guest indeed. Perhaps
because I am perceived as an "interesting foreigner"
people want to get to know me. What ever the case, it has
been enjoyable.
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I experienced the business culture here as well,
sitting in on some business lunches and doing
some business here for a friend in the states.
I dealt with a law firm in a situation that
could only be described as a three-ring circus.
I helped my friend switch to another law firm
and got a heavy dose of the 'manana' mentality.
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Perhaps the attitude that makes business so difficult is
exactly what makes the social fabric so rich. "Let's
enjoy our time together now! Everything else can wait until
'manana'!"
Business seems to happen mainly through social connections.
It is a relatively small city in a very small country such
that every one knows everyone. "I know someone who
can help you with that!" A cousin, brother or friend
of a friend is usually going to get the business.
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I
need to ship Baby Blue across the Darien Gap to Equador.
I was introduced to someone in my new circle of Panamanian
pals that could help. None other than the nephew of
the deposed dictator of Panama. He hosted me on a
niteclub tour that lasted until sunup. He was very
open about his life and lots of fun to be around. |
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