Book Description

xx ... Read more

Reviews (4)

A Huge Help!
Read the book, visited the country and plan to move there soon. While in Panama I found everything I read in the book to be true. I consider this guide to be an excellent buy. Thank you Mr. Howard for writng such a great guide.

Ok info, bad presentation
Although the content of this book was somewhat helpful, I could hardly get past the typos. It looks as though the rough draft might have been mistakenly published. Also, several of the websites listed were not available. There is some advertising in the book here and there and some of those businesses are also not accesible via the internet. For the price of the book, I felt it to be poorly put together and would not recommend spending the money.

A] Great Help!
Buy this guide if you want to live or invest here. I did and it changed my life. It has virtually everything you need to know about making the move. This book made it easy.

It's About Time Someone Wrote a Book Like This for Panama
Similar books have been written about neighboring countries but this is the first long-awaited guide on the subject. Mr. Howard's handy book is a valuable tool for anyone considering living, retiring or investing in Panama. It provides a tremendous amount of information on virtually every aspect of living in Panama and is very easy to read. It allows you to understand all the nuances of the country and truly see what living there is like. Anyone who reads this book should have more knowledge that many current residents. I've been here 7 years and have learned a few new things I didn't know. I won't hesitate to recommend it to anyone who wants to move here. The book is a logical first step to making the move. I would like to meet Mr. Howard to congratulate him on this masterpiece. I shouldn't expect less from Mr. Howard since he has worked for National Geographic, has lived in Central America for over 20 years and authored 5 other bestselling guidebooks about the area. I have read all of his other books and consider this one the best first edition of any of the guides he has written. ... Read more

Book Description

The Panama Guide is the most comprehensive guide written about the extraordinarily beautiful waters of the Caribbean and Pacific coasts of Panama. It contains vital information for planning waterborne adventures along these fascinating shores. With 187 detailed chartlets The Panama Guide travels through the 365 islands of San Blas, explores the protected bays of Bocas del Toro, the green shores of the Las Perlas archipelago, the intriguing rivers leading into the tropical forests as well as the spectacular Panama Canal. This book includes explicit piloting instructions, GPS waypoints, lists of navigational aids, local services, customs regulations and recommendations for on shore activities.

Nancy Schwalbe Zydler and Tom Zydler are long time contributors to nautical publications throughout the US and Europe including Cruising World, Yachting, Boat International, Sailing, Sail, Yachting World, Yachting Monthly, Classic Boat, Southern Boating as well as Le Chasse Maree, Zagle and Nautique. Nancy and Tom spent three years sailing their yawl Mollymawk throughout Panama to write this guide and have personally visited every area described.

A full-color section featuring Tom Zydler’s photography depicts the splendor and panorama of cruising in Panama. This tropical country boasts some of the most beautiful, colorful and wild natural scenery anywhere.The Panama Guide will show you the way to one of the most fascinating, yet virtually unspoiled cruising grounds remaining in the world. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

the panama guide
excelent book Tom and Nancy,proffesional piece of art.Finally i found you Tom,im your old buddy from naval academy in Gdynia,contact me pls.Chris kowalski E-mail-kowal17@hotmail.com

This is an excellent cruising guide. Highly recommended.
I am the author of Lonely Planet's guide to Panama. While conducting research for LP Panama I came across this incredible work by Nancy Schwalbe Zydler and Tom Zydler. Their attention to detail is remarkable. The history and description they provide is right on and well put. Much of the information that appears on the islands they comment upon you won't find anywhere else. For cruising sailors and Panama buffs alike, The Panama Guide is an excellent read and a vast source of knowledge. My hat's off to both of you Zydlers for a job extremely well done. ... Read more

Book Description

At once wild and sophisticated, Panama lures intrepid travelers with teeming rain forests, hundreds of jewel-like islands and the ultra-hip nightspots of its salsa-infused capital.Find your own sun-drenched beach, mingle with the Kuna Indians or dance until dawn at a frenzied fiesta - Panama offers adventure at every turn.Grab your hat and let our bestselling guide show you all the facets of Central America's undiscovered gem.

• GET OUT - our outdoor activities chapter gives you the scoop on surfing, snorkeling, hiking, birding and more

• GET BELOW THE SURFACE - informed and insightful features on history, culture and contemporary life

• EAT, DRINK & BE MERRY - frank, in-depth dining and entertainment reviews, from ceviche to merengue

• FIND YOUR WAY - 73 easy-to-use maps, more than any other guidebook to Panama

• LEARN THE LINGO - earn smiles from the locals with our handy Spanish language section ... Read more

Book Description

Map of the country and portions of its neighbors with elevations indicated by color changes.

Legend locates international and provincial borders; border crossings; settlements from major cities to hamlets; roads (with distances in kilometers) from major highways to tracks or trails; railways; airports and airstrips; national parks and reserves; archaeological sites; other points of interest; swamps, salt marshes, and mangroves.

Index of places. Comprehensive information about the country's geography, history, and people; descriptions and photos of selected highlights.

Scale 1:800,000. With inset maps of the region (1:400,000); Panama City (with index of tourist attractions, hotels, and services). ... Read more

Book Description

Adventures in Nature: Panama highlights only the most interesting places and activities for adventure travelers. Author William Friar gives you vivid scenic descriptions-from the cool highlands to the lowland tropical forest-along with tips on getting around and a wide variety of accommodation options. You'll also find details on the country's conservation efforts and environmental challenges, with advice on how you can support local communities without damaging the environment. ... Read more

Reviews (9)

Terrific guide, with a personal touch
I just finished reading this book, and want to offer the author my thanks and compliments. I'm planning to move to Panama someday, and his book helped cement my plans. Friar does a lucid and loving job in describing the country, but for me the most important undercurrent in the book is his obvious love and respect for the people who live there. Friar doesn't just tell you about Panama's hotels and restaurants and tours; he introduces you to the people who run them.

Be warned
Although this book does contain some useful information there is a very definite bias. The visa information relates only to US citizens, there are other countries in the world, and the information on the canal is very definitely the view of a zonian. Areas which to me are very definitely in the city are described as being in the canal area.
I do not have a problem with a museum in a Spanish speaking country giving the information in Spanish and resent the patronising comments he makes about the fact not everyone speaks English.

A good supplemental guide
This book provides good, in depth information about natural destinations in Panama. It gives more detailed descriptions of each place then a guide like Lonely Planet. However, the restaurant, hotel, and transportaion information is too limited for this to be the only guide book you take. I took this book and the Lonely Planet guide on my trip to Panama, and it worked out well.

Be ready to pack your bags
William Friar is the rare writer who is detailed enough to mind his p's and q's (solid information on hotels, guides, restaurants, outdoor activities) without losing the enthusiasm and energy that a good travel writer must possess. As soon as I started reading about the exotic animals, the differences between the Pacific and Atlantic sides, the Kuna Indians and the dichotomy between modernity and tradition, I knew I had to go to Panama.

Highly recommended
Excellent book. You don't really need to be an adventurer to get a lot of use from this book, just be interested in the outdoors.

We visited Isle Grande (crowded only on weekends), Boca Brava, San Blas, and the Volcan Baru region and found the book to be quite accurate and reliable. The San Blas islands were our favorite, but we enjoyed all places. No one got sick. All had a great time.

We did not use the book for either hotel or restaurant recommendations so I can't rate it there. ... Read more

Book Description

One of the greatest engineering feats ever, the Panama Canal is becoming one of the world's most popular cruise itineraries. Ports of call span the Caribbean and the Mexican Riviera, but the highlight of the cruise is the eight-hour transit of the Canal in which six massive locks raise and lower the ship 85 feet. Read about the monumental construction of the Canal as well as the history, culture, flora and fauna of this tropical region. Detail provided on popular ports, from Florida to California. Over 400 maps and photos most in color. Includes giant color fold out map of Panama Canal ... Read more

Reviews (1)

An excellent guide for Panama Canal Visitors
Anne Vipond continues her series of excellent books with this guide to cruising the Panama Canal. Really, anyone visiting Panama would find this book useful, but people on cruise ships will find it invaluable. Anne does an excellent job of relating the history and geography of the Panama Canal. She also delves into the details of the actual ports, including the new cruise port in Colon. This is the best guide to the shore excursions from Colon and on Gatun Lake. If you're traveling the Panama Canal, this book will bring you much better understanding of this unique destination. Anyone who will be debarking for the day in Panama will find that the book will save them much time and money. Highly Recommended!!! ... Read more

Book Description

Book Description

Completely revised and updated in time for the Centennial Anniversary of breaking ground for the Panama Canal, this lively collection of historic and contemporary photographs and informative and insightful text dramatically showcases one of the true wonders of the world. ... Read more

Reviews (8)

Perfect combo of writing and art
The first thing you'll notice about this book is the beautiful photos, marking the canal's history and beauty. The second thing you'll notice is this is no ordinary coffee table book. The writing is substantive, informative and engaging. It makes a great gift for someone who's going to Panama or has been there.

A Fasinating read while transiting the Canal
I purchased this book while transiting the Canal on the maiden voyage of the Norwegian Star . This was a historic trip, as the ship was the largest tonnage vessel to transit the canal. It also paid the largest fee of $214,000. The ship was designed to exacting specifications and barely cleared by width and length. To read the book regarding the canals history while transiting at the same time was exciting! The book's read is light and most informative. It added a great deal for me to what was already a "Trip of a Lifetime". I would highly recommend this book to anyone of any age. Truly Awesome!!!

Leisure reading while cruising the Panama Canal
I purchased this book while on the maiden voyage of the Norwegian Star from Miami to Los Angeles while transiting thru the Panama Canal. It was a historic trip as the ship was the largest tonnage vessel to transit the canal. The vessel was nearly as long as the locs could hold and the width was at its maximum as well. I understand the vessel paid the highest recorded fee of $214,000. To read the book and learn about the incredible construction of the canal both in the early 1900's and still today as we were actually transiting the canal was exciting. The book added to the most Awesome trip. The book was a fasinating read and very informative, making my trip truly a once in a lifetime adventure. I would highly recommend this book to others.

Highly recommended for cruise passengers
I read this book prior to transiting the Canal. It covers history and operations in precise detail and the numerous dramatic photos make it a wonderful souvenir of the Canal. There are other books that are very long and heavy to take with you.This book has all the information in easily readable style for those who don't have time for a thick book on this subject. Reads like an adventure story.

Excellent guide to the Panama Canal
I have read and recommend this completely up-to-date book on the Panama Canal, particularly to anyone planning to take a cruise through the Canal or fly to Panama for a close-up look. This book, written by an author who grew up in Panama, covers the history and operations and provides real insight into the country of Panama. It is illustrated with dramatic color photographs showing all facets of the operation of the Canal. It is written in a very readable style. You won't be able to put it down until you have finished it. ... Read more

Book Description

Running from a swamp fire, being lost in the jungle or working as line handlers through the Panama Canal this ordinary couple had extraordinary experiences. Join these motorhomers as they set out to explore Central America with their dog. Visit with them a candle-lit Mayan church high in the mountains of Guatemala, watch the rescue of passengers from a grounded ferry in Nicaragua, share their impromptu school presentation in El Salvador; and paddle upstream with them in an underground sacrificial cave in Belize.You will meet the special people they befriended and the unique places they camped in their RV.

* Discover how easy and safe an extraordinary adventure can be.

* Get clear directions to over 100 places where they and others have camped.

* Learn about the people you meet when you get off the beaten track.

* Find out how to transit the Panama Canal for free on a yacht.

* Gain information on how to take your dog and motorhome into all seven countries and safely back to the US. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

A Rare Masterpiece
January 14th of 2003, John and Harriet Halkyard and their dog, Brindle, hopped in their 22 foot-long motorhome and set off for Central America and a world of sleepy villages, tropical lakes and warm, deserted seashores at sunset. A world populated with dozens of vividly drawn characters: policemen, farmers, shop keepers, people they helped out and people who helped them.

Harriet's clean prose, rich in detail, quickly involves us into the joys, wonders and travails of their journey. Dr. Halkyard, a renowned marine engineer, created the invaluable appendices. Part One discusses trip preparation, expense budgets, border crossings, things to take with you and even dog permits. Appendix Two is a gazetteer of camping places, with detailed maps for each country and pictures and descriptions of each location.

Beautifully designed and profusely illustrated with color photographs throughout, 99 Days in Panama is a treat for any travel reader interested in the road to Panama. However if you actually intend to motorcamp through even a few of these countries, this book is easily worth twice its price. The Halkyards have created a rare masterpiece of a guidebook, engaging to read yet ultimately destined to end up dog-eared and coffee-stained in the glove compartment of your RV as you roll into Panama City.

An engaging travel memoir of one couple
99 Days to Panama: An Exploration of Central America by Motorhome is an engaging travel memoir of one couple and their travels from a Mayan church to an off-the-cuff school presentation in El Salvador to paddling upstream in Belize. Beautiful full-color photographs on every page illustrate this absorbing account relating practical advice on everything from how to travel in a motorhome with a dog to clear directions for prime RV camping spots to staying safe on an extraordinary adventure. A vibrant travel essay and an especial treasure for armchair travelers.

Full of practical info and inspiring detail...
Overall, as you read this book, you'll feel like a friend is showing you photos and maps while telling you about an amazing trip through Central America.The text is full of personal adventures. The photos and maps are inspiring to the real or armchair traveler. On the practical side, the authors even give you some maps with GPS coordinates. Good luck trying to find this info elsewhere!Very practical and fun to read.

A Great Read
This is a great read if you are an armchair traveler or if you are an intrepid RVer with intentions to travel in Mexico and Central America. If you are the latter, you can fearlessly cross the border toward your own adventure using theirs as a guide. Reading this will encourage many RVers to head south and explore what our neighbors have to offer. If traveling in your RV in the US has lost its luster, this may be your next adventure.

There are great little stories embedded throughout the narrative; I dare you to read it without chuckling or gasping aloud. ... Read more

Book Description

Armchair travellers can expect to be well rewarded simply by staying in their armchairs and reading An Odd Odyssey, says its author Glen David Short.

Many of us dream of quitting our jobs and travelling to exotic places. Australian Glen David Short's dream was no different but he had the added incentive of dodging falling boulders in the tunnel where he worked. He soon discovered that exotic places are often dangerous places.

Once Short decided to up and leave, his dream of a smooth trip was quickly shattered, first by an Australian dollar slump that shrank his travel funds, then by being robbed twice in one day upon arrival in Mexico City. He suffered debilitating fever and just as he was recovering, Hurricane Mitch struck, stranding him in Guatemala. Then his luck began to improve.

An Odd Odyssey: California to Colombia by Bus and Boat, through Mexico and Central America, as the title suggests, chronicles the author's travels. It offers a uniquely non-American perspective, blending a little history and current affairs with moments when he pondered "What am I doing here?" before arriving at some interesting philosophical conclusions.

The author's command of Spanish brought him into contact with beggars, madmen, millionaires, models, eccentric fellow travellers... in fact, people from all walks of life. He travelled via yacht, canoe, and made more than 50 bus trips. The characters you'll meet in An Odd Odyssey are real people caught in the double bind of living in a poor country and being struck by a devastating natural disaster.

An Odd Odyssey's derring-do exploits would make Indiana Jones envious: hiking through the desert in search of pre-historic cave paintings; coming face-to-face with a giant crocodile; experiencing catastrophic Hurricane Mitch; participating in a weird graveyard festival; climbing an active volcano; scouring the Costa Rican jungle for a pre-Columbian relic; falling under the spell of a Nicaraguan model; visiting Paul Gauguin's house with a Playboy Bunny; and sailing to Colombia with a pet monkey for company in a yacht built by a retired bricklayer.

An excellent guidebook, An Odd Odyssey is also a tale of personal discovery. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Interesting and different
This book is several books in one. In addition to his varied personal experiences on the road, it includes some well researched history of the countries he visits, both ancient and contemporary. He talks about the big people in history, like Cortes, Clinton, Subcomandante Marcos, Leon Trotsky, Frida Kahlo and Manuel Noriega. He then gives equal attention to the little people he meets along the way, like the Mexican museum curator whose family had been guarding an ancient relic for several generations. He even travels to Paul Gauguin's house with a Playboy Bunny he met in a youth hostel. But he also engrosses the reader with his thoughts about his personal life, most interestingly, his romance with a Nicaraguan girl. Hurricane Mitch, which strikes when he is Guatemala and devastates the region, adds a sinister backdrop to his odd holiday, but in the end he achieves his goals despite numerous setbacks. It is a little bit like a collection of short stories, since it is written in diary form, so each day represents a new thought, and a new mini adventure. The stories about the crocodile and the monkey I almost wouldn't have believed except that he included photos in the book. I especially liked his description of his climbing of the volcano... and was left feeling it is much more enjoyable - and safer - to read his description of it than to attempt such a feat in real life.

THIS is the way to travel!
Some years past, a colleague suggested a year of travel instead of my intended return to school. It took thirty years to fulfill that suggestion. David Short didn't require any more prompting than a dull, dirty and dangerous job. His destination, prompted by a world-traveling grandfather, became Central America, specifically, the Panama Canal. The journey lasted just short of six months and resulted in this account of his adventures. A spirited read, An Odd Odyssey should inspire anyone of nearly any age to pull up stakes at least once in a lifetime and venture somewhere distant. Short's account shows how richly rewarding travel can be to those willing to make the effort.

There are two kinds of travel books - the "guidebook" with sights, prices, accommodation ideally suited for those seeking comfort instead of adventure. Glossy photos, usually portraying conditions found on movie sets, detailed maps, prices listed. The other type is the personal journal, which, properly done, imparts a far better sense of "being there" than does the guidebook. Short's chronicle is the second type, a vivid sharing of his thoughts, experiences, disasters, even love. The means of travel was by bus. Just finding one was fraught with hazards - timing, crowding or even just running. Once boarded, there was the issue of finding the proper seat: "Sit in the rear. Bandits will shoot through the front window." On a limited budget the "guidebook" hotels were out of the question for Short. Many havens he found for a night's rest became adventures in their own right. Weather, ever a primary topic for travellers, added its own quirks - a major Caribbean hurricane being the most spectacular.

These minor discomforts aside, Short's recital of his travels points up the many benefits of journeying solo. One of these is that you don't remain alone for long. Not every acquaintance is a welcome companion, but none are dull. They bring their lives into his view, and to ours. Short meets former convicts, travellers from Europe, Canada and Australia. Not limiting himself to fellow "gringos" he deals well with the local residents. Although a few are not as friendly as he - he's robbed twice and has the usual tangles with bureaucrats, cheating taxi drivers and sullen hoteliers. Still, he maintains his equanimity, exhibiting strength in adverse circumstances. In this modern age he can turn to internet cafes, at one point spending more on email and 'net surfing than on accommodation and food.

Short is a learner, eager to know the current and historical conditions of the lands he visits. Teotihuacan, Tikal and the world's largest stone sphere. His account leads you along with him in fine descriptive prose. He shares his learning without becoming pedantic or opinionated. His judgments result of thoughtful assessment and it's easy to agree with them. The book becomes not only the tale of his journey, but a guidebook without gloss or sham. By the end of it, we envy his adventures and his ability to relate them. It's hard not to embark on a similar jaunt with the aim of duplicating his effort for your chosen locale. ... Read more

Book Description

This 15th anniversary reissue of Miller’s travel classic follows the making and marketing of a single Panama hat. It’s a captivating story of cultures in collision, raw capitalism, and an exotic, humorous journey.

Reviews (2)

very pleasant journey
Tom Miller is an excellent traveling companion, informative, friendly, sympathetic to his hosts.

conveys with empathy South America through "Gringo" eyes
This book draws a wonderful and accurate picture of South America, in particular Ecuador, as seen through the eyes of a Westerner. Especially for anyone who has back-packed in these areas in the seventies and eighties, the country comes alive and one finds oneself transported back there through the author's straightforward style, gentle humour and empathy with the people and landscape. The story of the making of Panama hats, from growing the straw through to retailing the product in quality outlets throughout the States is fascinating. The life styles, understanding and expectations of the various people in the chain are portrayed in a way that captures the imagination and surrounds the reader with their reality. At the same time, one's awareness is drawn in a gentle manner and without accusation, to the situation of the "plebs" of third world countries, exploited by and dependent on the West. A satisfying book to read, very interesting and an enjoyable way to learn some of the history of the area. ... Read more

Book Description

Beyond the spotlight cast on Panama's famous canal awaits a sophisticated capital, lush rainforests and pristine beaches. This in-depth guide shows you where to go salsa dancing all night, glimpse resplendent quetzals or relax at a secluded mountain retreat.

• accommodations for any size wallet, from rustic bohios to elegant resorts
• thorough coverage of places to eat, including capsule reviews of Panama City's cosmopolitan restaurants
• the rundown on local festivals – Carnaval, anyone?
• 42 detailed maps of cities, parks, beaches and surf sites

Reviews (20)

Highly recommended for business travelers
I usually travel with a Fodor's or Michelin guidebook, but as there was no Fodor's or Michelin available for Panama, I purchased the Lonely Planet book before a recent trip to Panama. It was the first time I used a Lonely Planet book, and I found it very helpful. I was in Panama City on business, and the book provided very useful advice on where I as a businessman should stay, and it recommended not just the most expensive restaurants in Panama City, but also the best restaurants; writers, I've noticed, sometimes mistake the most expensive for the best. Not this one. I suggested four places for business lunches/dinners while I was in Panama City, and in each instance my Panamanian associates were impressed that I "knew" smart restaurants for business meals. Although I'd told them that it was my first trip to Panama, which it was, they soon took to saying, "And you've never been to Panama before?" with a wink and a chuckle. They ascribed to me more knowledge of their country than I possessed. I like it when other people make me look good, and that's one of the things this guidebook did for me. Next time I travel I won't be in such a hurry to by a Fodor's or a Michelin guide.

The little green "traveling bible"
I was a little skeptic about the accuracy of any travel book of Panama. I was born and raised there and found that this book had much more information that I even knew about!! It definitely was accurate, interesting and helpful. After 10 years of absence, visiting Panama with this book made my trip an experience I will never forget. Scott Doggett depicted a place full of wonders but also took the time to "warn" you of the "do's" and "dont's" which was very important to us. This book was a wealth of information and it helped us appreciate our travels much better.. and use our time and resources wisely!!

Excellent Guide, but Politicized and Ethnocentric.
Lonely Planet, probably has the most up-to-date, comprehensive, practical guide for Panama, currently available. Would I recommend it? Absolutely! Unfortunately, Lonely Planet, failed to edit the author's crude, narrow-minded, self-righteous, self-serving commentary. The author also glosses over or totaly ignores pertinent information. Personal politics and self-aggrandizement have little, if any place in a travel guide, and when it exists in such a publication, it suggests a lack of empathy for, and or understanding of, other people and their cultures. The shortcomings of Lonely Planet's guide, noted above, mar an otherwise excellent publication. For the typical "Ugly American" wanting to "Do" Panama, the Lonely Planet guide should prove more than adaquate. If on the other hand, you are an open-minded traveler capable of independent thought, you might consider, also obtaining, "Getting to know PANAMA" by Michele Labrut, a former press attache to the French Embassy in Panama. Written with class, mature intelligence and a sense of respect for Panama and it's People, "Getting to know PANAMA", not only fills the gaps in the previous guide, it is also an excellent travel guide in it's own right and an outstanding source for unbiased information.

Tourism or Colonialism
Having traveled for 3 months in Panama, I found the guide to contain many opinions and to be extremely judgemental. It is actually offensive in some parts with it's colonial nature. Also very ego heavy. The author believes his opinions to be golden.

A big dissapointment.
The Panama yellow pages is a much better book.

Go buy the Ulysesses guide.

Helpful Guidebook but Not a Bible
As the owner of a first and only backpackers hostel in David City,Panama (The Purple House) .... I see many people carrying this useful book around and it seems to be a great help to many. My only complaints about the book (not the writers' fault) is that 1) we are not in it yet because we weren't open at the time of his research. 2) the city of David is not made to sound attractive as a place to visit. There are lots of things to do here that aren't listed. Of course, that too is Not the writers fault, he can't possibly visit everything the way a person like me can. I have lived here for more than 3 years so I have been able to collect alot of information over that time.

As with any guidebook, it should be used as a guide and not a bible, definitely worth buying and carrying, its the best book for Panama. ... Read more

Book Description

The Cove, or Bunkerís Cove, is a place that remains virtually untouched by time. Nestled within the confines of beautiful Panama City and only a stoneís throw away from St. Andrews Bay, The Cove abounds with rich tradition and charm. Before tourism moved farther south, the area was a haven for those from more hectic locales, with local businessmen including A.J. Gay, T.H. Harmon, W.C. Sherman, L.H. Howell, and H.L. Suddeth promoting the areaís heavily forested, game-rich peninsula. The surrounding waters teemed with snapper, flounder, crabs, and shrimp, supporting locals and drawing tourists, including actor Clark Gable. Amidst changing times, the neighborhood has survived and continues to thrive.ÝÝThis must-have photo album, filled with many never-before-seen images culled from a variety of local sources, is a fitting tribute to this peaceful community. Residents and tourists alike will discover what it was like to live, work, and play in The Cove of yesteryear. Snapshot glimpses of the past bring to life the neighborhood as it is fondly rememberedóthe corner markets, the shipyard and air corps neighbors, Cove School, and the Cove Hotel.ÝÝ ... Read more

Reviews (1)

New to area but not Florida. wonderful 'look & feel' title!
I, man and boy, have spent near 50 years in the brackish salt water areas of coastal Florida.. I moved from the New Smyrna Beach area (well, more Daytona but there are fewer serial killers in NSB, that's another story...) to near Panama City and the Cove just over a year ago.
It's a wonderful neighborhood and this book seems to tell it as it was and never will be again.
I have gotten to know a local lady of some vintage, she read my copy and thought there were things she disagreed with awarded the book a 'not bad', which for her is five stars...
The last year we have noticed a change in this area already... less Southern, more commercial.. it's too bad but it is bound to happen. Get this books and see it as it was.
I can recommend the Port Orange book too.. It reminded me that I went to grade school 300 yards from the state KKK headquarters.. later a candle factory that BURNED down.. poetic justice?? or 'jus'us???
L. McD. ... Read more

Book Description

Costa Rica is world famous for the stunning diversity of its bird life. Includes bird lists by region and by season, bird specialties at specific sites, checklist for birds of Costa Rica, travel routes and tour maps, and accommodations and local guiding information. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Helpful site guide; not a birding field manual.
This is not a birding field guide, but a helpful guide to quite a few Costa Rica birding sites. Very good descriptions of sites included (including some information not available elsewhere) but many other places were not covered. The author's assessments are useful. Supplements other guides.

For serious birdwatchers. No color photos
Lots of tables and descriptions of where to go to see birds. 99% Costa Rica. A few black and white drawing of birds, plants, maps. Not good if you want color photos of birds you might see. ... Read more

Book Description

The true story of the authors’ ambush and kidnapping by FARC guerrillas in the Darién Gap, a strip of swamp, jungle and cloud forest between Mexico and Columbia, and their nine-month hostage ordeal. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

What an adventure!
I received this book as a gift, and have found it to be an excellent read. Conversational in style, you feel like your sitting in the pub listening to them tell their story. Their colorful language allows you to share their experience in the jungle - slogging through swamps, sitting in the rain, or even sharing the excitement when Tom discovers new orchids. I laughed and cried and feared right along with Tom and Paul. A great book!

Captivating! You must read!
The Cloud Garden is a must read for anyone who likes orchids, adventure, or travel! The authors Tom Hart Dyke and Paul Winder made you actually feel like you were in the jungle with them going through despair as well as outright comedy with the FARC guerrilas. Essentially the book is about botanist/traveller Tom Hart Dyke and adventure traveller Paul Winder (both strangers to each other) and how they meet up and decide to cross the Darien Gap on the border of Panama and Columbia. Six days into their journey they are kidnapped by FARC guerrilas and held hostage for nine months. The authors provide a very descriptive detail of their environment, kidnappers, and impossible situations that had to be overcomed. Highly recommended! ... Read more

Book Description

This digital document is an article from The Register-Guard (Eugene, OR), published by The Register Guard on August 15, 2004. The length of the article is 2145 words. The page length shown above is based on a typical 300-word page. The article is delivered in HTML format and is available in your Amazon.com Digital Locker immediately after purchase. You can view it with any web browser.

Citation Details
Title: The new Panama invasion.(Travel)(Retirees from the U.S. flock to the Central American paradise)
Publication: The Register-Guard (Eugene, OR) (Newspaper)
Date: August 15, 2004
Publisher: The Register Guard
Page: L8

Distributed by Thomson Gale ... Read more

Book Description

From lounging in the Caribbean islands of Bocas del Toro to viewing the cool highlands of Boquete and exploring Panama City, the most cosmopolitan city in Central America, Moon Handbooks Panama is the guide to the best the country has to offer, both on and off the beaten path. Practical information includes suggested travel strategies and lists of must-see sights, plus essentials on dining, transportation, and accommodations for a range of budgets. Complete with details for navigating jungle trails, finding cheap taxis and underground bars, or planning a river expedition, Moon Handbooks Panama gives travelers the tools they need to create a more personal and memorable experience. ... Read more

Book Description