(Panama Gringo) I can recall, during my first few weeks in Panama, my Panamanian friend Charlie and I discussing random topics about the city over dinner. As a very “well endowed” young lady walked by the restaurant, catching attention from every man in a two block radius, I chuckled as Charlie nearly choked on his patacone. He looked at me in all seriousness and said “Honey, in Panama, nothing is real and everything is what it seems.” I laughed his comment off as I dug into my tamale; but I knew that the statement held more truth than anything I had seen or heard since arriving on this mystifying little isthmus.
As any country struggling to develop and define itself Panama has been subject to much discussion regarding authenticity, change and identity. What is Panama? We know that it’s a country in Central America. We know that it’s home to the canal and Darien Gap. We know that it has a rising middle class, remaining indigenous population and incredibly remarkable GDP. But, do we really know what makes Panama, Panama? What in Panama is truly authentic, and what is some fabricated mirage of novelty that has been created to determine the success of the endeavor?
I understand that no country has ever been or can ever be %100 authentic, as a large part of growth and development is an inevitable change from the original state. But, I think that the discussions among businessmen, bloggers, investors and critics has more to do with the direction that Panama is going and what the country hopes to become. Is Panama growing in a way that it remains true to its history and culture? For the most part, Panamanian citizens don’t seem to be as concerned with the topic as we are.
However, in Panama success seems to be determined by illusions and inauthentic attempts. Panama often tries to be authentic, but the delivery ends up a little fake and gimmicky. Yet, this often leads to success. The Gamboa Rainforest Resort is a great example. They have attempted to give you an authentic Panamanian experience by introducing indigenous plants and wildlife, but the delivery of the place just seems too hokey and unreal. Aside from the poor delivery, tourists and locals visit the resort often. On the other hand Panama has a million amazingly authentic places that are presented in a truly natural way that people never hear about. Cambutal, Panama is a great example. It’s a beach lovers paradise boasting world class surf, amazing views, peaceful surroundings and beaucoup wildlife, but lacks many modern conveniences, the crazy tourism and gimmicks that make things a hot commodity in Panama.
Discussions surrounding the future of Panama always lead back to originality, and rightfully so. The issue with a failing transformation and authenticity is that as originality seems to fade away, so do the attitudes surrounding it. People become disheartened; the place is forgotten and soon unwanted. We’ve seen it happen to other countries that were once thriving destinations. I believe that as long as Panama attempts to remain authentic in its development, (i.e. not creating an obtrusive amount structures and industries that hold absolutely no historic or cultural value) then the country stands a good chance of transforming in the most successful way possible.
Perhaps the beauty of Panama is the juxtaposition of completely fake vs. refreshingly original? Antiquity vs. state of the art appeal. Perhaps this balance will remain for years to come? Perhaps the millions of authentic and un-popularized locations are what will keep Panama growing through curiosity and adventurous spirit? Or, perhaps Panama will become an egotistical product of in-authenticity, leading to its demise? Whichever the case, the outcome can, and rightfully should, only be determined by the people of Panama.