iReport.com is a user-generated site. That means the stories submitted by users are not edited, fact-checked or screened before they post. Only stories marked "On CNN" have been vetted for use in CNN news coverage. Learn more »
close
iReport: Unedited. Unfiltered. News.
Upload Now!
iReports
iReporters
Blog
Map
Home > iReports > Story
Boquete, Panama Flood - Pictures today December 1st
Click to view jikipanama's profile Posted by: jikipanama // 1 month ago // viewed 224 times
Boquete, Panama // embed media
Last updated: 1 month ago
The pictures attached to this article were taken today, December 1, 2008. I have also included 1 historical picture of the first ship crossing the Panama Canal; many of the people living in Boquete now are decendents of the Original Canal builders. This flood is just a blink in History. The Flood has brought the people of Boquete together: Panamanians, Expats, Young and those not so young any more. The city government, the mayor, MOP, and all individuals in charge of the Boquete flood clean-up need to be applauded--they have done a great job. I have included a view of the Panamonte and Hotel Ladera for those following the story, so you can see the dramatic changes in just a few days, of the river receding and the clean-up effort.

PANAMA,
Boquete was in the spotlight this past week, not for its natural beauty,
award-winning coffee and friendly people, but because of the damage caused by
the Caldera River. The dramatic footage and photos don't tell the whole story: Boquete didn't experience long-term flooding. The river grew quickly during a short period of time and affected some structures in its immediate vicinity. The fact is, the majority of Boquete, including the downtown, roads, tours and activity businesses and most restaurants and hotels, were untouched. The people of Boquete and the business community have come together to invite the public to experience Boquete today.


"Boquete is back on track," says Charlie Collins, Owner and Executive Chef, Panamonte Inn and Spa. "Of course, it has been a difficult week for the
people of Boquete and our hearts go out to the families affected. My family has been in Boquete for three generations and some things never change: the things that Boquete has always been known for-its natural beauty, relaxing environment, fresh air, friendly people and welcoming spirit-were 100% unaffected."


Earlier in the week, media, websites and blogs were reporting on the situation in Boquete. But the photos and footage was limited to a very small section of Boquete, the rest of the town was untouched.

"Everybody saw the photos and footage, but it's important to remember: the story didn't stop there," continues Chef Collins. "The Boquete community rallied together to help the people in the areas affected by the river. The speed at which those vulnerable points were fixed was truly amazing. It speaks volumes about the character and spirit of the people in Boquete."

'What's up in Boquete?'

• Airport service to David and the main road connecting David to Boquete
• All the main roads and the downtown were untouched

• Traditional Boquete activities Panamanians have always enjoyed-visiting gardens like Mi Jardin es Su Jardin and El Explorador,
stopping for strawberry drinks, enjoying coffee, sharing the beauty with family and loved ones-never stopped


• Great restaurants and hotels are open for business

• All the exciting outdoor activities Boquete is known for are still available: hiking, rafting, ziplining, rock-climbing, horseback riding,
bird-watching, hot springs and coffee tours


"All of the traditional activities that Panamanian families have enjoyed over the years never stopped," says Lissette Ameglio, Fresas Café. "The gardens of Mi Jardin es Su Jardin and El Explorador. Stopping for a delicious strawberry batido. Enjoying a fresh brewed cup of coffee. Relaxing with your family. Boquete is the perfect place to do this. Now the sun is out and we want
people to experience the beauty of our special town today."


For more information about what is happening in Boquete, please
visit www.boquetetoday.com and come
to Experience Boquete Today!

In response to assignment: Severe weather
Average Rating (0)
E-mail to a friendE-mail this story | Share
Log in to report violation
Log in to Comment Comments