Panama: Beyond the Classroom

Upon initial observation, Panama reminds me a great deal of when I lived in Puerto Rico. The people, the architecture, the level of disrepair...all very familiar and yet uniquely Panamanian at the same time. The major difference between the two though is the impact of the Canal, which is an almost tangible presence within the country. Here, rainforest is interrupted by shipping yards and rivers bridged with railroads. Construction provisions for the expansion of the Canal are also in effect, as evidenced by the busy cement factories and various road reconstruction.

The conversion of military bases into private airports and tourist villas is particularly shocking to me, as a military brat, because I recognize all the components of a base and yet they're not being used in the manner I've become accostomed to. Officer quarters as nonprofit offices and armed gates as welcoming centers...life through the looking glass as my world becomes Panama's.

The trip to the Embera village was a similarly disorienting experience, seeing the mix of modern and tribal cultures trotted out for eager tourists like exhibits at a zoo. I don't deny that I enjoyed the experience but at the same time I felt very awkward taking pictures and casually strolling through other peoples homes. I kept thinking about how I would feel if some huge tour bus rolled into my neighborhood one hour and out the next with only a superficial viewing of my culture to be remembered by. The Embera choose to use tourism to support themselves and, ultimately, it is very successful and entertaining but at the same time its the end of a culture as it has exsisted for centuries and should be recognized as such. Change is necessary and to be embraced but the experience is bittersweet for those changing and those observing the change.

Time for group reflection and dinner now so thats all I have time to say. Tommorrow, ziplining!!!!