Boquete, Chiriquí

Boquete is a city located in the highlands of Western Panama, in the Chiriquí Province, near the border with Costa Rica. Because of its altitude (about 1,000 m above sea level) its climate is cooler than the lowlands in Panama, and has become a pleasant escape from the heat. Its natural environment has made it extremely popular with tourists from all over the world, especially for eco tourism.

History

The region where the town of Boquete is located started being settled by farmers from the surrounding areas towards the end of the XIXth Century. By the first few years of the twentieth century, several villages had been populated: Lino, Quiel, Bajo Mono, Los Naranjos, Bajo Boquete (which would eventually become the core of the community), among others.

The district of Boquete was created in January 17th, 1911. The head of the district was initially Lino, but it was moved soon after to Bajo Boquete. For many years, the district had three "corregimientos": Bajo Boquete, Caldera and Palmira. In 1998, the "corregimientos" of Alto Boquete, Jaramillo and Los Naranjos were created. One must also take into account the town's culture and food.

Nature richness

Some of its landmarks include nearby Volcán Barú and the Sendero de los Quetzales, which runs from Boquete to Volcan on the other side of the volcano. It is also known for its coffee, said to be the finest in Panamá (and among the world's best), and its oranges. The Caldera River runs through the town.

Way of living

Boquete has approximately 6,200 inhabitants (2006).Recently, Boquete has become the home of many North American retirees, that have come attracted by its pleasant climate and affordable cost of living. It is also the perfect place to combat Asthma.

Photographs of Boquete and Surrounding Area

External links

* [http://www.escapetoboquete.com Boquete Community Portal]
* [http://www.boqueteshopper.com The Boquete Shopper Classified Ads]
* [http://www.boqueteyellowpages.com Boquete Yellow Pages]
* [http://www.theboquetetimes.com Boquete Online Magazine]
* http://www.contraloria.gob.pa/dec/Publicaciones/17-03/211-03.pdf
* http://www.momentum-panama.com/
* http://www.boquete.org/
* http://www.boquetesafari.com
* [http://www.boquetemountainsafaritours.com Boquete Information on Adventure Tours, Accommodations, Flights, Activities, and News]
* [http://www.hablayapanama.com/ Boquete is home to Panama's top Spanish Language School: Habla Ya Language Center]
* [http://www.boquetegardeninn.com/ Visiting Boquete? Place to stay, things to do, informative links]