A little Sunday |
Shopping... |
with Patra Kastanopolous |
Sunday on THE CAUSEWAY equals free admission to the flea market at LAS BRISAS DE AMADOR between 11:00 AM and 7 PM. Arrive early and drive first to the very end of this spit of land with the canal on one side and the bay on the other. Enter the large building across from the seafood restaurants where Internet stations are found in the corridor approaching a DUTY FREE SHOP. Once there, I discovered my favorite scent, Yves Saint Laurent Opium, Eau D’Orient (Limited edition) for $47.50, respectably discounted from prices in town. Strictly for tourists only, it’s possible to flash a passport and enter. There’s a huge wine and liquor section, watches, designer bags,“Panama Canal Coffee”, and much more! Next to the Duty Free Shop is BLASSEL, CASA de GUAYABERAS, managed by the effervescent and bilingual Emily Gonzalez. This impressive shop contains beautiful 100% linen clothing for both sexes, all made in Panama. One expects to pay more for quality, and prices here aren’t of the bargain basement variety, but on the day of my visit everything was 50% off! I was intrigued by the variety of “Panama” hats, handmade in Ecuador and including styles not seen elsewhere in the city. I coveted the beautiful women’s chapeaus, fabulous enough to make Hollywood stars clamor over them. (Where is a fancy garden party when you need one?) Cuban cigars are also for sale here. Retracing your route back, the well signed FLEA MARKET is located beneath a large white tent making it accessible, rain or shine. Don’t miss Elida Espino’s display of framed molas and painted feathers, the most beautiful and economical I’ve yet to find. Her company, ARTES DE MI PANAMA, produces exceptional work. Elida herself is one of the artists and she’s assisted by two families in San Blas. For as low as $25 you can carry away an addition to your home to be treasured, or a gift to be admired and handed down through generations. Personable Elida speaks English. Meet her on Sundays or call her at 6507-7100. For original jewelry that takes your breath away, dash to Leilani Gonzalez’s area, and plan to spend time feasting your eyes on her one-of-a kind creations. Her appropriate slogan, “LEI, ART FROM HEAVEN TO EARTH” is descriptive and accurate. All pieces are personally handcrafted by Leilani from natural products in Panama, such as shells and seeds lovingly collected and transformed into admired adornments. Individually stunning, each piece makes a definite statement. Prices begin at $7.00 for smaller items and coordinated sets of earrings. Bracelets and necklaces are $50 to $70. I’ve given many for gifts and have also amassed a personal collection. Leilani fairly sparkles with enthusiasm and she infuses love and positive energy into her handiwork. (Her English is better than mine!) A friend all but cleared out Lei’s entire inventory in one fell swoop! Seeing is believing. Check out www.lei-art.blogspot.com
Looking for handmade baby gifts or special things for your little ones? Milene Figueroa and her partner have pillows, diaper bags, quilts, clothing and many other adorable items. Prices are very reasonable and charge cards are accepted. Other vendors sell used items, clothing, plants, furniture, and eclectic collections of merchandise. Taking a break to get a load off your feet and cool down is simple. Coffee shops, ice cream counters, and restaurants are plentiful on the Causeway, and most provide aesthetic outdoor seating. HAPPY SHOPPING! |
Abril 25, 2008 - The Visitor Panama
Artículo publicado en periódico El Visitante (leer información abajo en azul). / Article published in The Visitor newspaper (read information in blue, below).
