Miami & Panama. Must visit spots for an orchid fanatic? - Orchid Board

Amanvari · #1 09-29-2009, 02:05 PM

I will be visiting Miami for 3 days and then Panama for about 10 days in early October and would like some recommendations as to "must see" orchid spots. Any suggestions?

King_of_orchid_growing:) · #2 09-29-2009, 02:43 PM

What do you mean?

Like places to check out orchids in the wild and NOT be able to take them home with you?

Or...

Orchid nurseries?

With orchids in the wild in Florida, ask people like Swamper, Prem, or flhiker.

I don't know who would be able to help you with the Panamanian side of the trip. Maybe kavanaru?

I've only made a quick stop to Miami on my way to the Caribbean islands, and all I can say is, orchids are not growing about in the city.

It's pretty humid in Miami btw. And by humid, I mean like light sauna humid. Be prepared for it.

EdinAZ · #3 09-29-2009, 07:16 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Amanvari

I will be visiting Miami for 3 days and then Panama for about 10 days in early October and would like some recommendations as to "must see" orchid spots. Any suggestions?

Of course there are lots of places in Panama to see them in the wild, but you must have "the eye" for it.

A wonderful place to visit there for orchids is Finca Dracula. It is off the beaten path in the Chiriqui highlands in the western part, but worth the trip for a variety of reasons. It is in the small town of Guadalupe, past Cerro Punta and Volcan. A great place to stay there is Los Quetzales, and Finca Dracula is in easy walking distance.

Welcome to Los Quetzales - Panama Hotel, Ecolodge, Resort and Spa

It is in a wonderful area of cloud forest in La Amistad national Park on the side of Volcan Baru. The birds and wildlife there are fabulous!

Panama is a great place to visit, I've been there several rimes (and always go to Finca Dracula). I know you'll love the trip whatever you do there.

Ed

Amanvari · #4 10-12-2009, 03:05 PM

Thanks so much. RForchids near Miami have been recommended, and I will definitely visit Finca Dracula in Panama

peeweelovesbooks · #5 10-12-2009, 03:38 PM

Hi there.

I live in the sauna, er, Miami.

Let's see......there are orchid nurseries here in Homestead. RF, of course, Motes orchids, Baldan's, Ruben in Orchids and of course Carib.

RF is definitely more of the tourist set up, but Motes is not to be missed if you are a hard core vandaceous freak......., Ruben excels in species catts and Baldan's and Carib are both excellent for phals and catts. I know both do their own breeding.

Motes you need to call ahead to see if they are open. The same with Baldan's-- I think they are by appointment only. Carib closes at 1pm on Saturdays, and they aren't open on Sundays. RF is open every day of the week except Mondays...and I dunno about Ruben in Orchids.

Er...but of course-disclaimer...I'm really not THAT much into chids. (smirk) and a (wink)

Amanvari · #6 10-12-2009, 03:48 PM

Ah thanks

Yes, have been warned about the seething steamy conditions. Was hoping they would have waned some what by the time I get there....end of October, but this does seem unlikely. I will definitely look up the other recommendations that you have posted as they seem worthwhile. I know that it is not exactly in Miami per se but is it worth taking a drive up to the AOS headquarters?

got ants · #7 10-12-2009, 05:03 PM

Miama?

I live north of it in Hollywood, but could easily get lost down at the nurseries in Homestead/Cutler Ridge/Goulds area. Armed with a few places like previously mentioned..RF, Ruebens, etc addresses, and just take a drive down Krome Ave, you'll be surprised at the vast many orc hid growers.

If you happen to be near Ft Laud, you should check out Mickey's Orchids.