What do you know about Panama ?

[EdinAZ]

My wife and I are planning a trip to Panama in March 2009.

I would like to make contact with any Orchid societies (or individuals) there, for information about "Orchid oriented" places; gardens, growers, shows etc. there.

We have been (two years ago) to Finca Dracula, Andres Maduro's facility near Guadalupe, and it was FANTASTIC! If you haven't been there, I can't recommend it too highly. As well as his growing areas, there are fantastic grounds that have many Orchids and also many other plants. Also . . . if you're a "birder", we stayed at a small lodge called "Los Quetzales" (in one of their cabins). It is well-named. In three days there we saw probably 30-40 Quetzals, often two or three together.

Anything you might have by way of recommendations, contacts, etc. will be much appreciated. You can private (or public) message me.

Ed

P.S. We also go to Costa Rica every few years, and have seen a few the "standard" Orchid sites, but if you have any recommendations there, I'm interested.