Ambra arrived in Panama without knowing anything about the country. Her adaptation process was very fast and today she enjoys life in Buenaventura, the point where all her adventures begin.
Italian by birth, Ambra Albertazzi arrived from Spain accompanying her partner in a job proposal. Without much time to think, she left everything to venture into a country where she only recognized one thing: the Canal.
“It was not easy to leave everything and move further away from my family, however it has been a memorable experience that has greatly exceeded our expectations.” Initially she did not know anything about Panama, she only knew Panama through the Canal. I did not expect such a beautiful country, they have so much to see and offer. I adapted very quickly and people are very friendly, ” she noted.
Already fully established in the country, living in Buenaventura where she has become a mixture of community manager and a link with the residents, she tells us about the difference between someone who visits Panama, a tourist and now a resident. Ambra shares her feelings with us about moving to Panama.
PL: Do you remember when you arrived in Panama?
AA: When I got to Panama I went directly to Buenaventura, we took a taxi. I didn’t see anything on the way because it was night. When I arrived in Buenaventura I saw a paradise. I also remember the first time I arrived in Panama City, it was exciting to see the infrastructure, the skyscrapers. The city is very international and has many quality restaurants, it really exceeded my gastronomic expectations. I have to confess that i now love to visit the city.
PL: What would you highlight about Panama for a tourist?
AA: During this time I have been able to get to know a lot about Panama. Being in a tropical country that has a mountain area is incredible. That is something that many people do not know or expect. Panama offers everything, not only from the tropics. Another of my favorite places was Contadora for its beautiful crystal clear waters, activities and marine fauna. I also visited Colón with its exquisite Caribbean food. I still remember the octopus with Afro-Caribbean sauce. I have had many experiences that I did not expect to have. I would definitely recommend my friends and family to visit Panama.
PL: Tell us about your favorite restaurants
AA: I love Tai Kai in Buenaventura, I love sushi and my partner did not like sushi, however since he tried it in this restaurant he started eating it. Additionally, Panamanian food has surprised me with the mix of flavors, for example the different ways of using bananas. I used to think that Panamanian gastronomy was simpler, but I was pleasantly surprised. A highly recommend Fonda Lo Que Hay and Bruttito in the city.
Ambra is social. It didn’t take her long to socialize and make friends in Buenaventura where her partner works. So she joined the team a while ago to support digital aspects.
“I am in charge of the social networks of the Golf Club and the Sport Club, I also support the events and above all make Buenaventura known, everything that it offers and happens. Additionally, I am trying to create a community with common interests. I remember that in Spain I knew all my neighbors, I seek to connect people to organize events, go to the beach together,, try to make more community ”she added.
PL: Tell us about your experience in Buenaventura
AA: Buenaventure is a paradise. My life has changed a lot, unlike in Europe, here you can find fresh, organic food, I love that. I had seen photos to get an idea. But it’s not the same; Buenaventure has it all. Get up early and go to the Sport Club that has excellent equipment to exercise. When I finish I go home to work, I usually go through Buenaventura in search of videos and photos to generate content. And in the afternoons one of my favorite moments is going to the beach and watching the sunset. I love the beach, it’s very big, every day it’s like a new beach, because it changes. It offers me a different experience every time I go. I also like to play golf, having it next to home is the best.
PL: How was it making friends in Panama?
AA : When we moved into our house, we began to meet people even though there are many visitors to Buenaventura. Common interests and hobbies always make it easy to meet friends, for example golf helped me meet many people.
To finish, we ask Ambra for a recommendation for those who want to come to Panama. This was her response. “I recommend that you investigate well before coming. I remember that I read a lot on the internet and I brought a lot of cold things because they told me that it rained a lot. When I arrived I knew the humidity and temperature of the tropics. I highly recommend that you educate yourself with the right people and pages, for example in Panama Living you can find everything you need to know about the country”, she concluded.
