I have a business trip coming up in the spring and have the choice of Panama or Guatemala. I plan to take some time off after the business part of the trip to vacation, and would appreciate some advice on Panama vs. Guatemala for this trip.

There is a write up in todays NYTimes<BR><BR>http://www.nytimes.com/2002/05/03/international/americas/03GUAT.html<BR>Human Rights workers and fears of threats and attacks.<BR>Clyde Snow who set up the Guat. Team for forensic anthropoligists thinks it is because they are getting close to people in the military. Human Rights workers have unearthed mass graves from <BR>Guat. Civil War and recorded Human Rights Violations.

Human Rights Watch has done a similar piece where the human rights workers in Guat. have been receiving threats and are being intimidated.<BR><BR>http://www.hrw.org/americas/index.php

I've been to Guatemala twice (once alone) and to Panama once. I am a woman, mid 50's.<BR><BR>It depends on what you like. If you like beautiful scenery, ruins, indigenous cultures, crafts, you'll love Guatemala.<BR><BR>If you like outdoor activities, want to transverse the canal, visit wildlife, have a laid-back vacation, then Panama is better.<BR><BR>I loved them both, you need a little Spanish to help smooth the way but the people in both are welcoming and wonderful.<BR><BR>Buen viaje,<BR>Sandy

Panama is the place to go!<BR>Once you have been there, you will love<BR>it and will either stay forever <BR>or come back to stay forever.<BR>Write me if you need more info.<BR>or have an specific question<BR>about Panama. <BR>Orlando: [email protected]

If you do choose Panama--You must visit the San Blas Islands. In particular the island of Kwadule. It is a very small island with palm trees, hammocks and only 6 huts on stilts directly over the water. You can get an all-inclusive package deal including the flight and small boat ride to the private island--a true Gilligan's Island experience. Bring a book, sunscreen and snorkle gear. Absolutely terrific for R&R but not much else.