Tea & Simplicity: El Año Viejo

The old year. Twenty-nineteen has reached it's end and so has the second decade of the twenty-first century.
We visited the Biomuseo in the morning, to see one of Panama's most famous buildings - the carnival edifice of starchitect Frank Gehry. The audacious building houses an extensive exploration of the natural world, the rich biodiversity, and the cultural implications of Panama. It is interpretive, innovative and inspiring!
Next, our patient and knowledgeable driver, Mario, whom we've had since our arrival at Panama's Tocumen International Airport, delivered us to the city's premier Bicicletas Rali bike store where Duane searched for a shop t-shirt. Alas, it was not to be had this time. There were world-class bicycles and all the parts, accessories, and tools that any bicyclist the world over would want - including the beautiful $5,000 ride that was "on sale".
As we drove out of the heart of the city - through boroughs of tenement apartments, a lush national park, and finally palatial bungalows with large walled yards and patios; we had arrived at our "home" for the next two nights - the Albrook Inn. We settled in for two restful days and nights, with a small pool and patio for bird-watching and cool-drink-sipping.
In Panama, everyone is smiling about the repetitious Veinte-veinte and dressing well and eating heartily for the new year. Last night, the popping of fireworks continued into the wee hours of the morning, but around us, the neighborhood is subdued and blooming in all colors. This is the first New Year's we've ever spent away from home. It is a bit strange to be so distanced from our traditions as to be in a different country altogether. But what use are traditions if you can't make new ones, right?
El Año Viejo, is The Old Year as opposed to El Ano Viejo, which is The Old A--hole. Let the old one go and bring in the new. Our love and best wishes for you in the New Year. Happy 2020!