Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
zal tail feathers, and was believed to be responsible for bestowing corn upon hu-
mans.
A popular legend regarding the scarlet-red breast of the quetzal originated dur-
ing the colonial period. In 1524 in the highlands of Guatemala, the Spanish con-
quistador Pedro de Alvarado defeated Tecun Uman, the last ruler of the Quiché
people. As Uman lay dying, his spiritual guide, the quetzal, stained its breast with
Uman's blood and then died of sadness. From that day on, all male quetzals bore a
scarlet breast, and their song hasn't been heard since.
Even today, quetzals are regarded in Central America as a symbol of freedom
and it's commonly believed that they cannot survive if held in captivity. In Panama,
the quetzal is something of a legend, as bird-watchers from far and wide continue
to brave the elements for the chance to see the most famous bird in Central Amer-
ica.
The best time to spot a quetzal is between April and May. At this time they nest
in the highlands and wait for their young to hatch. They're not out courting or for-
aging. You can look for their nests in rotted trunks carved out by their beaks.
Courses
Habla Ya Language Center
LANGUAGE COURSE
( 720-1294;
www.hablayapanama.com
; Av Central, Plaza Los Establos; 8am-6pm Mon-Fri,
9am-noon Sat)
Habla Ya Language Center offers both group and private lessons. A week
of group lessons starts at US$175. The language school is also well connected to local
businesses, so students can take advantage of discounts on everything from accommoda-
tions to tours and participate in volunteer projects.
Spanish by the River
LANGUAGE COURSE
( 720-3456;
www.spanishatlocations.com
)
The sister school to the popular Spanish school
in Bocas del Toro is located 5km south of Boquete near the turnoff to Palmira. Standard/
intensive lessons cost US$185/275 for a one-week course. Discounts come with compre-
hensive packages and longer stays. Offers homestays (nightly US$15), simple dorms
(US$10) or private rooms (US$18).
Festivals & Events
