Why Panama?

In late 2003, we started the process to establish a private game reserve in Mozambique with joint ventures for services with the nearby community that included possibilities for education, research and promotion of responsible tourism with fair trade. The first few steps went smoothly, but then we ran into a wall. Somehow, things didn’t move anymore, or, if they moved, they went the wrong way. In January 2005 we decided against our further investment in this Mozambican project due to bureaucracy, lack of legal protection for our foreign investment and (increasing?) corruption.
We reconsidered our steps, studied the internet and other sources to identify another tropical and magical country where we could invest relatively safely and securely in eco-tourism. Amongst some other possible countries, Panamá was often indicated.

In September 2005 Loes made a two-week reconnaissance visit to verify in person the investment possibilities in Panama. The visit focused on our areas of interest and expertise:
· nature research, conservation and sustainable exploration
· sustainable rural development and fair trade to benefit communities living nearby
· responsible eco-tourism
In January and Februari 2006 both Kees and Loes spent time in Panama. This time the focus was on:
· laws and lawyer(s) for how to set up a business and acquire a residence visa
· land to verify where we could settle and how property is transferred
· finance to find a local trustworthy bank and the requirements to open an account
· more contacts to find out and verify as much as possible on all of the above…

And now the adventure really begins. Is it going to be Panamagic or Panamadness?
It is now July 2006 and we arrived only a few days ago and must think and work hard to make it all happen. Lots of friends back in Mozambique and elsewhere in the world said they would like to hear how we are doing n Mozambique and some claimed they might follow us if all goes well. This weblog seems the easiest way to keep them and other interested people informed.

In the mean time, we still have a beach house for sale in Mozambique (see picture) If you are interested, or know someone who is interested, visit us www.viviun.com/Real_Estate/Mozambique.

You are all welcome to post your comments and ask (relevant) questions, but be patient with us because we are only just starting!