We decided to go into town even though it was chilly and rainy. A pretty good jazz band was playing at Amigos and our friends were sitting in for a couple of songs.
When we arrived the music had started, the place was packed. It was warm from all the people which felt really nice on a chilly night. There was a cheerful, low roar of voices with smiles and animated conversation, lightly fueled with alcohol. The band was playing at just the right volume, enough to be heard but not so loud that you couldn't talk over the music.
The place felt warm and welcome, inviting and fun. When Yella suggested that we go, I was resistant, but now I was glad to be there.
We visited with friends, listened to the jazz, then our friends did a couple of numbers to a rousing ovation.
Much fun had by all!
Then a guitar player sat in with the band and played rock-a-billy boogie...what? Have you ever heard this kind of music backed up with a jazz band? Granted he was OK but the continuity was peculiar.
Only in Panama!
After a couple of hours we headed home.
Now the real adventure begins...driving on Saturday night in Boquete...it gets VERY drunk out.
Six nights of the week, Boquete rolls up the sidewalks at 8 pm. But on Saturday night, let the party begin! It goes until 5 or 6 in the morning! Impressive!
Panamanians for sure get drunk but the Indians take it to a whole new level. Then they fight over women. The winner gets to take the woman home. Not a great prize either way, if you know what I mean.
Also, many drive without lights, all over the road, from off the road to on the road or just stop in the road. Pedestrians lurch out in the road or simply sleep on the road.
All in all, you have to be vigilant because if you hit a Panamanian, you go to jail, no matter who is at fault. And, you may get prosecuted in the crooked courts for 10's of thousands of dollars.
So the stakes are high.
We made it home without hitting anyone. To live and enjoy another day.
An very pleasant Saturday night.
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