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Casa Kenia... laid back lodging in Santa Catalina Beach!
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Coiba National Park Eco-tour Guide, surf guide, 10 year plus resident : JAVIER ELIZONDO- Native to So. California, he arrived in Panama´(upon graduating from UCSB BA Spanish Lit. BA Philosophy) as a Peace Corps Volunteer in 1993-95 introducing sustainable agriculture techniques in Chagres National Park.
As a resident of the town of Sta. Catalina since 1996 Javier has personally watched the transformation/transition of Coiba Island as National Penal Colony (1918-1993) to National Park (1993) to UNESCO World Heritage Site (2004). His visits to Coiba began at the inception, during the time of co-existence between Penal Colony and National Park (1993-2002). He has been guiding groups out to Coiba for more than a decade!
As a result he has developed/gained the experience that only very few people/guides have of Coiba. Whether it's seeking out the endemic Coiba Spinetail, hiking to a 'secret' waterfall, observing the spectacular Scarlet Macaws, snorkeling a remote stretch of coral reef, or even surfing an empty line-up on the shores of one of the most pristine islands in the world; Javier will cater to your specific/personal itinerary. His past work experience as a Lifeguard for the City of Solana Beach - San Diego, CA enables him to ensure safety to his groups at a top professional level. His genuine sensitivity to children, teenagers, and adults of all ages make him a complete guide/companion for all. His practical field knowledge of Panama's flora and fauna (esp. on Coiba) gives him credibility at all levels. His travel experience has taken him to almost every continent. Ask him about others parts of the country and his love for the culturally rich and biologically diverse Isthmus of Panama will undoubtedly shine through.
Enjoys birding, free diving, gardening, and surfing Sta. Catalina's famed reef/point. Guiding small adventurous groups out to Coiba has definitely become his special interest.
Most common phrase: '¡Isauro ven aca!'
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| Javier w/guest |
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| Kenia de Elizondo |
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Home maker - home owner : KENIA ELIZONDO - Enjoys gardening, flowers, cooking, raising her children...the heart of her small family! Born and raised in Santa Catalina Beach she makes for a genuine host. Must try her coconut rice dishes. Always excited to visit her husbands side of the family in San Diego, CA. Shy to speak in the English language.
Most common phrase, "¡Vengan a comer!".
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Fith grader, mini-grom : GABRIELA ELIZONDO - Loves school/home school. The best big sister Isauro ever had. Enjoys painting, drawing, story-book reading, and figuring out where dad's Coiba groups come from. Can out sprint all the kids in her class! Looking forward to attending sixth grade in San Diego, CA.
Most common phrase, "¿Puedo ir a la playa con Isauro?".
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| Gaby : standing tall |
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| Isauro with his new board; shaped by his dad. |
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Six year old mini-mini grom : ISAURO EZEQUIEL ELIZONDO - Gets a kick out of standing on his dads boards (on land) while simulating moves of the future. Just started first grade. A proud big brother. A handful 24/7.
Most common phrase, "¡Mira, mira...yo si puedo!"
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BELÉN JASMÍN ELIZONDO...last but definitely not least! Here is the newest addition to the tribe. More arms to hold her than she can imagine. Almost 14 months here...the baby of the family!
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| Where is Belén? |
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