Time Zone |
America/Panama |
Standard Time GMT / UTC |
UTC-5 |
Daylight Saving Time |
Daylight saving time is not observed in the current region. |
Time Zone |
Asia/Yerevan |
Standard Time GMT / UTC |
UTC+4 |
Daylight Saving Time |
Daylight saving time is not observed in the current region. |
Gran Chiriquí is an important region in western Panama, not an independent country, but a cultural and geographical concept centered on the Chiriquí Province. The region is bordered by Costa Rica to the west and is known for its volcanic formations, coffee estates and Pacific coastline.
Volcán Barú (3,474 meters above sea level), the highest peak in Panama, looks out over both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. The surrounding area is home to the World Heritage La Amistad National Park, which encompasses cloud forests and rare species such as the crested greenbrier rhododendron. The coral reefs and rainforests of the Bocas del Toro archipelago form a unique ecosystem.
Gran Chiriquí is the main coffee-producing region of Panama, and brands such as Gaisa Coffee are internationally recognized. Traditional festivals, such as the Bolero Festival, combine the culture of the Ngäbe Indians with the Spanish colonial imprint. The city of David serves as a transportation hub, connecting the Costa Rican border with the Pacific Ocean resorts.
Visitors can experience volcano hikes, bird-watching trips, or visit the world-class surf spots of Santa Catalina. The town of Remedios retains its colonial architecture, while the Rainforest Canopy Trail offers an aerial viewing experience.
Sevan is a small town in the Armenian province of Gegharkunik, located in the eastern part of the country on the shores of Lake Sevan, about 66 kilometers from the capital city of Yerevan. The town is famous for its eponymous alpine lake, Lake Sevan, one of the largest freshwater lakes in Eurasia, at an altitude of about 1,900 meters above sea level, which is known as the "Pearl of Armenia".
Lake Sevan is surrounded by magnificent landscapes and crystal clear waters, making it an important tourist and recreational destination in Armenia. The town boasts historical monuments such as the Sevan Monastery, a 9th-century monastery situated on a peninsula overlooking the lake, which attracts many tourists and pilgrims. The local economy is based on fishing, tourism and agriculture, and the climate is cool enough for summer vacations.
With a population of around 20,000, the town of Sevan retains its traditional Armenian culture, while the infrastructure is constantly being improved to provide accommodation and catering services. It is an ideal starting point for exploring the nature and history of the Caucasus and is easily accessible for short trips.