Kristin Panke - Reservations Manager
Kristin Is from the great State of Virginia and a graduate of The University of Virginia. She worked in the corporate world after graduation, but quickly realized that she needed to be on the water living a Caribbean lifestyle. Her journey to Central America began with working as a research assistant for a sea turtle conservation program in Costa Rica and continued with her work as an Underwater Videographer in Bocas del Toro, Panama. Kristin makes jewelry and enjoys creating artwork in a variety of mediums. Her mosaic work can be seen throughout Casa Verde, our Hostel & Guesthouse in Bocas Town. After living for months at Casa Verde as a guest Kristin became the resident manager. Because of her excellent work ethic and attention to detail she was recently asked to handle all reservations for Casa Paradisio.
The Garcia's - On-Site Property Managers
Michael and Christine Garcia are originally from San Diego, California. They have a son attending college and have had the great pleasure of living in Greece, Costa Rica and Panama. In San Diego Michael was a successful landscape contractor. His talent is evident in the beautiful grardens surrounding Casa Paradisio. Michael also has a license to sail yachts of up to 65' in length. If you are interested in taking a cruise he will be happy to set you up with a fantasstic tour of the surrounding islands. Christine on the other hand, was an accomplished chef in the US and will be happy to cater your meals should you wish to take a break from the kitchen during your stay with us. This couple has a love of adventure and are ready to help you make your trip to Panama everything you had hoped and more. Since becoming our resident managers our customer satisfaction ratings have soared and we invite you to let them help you make your dreams come true.
Josefina DeBilanfanty - Bookkeeper & Office Manager
Josefina was born and raised in Bocas del Toro. She is a mother of 5 incredible children – most of whom have chosen to live in the Bocas del Toro area. Josefina is a graduate of the Collegio Adventista in Costa Rica. After graduation, she taught English for 19 years in the provinces of both Chiriqui and Bocas del Toro. She also held a very important position with the Electric Company in Bocas for many years. As such, she has a wealth of knowledge about just about everything in Bocas. Josefina has worked with Bocas del Toro Realty Services, Inc. as a bookkeeper for the past three years and is the heart and soul of Casa Verde. Feel free to ask her anything you wish - she is there to help.
Walter Kawano - Broker and General Manager
A native from Panama City, Panama, Walter was initiated into the world of Panama real estate at the turn of the millennium. His degree in business from the University of Panama, proficiency in English and having gained valuable knowledge working as a collaborator for major international companies prepared him well for this exciting profession. Walter quickly found success in Panama City working with both residential and commercial customers – most of which were medium and high level executives of international companies. His success gave him the flexibility to explore developing real estate markets within Panama. It was a search for property in the virtually undiscovered province of Bocas del Toro where he crossed paths with the owners of small company that was in the process of buying waterfront properties throughout the area. There was an instant connection – one that would result in a great friendship and the opportunity for Walter to start a brokerage business in paradise. Today, Bocas del Toro Realty Services, Inc. is one of the most recognized real estate companies in Bocas and Walter’s reputation for honesty and fair dealing is leading to success in the western provinces of Veraguas and Chriqui as well. Walter has helped many people make their dreams come true by finding them exceptional values in Panamanian real estate and by post sales services assisting clients to relocate in Panama. He continues what he hopes will be a lifetime of exploring real estate opportunities in the relatively undiscovered western provinces. As has been his mantra from the start, Walter is dedicated to providing the best possible service while giving you the benefit of his many years of experience. Please feel free to give him a call – you will be glad you did. |
