This is a really interesting post Jean. As you know, I live in Panama and this family could easily be there. I see a lot of middle class/wealthy people in Panama City, who live in gorgeous homes, have all the latest tech and staff cleaning their houses/looking after the kids. You're right, labour is not expensive at all (compared to Australia for example where childcare costs are ridiculously high and having a cleaner is a luxury).
On the other hand, if you go outside of Panama City there are a lot more people living in poverty and this is what the mainstream view of people who haven't been there think whole country is like. It doesn't surprise me that the wealthier African nations are the same.
As a side note--and without possibly meaning to--your blog is doing a great job of exposing people to (upper) middle class life in Kenya. I think it's really great and one of the reasons I continue to follow you.
Thanks @choogirl I loved this picture because it sparked debate and even opened people up. On a side note, do you think costs for childcare in Panama are high because very few people are willing to do it and so the scarcity leads to high prices? Because I think for us, the prices are low because many people are unemployed and are willing to do such jobs.
I am very glad that people can tell their stories outside of what the media focusses on. I also love that with "experiental" travel, people can get to go and see for themselves instead of relying on the news.
*I have realized that you always support me and I am grateful for that. I also love what you are doing for Team Austraia. Cheers to a successful new year. *
Sorry, maybe I wasn't clear. Australia has high childcare costs (due to high wages and numerous govt regulations around who can look after kids and where), but in Panama it's really cheap. Everyone has a nanny.
Thanks for your comment :)
Oh now I get it. Thanks :)