Located at the mouth of the Panama Canal, just out into the Bay lies the 'French Quater' of Panama City, known as the Casco Viejo. Imagine the streets of Paris, and then take them and put them in Panama City and you have this delightful area. It is reminiscent of the French Quarter of New Orleans or perhaps Havana, and is the oldest City ont he Coast of the Americas!!

The reason for this French influence in Panama City is because of the French attempt to build the Canal themseleves in 1881, which subsequently failed, but they did succeed in building this very cultural part of the now expansive Panama City. This was where the French workers from the Canal would hang out and live during the failed Canal attempt. The narrow streets are lined by typical french style town houses, with balconies overlooking. The area, however, is not totally French influenced, and it is easy to pick out both Caribbean and Spanish Culture int he area. This blend of cultures has made this one of the most appealing and promising areas of the city, and indeed Panama as a whole!

All aspects of this amazing area come together, to give a real atmosphere and good feeling when visiting the area. The arts, the history, culture and architecture all give a sense that a lot of care has been taken in building this area into what it is today, and now they are reaping the rewards! The area plays host to some of the best restaurants in the city, and there are many sights to see, and if you are lucky you will be able to buy some of the famouse Kuna Mola's.

Casco Viejo is definatly the focal point of all of Panama City, its architecture, its culture and its arts, it realy is a special place! In the area there are theatres, art galleries, museums and much much more. So much time could be spent exploring the area, and its well worth it.

UNESCO and the United Nations for Education, Science and Culture in 1998 identified Casco Viejo as a site of world interest due to its architecture and rich history. Currently Casco Viejo is being renovated to its former glory and once finished will be on the most expensive neighborhoods in Panama.

So its great for tourists, But what does it have to offer investors?

Location - Part of one of the most culturally diverse cities in the world, and home to alot of that culture, this area is a prime location for anyone looking for high end city living with culture. Currently being renovated and improved, watch this space!

History - The one and only section of the Original Panama City that is left standing, Casco Viejo simply reeks of history and culture. The French and Spanish architecture from the 1800's stands all around and invites in a warm and historic feeling. A rich history of Pirates, Cathedrals and immigrants makes this part of Panama City a cultural gem.

Environment - One of the most culturally rich areas of all of Panama, and indeed the world. You can sit at a cafe on the side of the street, sipping fresh coffee and forget where you are, you get taken back in time and can really get lost in the moment, its a real must for all! It does however have a different side, which comes alive at night, with some of the best clubs and bars in the whole of Panama.

Investment - Property in this area is currently dramatically undervalued, making this the perfect time to invest. The property prices dropped due to many squatters in the area, but now that the governement is restoring the area to its former glory, they have moved many of the squatters out. Once the work has been completed, this area will once again become the center of all that is Panama, and property value is going to rocket, it is 100% certain to appreciate in value! So don't miss out, get in while its still cheap!

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