Panama City is often described as 'The Crossroads of the World." And its really not hard to see why! The Panama Canal runs through the city, and indeed the whole of Panama, connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, creating one of the most important transportation links in the modern world! The 450,000 residents of this great city, also add to its Crossroads description, with people from all over the globe, all of which were travelers in the past having settled in the area, making this the most cosmopolitan city in Central America. If you are not sure where exactly Panama City is located, then check out the map below.

In this great city, it is clear to see that there are influences from all around the globe. The city is often said to be a mix of Madrid, Miami, Rio and a bit of Honk Kong and also a slither of Paris in the Casco Viejo sector of town. All of these different influences can be seen in such aspects as architecture, particularly the french influence in Casco Viejo area, cuisine, with many different restaurants being found all over the city, shops and of course the people themselves.

Panama City, obviously takes its name from the country of which it is capital, but what does the name Panama mean and where did it come from? Well Panama comes from the native indian language, meaning "an abundance of fish" and with 2 long coasts it is not hard to understand. Everywhere you visit you cannot miss the fish and seafood restaurants, and fish dishes in pretty much every other place.

With such a diverse culture in Panama City, visitors have such a wide variety of places to visit and things to do, and not only during the day. At night the city really comes alive with so many bars, clubs and restaurants, all offering that little something different. You can dance salsa in once place, take a short walk and dance flamenco at another, you can even find places for break dancing enthusiasts, and pumping nightclubs with the latest in dance music. Restaurants are just as diverse with Indian, French, Chinese and even Lebanese, along with a whole lot more! There really is something for everyone in this greatly diverse city, which is why it is regarded as one of the best in the world!

One major part of the city, which is impossible to overlook, is of course one of the 7 wonders of the modern world, The Panama Canal. Stretching from the Pacific Coast to the Caribbean Coast, this stunning engineering masterpiece stretches for 51 miles. Many people believe this to be just a dead straight concrete river that flows from one side of Panama to the other. But this is not the case, it has a complicated lock system, and has been built around parts of the country, as it snakes its way through the rainforest, and past villages, it really is very impressive indeed! For the best view of the canal, it is suggested that you head north of Panama City to the Soberania National park, where you can join the vultures that circle the hill. From here you can see the ships waiting to enter the canal, you can see all the locks and watch the ships as they pass through, it really is a truly breathtaking sight of a magnificent landmark!

So what does Panama City have to offer?

During the Daytime - Panama is known as the shopping and bargaining center of Central America, so if you need something make sure you know how to bargain to really get the best deals! People and companies from all over the world travel to Panama to sell their products, meaning that you are almost certain to find what you are looking for here, and with the number of shops in this city, there is always an alternative to look at! For a relaxing cup of coffee, or even something different, there are some great cafe's in the Casco Viejo area of Panama City. Here you can sit down, relax and watch the hustle and bustle of the world as it passes you by. Then there is the Panama Canal which is a must visit for all who visit this stunning city!

During the Nighttime - Some people have the misconception that such a large city in Central America will have a high crime rate to go with it. But this is definitely not the case, in fact it is said to be one of the safest places to be at night, with police seen around every corner. Unlike many places its more than safe to walk around, even unaccompanied at 3 am in the morning, although it is still advised to walk with someone when possible. Your nightlife choices are vast in this stunning city, with numerous Casinos, Nightclubs of all kinds (dance, rock, alternative etc), bars of all kinds, restaurants, pubs and more!

The People - You will find no other place like Panama City on the globe. Its population is made up of people from all countries and cultures that you could think of, that have come together to form this magnificent city. However they have not given into influences from each other, but have kept their own identities to the larger extent, to create a city with such diversity, it really is a great experience.

The History - Panama City has great history, but it also has great present and i am sure, a great future. The city is made up of the modern section, old colonial section and the French sector, or the Casco Viejo. Around the city you will see a lot of history, particularly related to pirates and Noriega. This is not just confined to the city, but the whole country of Panama, you cant escape it!

So Panama City has a lot to offer visitors, But what does it have to offer investors?

Location - Panama City is close to everything that anyone could ever dream of. In the city you have shops, restaurants, bars, clubs, hospitals and all in a safe, well policed environment. The nearest beach is just 30 minutes away, there are immaculate white sanded beaches just over an hours drive, 1 hour to the Caribbean Coast, and some of the best diving you will find anywhere in Central America. 45 minutes and you find yourself in the cooler climates of the mountains, with some great hiking to be had. You have Albrook Airport for short internal flights to Chiriqui and Bocas del Toro and Tocumen International to take you anywhere in the world! What more could you ask for from a single location!

Services - Panama City has the most up to date infrastructure of any Central American City. You can easily find banking through a wide range of international banks, private hospitals and healthcare, dentists, shopping and leisure activities.

Cost of Living - When comparing the cost of living with either the US or the UK, it is staggering how cheap it is to live in Panama. The cost of living is said to be just 25% (1 quarter) of that of the US or UK, making it very attractive for retirement, or people running online businesses. Living in a place like this with an income up to UK or US standards can provide the standard of living that most people can only dream of, not only in Panama but the world. Housing is also a bargain, with many high rises and houses being constructed, many pre construction bargains can be had! With all the international banks on offer, financing is not a problem, with some great repayment rates available. The cost of day to day living such as food, electricity and water are also much lower than the western world. $100k will easily buy you a Canal view apartment in one of the condo projects, so why not look into it today.

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