Located at the southernmost point of Central America is Panama. Long known for the Panama Canal, an engineering feat and extrememly important hub for world trade, discerning and savvy travelers have quickly put Panama on the list of top destinations in Central America and the world Panama really has an appeal for everyone. Panama City is a bustling urban environment with massive high-rises and skyscrapers, world-class restaurants, high-end shopping, and all the pleasures of a culturally diverse city. World-travelers who have been lucky enough to discover Panama also rave about the gorgeous beaches and never-ending supply of exciting outdoor adventures. The three coasts of Panama, the Caribbean, Pacific, and Gulf of Panama, offer an array of attitudes and lifestyles sure to suit anyone.
Couple all this with the security of investments in Panama and it's no surprise more and more people choose Panama as an ideal location for their second home. Panama offers serious financial privacy and no corporate or personal taxes. National Geographic Traveler said, "Panama is now where Costa Rica was 10 years ago and getting ready to explode." Have the foresight to visit Panama and learn more about the excellent opportunities investment here offers.
Panama
at a Glance
Location:
Central America, bordering both the Caribbean Sea and the North Pacific Ocean, between Colombia and Costa Rica
Area: 78,200 sq km
Area - comparative:
Slightly smaller than South Carolina
Coastline: 2,490 km
Climate:
Tropical maritime; hot, humid, cloudy; prolonged rainy season (May to January), short dry season (January to May)
Average Temperatures:
Coastal temperatures average 90°F, while mountain temperatures are generally much cooler at 72°F
Languages:
Spanish (official), English 14%; note - many Panamanians bilingual
Government type:
Constitutional democracy
Capital: Panama
Legal system:
Based on civil law system; judicial review of legislative acts in the Supreme Court of Justice; accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction with reservations
GDP - real growth rate:
7.8% (2007 est.)
Currency (code):
Balboa (PAB); US dollar (USD)
Internet hosts: 7,078 (2007)
International Airports:
• Tocumen International Airport (PTY), Panama City
Diplomatic representation from the US:
Chief of mission:
Ambassador William A. Eaton
Embassy:
Edificio 783,
Avenida Demetrio Basilio Lakas Panama,
Apartado Postal 0816-02561,
Zona 5, Panama City 5
Mailing address:
American Embassy Panama,
Unit 0945, APO AA 34002