I have a slight different perspective of Panama than Mrs767er. Panama is a fun place. The people are very lively and exciting. I find the taxi's to be cheap. Very cheap. You can go all over town for 2.50 or 3 bucks. Hotels? It depends where you stay too like anywhere else. Panama is quite modern, moreso than most other Central American countries. They are currently experiencing a construction boom. I was just in Panama last month in early July. I actually lived down there in the 1970's and I know alot of people there. Whenever I go to Panama, I reminice about the old days when they had the U.S Panama Canal. I go to places in Panama I've known for years. Go to NAPOLI'S PIZZA or SORRENTO'S. Both been around for ages and they have the most livliest clientelle you'll see with great Spaghetti and Meatballs, clams, pizza and more. Cerveza Balboa is served there, PANAMA, ATLAS, SOBERANA. Very inexpensive. I have shipped through the Panama Canal too and when you fly into Panama, it goes right over the Canal. I admit I don't like the latest progress and construction going on in Panama. The place has changed way too much for my liking, but its still a neat place to visit. At least the place has mountains and not just flat with no character. HINT. If you lack Spanish language skills, Latin America isn't as fun. So, APRENDE LA IDIOMA. Every bit helps and the Taxi drivers won't rip you off. Panama is old hat for me. I am into visiting other places I have yet to see. Been there and done that. But its a fun place to visit.
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