Shopping and Sightseeing in Panama

Panama? That's the country that was named after the Panama Canal, right?

Actually, the nation came first, the canal much later. However, it is impossible to separate the nation of Panama from the world's most famous man-made waterway. The international flavor of Panama City, the nations capital and largest city, is due, in large part, to the canal. However, there is not a very cosmopolitan feel. Locals in Panama City are quite friendly, fun loving, and can be almost infuriatingly laid back (as in the guy at the hotel reception won't get you a clean towel until the soccer match that he is engrossed in has ended). Overall, Panama City is an exciting place to visit, filled with sights, scents, and experiences.

Money flows freely in the banks around Via Espana. Panama is famous for its privacy laws, much like Switzerland and the Cayman Islands. Even if you aren't seeking a tax haven, Via Espana is a great place to check out some upscale shopping venues. There are malls with brand names and famous designers. Prices are not cheap, but it's free to window shop, and no more expensive than similar boutiques elsewhere in the world.

Panama Viejo is a famous market that sits on the other end of the prices scale from Via Espana. If you are looking for an authentic souvenir, this is surely the place to start. Carvings, woven baskets, and, of course, Panama's famous head-wear, are found here and in other traditional markets around the city.

In duty free zones along the canal (namely, the Colon Free Trade Zone), many consumer products are on sale quite cheaply. Heading to Colon is a good idea if you are trying to find a bargain on electronics, apparel, or even cosmetics.

The best facet of Panama's economy, at least according to visitors from the US, is the exchange rate. Travelers can get by with US dollars very easily in Panama. They are accepted everywhere, and Panama's currency, the balboa, has exactly the same value as its US counterpart (1 balboa = $1 US).

Panama is notorious for its lack of good hospitality service. While you might not expect much more than a smile and a clean table at a local eatery, the lack of professionalism and helpfulness in many hotels and a few shops might leave a bad taste in your mouth. Tipping, especially early on in your stay, might motivate a hotel's hired help to make you a little more comfortable. That said, many bigger hotels are improving and many family run guesthouses provide friendly if basic accommodation. Don't let one bad experience ruin Panama's positive vibe.

Panama is one of the easiest, most fun countries to visit in Central America.