By Dwight Malone
Panama City is the most populous city in Panama in addition to being the country's capital. The city is located on the Gulf of Panama and is a driving force behind the economy, which is largely attributed to the commerce that is created from the Panama Canal. Panama City also has a robust banking industry that is a key component of the city's local economy.
The Beginning
On August 15, 1519, Panama City was founded and after being destroyed in 1671 by a band of pirates. Two years later, the city was rebuilt five miles from its original location.
Tourist Destination
Panama City has many top-flight restaurants and hotels, which make it a tourism destination, including many sites located in the original location of Panama City, also called Casco Viejo.
Urban Issues
Panama City has seen a population boom, with many office buildings and condominiums being built. This has significantly increased the population more than expected and caused a strain on the city's infrastructure.
Airport
Panama City is home to Tocumen International Airport, which offers flights to the Caribbean, including major U.S. cities, such as New York and Washington D.C.
Schools
Private schools are very popular in Panama City and many are bilingual, teaching curriculum in both English and Spanish, while others offer educations taught in Mandarin, Italian and French.
About the Author:
Dwight Malone is a journalist who has worked for various Chicago-area newspapers, including the "Chicago Tribune" and "Naperville Sun." He has been a writer, editor and graphic designer since 2000. Malone studied journalism at Eastern Illinois University.
