Best and Worst neighborhoods in the Panama City

Introduction

Panama City, the capital of Panama, is a bustling metropolis with a population of over 1.5 million people. It is a city that boasts a rich history, a diverse culture, and a thriving economy. As with any major city, Panama City is comprised of various neighborhoods, each with its own distinct personality, characteristics, and amenities. In this article, we will explore some of the best and worst neighborhoods in Panama City, providing you with a comprehensive guide to help you make informed decisions when considering where to live, work, or visit in this vibrant city.

Part 1: Best Neighborhoods in Panama City

1. Bella Vista

Bella Vista is one of the most desirable neighborhoods in Panama City, and for good reason. Located in the heart of the city, it is a trendy, upscale neighborhood that offers a wide range of amenities and services, including shopping malls, restaurants, cafes, bars, and entertainment venues. Bella Vista is also home to some of the city's most prestigious schools, making it a popular choice for families with children. It is a safe, clean, and walkable neighborhood, with tree-lined streets and beautiful parks.

2. Costa del Este

Costa del Este is a modern, planned neighborhood that was designed with families in mind. Located just east of the city center, it is a quiet, upscale neighborhood that offers a wide range of amenities and services, including shopping malls, restaurants, cafes, bars, and entertainment venues. Costa del Este is also home to some of the city's best schools and universities, making it a popular choice for families with children. It is a safe, clean, and well-maintained neighborhood, with beautiful parks and green spaces.

3. Punta Pacifica

Punta Pacifica is a luxurious waterfront neighborhood located in the heart of Panama City. It is home to some of the city's most exclusive residential buildings, including the iconic Trump Ocean Club. Punta Pacifica is also home to some of the best restaurants and cafes in the city, as well as high-end shopping malls and entertainment venues. The neighborhood is clean, safe, and well-maintained, with beautiful parks and stunning views of the ocean.

Part 2: Worst Neighborhoods in Panama City

1. El Chorrillo

El Chorrillo is a densely populated, impoverished neighborhood located near the city center. It is a rough, unsafe area that is known for its high crime rate and drug activity. The neighborhood is also prone to flooding during the rainy season, making it a challenging place to live. El Chorrillo has a high poverty rate, with many residents struggling to make ends meet. It is not recommended to live or visit this neighborhood, especially after dark.

2. Santa Ana

Santa Ana is another neighborhood located near the city center that is known for its high crime rate and poverty. The area is characterized by dilapidated buildings, littered streets, and a lack of basic services and amenities. Santa Ana is also prone to flooding during the rainy season, making it a challenging place to live. The neighborhood is not recommended for living or visiting due to safety concerns.

3. San Miguelito

San Miguelito is a large, sprawling neighborhood located on the outskirts of Panama City. It is a low-income area that is known for its high crime rate, gang activity, and poverty. The neighborhood is characterized by dilapidated buildings, littered streets, and a lack of basic services and amenities. San Miguelito is not recommended for living or visiting due to safety concerns.

Conclusion

Panama City is a diverse, vibrant city that offers a wide range of neighborhoods to suit all tastes and preferences. While some neighborhoods, such as Bella Vista, Costa del Este, and Punta Pacifica, are highly desirable due to their safety, cleanliness, and amenities, others, such as El Chorrillo, Santa Ana, and San Miguelito, are not recommended for living or visiting due to safety concerns and poverty.

When choosing a neighborhood in Panama City, it is important to consider factors such as safety, proximity to basic services and amenities, and the overall cost of living. While some neighborhoods may be more expensive than others, they may offer a higher quality of life and greater access to services and amenities.

Overall, Panama City is a city of contrasts, with affluent neighborhoods existing alongside impoverished ones. It is important to exercise caution when living or visiting some of the city's more challenging neighborhoods, while enjoying the many benefits and opportunities that the city has to offer in the more desirable ones.