Situated between Costa Rica (in the northwest) and Columbia (in the southeast), Panama is a small country that has a total land area of 29,157 square miles. On the list of the world's largest country, it is placed 118th. It is the smallest Spanish speaking country in Latin America in terms of population with a little over 3 million people. Panama is shaped like a small letter 'n' though a little skewered and it is a 'bridge' between Central America and South America.
If you think about Panama, you will most likely think of sun and sea. Panama is blessed with long wonderful stretches of sandy beaches along its north and south coast so it has become a favorite romantic getaway for tourists who like the sun and sea. However, Panama has other attractions as well. Near the Costa Rican end, there is a mountain range which extends up to 6,500 feet. In the Chiriqui district, you can find some volcanoes, the largest of which is called Baru. This region is mainly used for agricultural purposes and is quite cold. If you plan to visit these parts, please be advised to bring the appropriate clothing.
Panama was a Spanish colony up to 28 November 1821. It was also under Columbian rule until 3 November 1903. Now, it is a fully independent country. Due to its past, Panamanians still speak Spanish and much of its early culture can be traced to Spanish influences. In recent years, Panama has seen an increase in the arrival of Africans, Chinese, Jewish, Hindus and other races. Panama prides itself as the banking and economical center of Latin America because of its strategic location. With the coming of these new people, the Panamanian culture is slowly evolving to stamp its own distinct path. A good example is traditional Panamanian music which is unique in itself.
The capital of Panama is Panama City with a population of about a million people. It is a sprawling city of fantastic sights and sounds. If you think Panama is a sleepy little village, a visit to Panama City will surprise you. In terms of modern buildings, Panama City is comparable to some famous cities like San Francisco or Miami. Situated around the Atlantic side of the canal, Colon is the biggest free trade zone in the Western Hemisphere. Colon is accountable for the majority of Panama's export and import activities.
Since Christopher Columbus first navigated the Atlantic side of Panama, it had been noted that Panama was an important port of transfer. In older days, Panama was used primarily as a transit port where gold and other commodities were transported from other Spanish colonies in South America to Spain and vice versa. Though Panama is still used as a transit port, it has grown in other areas as well. The , commercial and tourism industries have been well established to reap bountiful fruits for Panama. As Panama opens her door to more foreign investment, the future economical landscape seems extremely promising.
