A modern, metropolitan city bursting at the seams with hot real estate deals awaits retirees in the form of Panama City, Panama, where 450,000 people work, live, and play. The city is growing in popularity with foreign retirees, businesspeople, and investors, and the reasons may surprise you. Panama has the vitality of other international cities such as San Francisco, Madrid, Rio de Janeiro, and Hong Kong. Here are some reasons why retirement here is a good idea:• The Panamanian economy is thriving and is one of the most stable in Latin America. Because of the constant cash flow generated by industries supported by the Canal, business is thriving and cash is readily available in Panama.• The American dollar is the currency. Panamanians call it the “Balboa,” and retirees are glad they don’t have to deal with conversion tables or new currency.• Panama also boasts a varied climate that would suit any retiree. From miles and miles of dry, windy beaches to hot, sunny lowlands up to the cooler mountain climes of Chiriqui.• The people of Panama are friendly and use to foreigners.• Compared to the United States, life in Panama is relatively inexpensive. Though prices are similar to those in the U.S., the quality of life here is good by any standard. Products from all over the world can be found in Panama City at real market prices, thanks to the Canal.• Panama also has a great discount program for seniors. That’s 50 per cent off just about everything from doctor’s visits to air fares, electricity, theater trips, restaurants, and mortgage rates.• With fiber optic telephone lines and ASDL Internet, communications in Panama City are becoming more and more reliable.• If you speak English, no problémo. English is widely used.• The modern American infrastructure makes Panama City seem like a home away from home. One of the advantages of living in Panama City is that it has the many familiar services and comforts of home.• Panama is as safe as any city its size.• Many real estate opportunities await investors, and you just might find the gem you’re looking for.