Posts tagged Tourist Industry
Cost of Living in Panama
Sep 30th
Living costs in Panama are obviously a major element of any decision to relocate to the country and should be investigated in detail before making a decision. This is a country which has had its fair share of controversy but is actually deemed to have one of the fastest growing economies in the world with experts believing it is well-positioned for future growth. So what can you expect regarding the cost of living in Panama?
Thankfully the economy of Panama has remained fairly stable over the last few years with inflation now under control and no longer a major threat to the cost of living. However, with economic prosperity comes an increase in the general standard of living and also an increase in the cost of living. If, as expected, economic growth continues at the same pace we have seen over the last couple of years then an increase in GDP and general income for the Panama population should more than offset any potential increased cost of living.
The Panama economy
As you might expect, the Panama economy is dominated by the Panama Canal and the strong relationship with the US authorities. The Panama Canal is the only major trade route between the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean thereby making it effectively invaluable regarding international and worldwide trade. As a consequence, the Panama economy is literally based upon and around the Panama Canal although we have seen the introduction of a variety of new economic sectors which include banking, commerce, tourism, trading, private businesses as well as an ever growing tourist industry.
Panama property sector
As you might expect from an economy which has been growing since the turn of the century, the Panama property sector has shown significant growth over last 10 years. However, many experts believe that we may well be in for a period of relative consolidation with a number of new developments, which began a few years ago, now being “mothballed “. As a consequence there is a slight balance in favor of supply as opposed to demand and property prices are expected to soften in the short to medium term.
Living costs in Panama
While Panama is one of the smallest countries in Central America it does appear to punch above its weight on the international scene and as such is one of the more expensive countries in central/southern America in which to live. However, compared to the likes of the UK and the US the cost of living in Panama is still relatively cheap and has many attractions for those looking to move from overseas.
Taxes in Panama
The taxation system in Panama is one of the highest in central/south America but compared to the UK and the US it is again very competitive. The authorities have also taken a major decision to attract foreign investors, foreign visitors and expats to the region which is definitely starting to pay dividends.
Conclusion
While the cost of living in Panama may well be one of the highest in the Americas there is no doubt that the economy is well-positioned for the future and the relative cost of living against income and the standard of living is very attractive indeed.
Mazatlan Mexico – Never Boring, Beer and Fish Capital of Mexico!
Jan 18th
Mazatlan Mexico is also known by the name “The Pearl of the Pacific”, not because it has anything to do with the pearl industry but because it’s a graceful and welcoming resort on the Pacific coast.
It’s quite an interesting city where the tourist industry is extremely developed. However, Mazatlan is not just a beach resort as many would think.
Mazatlan has a brewery that produces Mazatlan Ale, one of the most popular beers in Mexico and one of my personal favorites. A little stronger than Corona and a more full bodied ale, this beer goes great with fish and shrimp, speaking of which…
Another industry that is extremely developed in Mazatlan is the shrimp and fish industry.
The city’s shrimp fleet is considered to be the largest one in Mexico. However, most tourists only stay in the Zona Dorada and never really learn much about the industrial side of the city.
Visiting Mazatlan could never be boring no matter what you’re into, beside the wonderful beaches, restaurants and nightlife the city also offers a variety of historical sights and beautiful monuments.
There are so many monuments and statues throughout the city that it could take you an entire day to see them all.
Still, the water activities seem to have a much greater impact on the tourists here than anything else. There are so many things to do on the beach that a lot of people who come here spend their entire vacations without ever going further form their hotels.
Whether you spend your time on the beach outside your hotel or or travel around visiting the historical monuments and statues, Mazatlan is a place you’ll remember.
Another thing Mazatlan is famous for and also goes great with Mazatlan Ale, is the sport fishing. There’s great fishing here on the Pacific Coast and the variety of fish ranges from Rooster Fish, Sailfish and Mahi Mahi to bottom fish like Grouper and Snapper.
Oh, and although I’m personally not a big fan, it’s worth a mention, there’s also freshwater fishing and even great hunting from what I hear. Both of which can be arranged right from your hotel concierge.
Another thing that makes Mazatlan very popular is the fact that it hosts one of the greatest parties in the world, the Carnaval de Mazatlan. You can actually feel the Carnaval excitement start as early as November and party it’s way right through to it’s climax and crowning of the Carnaval King of Happiness and the Carnaval Queen in February!
Zona Dorada – Golden Zone
Zona Dorada or the Golden Zone is the so called tourist area where most of the hotels and the top restaurants are located.
This area is usually crowded by people day and night and it’s the most expensive and luxurious part of the city.
In the southern part of the zona dorada there is a place called Punta Sabalo. This is considered to be one of the most popular tourist attractions for both children and adults because it hosts the Fiesta Land.
The night life here is extremely loud and the entire area has been nicknamed “the party headquarters”.
You can pretty much walk to anywhere you need to get in this area and it’s fairly safe, but if you really don’t feel like walking, I highly recommend you hop in a Pulmonia!
These are open air cabs that are “pulled or carried along” by natives and they’re unique to this area, very fun and a must take picture moment.
The Historic Center
The center of the city is quite a delightful area where you can enjoy a lot of architectural beauties and also a lot of monuments and statues.
It adds a very bohemian vibe to the city and worth spending a few hours exploring.
If you’re interested in learning a lot of things about the city’s history, you should definitely take one of the city tours that will point out all the highlights of the historical area.
However, I think the best way to soak in the rich culture of a Historic city like Mazatlan is to just walk along the busy streets and pay attention to the conversations, check out what’s goin’ on in the shops, what the natives are doin’ and what they’re having for dinner… Only they know the real mysteries.
Plenty of Stuff for the Children in Mazatlan as well, so bring the kids!
Mazatlan is a city that offers a lot of activities for the little ones. The most popular places as far as the children are concerned are the baseball batting cages.
Did you know that Mazatlan also has it’s own Triple AAA rated baseball team, who knew?
There’s also a mini golf course and a huge water park that are always crowded with kids who never seem to get bored or run out of energy in these places.
Mazatlan is also home to the largest Aquarium in Mexico, obviously a great place to take the kids but one of my all time favorites as well!
If you do visit the aquarium, make sure to see the famous seal show and take a walk through the incredible botanical gardens.
The Beaches
The beaches in Mazatlan are simply breathtaking. There’s over 15 miles of coastline, most of which is easily accessible and ranges from the party beaches near the zona dorada, where most of the tourists end up, to the most remote and quiet beaches just to the north and south, which is what I prefer.
Overall, Mazatlan is a highly recommended Mexican destination, lots to do and relaxing as well.
