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Statistics show that Panama has a lower crime rate than any other country in Central America except Costa Rica. Nevertheless crime and personal safety have become issues in Panama of late. As Panama develops a home port for cruises in Colon the government is looking into an “ambitious security program” including increased police presence and security cameras in Colon. A government spokesman stated the obvious. If tourists think that Panama is dangerous they will not come.

Tourism and Perception of Danger in Panama

The Enchantment of the Seas cruise line is expected to start operations at its home port of Colon in December of 2008. Panama hopes to attract tourists from throughout Latin America for Caribbean cruises. Currently anyone wanting a Caribbean cruise needs to fly to Florida first. Tocumen International Airport is fast becoming Latin America’s major air hub. This fact is a great fit with a new Caribbean cruise port of departure in Panama.

The opening of operations for Enchantment of the Seas is marred by continuing press reports of crime and the perception that Colon is a dangerous place. Statistics show that Panama ranks just behind Costa Rica in Central America in having a low crime rate. However, a low crime rate does not mean there is no crime.

Panama’s police force has been active arresting drug traffickers and that makes the news. However, the perception is that Panama is dangerous because the drug traffickers tried to move drugs through Panama as opposed to the perception that Panama is relatively safe as the police are on the ball and catching those guys.

In an effort to prevent theft, fights, and protests in Colon near tourist haunts Panama is increasing police presence and installing security cameras. It is interesting that protests are considered a problem. Panama is a democratic and boisterous society. There are strikes and protests all the time. However, it appears that Panama does not want a tourist to walk off the boat in Colon to be greeting by a crowd chanting slogans and carrying placards demanding living wages or control of inflation. That would be bad for business.

Panama Tourism

Panama tourism expects to attract 1.8 million visitors in 2008. Panama is a beautiful country with a great combination of natural wonders and first world services. Medical tourism attracts people routinely for half price procedures by physicians trained and certified in the USA or Canada. Eco tourism to Panama’s indigenous areas or comarcas offers a cultural tourism opportunity close to Panama City.

For more information regarding Panama tourism check out the Tours Panama website.