Although it's often confused with the identically named coastal city in Florida, Panama City, Panama is not a ‘spring break' beach destination but rather the most cosmopolitan capital in all of Central America. Here, at the intersection of the Americas and the Pacific terminus of the world-famous canal, Panama City is truly open to the world.

First impressions of the city are nearly always favourable, especially considering that its chic skyline of soaring steel and glass cuts a graceful arc across the horizon. As one of the up-and-coming financial and trade centres of the world, Panama City is experiencing an unprecedented boom.

Today, the downtown business districts are chock full of stylish bars and restaurants, and it's possible to dine on the majority of the world's top cuisines. By night, urban dwellers take to the streets in their choicest robes, forming the crux of the capital's legendary nightlife.

Of course, Panama City is much more than a modern playground for the well-to-do, especially considering the incredible history of the capital. Founded in the 16th century by the Spanish, Panamá was the first European settlement on the Pacific, and its atmospheric ruins can still be explored today.

Founded in the 17th century, the colonial district of Casco Viejo remains well-preserved, and is emerging as one of the city's most fashionable districts thanks to an intensive campaign of urban renewal.

Assuming you can pry yourself away from Panama City's urban charms, there are a variety of spectacular attractions lying on the outskirts of the capital. No visit to Panama would be complete without a day-trip to the canal, especially if you can time your visit to coincide with a vessel transit.

And this is to say nothing of Panama's stunning natural attractions, which include virgin rainforests and palm-fringed beaches, which lie less than an hour from the heart of the downtown.

Although it's still off the beaten path, save ample time to explore what is arguably one of the most rewarding capital cities in all of Latin America.