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Panama, capital of the republic of the same name, knows a gratifying development, which it owes above all to the Panama Canal. It occupies an exceptional position in the world, as it is a crossroads between the northern and southern hemispheres and between the Orient and the Occident. This explains why, in addition to the indigenous people (Indians, blacks, mulattos, mestizos and whites), one encounters representatives of the most diverse peoples of the world in the streets of the city. Over the last few years, Panama has become a commercial centre and tourist destination that has taken on considerable importance. The modern neighbourhoods are dominated by skyscrapers, which serve as homes for the privileged classes and as hotels for wealthy tourists. The climate that prevails in this part of Central America throughout the year is rather unhealthy because of the high temperatures and enormous humidity. Thunderstorms of incredible ferocity follow each other closely, especially in the rainy season. - 1977