San Francisco: The Beating Heart of Panama City

• HelloHola
  [oh-lah]
• GoodbyeAdiós
  [ah-dyohs]
• YesSí
  [see]
• NoNo
  [noh]
• Please/You're welcomePor favor/De nada
  [por fah-vohr / de nah-dah]
• Thank youGracias
  [grah-syahs]
• Excuse me/SorryPerdón/Lo siento
  [pehr-dohn / loh syehn-toh]
• How are you?¿Cómo estás?
  [koh-moh ehs-tahs]
• Fine. And you?Bien. ¿Y tú?
  [byehn. ee too]
• Do you speak English?¿Hablas inglés?
  [ah-blahs een-glehs]
• I don't understandNo entiendo
  [noh ehn-tyehn-doh]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMe gustaría ver el menú, por favor
  [meh goos-tah-ree-ah behr ehl meh-noo, poor fah-vohr]
• I don't eat meatNo como carne
  [noh koh-moh kahr-neh]
• Cheers!¡Salud!
  [sah-loohd]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMe gustaría pagar, por favor
  [meh goos-tah-ree-ah pah-gahr, poor fah-vohr]

• Help!¡Ayuda!
  [ah-yoo-dah]
• Go away!¡Vete!
  [veh-teh]
• Call the Police!¡Llama a la policía!
  [yah-mah ah lah poh-lee-see-ah]
• Call a doctor!¡Llama a un médico!
  [yah-mah ah oon meh-dee-koh]
• I'm lostEstoy perdido
  [ehs-toy pehr-dee-doh]
• I'm illEstoy enfermo
  [ehs-toy ehn-fehr-moh]

• I'd like to buy...Me gustaría comprar...
  [meh goos-tah-ree-ah kohm-prahr]
• I'm just lookingSólo estoy mirando
  [soh-loh ehs-toy mee-rahn-doh]
• How much is it?¿Cuánto cuesta?
  [kwan-toh kwehs-tah]
• That's too expensiveEso es demasiado caro
  [eh-soh ehs deh-mah-syah-doh kah-roh]
• Can you lower the price?¿Puede bajar el precio?
  [pweh-deh bah-hahr ehl pree-syoh]

• What time is it?¿Qué hora es?
  [keh oh-rah ehs]
• It's one o'clockEs la una
  [ehs lah oo-nah]
• Half past (10)Y media (10)
  [ee meh-dyah]
• MorningMañana
  [mah-nyah-nah]
• AfternoonTarde
  [tahr-deh]
• EveningNoche
  [noh-cheh]
• YesterdayAyer
  [ah-yehr]
• TodayHoy
  [oy]
• TomorrowMañana
  [mah-nyah-nah]
• 1Uno
  [oo-noh]
• 2Dos
  [dohs]
• 3Tres
  [trehs]
• 4Cuatro
  [kwah-troh]
• 5Cinco
  [seen-koh]
• 6Seis
  [says]
• 7Siete
  [syeh-teh]
• 8Ocho
  [oh-choh]
• 9Nueve
  [nweh-veh]
• 10Diez
  [dyehs]

• Where's a/the...?¿Dónde está...?
  [dohn-deh ehs-tah]
• What's the address?¿Cuál es la dirección?
  [kwal ehs lah dee-rehk-syon]
• Can you show me (on the map)?¿Puedes mostrarme (en el mapa)?
  [pweh-dehs mohs-trahr-meh (ehn ehl mah-pah)]
• When's the next (bus)?¿Cuándo es el próximo (autobús)?
  [kwan-doh ehs ehl proh-see-moh (ow-toh-boos)]
• A ticket (to ....)Un boleto (a ...)
  [oon boh-leh-toh (ah ...)]

San Francisco, located in the heart of Panama City, began its development in the mid-20th century as a residential neighborhood. The area was primarily agricultural before urbanization, and its name is derived from the local church dedicated to Saint Francis of Assisi. San Francisco's strategic location made it an attractive area for families seeking proximity to the city center while enjoying a quieter, suburban environment.

The neighborhood of San Francisco has evolved into a vibrant cultural melting pot, reflecting Panama's diverse population. The area showcases a blend of Panamanian, Afro-Caribbean, and expatriate influences, contributing to its rich cultural tapestry. Festivals, art exhibitions, and local markets highlight the neighborhood's commitment to celebrating its multicultural identity.

In the late 20th century, San Francisco experienced significant modernization and urban development. The construction of high-rise buildings, shopping centers, and improved infrastructure transformed the neighborhood into an urban hub. This period marked the establishment of essential services and amenities, making it one of the most sought-after areas in Panama City.

With increasing urbanization, residents of San Francisco have become advocates for environmental awareness and the preservation of green spaces. Community initiatives have aimed to protect parks and promote sustainable practices, reflecting a growing consciousness towards ecological issues within the urban landscape of Panama City.

San Francisco is renowned for its diverse culinary scene, featuring a mix of traditional Panamanian cuisine and international flavors. The neighborhood hosts a variety of restaurants, cafes, and food markets, making it a culinary destination within Panama City. Local chefs often incorporate fresh, local ingredients, emphasizing the region's agricultural bounty and multicultural influences.

San Francisco is easily accessible from various neighborhoods in Panama City. You can take a taxi or use ride-sharing apps like Uber, which are widely available. The Metro is another option; you can take Line 1 to the 'Iglesia del Carmen' station and then catch a bus or taxi to San Francisco. Alternatively, local buses also connect San Francisco to areas like Casco Viejo and El Cangrejo, making it convenient for travelers.

San Francisco is well-connected by public transport. The Metro has stations nearby, such as 'San Miguelito' on Line 2. Buses are plentiful, with routes that cover most of the neighborhood. For a more leisurely approach, consider renting a bicycle, as many streets are bike-friendly. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available for quicker trips.

San Francisco is generally safe, but tourists should remain vigilant. Avoid areas around 'El Chorrillo' and 'Curundú', known for higher crime rates. It's best to stay in well-lit areas at night and avoid displaying valuables in public. Always keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded places.

In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. The nearest hospitals are Hospital Punta Pacífica and Hospital Nacional. It’s advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, local pharmacies are available for over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting local churches. Avoid wearing overly casual attire. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always be polite and respectful in religious settings. Public Transport: Do offer your seat to the elderly and disabled. Don't consume food or drinks on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly smile and a handshake. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and drinks. Don't waste food or refuse offers of hospitality, as this is considered impolite.

To experience San Francisco like a local, visit the neighborhood markets, where you can find fresh produce and local delicacies. Engage with residents, who are often eager to share their culture and stories. Don't miss the chance to explore local parks like Parque Omar for a taste of the community vibe. Additionally, check out local cafes where you can enjoy Panamanian coffee and pastries.