PANAMA

I am looking for a place to spend my alternate six months--the other being in Paris--and I was considering Panama. I have read that it is a top spot for retirees. I am not looking, necessarily, to live in an older peoples' community, but rather for the most affordable and livable place for someone on a fixed income.

If you can give me any advice on Panama, which city, etc. I would be very appreciative. Also, I would like to know if it is often hit by hurricanes, when the best time to go would be as far as the heat is concerned--I don't like it to be too hot, and if there is reasonably good public transportation as I will not have a car.

Thank you.

Francesca