Panama is amazingly safe.  Many people have heard of how dangerous places like Columbia and Costa Rica can be so they assume Panama is just as dangerous because of its proximity to these countries.  Panama does not have the kidnappings you have likely heard of in these other countries (except near the Columbia border where nobody sane goes anyway).  Crimes against persons are not tolerated by law enforcement in Panama.  Child molesters, murderers, wife beaters are quickly dealt with.  If they are not a Panama citizen they are quickly deported.  These types of offenders are not "catered" to like in the US or Canada.

I remember my first impression, coming to Panama from Canada.  I thought Panama must be very dangerous.  Everywhere I looked private homes had bars on the windows.  I thought to myself.  This is like downtown Detroit!  Fortunately, after a while, I discovered this was not the case.  Panamanians were brought up with bars on the windows and tight security, from the days when Panama was part of Columbia and they needed the security.  Even though Panama is safe today, Panamanian culture includes these now unneeded safety features.  Since the building of the Panama Canal and the American invasion, Panama has been transformed into a safe place.   Because of the Panama Canal many countries have a vested interest in Panama being a stable environment (hence the American invasion of Panama).

I, myself, feel safe to walk pretty much anywhere in Panama City at night.  I lived much of my life in Canada where it is extremely safe, so I have high safety standards.  Having said that, like any large city, there is one neighbourhood in Panama City to avoid.

I have discovered the people of Panama to be friendly, warm and always willing to help someone in need.