For a tourist, getting around in Panama City can take a little getting used to, while there is an inexpensive public bus service that runs throughout the city, if you don't speak the native tongue or know where you're going, the bus may turn out to be a headache. Most visitors to Panama City use taxis when traveling about, as cab rides cost about as a much as a subway fare in the U.S.. Case in point: a 15-minute taxi ride in regular Panama City traffic costs about $3 USD. Taxis are also recommended for tourists for plain safety reasons, as straying from the main strips, especially at night, can be a risky move, especially for one who clearly appears to be a visitor. Areas to definitely avoid are: Chorrillo, Santa Ana and Calidonia, all three slums are at the base of Ancon hill and all are not safe day or night for tourists.  Be very careful when visiting Casco Viejo "Old Town" as it is very easy to wander into any one of these areas. If you plan on a boat trip to view the famous canal, try to avoid the packed, and sometimes dangerous, Kuna merchant boats and charter a private boat instead for a little more money, especially if you are traveling with children, as the merchant boats are known to traffic illegal drugs from time to time. Renting a car is also always an option, though again, getting lost is a possibility for visitors and can become quite a hassle when asking for directions. If you plan on visiting other Central American countries, be advised that if you plan on re-entering Panama, you must bring your passport and tourist visa, as Panama will charge an extra $20 to issue a new travel visa.