Using a GPS hand held system in Panama City, Panama?

Question

Does anyone know if I can use a held hand GPS system when traveling to Panama City, Panama? This may seem?

like a ridiculous question, but in Panama, even THOUGH all streets in the city are marked, most Panamanian people do NOT refer to the actual name of the street when giving directions. Why? I don't know. Panama is very high tech, very modern, just a incredibly fast growing metropolis. But, I don't know if, GPS system made by the companies has a satellite system, infra structure readily available for Latin America. I don't know much about GPS systems, but I know enough that street and city and provence names of countries have to be entered into some satellite system in order for the gps to work. Anyway, any suggestions about if I can use a GPS, hand held, in Panama?

Answer 1

I don't see the problem here... if use a GPS you don't need to ask for directions! I would imagine that the systems would be always up to date for Panama City. There are a lot of buildings popping up here and there but the streets remain the same. Maybe you would have problems outside the city, as they're building many new roads.

Answer 2

There is 1 company that has the map(s) for Panama City, I can't recall the manufacturer off the top of my head since I have no interest in them, but if you do some research (panama forums) Im sure you will come across it.

Answer 3

In Panama, we dont have that system yet, but if you want to move, people help you with the addresses on the street.

That would be interesting to have that system in Panama.

I live in Panama and i can help with any question.  [e-mail]

Answer 4

I don't see why not.  There are alot of foreign interests there so it would seem logical that gps units would be desirable.