Colón, Panama

Colon was full of potential during its early 20th century glory days. But the fall from grace during the past 70 years or so has been drastic: unemployment is high, public health is poor, and crime is frequent.

But don’t write off Colon entirely. The government of Panama is making a push to revitalize Colon. Hundreds of millions have been announced in funding for projects to build homes, develop infrastructure, and beautify the city’s streets and parks.