Panama City

I am currently in Panama City, and I am trying to learn the lay of the land.  My current dilemma is trying to find a 1 bedroom fully furnished apartment for about $400 – $600 per month.  I know that is going to be hard to find in a city as modern as Panama City.  I am hold up in a hostel/housestay in the Ancon/Bsalboa area, and I must say I am having a great time, but something is missing.  I am missing the open road and the wind in my face.  I am contemplating three options:

1             

1             1.       Stay in Panama City for the next year (if I find a place I can afford)

2             2.       Heading South to Columbia (it will cost $850 one-way)

3             3.       Head back North to visit all of the places I missed on the way down (my favorite choice)