Playa Bonita Hotel and Resort in Panama

If you are searching for beach resorts in Panama, I can recommend another luxury resort in Panama besides the Playa Blanca Resort Hotel, called the InterContinental Playa Bonita Resort & Spa, a 5 star resort on the Pacific side of Panama. This luxury resort in Panama opened in 2006. It is located on a peaceful private oceanfront. All inclusive resorts packages are available at the Playa Bonita Beach Resort from the Sunwing travel company and others.

The Playa Bonita Resort is just 20 minutes west of Panama City (16 kilometers from Panama City center, 40 minutes away from Tocumen International Airport (PTY), ten minutes from the Marcos A. Gelabert, the domestic airport, 15 minutes to the Panama Canal’s visitors center in Miraflores locks and a half hour to the de Summit Golf Course. So, it’s a good location for those wanting to experience much of what Panama has to offer on their Panama vacation. In addition, this beach resort in Panama offers excellent spa services. At this resort in Panama, you will get a beach resort atmosphere, close to downtown Panama, close to the historical district of Panama and close to that engineering marvel, the Panama Canal.

Surrounded by the Punta Bruja Nature Reserve, 20 acres of tropical with a spectacular view of the Pacific Ocean, the Playa Bonita Resort offers vacationers a natural secluded setting of a private beach from which to watch the sunrise over the Pacific, explore nature, experience great services and the chance to get to know all that Panama offers its visitors to the country.

In the distance you can watch the ships queuing up to enter the Panama Canal. If you are going to explore the surrounding forests, don’t forget to bring insect repellent. The beach is lovely for walks along the sea. The Playa Bonita Resort is large and there are five free form swimming pools.

The Playa Bonita Resort has 300 Deluxe Rooms, of which 15 are one bedroom suites and two are Presidential suites. There are three Restaurants and a Lobby Bar and 24 hour room service dining and the Club InterContinental Lounge. A concierge and guest relations service, laundry and valet service, a gift shop, multilingual staff and a heliport are available if you desire. There is a poolside bar by one of the five free form pools. Your rooms, designed with a touch of ethnic Panamanian style, with rich wood décor, provide all the modern comfort and amenities you could desire such as 36-inch TVs with pay-per-view movies, VCRs, wireless Internet, direct-dial phones with voice mail, in-room printer and fax, mini bars and coffeemakers. The beds are comfortable, the rooms with great ocean views, are nicely designed with tiled floors and there are robes, slippers, hair dryers and plenty of toiletries for your use.

About dining at the Playa Bonita Resort. As already briefly mentioned there are three restaurants at the resort. There is formal indoor and outdoor dining and casual dining by the poolside. Gourmet chef John Haueter will even whip up something should you wish a culinary delight served in your hotel room.

Now, about the Spa at the resort. The air conditioned gym has a view of the ocean, featuring lots of modern exercise equipment, a free steam room and Jacuzzi. Definitely take advantage of this and stay in shape! The Bonita Del Mar Spa offers such delightful services of an outdoor massage, seaweed wraps, facials, soothing stress relief therapies.

Activities conducted from the hotel include 18 hole par 72 golf at Tucan Club championship golf course minutes away from the Resort. Daytrips can be arranged for tours of the Panama Canal, Panama city’s historical district. You can visit the Gamboa Rainforest Aerial Tram which is 45 minutes away. There is a wildlife observation safari day trip on the Panama Canal shores, salt water fishing trips forTuna, wahoo, sea bass, marlin, sail fish, mahi-mahi. Sailing and boat trips are available to Pearl Islands. Visit an Embera Cultural village and experience the life of Panama’s native peoples. Tropical bird watching is splendid for bird watching enthusiasts.

The Playa Bonita Resort is one of the finest luxury hotel resorts in Panama you could choose stay with that offers you a taste of all that Panama has to offer its visitors.

Beach Hotels in Panama | Bocas del Toro

I wrote this article about another one of the great beach hotels in Panama destinations before I heard about the floods in Panama. A state of emergency has been declared and there have been casualties. It is sad news to hear that this wonderful and very beautiful area in Panama is suffering at the present time. However, if you would like to read further about Bocas Del Toro, please read on. No doubt, they will recover and rebuild from this tragedy. As I have mentioned in this article, the high rain season is in November to January.

There are so many places, so much to discover and so many beach hotels in Panama to choose, and that includes Bocas Del Toro, that this blog might go on forever. I wanted to tell you all about Bocas del Toro, known as the “Venice of the Caribbean”, in this posting, but I think already it’s going to end up as a very long, long article or else, I might have to do this in two or more blog postings. It all depends how tired my fingers get from tapping away at the keyboard.

Bocas del Toro, on the island of Colon, situated on the Bocas del Toro archipelago in the Caribbean, north coast of Panama is actually the capital of the Province of Bocas del Toro. It’s a culturally vibrant and ethnically diverse area. You will find numerous small towns along the collection of islands, but not many roads. The actual town of Bocas del Toro is entirely constructed of lumber in the Caribbean colonial style, somewhat Victorian and reminding you a little of Key West. Bocas del Toro itself has paved roads, sewer systems, electricity, phone service, Cable TV, ambulance and a hospital and a fire department. The population of Bocas Del Toro is approximately 12,660 total inhabitants, Spanish is the main language, but English is widely spoken. Offering peaceful serenity, absolute beauty and tranquility, you won’t want to leave this paradise in Panama.

In 1502 Christopher Columbus landed in the area of Bocas del Toro and was so astounded by its beauty, that he named two of the islands Isla Colon and Isla Cristobal. There are many hotels and resorts in Panama located here for sun seeking tourists. For people looking for more than just a beach, you will find this to be another great eco-tourism destination in Panama.

How does one get to Bocas del Toro? You can get to Bocas del Toro by airplane from Panama City or Costa Rica or boat. What will you find here in Bocas del Toro Panama? You will find long stretches of unspoiled white sand beaches, beautiful resorts, shops, markets, restaurants, nightclubs and discos, thematic parks, surfing, snorkelling, some of the best scuba diving, boating, and the well-known Bastimentos Island National Marine Park – a chief destination for ecotourism. All of these things make Bocas del Toro an excellent and popular choice to vacation in Panama.

Bocas del Toro is so beautiful, and you may end up feeling like you have been to Paradise because you won’t want to leave here at the end of your vacation. Bocas del Toro possesses a natural beauty, with miles of beautiful beaches, the surf, its peacefulness.

For those tourists seeking ecotourism in Panama, there are nature reserves and national parks which reache over 25% of its total land mass. Panama aims to protect its wildlife and their habitat which consists of 960 different birds, 10,000 various forms of plant life and fauna, 240 species of reptiles, 160 species of amphibians. Like Costa Rica, Panama’s protection of the environment and wildlife make this country another viable destination for those who love and respect nature and want a holiday in a natural wildlife environment.

The best time to travel weather wise to Bocas del Toro Panama is from February to April or in September/October in the dry seasons. The temperature averages about 27 degrees Celsius or 82 degrees Fahrenheit on average throughout the year. If you like the rain, the seasons of May to August and November to January will please you because this is the rainy season in Bocas del Toro. This rain feeds the lush foliage and fauna of the virgin rain forests of Panama, the forests which are in abundant supply in Bocas del Toro. The white sand beaches run for miles in Bocas and the water is so clean and clear that you can see down to the reef when you are surfing. At night on the beach, watch as sea turtles emerge on to the beach from the surf and lay their eggs, bury them and then slowly lumber back to the sea, returning again next year. For surfing enthusiasts, some of the best surfing in the world can be found in Panama, and the waves in Boca are comparable to the surfing in Indonesia and Tahiti. The best surfing seasons are in December to March and June to July.

Okay, so I’ve written a lot about this fascinating and very beautiful place in Panama which offers another option destination for the winter sun seeker. If you are a retiree who wants to retire in the Paradise that is Panama it’s another destination to research.

And, like I thought at the beginning of this article, my fingers and brain would eventually get tired and have to wind down. I haven’t even started to mention the beach hotels in Panama situated in Bocas del Toro because you are going to need accommodation when you visit this paradise in Panama while you explore all this amazing country has to offer. So, until my next posting which will be about resorts in Bocas del Toro for my readers, stay tuned…

Panama Floods Leave 5 Dead, Threats of More Flooding

Nov. 25 – 5 People Dead in Panama, Threat of More Flooding

Notice to travellers to Panama – west coast of Chiriqui and Bocas del Toro are experiencing severe flooding. Five rivers flooded in the western provinces of Chiriqui and one person is dead in Bocas del Toro after a series of storms according the Panama's President Martin Torrijos’ website. More than 5,700 people’s homes have been flooded and over 60 landslides have been reported.

At state of emergency has been declared on November 22. More heavy rains and floods are expected.

“As this system drifts slowly west-northwestward, it will likely produce heavy rains and localized flooding over portions of Panama…” stated the U.S. National Hurricane Center.

Travellers to the western coast of Panama should check with the Panamanian embassy or consulate in their area to verify the weather conditions in Chiriqui or Bocas del Toro before travelling to this area in Panama in the near future.

Source: bloomberg.com

Source: President Martin Torrijos’ website

Melia Panama Canal Hotel in Colon

Most tourists who come to Panama include a trip to Colon Panama to see one of the marvels of that country, the Panama Canal. Many hotels in Panama offer a Panama Canal tour and it is not a sight you should miss. The Panama Canal is one of the engineering marvels of this world. Many cruise lines offer Panama Canal cruises, such as the Princess Cruise line.

Shopping in Panama is another highlight of this Free Trade Zone especially because of the low tariff rates, lowest prices in the Americas, due to its location. Many people take a tour to the Panama Canal while staying at various other Panama accommodations. However, there are hotels in Colon which you might want to consider if you wish to stay a night or more in Colon.


There are some Colon Panama hotels available for you to consider for your vacation in Panama. One such resort in Colon Panama you may wish to consider is the Melia Panama Canal. Situated on Gatun Lake, 80 minutes from the Panama International Airport, 10 minutes from the city of Colon, the Melia Panama Canal is another great eco-tourist destination besides the Gamboa Rainforest Resort, surrounded by tropical vegetation, unspoilt nature trails where you can explore the flora and fauna of Panama. For tropical birdwatching, it’s an excellent location for bird watchers. Hike along the banks of the Panama Canal, take a plane across the trees over Gatun Lake. Small boats and canoes are available for guests to take on Lake Gatun. The view of Lake Gatun is wonderful and the only sounds you will hear are the songs of the birds.

The Melia Panama Canal Resort was originally a hospital for the wounded of the Second World War. Later it became a military school, ‘Las escuela de las Americas '. In the 1990s, it was converted into the Melia Panama Canal resort. There are 285 rooms, two great swimming pools, and a pool for children, a tennis court, a business center, a games room and babysitting available for the kids. The resort itself is surrounded by lush gardens, a magnificent swimming pool (two actually) and a gorgeous view of Lake Gatun. It is an older hotel, so you cannot compare it to North American standards. The accommodation would be 3 star, the location, 5 star, the swimming pools, 5 star if you do. This is a hotel in Panama which should be chosen for its location, a great getaway for those seeking ecotourism in Panama and to see the Panama Canal.

The Melia Panama Canal offers great prices and all inclusive resort package deals. You can also just stay here for a night or two if you wish. Companies such as Nolitours offer all inclusive packages to the Melia Panama. What I would recommend for people seeking hotels in Panama, is to know what kind of vacation you want. This is an ecotourism resort, close to the Panama Canal and the free trade zone shopping which is 10 minutes away by car. You can visit a part of Spanish history in the nearby towns of Portobelo and San Lorenzo to see the colonial fortresses. Just ask at reception for details about the organized tours.

The all inclusive package deals from Nolitours range in price from $1,115 to $1,655. for one week. Included in the price are three meals daily, drinks (beer and cocktails – some international brands), a kids club, daily activities, entertainment at night, a casino, 1 buffet and one a la carte restaurant, two bars, a snackbar, and a disco. Your rooms are spacious, clean and equipped with all the modern amenities guests require and expect. Non motorized sports are available free of charge. For additional charges, fishing, deep sea fishing, horseback riding and bicycle rentals are available. Nightly entertainment includes Panamanian cuisine, Panamanian folkloric music and dance whereby you can experience some of the indigenous culture. Also available at the hotel are shuttle service to the Free Trade Zone. Bird watching and hiking are splendid in this ecotourism resort for the nature lovers among us. The staff is friendly and helpful.

The Melia Panama Canal is not far from the Gamboa Rainforest Resort but the prices are a bit lower than the Gamboa. If you are looking for a relaxing, laid back vacation in Panama, close to the Panama Canal, close to nature for a reasonable price, try the Melia Panama Canal.

All Inclusive Resorts in Panama

For travel to Panama, there are two companies in Canada which offer all inclusive resort package deals to Panama. All inclusive packages to Panama are a great way to travel to Panama for the first time because you because for one low price which covers the flight to Panama, your hotel for one week and food and drink. Some activities are also included in these all inclusive deals at resorts in Panama.

The first travel company with package deals to Panama is Nolitours. Nolitours is a Canadian company that offers quality affordable packages to many other countries besides Panama, including Cuba, Dominican Republic, Mexico and other countries in Central and South America. Nolitours has a rating system for the hotels they use to help their clients choose the vacation package to Panama that is right for you and your budget. They also add the flexibility of offering golf packages if you are an avid golfer, enabling you have to the perfect golf vacation in Panama at one of these resorts.

Nolitours offers travel deals to Panama to such resorts as the Royal Decameron Beach Resort Golf Spa and Casino. They rate this resort as a 4 star resort in Panama. All three buffet meals, unlimited house win, domestic beer, international brand drinks, gym, tennis, volleyball, soccer, billiards, scuba lessons in the pool, kayaks, pedal boats windsurfing, sailing and nightly entertainment. For an extra charge, bicycling, snorkelling, excursions, fishing and jet skis are available. For golf lovers, there is a world class golf course. Rooms for the golfers among us are across the street from the main resort, surrounded by the golf course. A golfer couldn’t as for more! There is also a casino and a spa available at the Decameron resort.

Where is the Royal Decameron Beach Resort? It’s a beach front property, 90 minute drive from Panama City, a 45 minute drive from the Anton Valley. What’s also wonderful is that Nolitours will allow you to try out another of their other Panama hotels. You can stay for 5 days at the Royal Decameron Beach Resort, and then spend two other nights at either the eco Gamboa Rainforest Resort or the Radisson Decapolis in Panama City. Think of the advantages of this - you can visit both the beach and the city of Panama or experience eco tourism. If you find you like one of the other hotels better, on your next trip, you can stay in Panama at the hotel you prefer.

Prices for these packages vary from $999 to $1,759, depending on when you travel, if you have an ocean front suite or stay for a one week or two week package. Nolitours website can be seen at Nolitours.com.

The other travel company that offers travel to Panama packages is SunWing.ca. They offer more Panama hotel resort packages than Nolitours. Again, with their all inclusive deals to Panama includes your flight, your hotel, your food and beverages. They also allow you to try a couple of nights at a second hotel. SunWing also offers a fly now pay later opportunity called FlysunwingPayLater where you don’t have to pay for six months or you can pay equal payments from $26 per month. Sounds like fun and an easy way to afford a vacation in Panama.

SunWing’s cheapest all inclusive package is one week at the Playa Blanca Resort, located on the beach, 90 minutes from Panama City, just minutes away from ecological adventures if you are looking for a little bit of eco tourism and beach experience in your travel to Panama vacation.

SunWing also offers all inclusive deals where you can experience two different hotels in a one week vacation, such as the Playa Blanca for five nights and Crown Plaza Panama Hotel for two nights. You can rest and relax at the Playa Blanca Resort on the beach and then spend a couple of days exploring the excitement and shopping of Panama City. This particular all inclusive package price starts at $905 for the week in Panama. You can find out more information on their website at SunWing.ca or drop into your neighbourhood travel agency.

I can’t think of a better way to start exploring this new vacation destination to Panama than an all inclusive resort package – because the price is a bargain for one week, flight hotel and food. I’ll be looking around for more companies that offer all inclusive travel packages to Panama. But for now, for your use and research you now have a couple of companies which offer great prices for all inclusive resorts in Panama.

Photo courtesy Sunwing Travel

Cheap Hotels in Panama Part 2

I’ve given my readers in Part 1, a list and description of some of the best cheap hotels in Panama as an introduction. This posting continues on the subject of finding discount hotels in Panama. It is very possible to find some good budget hotels in Panama if you are not looking for a resort type of holiday and don’t need absolute luxury. If you are searching for a cheap hotel in Panama, read on and be sure to check out the hotels mentioned in my first article.

Aramo Hotel


In Panama City, at Brasil Avenue and Abel Bravo you will find the Aramo Hotel. This hotel features a business center, high speed internet connection, a fitness room, a swimming pool, cable TV, room service, mini fridge in the room, parking and is handicap accessible. There is the service of a concierge and an airport shuttle available. Pets are allowed. Situated in a residential neighbourhood, it is only 10 minutes away from the Atlapa Convention Center, in the banking district of Panama and the Via Espana where you will find great shopping. All of this will cost you only $70 US per night for a single or double room. Add $10 per additional person. Reservations can be made for this inexpensive hotel in Panama on their website at AramoHotel.com.


Tower House Hotel

The Tower House Hotel in Panama City is located at Calle 51 and Bellavista N. in Panama City. It is centrally located in the banking and commercial district of the city. It is close to the shopping on the Via Espana. The hotel features a business center, high speed internet connections, room service, a fitness center, a restaurant, a swimming pool and airport shuttle service. The hotel has disabled access and breakfast comes with the price of the room. You can bring your pet as the hotel allows pets. The front desk is open 24 hours a day. The hotels rooms will cost you approximately $66 US per night. Reservations for a hotel room can be made online at their website at Towerhsuites.com, but unfortunately, their website is only available in Spanish so get someone to help you with the translation.

Andino Hotel

Next on the list of cheap hotels in Panama City is the Andino Hotel situated at Avenue Peru and Calle 35. The hotel is in the banking and business center of Panama City, close to great shops, restaurants and nightclubs. Single rooms will cost you $45 US and a double room will cost $55 US. There are 40 rooms in total, bright and spacious rooms. There is a business center for the business traveller, with a meeting room which seats up to 120 people. Services available at the hotel include parking, high speed internet, room service, a fitness room, a restaurant, a swimming pool, airport shuttle service, and pets are allowed. The hotel is handicap accessible. There is also a restaurant called the Cartagena serving local and international foods, service is friendly and the restaurant is clean. You’ll also find a bar at the hotel. You can’t go too wrong with that. Although you can’t book online for this discount hotel in Panama, they do have a website at HotelAndino.net and you can email them to inquire.

Veracruz Hotel

The Veracruz Hotel in Panama at Avenida Perú Y Calle 30 goes for about $73 US per night. Again, its another hotel in Panama City located in the downtown business district. It features all of the same as the above mentioned hotels such as a business center, high speed internet access, room service, exercise room, a restaurant, swimming pool, cable TV, and safety deposit box. However, you may find the hotel a bit too noisy for getting a good night’s rest. People’s experience of the hotel varies, but you must remember that you usually get what you pay for. You can always try the hotel yourself for one night and if it is not satisfactory, you can check out the next day and try another hotel. There are many to choose from.

Roma Plaza Hotel

On the Avenue Justo Arosemena and 33rd Street you will find another budget hotel in Panama called the Roma Plaza Hotel. The rooms run about from $66 US for a single to $77 US for a double. You will find all of the same amenities as mentioned with the other cheap hotels in Panama above. They have plenty of halls for meetings or weddings or banquets which seat from 12 to 200 people. Again, some guests have complained about the noise levels, but this seems to be a common problem in many of the hotels in Panama except for luxury hotels or resorts in Panama. Remember, you get what you pay for and this is not North but Central America. For some of the same prices in North America you will find the same quality hotels. Some of these hotels in Panama are even nicer than those for the same price in Panama. However, you will find this hotel has a nice pool on the roof top and breakfast is also included in the total price. They offer an airport shuttle but it is cheaper to step outside and grab one of the many taxis just dying to take you to the airport. The Roma Plaza Hotel is in a good central location in the business and banking center of Panama City, close to great restaurants, nightclubs and casinos. You can book online at their website at hotelromaplaza.com.

Marbello Hotel

In the district of El Cangrejo, you will find the Marbello Hotel on Calle D. The rooms rates are as follows for this discount hotel in Panama. A single room starts at $50 US and a double will cost you from $55 - $75 US. Rooms, of course, are simple, clean, basic with comfortable beds and air conditioning. There are no safes in the hotel rooms. If you want a fridge in your room, it’s going to cost you $5.00 more per night. Internet access will cost you $2/hour for internet access but you could pop across the street to the internet café and pay only 75 cents an hour. Other amenities for the guests of the Marbello Hotel include laundry services and a restaurant. You can reserve a room online at the Marbello Hotel website at Hmarbella.com.

If you are not expecting luxury and perfection and just looking for a place to rest your head while on your vacation in Panama and see all the sites, these budget hotels in Panama are great choices, clean and remember, for the most part, basic. If you want luxury accommodations you could try booking at the InterContinental Miramar or the Hotel Marriott. But you will pay the price of a luxury hotel in Panama, like anywhere else in the world. If, on the other hand, you are looking for a resort in Panama, check out some of the resorts in Panama such as the Royal Decameron Beach Resort or the Playa Blanca Beach Resort. Whatever hotel or resort in Panama you decide to stay in is going to give you a different experience and a different perspective of the Republic of Panama. I have only been able to mention several of the many discount hotels in Panama in my two articles on the subject on this site. As you can see, there are quite a few good cheap hotels in Panama for you to choose from for your vacation.

Cheap Hotels in Panama

I’ve been looking at the prices of hotels and resorts in Panama recently as I am planning my next escape to Panama as soon as the bad winter weather comes this way. Due to the high price of oil these days, it seems that there are not too many bargains to be found. So I’ve been researching cheap hotels in Panama to see exactly what is available. I’m always looking for bargains like many other people and when I find a bargain, eureka! I’m so ex-cit-ted!

Most of the hotels in Panama City I have written about so far on this blog are priced from the mid to high range. Luckily, there are a lot of different hotels in Panama to suit any budget. You can choose a hostel if you like, such as La Casa de Carmen where the atmosphere is fun and the price is right. If you would prefer a step up from hostel accommodation, there are many other hotels or apartment hotels in Panama City to choose from.

There are actually really cheap hotels in Panama City starting for as low as $25 US or less a night that can be found in the neighbourhood of Curundu, but it’s an extremely impoverished area in the City of Panama. Another area you could try would be the district of Caledonia which is somewhat improved and you can find some bargain hotels there for about the same prices and higher.

In the center of Panama City, you can book a double room for $65 US at the Centrum Tower Hotel. It’s a new hotel, basic and clean. They have a website at Centrumtowersuites.com where you can check out pictures of the hotel and make reservations by phone, fax or email. The Centrum offers all the usual amenities that you would find at any hotel – such as cable TV, air conditioning, queen sized beds, safes for your valuables, etc., etc.

Another good choice is the Centroamericano Hotel at Avenida Ecuador and Arosenena with single rooms starting at $33 US per night and double rooms for $38.50 per might. Again, it’s a clean, safe hotel in Panama with all the usual comforts for its guests that higher priced hotels offer. Just don’t expect luxury class when you are paying for basic, but I don’t want to scare you off. The Centroamericano has a website which you can check out for further information and see if it would suit your needs. The website is at hotelcentroamericano.com



On the forested hills of Panama on the Ancon Hill, you could try the La Estancia Hotel which is akin to a bed and breakfast type of accommodation (it used to be a home). It’s not far from the Panama Canal, which is a great location if you are going to visit the Panama Canal. It’s also not far from the downtown area but staying at this hotel will necessitate that you take a taxi quite often, even to a restaurant. The terraces of the hotel will give you great views of the Bridge of the Americas and Panama City. The rooms are somewhat modest, but comfortable, clean and the staff is very friendly and treats you as if you were a staying at a 5 star hotel in Panama. This means: great service! For two people during the off-season, the price is $89.00 per night and in the high season, it’s going to cost you $99 US for two people for a night. However, you may find it more peaceful in the natural surroundings of La Estancia on Ancon Hill where you can see the monkeys and exotic birds rather than staying in busy bustling downtown Panama.

I’ve only written about a few of the cheap hotels in Panama you could stay with on your vacation. There are many more options for you if you are travelling on a budget and want a budget hotel in Panama City and I promise that I will write about as many as I can in a later posting.

Til later… Veraz

Your Vacation in Panama | Panama Republic Tourism

Not quite yet a “hot” tourist destination, Panama, the word which means “an abundance of butterflies and fish”, is slowly becoming an alternate choice for tourists seeking the sun for their winter vacations. This fact is resulting in an increase in Panama tourism. I started this blog on Panama because of my love of the Panama Republic. I love Panama City, its ambiance and excitement and the beaches so close to Panama City. And Panama’s location, between two oceans adds to the excitement. You can see the sun rise in the morning over one ocean and see the sun set on another.

Who knows why it took so long for tourists to start discovering Panama? Maybe it was because of the history, or that it was a bit farther than the other typical holiday destinations of the Caribbean islands or the mystique that is Panama. But tourists are just beginning to flock to Panama on their winter retreats from cold nasty weather.

Travel to Panama can be motivated by a number of reasons. Some people want to take a Panama Canal cruise, to discover and experience what is considered by many, the eighth wonder of the world. Truly an engineering marvel, the Panama Canal, constructed in the 20th century by the Americans, is a sight to experience and you can find any number of companies conducting Panama Canal cruises including Princess Cruises. If you are looking for a hotel that is close to the Panama Canal, you could try the Country Inn & Suites Amador. I heard of one guy who had travelled to Panama, just to see the Panama Canal because he considered it to be the one great adventure he had to have in his life. Everybody has their reasons to travel to Panama.

Another reason tourists are choosing Panama travel is that Panama offers wonderful beaches and virgin rainforests to explore. Hiking through the rainforests, observing nature where it is most unspoiled is an adventure many tourists to Panama are seeking. One luxury resort in Panama which makes it possible is the Gamboa Rainforest Resort. This all inclusive resort in Panama offers ecological tours to explore the rainforest, or you can board a tram to experience an aerial tour of the rainforest. Gamboa Rainforest Resort also offers fishing tours and is close to the Panama Canal. With many tourists seeking alternative eco-tourism, Panama offers another alternative.

Other tourism to Panama are those that want to visit the city of Panama, perhaps to visit the historic area of the city, known as El Cangrejo to go to the museums, see the old churches and cathedrals and architecture. Panama City itself is a blend of the old and the new, an urban center that is bustling with excitement, business, nightlife, the Latin- Caribbean lifestyle. Currently growing with many new building projects, the skyline is a jewel against the sky at night, overlooking the Gulf of Panama to the Pacific Ocean. Panama City offers fantastic shopping opportunities, great architecture, restaurants, bars and casinos. It is truly an exciting tourist destination and so close to the beach where there are many Panama city beach hotels, both in the city, close to the Panama Canal and near the white sandy beaches, unfettered by masses of tourists. Did you know that within a couple of hours, you can swim in two different oceans in Panama? Choosing from any of the vast number of hotels in Panama is easy because there are so many available to stay in from the small hostels like La Casa de Carmen to the high rise buildings in the city to the beach resorts such as the Royal Decameron Beach Resort or the Playa Blanca Beach Resort which is an hour and 15 minutes away from the city of Panama. So Panama offers a lot, blending both the old and the new, the urban lifestyle and the resort-like atmosphere.

It’s easy to travel to Panama. You can either book a Panama Canal cruise from many destinations, or fly there in only four to five hours from any number of states in the U.S., such as Atlanta, Houston, Miami, Newark, New York, Los Angeles, and Orlando. From Canada, you can fly either from Toronto or Montreal. Tour operators such as Sunwing.ca or Nolitours offer all inclusive vacations to Panama at a number of different resorts.

Tourists are looking for new destinations that are safe to travel to. Panama travel is increasing, offering unspoiled beaches, lush vegetation, friendly hospitable people, a rich cultural heritage, a tropical climate, wildlife and oceans to explore. Panama is a vacationer’s paradise, still somewhat relatively unknown and unexplored.

Hotels in Panama City

If you are considering a holiday in Panama, there are many hotels to choose from in a wide variety of price ranges – from budget priced to luxury hotels in Panama City. It depends on your budget, your preferences and whether your vacation in Panama is for business or pleasure. There are a lot of hotels in Panama City for you to choose from for your vacation or business trip to Panama. There are beach hotels in Panama for those seeking sun, surf and relaxation, there are hotels in Panama City for those who are looking for the vibrancy of city life or must be close to the business/banking district, and there are resorts like the luxury Gamboa Rainforest Resort.

The following is a list of the world wide chain hotels which have hotels in Panama City. Please also note, all hotels in Panama are now non-smoking.

The Hotel Miramar Intercontinental, Panama

The Hotel Miramar Intercontinental on Av. Balboa y Fdco Boyd is a luxury hotel in Panama, on the waterfront overlooking the Pacific Ocean in the banking district. Great shopping is nearby as well as the Atlap Convention Center. The price for a single or double room is US $215 per night. All rooms have a balcony. The price includes a breakfast buffet. In total, there are 206 rooms and suites, telephone, mini bar, bathrobes, cable TV and satellite, internet, a business center and meeting rooms, local newspaper, room services, laundry, and gym, swimming pool, and health club. The health club offers sauna, whirlpool, tennis courts, and a Turkish bath. You can hire yachts, go fishing and find other available water sports at the private marina. Tennis courts are also available. For evening entertainment, there is the fifth floor lounge, Sparkles, with live music two nights a week. The Hotel Miramar Intercontinental also provides disabled traveller access.

Gourmet and international menus are available at the Bayview Restaurant which is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Snacks are available at Las Olas by the pool.

Hotel Marriott Panama


At Calle 52 y Ricardo Arias, Panama City, in the banking district, (12 miles from Tocumen Airport) you will find the Hotel Marriott Panama. It is ideal for business travellers because of its location in the banking district. A single and double room will cost you from U.S. $172. and a triple room goes for US $207 per night. The price of the room also includes a buffet breakfast. The hotel is made up of 396 rooms; there is a restaurant, a bar, a fitness center, cable TV, air conditioning, meeting rooms, laundry and an information desk. Excellent conference & meeting facilities are available in the business center and high-speed Internet. Also, be sure to visit the onsite gaming casino.

The Hotel Marriott Panama provides all the expected luxuries and comforts of the Marriott hotel chain world wide. There is a lobby bar and an American bar, the Marriott Café restaurant serving a la carte & buffet items. Once a week, a Panamanian buffet is served and on Friday evenings, a delicious seafood buffet is available.

Hotel Sheraton Panama

The Hotel Sheraton Panama on via Israel, Panama City offers 360 rooms, air conditioned, cable TV, telephone, laundry, gym, tennis court, a swimming pool, a spa, restaurants, bars, a night club, casino, meeting rooms, and an information desk for tourists.

Prices for the rooms begin at US $173 for a single room.

Hotel Crowne Plaza Panama

The Hotel Crowne Plaza Panama on the Av. Manuel Espinosa Batista in El Cangrejo district has 150 air conditioned rooms and suites, coffee makers, Internet, Fax, dining room, kitchenette in the suites, computers, internet access, and cable TV. Its restaurant called La Galeria serves fine cuisine. The bar "Memories" – is a sports bar serving international beverages. There is a nightclub, a fitness center, meeting rooms, laundry and a concierge. A single room starts at the price of US $146. This is an ideal hotel in Panama City for the business traveller because of its excellent location in the business district, El Cangrejo.

Courtyard by Marriott Plaza Real, Panama

The Courtyard by Marriott Plaza Real in the Multi Plaza Mall on the Punta Pacifica
has 150 rooms for its guests, Internet, Fax, dinning room, kitchenette, computers, coffee Maker, cable TV restaurant, bar, discoteque, gym, meeting rooms, laundry and a concierge and information desk to provide information to its guests. Prices for the rooms start at US $138 for a single to US $172 for a triple room. The price also includes a buffet breakfast.

Four Points Sheraton Panama




The Four Points Sheraton in Panama City on the Calle 43 Este in Marbella has 128 air conditioned rooms and suites from US $120 to US $138 offering such amenities as cable TV, telephone, laundry services. Price includes a breakfast buffet. Other amenities include a restaurant, bar, fitness center.









Hotel Plaza Paitilla Inn, Panama

Hotel Plaza Paitilla Inn situated on the Via Italia, Paitilla offers its guests rooms and suites from US $90 to US $148 including breakfast buffet. The 252 rooms and suites are air conditioned, with Cable TV, telephone, room service, a fitness center and information desk for its guests. There are several restaurants in the hotel, bars and a nightclub. Meeting and banquet facilities are available.

The Best Western Suites Las Huacas, Panama

The Best Western Suites Las Huacas on Calle A, El Cangrejo is a small hotel offering 33 rooms designed in the Panamanian folkloric style offering its guests the comfort and services expected at a Best Western Hotel during their vacation in Panama. Rooms come in a price range of US $77 to US $106 and include a continental breakfast. The rooms are air conditioned, have cable TV and laundry services are available. Panamanian cuisine is served at the Sabores Panamenos Restaurant in the Hotel and regular entertainment is available of Panamanian folkloric dance and music.

As you can see, there are many international chain hotels in Panama City offered for business travellers and vacationers alike. The city of Panama is in a unique location, offering fabulous shopping, casinos, business and commerce, 85 international banks in the banking district, the Pacific Ocean, beach front views, magnificent skylines and the mountains in the background. If you are more interested in beach hotels Panama City, you can book your vacation at a resort such as the Royal Decameron Beach resort or the Playa Blanca Hotel and Resort. For those who want to explore nature and the rainforests of Panama, you could investigate the 5 star luxury Gamboa Rainforest Resort. Panama City offers so much to the business traveller or the vacationer alike.

Riande Continental Hotel in Panama City

At the corner of Calle Ricardo Arias and the Vía Espana in the El Cangrejo district of Panama City you will find the Riande Continental Hotel and Casino. This hip hotel, Latin, open aired and breezy might remind you of Havana more than Panama. It’s a 4 star hotel you will love.because of its great location and marvelous skyline views from the rooms on the upper floors. Because of its location, it’s a great choice of hotels in Panama City for both tourists and business travelers alike.

It’s a beautiful hotel, open architecture in the Latin style, loads of fresh flowers, with 363 rooms designed in a modern style and very comfortable. There is also a luxurious Executive floors and a private Business Center with free internet service. Because of its location, close to the popular shopping area, international banks, night clubs, movie theaters, shopping centers, it’s a great hotel in Panama to choose. It’s a 4 star hotel in Panama, but it’s quite lovely for your holiday stay. They also offer transport to and from the airport to the hotel.

Services and comforts offered to their guests include high speed internet, warm accommodations, and great service. There is also a swimming pool, Lobby Bar, currency exchange, modern casino, parking on site, four meeting and conference rooms and a team of people able to assist your business conference plans, a souvenir and gift shop, and cable TV and daily maid service. The outdoor pool has a lifeguard and is the place to relax, grab a drink and watch the world go by. There is also a solarium and recreation area and a workout gym for those who wish to keep fit. There is also a panoramic elevator for the guests where you can get great view of the city.

For eating and drinking, the Riande Continental offers a 24 hour café offering both modern cuisine and wonderful tea evenings. There is a newly renovated Pub Bar in the Lobby where you can order Panamanian drinks, cocktails , music, happy hours and karaoke for those who love to pretend to sing. The Casino is lots of fun with machines, poker tables and special deals for the guests. Don’t miss at least one night here at this Casino in Panama City.

For the best looking views at the hotel Riande Continental, upgrade to a suite, where you can watch the skyline at night. The suites have walk in closets for your space and convenience. I would not recommend getting a room in the Old Tower. However, you will enjoy a very comfortable stay at this hotel in Panama.

More information about the hotel is available at their website hotelesriande.com.

You will enjoy very comfortable accommodation in Panama City at the Hotel Riande Continental, located right in the heart of everything in the city center neighbourhood of El Cangrejo.

Weather in Panama

Update. I've been checking back to my weather in Panama widget a couple of times and it hasn't been updating the weather as you may have noticed.

I did find out that the weather in Panama for the next week is mostly rain and thunderstorms.

I then click on the link which takes you to the wunderground page and the result is that the weather station in Panama is not reporting. Perhaps this will be fixed shortly. I'll keep my fingers crossed that the weather starts being reported to wunderground in the near future so my readers can check the weather in Panama instantly on this page.

Current Weather Conditions in Panama City

I'd like to share with my readers this great weather banner I got from Wunderground.com which shows the current weather conditions in Panama City.

If you are going to Panama, of course you are going to want to check up the latest weather in Panama. This banner always updates and shows the current weather information Once this posting is no longer on the front page of my blog , you can always come back here and find the page and check up the latest weather by finding this in the right hand side under the section "Panama Information".

Plan your trip Local Radar Detailed Forecast

Luxury Resort in Panama - Playa Blanca

If you are looking for a Panama resort hotel, there are many beach resorts just outside of Panama City that you can book your vacation in Panama at. Playa Blanca Beach is on the exterior of Panama City about an hour and 15 minutes away. The beach is marvellous to relax or take walks on, white sand, azure blue waters and coral reefs to explore. It is much more tranquil vacation than the hustle and bustle of Panama City. It all depends on what type of
holiday you are seeking for your trip to Panama. At Playa Blanca, there are many beach resorts to choose from for your Panama holiday destination.

Rated as a 5 star hotel and resort in Panama, the Playa Blanca Hotel and Resort where discerning travellers will find what they usually expect from this type of luxury hotel. You can just relax here and soak up the sun or you can keep yourself very busy with all the activities at the hotel and there are many. This is an ideal vacation spot for both those seeking a romantic getaway or a family vacation. You can get an all-inclusive price at this resort and the prices are very reasonable for this 5 star luxury resort in Panama.

The large hotel rooms and suites look out to the pool, the beach and gardens and include a living room, a main bedroom and a luxurious bathroom. There is also a breakfast table for you to have your meals and snacks at. All hotel rooms come with the standard comforts you would expect from a hotel of this class, including two Queen size beds or one king size bed, daily maid service, air conditioning, a safe, cable TV, telephone, electronic locks and hair dryers. There are also available rooms for disabled travellers.

For outdoor activities you will be able to participate in snorkelling, boat tours, sports fishing, tennis, aerobics and exercise classes, swimming in the two pools, beach volleyball and soccer, dance classes, water polo, water sports including pedal boats and kayaking, daily activities for adults and children and jet skiing. There is also a playground for children and an amphitheatre for games, shows and concerts. For those who love golf, yes, indeed you can golf at the nine hole putting course.

There are four restaurants at the Playa Blanca resort for you to dine in with a menu ranging from seafood, tropical delights and international cuisine to snack foods. The El Velero Grill restaurant specializes in fresh seafood. The Panama Canal buffet restaurant has international food on the menu. At the Pollera you will also be able to get international food for dinner times and you can get snacks and salads from the Snack Bar. If you are thirsty, there are six bars around the resort hotel where you can savour beers, liquors, wines and cocktails.

So if you are seeking beach hotels in Panama with all inclusive rates, the Playa Blanca Beach Resort and Hotel is an excellent choice because of its 5 star rating, its excellence in service, numerous activities and cleanliness. Another bonus: it is also situated on a most beautiful white sand beach with clear blue azure waters on the Pacific Ocean. You can't go wrong with this hotel resort in Panama.

Luxury Hotels in Panama - El Panama Hotel

One of the most famous luxury hotels in Panama City , the El Panama Hotel is one of the classic older hotels, a historical landmark, now about 50 years old. Designed with the open air tropical concept in mind, the hotel is undergoing renovations at the current time. I’d first heard mention of this hotel in the movie “The Tailor of Panama”, made in 2001. Don’t let the renovations bother you, you will hardly notice that they are going on.

Located in the center of town in the El Cangrejo area, the hotel is just under a half hour from the airport. The neighbourhood is safe to walk around 24 hours a day. Enjoy a stroll at night time and you will feel safe. You will see many policemen with and without guns otherwise known as the "tourism" police standing around to know that the crime rate is low. You can obtain a map of the neighbourhood at the reception desk to help avoid paying for expensive taxi rides here and there. Just walk out the front door of the hotel, turn right to Veneto and then you can go in any direction to find other four and 5 star hotels, shopping, casinos, restaurants, car rental agencies all within just a short walk away.

I found the large open breezy, Latin/Caribbean tropical style of the hotel architecture delightful and gets you in that tropical mood for your vacation in Panama. It has a very Panamanian atmosphere which gives a certain ambiance to this luxury hotel in Panama. You will find in the lobby, a collection of several very “chi-chi” (upscale) stores. In the pool area, the pool is large, the surrounding tropical foliage is beautiful. There is a swim-up bar in the pool and a restaurant by the pool which serves delectable cuisine. The hour glass shaped pool is lovely to swim in and lounge around developing your sun tan. The overall sense of luxury and comfort makes this hotel in Panama City a fabulous vacation getaway for romantic occasions such as honeymoons for newlyweds, couples wishing to escape, romantic getaways for younger and older travelers, disabled travelers and families with children or teenagers.

My room, although the air conditioning was set a little to high, was excellent and had all the modern amenities such as WiFi, cable TV, telephone, and a safe to protect my valuables. The room was spotlessly clean, spacious with tiled floors. However, I’ve got to say, perhaps because of the location or the noisy traffic below, it was, at times difficult to sleep at night. If you rent cabañas on the ground-floor, you will have immediate access to the pool. All in all, there are 330 guest rooms including standard, junior Suites, Cabanas by the pool, and a presidential suite. For those demanding butler service, there are two executives floors with butler service to give you personalized assistance as well as private meeting rooms if you require. For the fitness conscious, there is a spa and sauna to use.

There are quite a few restaurants at the hotel that serve up delicious cuisine. There is a different breakfast buffet served daily which is included in the price and is an excellent way to start your day in Panama City.

The business center is good for the business traveller with internet available for a couple of dollars per hour. There are 35 meeting rooms and a convention center on the premises. It is a popular place for international conventions and you will find it is a favourite luxury hotel in Panama for Latin American and European visitors to book their vacations in Panama at this hotel. The staff, although they don’t speak a lot of English are friendly and efficient. The service provided was excellent. The restaurant serves great food and the service is excellent. For the gamblers among us, there is a casino and nightclub attached to the hotel. It is a more pleasant stay than the chain hotels which lack the atmosphere and ambiance of the El Panama in Panama City, so if you can ignore the renovations and want something in a more Panamanian style, definitely try this classic hotel. Remember, the renovations will not last forever at this luxury hotel in Panama City.

Panama Hotels Country Inn & Suites Amador

Look for a cozy Panama hotel for your holiday in Panama? Try booking your vacation in Panama at the Country Inn & Suites Amador. Fabulously located right by the Panama Canal entrance, each room has a balcony with either a view of the famous Canal and the Bridge of the Americas to the Pacific Ocean or a view of the gardens.

The Country Inn & Suites Amador is in an excellent location for tourists who wish to stroll along the walkways of the Canal, savour the dining and nightlife on the waterfront and the hustle and bustle of downtown Panama City life.

The hotel has 98 rooms both standard and junior and nine apartment suites, Complimentary local and international newspapers are available if you want to read what’s going on in the rest of the world. All rooms have telephones, coffee makers, satellite tv, internet and fax access. The apartment suites have a kitchen with kitchen equipment. The hotel is also good for the business traveller to Panama, providing conference and banquet facilities. There are laundry facilities and free parking and shuttle service. Breakfast is included in the price. Outside activities include a playground for children, a swimming pool, and deep sea fishing trips, a Jacuzzi, tennis courts and fitness facilities. There are also spa services offered for those wanting the pleasures a spa has to offer.

What did I like about my stay at the Country Inn & Suites Amador? Well, the prices are reasonable and the rooms are clean and large and the beds are comfortable to sleep in. Cleanliness is very important when you are looking for a hotel to rest in during your vacation. A comfortable bed helps too. The location is great and it is close to restaurants and bars, the Marina and the view of the Canal is wonderful to wake up to and watch the large ships as they travel along the Canal.

When I get back to Panama which will be sooner rather than later, I will stay again at the Country Inn & Suites Amador (I’m usually in the lower price range when I’m seeking out hotels to stay in when I travel). It’s one of the most pleasing, reasonably priced Panama City hotels and close to everything you want to visit on your vacation in Panama.

Panama City Beach Condos

You might have not considered Panama City beach condos in your search for a retirement destination or vacation home. If you are looking for a warm, sunny place for retirement or to purchase a condo in a vacation destination, Panama City in the Republic of Panama is definitely a viable destination to consider. I will definitely retire in Panama, if not earlier than my retirement age.

One of the most privileged countries in Latin America, offering political and economic stability unlike so many other countries in Latin America, it is an extraordinary option to consider. In recent years it has opened up to tourism and visitors have been flocking there by the tens of thousands as the new vacation spot for tourists seeking sun and relaxation.

One of the problems for people looking to retired in a country they have found on their travels and fallen in love with is that many of these countries have political instability, human rights issues and huge poverty which leads to crime. Panama, however, is governed by constitutional democracy, is not a militarized country and no power crazy dictator running things and a low crime rate. You don’t need to worry about some revolution rearing its ugly head while you are enjoying the sun and your retirement. Terrorism is not a problem here because Panama is very peaceful with no enemies.

Panama City offers much in the way of beautiful beaches sprawled along over 20 miles of coastline, abundant nature, national parks, rainforests to explore, airports, a thriving commerce and banking sector, shopping, a low crime rate and high quality of life, education and healthcare. Offering a solid infrastructure, competitive housing prices, high quality construction, Panama City should definitely be considered an option.

Why is Panama City a great place to retire or purchase property in? Well, if you want to retire somewhere in a hot sunny vacation destination in Latin America or the Caribbean, one of the first questions you are going to ask yourself when looking at countries is, how safe is this destination? What about safety and security? Panama City has, first of all, a very low crime rate. You can walk the streets at night without fear of being robbed or assaulted. Tourists are safer in Panama than in most other holiday destinations.

Another benefit to the purchase of a condo in Panama City is the unique location of the country. Its location is in a place where there are no hurricanes or earthquakes unlike other Latin American countries. It’s no fun having to leave town when hurricane seasons sets upon your retirement home.

The easy-going lifestyle is somewhat like the lifestyle of Miami. It is known as the “second Miami” because of the amenities of modern life that it supplies. Panama City is a sophisticated capital of commerce and industry. The city’s infrastructure is solid and strong designed like any large city in North America. The surrounding neighbourhoods are really charming. The suburbs are full of homes much like the style of homes in Miami. For someone looking for a Panama city beach condo there is a huge supply of apartments and condos with views of the sea.

Condos and apartments in Panama City are numerous and the construction is of high standards and quality. Not many other Latin American cities offer such standards of quality and construction. Many of these Panama City buildings were constructed by the architect George Moreno.

Panama City is also a great place to shop because of its low tariffs – the lowest in the Americas. Anything can be bought in Panama City, whether you are looking for cars, electronics, computers, clothes. Grocery stores are big like the big grocery chains in North America stocked with numerous American products. The cost of living is much cheaper here than in North America or Europe.

There is a high standard of education in Panama City. There are 12 universities in Panama and three American universities with branches in the city. You will also find many excellent bilingual schools and three international schools. Health care in Panama is also excellent with great hospitals and medical service.

Dining in Panama City is excellent and on par with the rest of the world. You will also find many American brand restaurants if you are longing for some junk food from “home”. There are branches of McDonalds, Wendy’s, Pizza Hut, Burger King, etc.

Consider the distance of a place you are thinking of retiring to. Panama City is not that far away from North America when you are concerned about relatives visiting you or you hopping on a flight to visit back home. Round trips are relatively cheap and the distance is short.

How popular has Panama City become? Many ex-citizens of Panama are now returning to their homeland probably because of a better quality of life in Panama. This should tell you something. Many Americans who had lived there in the Panama Canal Zone and returned to the U.S. have gone back to Panama to retire.

Another great reason to purchase a Panama City beach condo for retirement or a holiday home is that the prices are excellent and as a foreigner you are allowed to own property unlike many other foreign countries. Panama gives you exactly the same rights and protection as a citizen of Panama. And another reason is that the prices for property are excellent in Panama and have not changed since the mid 1990s. You can find real estate in Panama for incredible prices, a luxury two bedroom condo in Panama City overlooking the Pacific Ocean for $150,000. Luxury condos in Panama City start at $100,000 U.S. A beach front condo on the Island at Isla Colon, Bocas can be had for as low as $164,000.

And what about the people of Panama? This is also a fact to consider when purchasing a retirement home in a foreign country. As I have already mentioned the politics are stable, there is a high quality of life, the business sector is thriving and the people of Panama are friendly, easygoing and warm. The cost of living in Panama is much lower than North America or Europe. Your rights are protected by the Panamanian government as a property owner. There are so many good reasons to purchase a home or condo in Panama City or its surrounding areas.

The Radisson Decapolis Hotel in Panama City

The Radisson Decapolis Hotel in Panama City is one of the newest upscale Panama City hotels now open for tourists to Panama. Situated in the heart of Panama City, surrounded by great shopping and the entertainment district, the hotel is different from other hotels in Panama with its hip, modern atmosphere and design.

For business and leisure travellers, you will find all the services, amenities, and comforts, you need for your vacation in Panama City. Its location is ideal for the business traveller because this Panama City hotel is located right in the center of the business district. The Radisson Decapolis Hotel will provide the expert assistance of its staff to assist you with the set up and success of your business meetings. For banquets and events, there are large meeting rooms and banquet halls which seats up to 300 people.

The spacious hotel rooms and suites with gorgeous decor at the Radisson Decapolis Hotel Panama City can have either a view of the Pacific Ocean or a view of Panama City through windows which span from floor to ceiling. The hotels and rooms are decorated with Panamian art and sculpture. The views of the ocean and the downtown skyline are nothing short of spectacular All modern amenities and comforts are provided such as minibars, coffee machines, high speed internet access, voicemail, hairdryers, irons and ironing boards. If you are looking for day trips and tours to do while on vacation in Panama, there is also a tours desk for your convenience for booking a tour.

For relaxation and fitness, there is the Aqua Spa and Gym on the fourth floor of the hotel. At the Aqua Spa, one of Panama City’s first class spas, there is a beauty salon for hair, massages, pedicures, manicures and other services by skilled aestheticians.

The Aqua Gym is for fitness buffs and you will also find the year round outdoor pool where you can lounge under the warm sun, surrounded by a spectacular view of Panama City. Most amazing is that when you swim in the pool, you can look through the glass bottom three stories below to the Fusion restaurant.

For dining, I have already mentioned the Fusion restaurant for great Panama City restaurants, you should not miss the dining experience here. The menu is gourmet fusion and over your heads, three stories up you can see the glass bottom swimming pool.

Fresh sushi can be eaten at the Sushi bar and cocktails can be enjoyed at the Martini Bar which also serves special martinis. You can find these bars in the lobby. They are favourite Panama nightlife hotspots.

What you might like even more about the Radisson Decapolis Hotel in Panama is that it is connected by the skywalk to the biggest shopping center and casino the Central America. The Multicentro has 25 restaurants including the Hard Rock Café, see a movie at the Multiplex and gamble at the Majestic Casino.

The Radisson Decapolis Hotel in Panama City is one of the finest hotels in Panama to book your vacation or business trip with for its location and amenities.

Photograph courtesy of Radisson Hotels

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Gamboa Rainforest Resort in Panama

Rainforest Hotels and Resorts in Panama

For the more adventurous among us who want to experience eco tourism and the verdant rainforests of Panana and are looking for a luxury resort in Panama, I highly recommend the Gamboa Rainforest Resort. This 5 star luxury resort in Panama is right in the center of the Panamanian rain forest situated on the Panama Canal.

Situated in the Soberania National Park, the Gamboa Rainforest Resort is actually a half hour away from Panama City on the Pacific Coast side of Panama. Located on the shores of Gatun Lake and the Chagres River, the source of water for the Panama Canal. These are a part of Panama’s most valuable assets. It is also about a half hour from the Colon Free Zone.

The Gamboa Rainforest Resort which was built in 2000, has been created with the eco tourist and adventure seeking traveller in mind. It has been built to provide adventurous and educational experiences to its visitors. Exploring a rainforest is often a difficult task and here at the Gamboa Rainforest Resort they have made it all easier for guest to explore because the Gamboa Rainforest Resort is right in the center of it all – the attractions and tours are right at your doorstep.

This 5 star luxury resort in Panana has large modern hotel rooms with all the modern conveniences of a five star hotel resort in Panama City. The amenities of all the hotel rooms include satellite TV, mini bar, electronic safety deposit box, Crystal showers, hair dryers, make up mirror, iron and ironing board, coffee and coffee maker, fire protection systems, monogrammed robes and balconies with a view to the Chagres River. How wonderful it is to sit on your balcony to watch as the sun rises or sets, the sounds of the rainforest, the beauty of wild nature surrounding you and the of the opening or closing of another day in the rainforest.

For those also in search of beauty, relaxation and pampering, guests the visit the Gamboa Spa which is known worldwide. Every service you require is available, from massages, to skin care, facials, manicures and pedicures and many other services. After a long hike in the rainforest, I liked to go for a half hour massage at the spa to soothe my muscles.

For those that love sport fishing, fishing enthusiasts will find some of the greatest fresh water fishing in the world at the Chagres River and Gatun Lake. The Gamboa Rainforest Resort offers the services of their expert guides to catch some of the huge Peacock Bass in the waters.

A few minutes drive away from the resort, for the avid golfer, there is the Summit Gold Course. This is a World Class championship golf course of 18 Hole, par 72, 6,626 yards built by Gregori International designed by Jeffrey Myers.

Other facilities available at the Gamboa Rainforest Resort are wonderfulo freeform natural water pool, a fitness center, tennis courts which are lighted at night for those who want to play tennis at night, kayaks which are free for guests to use, jogging and cycling trails.

So if you have already experienced a Panama City beach hotel and wish to go back to Panama for another type of adventure in the country, the Gamboa Rainforest Resort will provide so much more to explore for those who want to experience eco tourism and the rainforests of Panama. Panama is a multifaceted country and is able to provide all types of vacation for all the different needs of tourists seeking the sun, the beach, the wilderness and adventure.

La Casa de Carmen

Budget Accommodation in Panama City

Probaby one of the most charming budget hotels in Panama City to book your stay at is the Casa de Carmen. Located in the neighbourhood of El Carmen, this budget accommodation in Panama City is so wonderful that you definitely have to book ahead. If your Panama vacation is going to be done on a budget try booking at this lovely hostel. You can do this by phoning or emailing them directly. It is not possible to book online for a reservation at this hotel in Panama City. I thought the readers of my blog would enjoy discovering some of the more lovely and charming places to stay for their vacation.

Originally a renovated colonial house, the rooms are all different in this charming budget hostel. There are two co-ed dorms for six people each, lockers, air conditioning and clean bathrooms with hot running water. There are also private rooms which sleep from two to four people with private bathrooms. The rooms have high ceilings; lovely lighting and some even have hammocks. In the back, you will find a lush green terrace, there is a TV room with a library, free internet and a great kitchen to cook your meals in.

All ages of travelers have stopped here at La Casa de Carmen from toddlers to senior citizens. The atmosphere is festive, friendly and busy. The only drawback to the hostel is its location. You have to take a bus or taxi to visit just about everything you will want to see.

For further information about the La Casa de Carmen, you can also check out their website at lacasadecarmen.com for more.

Address: Calle de la Carmen 32,
El Carmen, Panama City, PANAMA

As I said, because of it’s charm, La Casa de Carmen, it is definitely one of the best budget accommodations in Panama City. However, you cannot book your reservations online. Contact them directly by email at either lacasadecarmen@cableonda.net or serviturisa@cableonda.net.

If you are on a budget, searching for an interesting and charming type of bed and breakfast place, try booking your vacation with La Casa de Carmen. Staying at a hostel and living with the people is one way to discover the true life and culture of a country. In this way, you truly get to experience another country. Sometimes you will find that by staying in resorts or expensive hotels, you remain somewhat isolated from discovering and truly knowing the life of another country and its people. If you are not looking for a Panama City beach hotel or resort and, instead, searching for other types of hotels in Panama, this kind of option is clearly something to consider.

Images of Panama City Beaches and Hotels

Get to know Panama City hotels and beaches. Photographs I thought you might like. This first one is courtesy of Instituto Panama de Turismo, the national organization for tourism in Panama.
I love these photographs of Panama, they bring back my favorite memories of the beaches in Panama.

The islands, if you have a boat, are absolutely beautiful with their white sandy beaches and the lush green palm trees. The water is a beautiful clean blue. The weather is very hot and humid and you tend to find the ocean water is luke warm too.



The city view shows - the fabulous skyline of Panama with the mountains and lush forests. The bay opens up to the Pacific ocean. What a city!



I'm waiting until I get my new photos of Panama ready for the Panama City Beach Hotels blog. For now, here's another one, of San Blas Island, Panama.

The Bristol Hotel in Panama City

If you are looking for a luxurious Panama City beach hotel and want to stay close to shopping, the nightlife and many cultural attractions, book your vacation at the Bristol Hotel in Panama City. For uncompromising luxury standards and exquisite culinary delights, stay at The Bristol Hotel. The hotel is located right in the busy financial center of the city. You will love the privacy, the security and the luxury of the Bristol.


The Bristol Hotel in Panama City has 37 deluxe King guest rooms, seven deluxe double queen guest rooms, one Bristol Suite, 3 one bedroom suits, 3 two bedroom suites and eight junior suites. The elegant décor of each suite consists of Mahogany furnishings and fabrics, accompanied by art by well-known Panama artists. Every room has the modern conveniences of fax machines, internet access, CD stereo systems and private bars. Each day, a bowl of fresh fruit is provided to your room.

Business people will find a complementary executive business center available, voicemail, free high speed internet access, color and laser printers open 24 hours a day.
For the gourmands, the dining experience is marvellous. Panamanian inspired cuisine, elegant display and presentation, the amazing ambiance and attentive service gives you a memorable culinary experience. Shift yourself over to the hotel bar and savor a vintage cognac and perhaps one of your favourite cigars.

What is have found at the Bristol Hotel in Panana is that their commitment to service is supreme. First of all you have a butler in a uniform on every floor, 24 hours a day. As I have already mentioned, the service in the restaurant was superior. They also provide CDs from their CD digital library to make your stay more pleasant if you desire to listen to some good music on the CD player in your room. They will iron an outfit for you upon your arrival and overnight, shine your shoes for the next day. In the morning, they provide wake up calls and coffee or tea to get you going. And for returning visitors, they will remember your preferences and fulfil each of them again. The hospitality is amazing at the Bristol.

For those looking for this type of sophistication, elegance and luxury in a bustling urban setting in their choice of Panama City beach hotels, The Bristol Hotel is the place to book your stay.