Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
too close to street tr
affic
to provide much relaxation. Great location but opt for a higher floor
to escape the noise.
$109
Toscana Inn
C “D” at C Eusebio A. Morales 265 001,
toscanainnhotel.com
;
map
.
Top mid-range hotel in an excellent location, with warmly decorated en-suite rooms con-
taining all
mod
ern amenities, enhanced by efficient, friendly service. Includes a good buffet
breakfast.
$109
FORMER CANAL ZONE
There are an increasing number of lodgings scattered round the former Canal Zone, an area
that includes the Amador Causeway, Balboa and Cerro Ancón, stretching to Albrook, Clayton
and Miraflores Locks. These often offer greater tranquillity and, in some cases, superb views,
though they are some distance from the main watering holes, which will mean spending more
on taxi fares.
Albrook Inn
C Las Magnolias 14, Albrook 315 1789,
albrookinn.com
;
map
.
Conveni-
ent for early domestic flights from Albrook Airport and fine if you've your own transport,
this otherwise out-of-the-way hotel is located in a tranquil residential suburb. Rates for com-
fortable motel-style rooms and suites include a buffet
bre
akfast served in verdant surround-
ings. A small pool with jacuzzi provides another treat.
$73
The Balboa Inn
Las Cruces, 2311a, Balboa 314 1520,
thebalboainn.com
;
map
.
Con-
veniently situated in the quiet residential area of Balboa, yet close to bus and taxi routes,
this B&B offers simple but nicely furnished rooms with excellent beds and plenty of natural
light. The delightful gar
den
breakfast terrace allows you to enjoy your full American break-
fast while birdwatching.
$72
Country Inn & Suites
Amador Causeway 211 4500,
panamacanalcountry.com
;
map
.
A
standard motel in a stunning location, right by the canal entrance. Pay the extra $15 to watch
the ships from your balcony - otherwise you may get a view of the car park. The large, bright
rooms are equipped with
all c
onveniences. There's an onsite
TGI Friday's
and a couple of
pools. Breakfast included.
$73
La Estancia B&B
C Amelia Denis de Icaza, Quarry Heights, Cerro Ancón 314 1581,
bedandbreakfastpanama.com
;
map
.
The capital's best accommodation for nature lovers,
halfway up Cerro Ancón, surrounded by trees, with agoutis and toucans nearby. The helpful
owners oversee simple (not all en suite and none have TV), comfortable and light rooms, and
can arrange tours and transfers. You'll need a taxi to reach a re
stau
rant but order a takeaway,
grab some wine from the honesty bar and chill on the balcony.
$94
Hostal Amador Familiar
Av Amador, round the corner from Tamburelli's, Ancón 314
1251,
hostalamadorfamiliar.com
;
map
.
Maroon three-storey Canal Zone building with a
laidback atmosphere, attracting a mix of Panamanians and foreigners. There are basic com-
pact en-suite rooms (with fan or a/c), free wi-fi, laundry service and cheap airport transfers,
