Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
come for the swimming pool or the easy-access partying, though it's a relatively calm
spot (all laptops engaged) and staff is nice. It's a bit unkept, though. Bunks crowd larger
dorms, but air-con keeps them cool. Breakfast is pancakes and coffee.
Hostal Balboa Bay
GUESTHOUSE $
( 227-6182; Calle 39 Este No 21, Bella Vista; dm incl breakfast US$13, s/d US$35/50; )
Though quiet and clean, rooms are of widely varying quality and service can be spotty as
well. It's currently undergoing renovations - check for changes in rates. It's central but
gets less traffic than the competition. The neighborhood gets deserted at night so take
taxis.
Saba Hotel
HOTEL $$$
( 201-6100;
www.thesabahotel.com
;
Vía Argentina s/n, Bella Vista; d US$120; )
Modern and cheerful, the Saba is a great value addition to Bella Vista. With lots of glass
and bamboo, there's a sustainable theme that's probably more stylish than substantive.
Still, you can practice yoga, get a carrot juice at the detox bar or order room service
watching your flat-screen TV. Service is great and there's a restaurant onsite.
Baru Lodge
B&B $$$
( 393-2340;
www.barulodge.com
; Calle 2nda Norte H-7, El Carmen; s/d incl breakfast US$60/70;
)
Tasteful and cordial, this inn sits on a residential street central to the action.
Rooms are sleek and modern, with subdued colors and soft lighting. The English-speak-
ing owner makes guests right at home. Cable TV, fast wi-fi and air purifiers are among
the perks. The garden patio has wicker seating, where continental breakfasts are served.
Getting here is a challenge, as streets are unmarked, but you can tell the taxi it's loc-
ated behind Exedra topics.
Executive Hotel
HOTEL $$$
( 265-8011;
www.executivehotel-panama.com
; cnr Calles 52 & Aquilino de la Guardia, El Cangrejo;
s/d incl breakfast US$95/105; )
Bustling and efficient, this business hotel is cent-
rally located in El Cangrejo with an endless array of prim white rooms. While rooms are
definitely too skinny, we like it because the service is friendly and caring. It's also the
secret spot in the city for outstanding North American breakfasts at the 24-hour cafe.
