Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Suites feature eye-popping skyline views from the sitting area, the bed and even the
walk-in closet. Of course, the real action happens poolside - grab a cocktail and watch it
all swirl by.
Bristol Panama
LUXURY HOTEL $$$
$$$
( 265-7844;
www.thebristol.com
;
Calle Aquilino de la Guardia, Bella Vista; d incl breakfast from
US$219; )
The elegant Bristol features oriental carpets, flamboyant orchids
and precious woods, and that's just the lobby. Rooms are refined and lovely. No more do-
not-disturb tags here - heat sensors determine if rooms are occupied. Other five-star
amenities include a spa, 24-hour butler service and free cell-phone loan. The restaurant,
run by an award-winning Panamanian chef, is currently getting an update.
Le Meridien
LUXURY HOTEL $$$
$$$
( 297-3200;
www.starwoodhotels.com
;
cnr Calle Uruguay & Av Balboa; d US$380, ste from
US$550; )
Created by 100 artists, there's cool digital art and even birdsong
in the elevator. Yet, while daring and innovative, some details are simply off. Internet is
US$15 extra, rooms have laminated wood walls and furniture seems a bit cheap given
the all-out setting. A little Le Mediocre. But the rooftop pool offers a delicious city sky-
line view.
There's also a Clarins spa onsite and a swish fusion restaurant.
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4
San Francisco & Punta Paitilla
Similar to Bella Vista, San Francisco is a central, busy location with the added perk of
having the biggest green space in this part of the city - Parque Recreativo Omar. Punta
Paitilla is a peninsula of modern high rises that juts into Panama Bay.
Hostal Casa Margarita
B&B $$$
( 394-5557;
www.hostalcasamargarita.com
; Casa 97, Calle Los Claveles; s/d/tr incl breakfast
US$75/88/115; )
Irresistibly cozy and chic, this stucco house features seven
smart, impeccable but simple rooms with colorful touches, flat-screen TVs and mini-
fridges. A huge garden and breakfast patio has ample space to lounge or dally over a
complete breakfast with fresh fruit. Guests also get kitchen use, but the real treasures
here are the warm hosts.
