The wide and open lobby is awash in polished marble, contemporary seating, and floor-to-ceiling mirrors and windows -- all of which combine for a bright, classy look and feel that verges on the dated side. The large restaurant, chic lobby lounge, and outdoor resort-style pool -- among the largest in Panama City -- on the ground floor all create a vibe that never completely quiets down. While it never gets raucous, there’s a constant hum to the social scene from the steady stream of guests coming and going. The resort-like pool and nice business facilities draw a mixed clientele of executive travelers and couples.

In a city well-known as Central America’s financial hub, Avenida Balboa is at the heart of its financial district. A long row of skyscraper hotels and commercial buildings runs in either direction from the hotel. Dozens of restaurants, shops, and a modern grocery store (Supermercado Riba) are all within a five-minute walk. The Casco Viejo historic district and Panama Canal Museum are both reachable in 10 minutes by car. Panama’s main airport, Tocumen International (PTY), is located 20 minutes east along a modern, well-maintained highway. The hotel can arrange for paid shuttle service. However, Uber and the city’s many taxi cabs are often cheaper transportation options.

Room decor is bright and upscale. Off-white marble flooring, leather desk chairs, and thick down comforters all provide a sense of understated sophistication. However, the monochromatic color palette, lack of artwork, and angular, nondescript furniture ultimately feel cold and forgettable. Entry-level Classic Rooms and Executive Rooms feature similar studio layouts. The list of amenities is typical of a hotel of this caliber and includes flat-screen TVs, minibars, and free Wi-Fi. We found the internet service to be fast and reliable. Suites upgrade to multi-room layouts nearly twice as large as entry-level rooms. The flagship Royal Suite is like a luxury condo with a dedicated office, formal dining room, and a full kitchen. Upgraded rooms also feature additional amenities like hot tubs and balconies with lovely views of Panama Bay. Walk-in showers and generic bath products are standard throughout; except the Royal Suite which upgrades to Molton Brown brand toiletries and a sunken hot tub with water views.

The long list of amenities is not surprising for a four-pearl hotel and includes a resort-like pool, a large, sophisticated, a la carte restaurant, and a spa. The outdoor pool is the property’s best asset. Even with its location 100 feet from one of Panama City’s most bustling thoroughfares, the freeform shape and resort-like atmosphere create a distinct sense that guests are far from the center of a city. Long rows of lounge chairs and cabanas ring the terrace. Two small bars at either end each serve a full cocktail menu.

The lobby lounge is the hotel’s sleekest, chicest social space. It features the same decor and transitional style furniture found in every other common area. Yet, the dim lighting, herringbone flooring, and live piano music on some evenings, create a distinctly welcoming room for guests to gather. The Bay View Restaurant, the hotel’s only full-service dining space, is a cavernous, open-concept room with a vaguely Mediterranean-inspired decor. The liberal use of salmon-colored marble, long, billowing window treatments, and double linen tablecloths all create a feel of upscale sophistication. The all-day menu includes buffet breakfast service (for a fee), plus a la carte lunch and dinner. Menus offer a mix of Western-friendly fare and Panamanian cuisine. However, the food receives mixed reviews. 24-hour room service is also available. 

The spa and fitness room both feel like an afterthought with limited services and equipment. Self-parking is free, while valet is available for a fee -- both in a secure, staffed lot. Fast, reliable Wi-Fi is free in all common areas. Meeting rooms can seat up to 600 people. A staffed business center is a nice perk.