Panama City
In this banking and trade powerhouse, executives will find a full range of business services and restaurants.
Sleeping
Marriott. The Marriott has it all – shoeshines, restaurants and bars, a drug store, airline and car rental desks and an ATM. Rooms from $160. www.marriott.com
The Bristol. The 56-room Bristol caters to the needs of executives travelers. There’s free highspeed Internet in the 24-hour business center; laptops are available for use in your room. Rates: $195. www.thebristol.com
Relaxing
Gamboa Tropical Resort. This swank resort combines eco-minded practices with pure luxury. Los Lagartos Restaurant may look familiar: It was used in the movie “The Tailor of Panama.” Ride on the aerial tram or pamper yourself with a massage at the spa. www.gamboaresort.com
Eating
Fusion. Food is good at this trendy eatery, but the architecture is even better. At Hotel Radisson Decápolis on Avenida Balboa; phone: 507-215-5000.
Café Balear. The city’s finest Spanish restaurant is popular with the power lunch and dinner set. At Calle Colombia 17 in Bella Vista; phone: 507-269-2415.
Bristol Hotel Restaurant. Chef Cuquita Calvo brings together Panamanian and international flavors. On Calle Aquilino de la Guardia; phone: 507-265-7844.
Las Tinajas. Panamanian food is the mainstay. Start with salted yucca fritters then try the sancocho (chicken stew). At 22 Calle 51, Bellavista; phone: 507-263-7890.
Drinking
At El Livin’ Lounge, local art and live alternative music add an edgy flair, but the decibel level is low enough for conversation. In the historic colonial section, 844 drips in extravagance. Martinis are the trademark at Blue, where the décor is one single color.
Shopping
Reprosa jewelry bears stylized designs found in pre-Columbian art and Spanish-colonial jewelry; phone 507-269-0457.