if you go
Panama uses U.S. dollars but people call them Balboas.
Where to stay
The Canal House in Casco Viejo has three suites with king- or queen-size beds, free use of cellphones and a common area for breakfasts and cocktails (from $210 to $350 a night; canalhousepanama.com).
Nearby, the Magnolia Inn has more affordable rooms, some with views of downtown Panama City (from $100 to $150 a night; magnoliapanama.com).
The Bristol, in the financial district, has 129 rooms and suites with local artwork (from $208 to $400 a night; thebristol.com).
The Hard Rock Megapolis has 850 modern-style rooms with 500 more opening soon. Expect a Vegas-style experience with lots of music, high-dollar cocktails and glitz (from $149 to $279; hrhpanamamegapolis.com).
Where to eat
Maito, new Panamanian cuisine, Coco del Mar area (maitopanama.com).
La Posta, contemporary cuisine, Calle Uruguay area (lapostapanama.com).
Luna, contemporary cuisine, financial district (no website).
