Aloft Panama

Every square foot of the sleek, contemporary design feels as if it were milled in an IKEA factory. Boldly colored and patterned seating, polished concrete flooring, neon mood lighting, and liberal use of glass and chrome all create a chic, modern look and feel. The aesthetic alone elevates the hotel a full step above most comparable area properties. However, there’s still a vague feeling that everything is budget-oriented. Lightly peeling laminate, fading linens, and prematurely worn fabrics keep the hotel below upscale status. The massive lobby -- including a modern, full-service restaurant, a large lounge area, a towering and spacious bar, and a small business lounge -- provides ample social space. The outdoor pool area offers even more room to gather. However, the terrace is small, awkwardly laid out, and a lack of umbrellas means the Panama heat can be unbearable during the day. The clientele is a near-even split of executives and vacationing couples.

Situated on the edge of Panama City’s downtown core, the neighborhood of San Francisco is a quieter respite. Dozens of restaurants, bars, and other hotels can be found in any direction, but the energy isn't frenetic. Super 99 -- a large, modern supermarket -- is eight minutes away on foot. The popular Atlapa Convention Center is around the corner. Anything guests can’t find on-site -- more full-featured restaurants, a casino, a spa, and a larger pool -- can be found at the connected Sheraton Grand Panama. Casco Viejo (Panama’s historic district) and Tocumen International Airport (PTY) are each less than 30 minutes away. Uber and taxi service are the best, cheapest options for getting around the city.

Rooms offer the same minimal, industrial vibe as the common areas. The monochromatic, gray-on-gray color palette, Scandinavian-inspired furniture, and cheeky accents (like vintage models of Vespa motor scooters) are tasteful, cohesive, and a clear departure from the forgettable furnishings found in comparable area hotels.Rooms in every category are spacious. Entry-level Standard Rooms offer studio layouts, while Suites upgrade to large -- even massive -- floor plans with separate sleeping, living, and (optionally) dining areas. All offer upgraded technological amenities including cordless phones, flat-screen TVs, multi-port electronics hubs, and fast, free Wi-Fi. Mini-fridges and coffeemakers are also provided. Most suite categories, like the Ultra Luxe Suite, feature sprawling, condo-style layouts with additional appointments like hot tubs, dining rooms, and furnished balconies with (optional) limited water views.Bathrooms in almost every room feature a split-design with the toilet and shower in a narrow closet and the sink outside the door. Bliss brand bath products and spacious walk-in shower stalls are standard. Some Suites upgrade to a separate hot tub.

The expansive, open-concept lobby combines the hotel’s best features, including an all-day restaurant, a mini-market, and a chic bar. The only restaurant, Red, is bright, bold, and modern with a breakfast buffet, a la carte fusion menus for lunch and dinner, and 24-hour room service. Breakfast costs extra, but it can be purchased with the room. The adjacent 24-hour Re:fuel mini-market sells sandwiches, light snacks, and beverages. On the opposite side of the lobby, W xyz bar is located in an open, two-story space with blue and pink mood lighting, a pool table, and a swanky, nightclub-esque vibe. The atmosphere livens up considerably after dark.Just outside the bar, a small outdoor terrace includes club-style seating and a modest, above-ground pool. The deck surrounding the pool is modern and cozy but awkwardly laid out. Lounge chairs are crammed into a series of stepped platforms that overlook a parking lot and lack umbrellas. Poolside drink service is available depending on the hotel’s occupancy.The fitness room offers modern LifeFitness cardio equipment with individual TV screens. Wi-Fi is fast, free, and reliable throughout the property. Free off-street parking is also available.