Novotel Panama City

Novotel Panama City offers a lively artistic twist and modern design. The lobby has a neutral base of glossy floors and gray couches. However, orange and blue large geometric art pieces on the walls and behind the front desk punctuate the sleek gray color scheme, bringing some life to the place. Walk further in, and there’s a small lounge area with a lively vibe thanks to a mix of futuristic orange chairs and cozy contemporary gray seating. The restaurant almost has a more subdued (but still stylish) design with its gray walls and tables and wooden chairs with red padding. Unexpectedly, the large tail-end of a graffiti bus and other psychedelic local art hangs on the walls, giving the place a fun aspect. Beyond the dining area and lobby, the only other public space is a smoker’s terrace with outdoor seating. Clientele consists mainly of couples and business travelers. However, families appreciate a policy that allows for two kids to stay free with their parents.

Travelers who want to be in the center of Panama City, may want to look elsewhere as the Novotel Panama City is a 17-minute drive from Casco Viejo, the historic center. The Miraflores Locks take 22 minutes to reach by car, as does historical Panama Viejo. So, what’s nearby the hotel? There are plenty of restaurants on surrounding streets, as well as bars on Via Argentina, just a seven-minute walk away. For shopping, Soho Mall takes 16 minutes to reach on foot. A metro stop is a five-minute walk away, it’s easy to get around the city via public transportation. It takes 30 minutes by car to reach the Tocumen International Airport Panama. 

Rooms at Novotel Panama City are similar to that of the public spaces -- ultra modern and chic with a neutral color palette and bolts of color in navy blue curtains and pillows. There's sleek wooden furniture and contemporary gray and blue chairs. With decorative art only on the walls of the Suites, Superior Rooms can feel a little sterile. The only other difference between the Suites and Superior Rooms is that the Suites have separate living rooms with convertible couches. All rooms are equipped with air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, coffeemakers, minibars, and safes. Bathrooms have black and white color schemes with gray granite countertops and glass showers with waterfall showerheads. Some toiletries are free and others are not, so pay careful attention to the instructions of those displayed in bathrooms. Hairdryers are provided. Past guests have reported occasional cleanliness issues. 

Novotel Panama City offers a decent amount of convenient features for guests, though perhaps not enough to occupy a lot of time as there’s no spa or pool. The  restaurant and bar serves international cuisine 24/7 and offers a limited room service (in terms of menu and hours). Hot and cold breakfast is provided but costs a fee. The gym is modest with mismatched cardio and weight equipment. Business travelers will find two Mac public computers, free Wi-Fi, and two fully-equipped meeting rooms. Parking is free on-site. There’s a small children’s playroom for families to enjoy.