Veneto Hotel & Casino

The hotel first opened as a Wyndham Grand Hotel, however, it hasn’t been maintained at the level of sophistication typical of the Wyndham brand. Over time, the luxury and polish has faded, and the glitz and glamour that remains are only skin-deep. The polished marble floors, purple velvet-like couches, and faux Italian-inspired accents all feel cheap, dated, and reminiscent of casino hotel decor popular in the last century. With plenty of social space -- including four restaurants, a spacious rooftop pool and bar, and a large casino -- the vibe is lively during the day and raucous at night. After the sun goes down, the property takes full advantage of its Cangrejo location. Prostitution (a legal industry in Panama) is not only tolerated but openly promoted. While it’s rarely violent, petty crime is a real concern and the resulting vibe is one of anything goes. Needless to say, it’s an adult-only property.

The surrounding Cangrejo neighborhood is one of Panama City’s busiest. By day, the vibe is busy, even frenetic; after dark, it’s busy, frenetic, and seedy. Dozens of restaurants, bars, clubs, and services are available in any direction and the Via Espana commercial district is three minutes away on foot. One of the city’s major subway stops, El Carmen Metro, is a four-minute walk from the lobby. Panama’s flagship airport, Tocumen International (PTY), is 30 minutes away along a safe, modern highway. Paid shuttle service is available through the hotel. However, Uber and taxis are often cheaper options. Both are easy to arrange day or night.

The aging decor is at least 20 years past its prime. Salmon-colored marble, faded glass shower stalls, and pleather seating all feel tired and drab. Maintenance issues -- including ripped furniture, stained bed linens, and chipped vanities -- are widespread. Room categories differ mainly in square footage. Junior Suites and Executive Rooms are substantially larger than Standard Rooms. However, with few added decorations or furniture, the extra space just feels cavernous and wasted. Every category features a similar, modest list of amenities. Flat-screen TVs, air-conditioning, and laptop safes are the most notable. Wi-Fi is free and we found the service fast and reliable. Bathrooms are spacious but likewise dated. Glass, walk-in shower stalls and generic bath amenities are standard. Hairdryers are mounted to the walls. Some rooms have nice city views from large windows. 

The hotel features one of the longest lists of resort-like amenities in Panama City, though all are mediocre. The large casino is its best and worst asset. Long rows of slot machines plus a good selection of table games provide plenty of gaming options for guests. But, the space becomes a haven for all manner of illicit goings-on after dark.

The rooftop deck looks a bit tired, although it’s spacious enough to accommodate a pool, a bar, and a small game area. Given the hotel’s 301-room capacity, the pool is undersized and the entire deck overcrowds quickly. Nearby, a basic, featureless bar serves alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages plus finger foods. Live music and entertainment is provided on select nights. The adjacent gym is spacious, but the well-worn equipment needs an upgrade. Several machines were out of order during our visit. The rooftop spa is small, dated, and offers only limited hours and massage services.

The on-site restaurants serve a broad range of food. New York Steakhouse is dark, dowdy, and vaguely upscale with a predictably meat-centric menu. A spacious, open-concept bar in the lobby serves sushi and a full cocktail menu. Vivaldi -- a casual restaurant adjacent to the lobby -- offers buffet breakfast and lunch. Room service is available. Overall, the food is reasonably priced but poorly reviewed.

Free valet parking and property-wide Wi-Fi are provided, and we found the internet service to be reliable and fast.