Waldorf Astoria Panama

Like others within the chain, this Waldorf Astoria hotel exudes an aura of quiet luxury. Earthy brown and ivory tones are seen throughout the contemporary common spaces, with beautiful accents making each space its own. In the lobby, pale blue and gold touches add elegance, and the space is filled with a warm glow from funky pendant lights and gleaming marble and hardwood floors. Brio Brasserie -- the intimate main restaurant -- is equally polished, with deep blue walls, shimmery purple accents, and attractive artwork contributing to the contemporary design. The Sushi Bar embraces the brown-and-ivory theme with wood and marble materials, while Japanese-themed artwork and orange-hued accents dress the space. The refined yet comfortable feel attracts couples and business travelers looking for a relaxed stay with a well-known hotel brand.

In sight of the waterfront and near the business district of Panama City, Waldorf Astoria Panama is within a five-minute walk of restaurants, nightclubs, and casinos. It is a 10-minute walk to the waterfront strip. Iglesia del Carmen is a beautiful old church worth visiting, an 11-minute walk from the hotel. It is a six-minute walk to the nearest public bus stop, and a 14-minute ride -- or a 20-minute walk -- to the metro station. 

From the hotel, it is a five-minute drive to the Multicentro Mall, where there’s a grocery store, arcade, and movie theater. Casco Viejo, a vibrant and historic section of the city, is a 15-minute drive from the hotel. It is a 17-minute drive to Panama Viejo, the ruins of the original city’s settlement. The Miraflores Locks are a popular spot to watch ships pass through the canal locks, and there’s a museum detailing their history -- all a 22-minute drive away. Tocumen International Airport is a 26-minute drive from the hotel. 

Neutral-tone rooms are comfortable and well-appointed, with modern amenities tucked away for a clean look. Ivory and soft gold tones create an elegant appearance, while floor-to-ceiling windows add some space and brightness. All have small sitting areas and glass-topped work desks. Two doubles or a king-size bed have quality linens, down-filled duvets, mattress toppers, and pillow menus for a cozy sleep. Top-notch amenities include a 40-inch (or larger) flat-screen TV with premium and HD channels, a Nespresso machine, minibar, iPod dock, and safe, but only Hilton Honors members get free in-room Wi-Fi. Upgraded rooms offer separate bedrooms, balconies, and stand-alone tubs. 

Sleek bathrooms have a long marble counter with double vessel sinks, and a roomy glass-cabin shower with both handheld and rainfall showerheads. The toilet is tucked behind a wall for extra privacy, and the room has a sliding door to maximize space. Hairdryers, scales, robes, and slippers are provided, and free high-end Salvatore Ferragamo toiletries include soap, shampoo, conditioner, and body wash. 

Restaurants and a pool make this a convenient pick for relaxing on-site. Good food is served at the two restaurants, lounge bar, and pool bar. French and American dishes are available all day at the main restaurant, where a quality breakfast buffet is available for purchase, or included with some packages. The Sushi Restaurant and Lounge is also popular for dinner. 

The pool is a bit small for the size of the hotel, but still a decent spot to relax and cool off. There’s an adjacent whirlpool, and plenty of comfortable loungers and beds, mostly in the shade. The pool bar serves drinks and tasty light dishes. Being on an upper floor, there is a nice view of the surrounding area and, from some spots, the sea. The pool deck is off the spa, where massages, facial and body treatments, and beauty services are available. A 24-hour fitness area offers a good range of modern equipment, and a water and towel station. An entire floor is dedicated to meeting rooms and events, occupying 4,000 square feet of space. Free Wi-Fi is available in the lobby, or in rooms for guests that are part of Hilton's loyalty program.