By Jisel Perilla
Contributing writer to Latinworld.com
Panama isn’t exactly Mexico when it comes to all inclusive hotels and resorts, but if you’re looking for a few carefree days on the beach and don’t want to worry about booking excursions or picking where to dine, there are quite a few excellent all-inclusive resorts ready to cater to your every need. Most of Panama’s larger resorts are located on the Pacific Coast, only a 30 minute to two hour drive from the city, but there are a number of smaller (and more expensive) options scattered throughout the country.
Some of my favorites are:
The Royal Decameron Beach Resort, Spa and Casino (www.decameron.com): Located on the Pacific side on Playa Farallon, the Decameron is one of the best value all-inclusive resorts in Panama at just $75-$95 per person – be sure to ask about discounts! Kids are about half the price. You can book excursions to Gamboa and the Valle de Anton, but if you don’t want to wonder far from the hotel, there’s a great pool, beach, casino and night club right on site. There are over 800 units here and it can get a bit noisy, so if you’re looking for a quiet, very private resort experience, the Decameron may not be for you. The Playa Blanca Resort (www.playablancaresort.com), also located on Playa Farallon, is a good alternative if you’re looking for something a little smaller.
Editor’s note: Watch out for Bartender Donny and his famous Coco Loco drinks. You have been warned.
What’s included: Accommodations, taxes, meals, drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic), non motorized water sports.
Special amenities: 18-hole golf course, 8 restaurants (2 buffet, 6 specialty), 7 bars, casino, 7 pools, spa, gym, night shows.
Tranquilo Bay (www.tranquilobay.com): You might feel like you’re in a remote island paradise, but there’s nothing rustic about Tranquilo Bay, located on the beautiful and lush Isla Bastimentos. The six stand-alone cabins are all air-conditioned with large, modern bathrooms and tactful, tropical decor. Getting here is a bit of an adventure – you’ll have to fly from Panama City to Bocas del Toro and take a 45 minute water taxi from the marina to the lodge, but all this is taken care of for you by the staff. The lodge caters to couples, so you’ll have all the privacy and quietness you can dream of here. Three night packages start at $945, 4 night packages at $1,150, and 7 night packages at $1,690 per person.
What’s included: All transportation, accommodations, all meals, use of equipment.
Special amenities: Jungle hikes, kayaks, snorkeling.
Villa Camilla (507-232-6721): This ecologically-minded lodge on the Azuero Pacific coast is perfect for couples looking for a romantic weekend getaway. All 7 rooms are beautifully adorned and furnished and face the beach. I recommend you visit during the week – you’ll probably pay about 1/3 the price compared to weekends. All meals are made with ingredients from the on-site organic gardens, and you barely have to leave the grounds to enjoy a number of outdoor and water activities. Expect to pay about $200-$450 per double. Note that it’s about a 7 hour drive from Panama City to Villa Camilla, and transportation isn’t included in the price.
What’s included: Accommodations, three meals a day.
Special amenities: Tennis courts, pool, excursions, bikes for guest use, horseback riding, fishing excursions.
Flickr photo by http://flickr.com/photos/vidman/
