Introduction: Short Trip to Central America
Review: Hilton Anatole – Dallas
Review: Air France Lounge – Houston Intercontinental Airport
Review: Executive Club – Houston Intercontinental Airport
Review: Air China (777-300) Business Class – Houston to Panama
Review: The Westin – Panama
Review: Nacion Sushi
Review: Le Meridien – Panama
Review: Avianca (A320) Business Class – Panama to Bogota
Review: Avianca VIP Lounge – Bogota
Review: LATAM VIP Lounge – Bogota
Review: Copa Club – Bogota
Review: El Dorado Lounge – Bogota
Review: Avianca (A319) Business Class – Bogota to San Salvador
Review: Intercontinental Hotel – San Salvador/Metrocenter Mall
Review: Avianca (A320) Business Class – San Salvador to Dallas
Much like my last visit to Panama, where I stayed at the Sortis Hotel and Casino and the Marriott Executive Apartments, I wanted to visit a couple other properties. The first property I chose was The Westin Panama. I had never stayed at a Westin property, but because of the Starwood and Ritz-Carlton properties falling under the Marriott Bonvoy Rewards program, figured I would give it a shot.
Booking
I booked my stay for $85/night, at the government/military rate using the Marriott Rewards credit card. By doing this, I earned a total of 5,926 (2,758 base, 1,379 elite, and 1,789 credit card points) Marriott Bonvoy Rewards points.
Arrival
After a brief visit to Immigrations and Duty Free, I hopped in an Uber to make the 30 minute journey to The Westin Panama. The hotel was just off the major highway (south corridor) that ran along the beach. I was met at the car by two bellmen, one opened my door, while the other grabbed my bag from the trunk. What a way to start my visit.
Check-In
I waited a few minutes for the agents to assist others customers. When I approached the counter, the agent asked for my credit card and passport. She proceeded to make a copy of my passport. This is typical of almost every hotel I have visited traveling internationally. I assume they want passports because it is harder to get a fake one than a fake ID. I was thanked for being Bonvoy Elite and given a complimentary upgrade to a Junior Suite.
Room
I made a left from the front desk where the elevators were located. From there, I made my way up to the 15th floor. The room, 1513, was to the left after exiting the elevator.
Upon entering the room, I found myself in the very small living area. There was a small couch, two chairs, surrounding a wall mounted television. There was another table with some chairs closer to the door.
The bedroom was just past the living area. The room included a king bed, closet, and another television.
The bathroom was just off of the bedroom. A shower and bathtub were included. This is something I have rarely seen at a hotel. The bathroom was the best part of the room.
Dining
There were a couple of dining options at the hotel: the lobby bar, lobby restaurant, and club lounge.
The Lobby Bar
The Lobby Bar was to the right of the front desk. It was nice looking, but had a funky setup. The bar was long, which was nice, but the wrap around design made the space feel cramped, if sitting on the inside. The bar offered typical food: salads, wings, burgers, etc. I had a beer and was given complimentary fried plantains.
The Lobby Restaurant
I visited the Lobby Restaurant for breakfast. I was blown away by the huge buffet selection. The food included a variety of meats, pastries, and fried foods. There was an omelet station at the end of the line (my favorite). Just past the omelet station was the beverage station. I did not want to leave the restaurant, seriously. The cost? Approximately $20 USD.
The Club Lounge
The club lounge was empty most of time I was there. There was an attendant who provided a selection of hors d’oeuvres and pastries. Beer and liquor were also available. I found the lounge to peaceful and well appointed.
Fitness
Pool
The outdoor pool and indoor spa were located on the 18th floor. The infinity ppol was small, but offered great views of the city. The pool was the perfect temperature. I found the lounge chairs to be a bit uncomfortable, but that is the only “problem” I had at the pool.
Fitness Center
The fitness center was located on a lower floor. I want to say the sixth floor, but do not hold me to that. Just know that it was not on the 18th floor as the signs near the pool stated. The fitness center was calm and relaxing.
Final Word
The Westin Panama was a decent deal for $85 a night. The breakfast buffet, pool, and executive lounge were highlights of my stay. I expected more from the room, fair or not, but left disappointed. When the bathroom is the highlight of a suite, that is definitely not good. All in all, I would visit The Westin Panama again in the future.
