Site Inspection at Hotel La Compañia, in Panama City, Panama

This property is in the heart of Panama's old town, Casco Viejo. Although it is relatively new, it holds so much history that you feel like you are traveling in time when you visit. It is important to add that the decor gives you that feeling, but everything is brand new and top quality inside the hotel.

The hotel is composed of three buildings: the French, Spanish and American buildings. Each represents Panama's three biggest influences through time, but don't worry, Panama's essence is consistent in all three buildings. The rooms and decor for each building correspond to its theme. The hotel has 88 rooms, 12 of which are suites. All rooms have balconies; some overlook the internal courtyard, and others overlook Casco's streets.

Eight restaurants are inside the hotel; three have a terrace area inside the internal courtyard. Each restaurant has a historical theme. On the front page of each menu, you can read about the theme's inspiration. The hotel also has a rooftop, which gives you views of the iconic Panamanian skyline, the ocean and Panama Canal's Pacific entrance, from where you can spot the beautiful Biomuseo, designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry. Going to a rooftop in Casco is the right way to "casquear", as locals would say. You can still dine there if you are not staying in the hotel.

You can choose between 12 different activities and experiences. These range from coffee tasting, savoring the famous Panamanian coffee the Geisha, to a day trip to the beautiful Contadora Island.

The whole hotel narrates Panama's history through the years. Walking down its corridors is like reading a history book. Staying in this hotel will change and improve your whole visit to Panama, giving you a more in-depth perspective.

As a local, it is a property that fills me with pride for my country and motivates me to do more internal tourism. I can't wait for them to open their second La Compañia property in El Valle (Panama's mountains) at the end of this year!

• The hotel works with a transportation company that will facilitate transportation to and from the hotel to the airport or other locations inside or outside the city.

• They have a private library, perfect for remote working!

• There are only two officially accessible rooms, so if you plan to go, book them ahead of time if you need them (I can help you with that).

• The hotel's rooftop pool is exclusively for hotel guests.

• They offer valet parking and overnight parking for a fixed price.

• They're family-friendly and pet-friendly. All windows and walls are built to prevent noise from entering the room.

• Amazing for food and history lovers!

This trip report is part of our ongoing series on travel to Panama City, Panama. In need of further inspiration? Check out Amy Haefeli’s guide, A Luxe 3-Day Guide to Visiting Panama City & San Blas Islands.