By far, two thumbs up. This hotel offers something that most hotels often fall short in, and that is customer service. My first thought when I arrived was, “Wow”. Before I could fully step out of the taxi, Bellboy supervisor Aristoles Vallester took my bags and with a beaming smile from ear to ear, welcomed me to the Crowne Plaza Hotel. You could literally feel a sense of ownership and pride. Immediately, I knew that this trip was going to be a very pleasant one.
I was then greeted by the Front Desk supervisor, Nilka Thyme who also had a smile that was so warming that I thought perhaps she knew who I was beforehand. The check-in process was effortless and I found myself in my spacious hotel room with a breathtaking view of Panama City.
The Crowne Plaza Hotel is located in Panama’s banking district and is also surrounded by a ultra-hip night life and boutique restaurants and shopping. It literally is The Place To Meet, offering 4+ conference size meeting rooms with accommodating projector screens and a buffet-style catering set-up.
The Crowne Plaza also offers a business center with private computer stations and internet connections. Their conceirge, Ventura Morales was extremely knowledgeable and friendly. When it comes to traveling, getting my bearings and understanding the area literally keeps me on schedule and he was an absolute saint in helping me acheive this.
Additional amenities include a 24-hour, fully equipped fitness center, sparkling pool, clean restrooms with showers, a beautiful outdoor lounge with plenty of space and a gorgeous view of the city.
The hotel room itself was extremely comfortable with oversized bathtubs, a generous vanity area, WiFi access, mini-bar, flat screen television with cable access and HDMI input. The beds were so comfortable that I felt like I was sleeping on clouds. (LOL, if I only knew what clouds felt like).
Another plus was La Galeria restaurant which I graciously endulged in every morning. Offering a buffet style of traditional Panamanian foods, fruits, breads, cheeses, and juices I highly recommend starting your morning off with breakfast at La Galeria. Rightfully named, La Galeria offers visually stimulating pieces of artwork hand crafted by local artists and available for purchase as well. Need help deciding what to eat? Ask Food and Beverage Manager Juan Peralta or A & B supervisor Itzel Fernsodg. I came down a little late for breakfast one morning and Itzel asked me if I would like an omlet and actually MADE it for me. This is what I mean when I say that the team here goes above and beyond to make you feel welcomed.
The only advice that I would give is to make sure to give yourself plenty of time to get around if you are on a schedule. Due to the current construction of the subway system, the traffic gridlocks around 2pm to 6:30pm daily. It is best to either walk to surrounding establishments such as Multiplaza Mall (which took me one hour by cab to get to on my 2nd day here); the mall is literally less than 2 miles away.
The best means of transportation is via taxi. I refuse to drive in Panama unless it is to an outside province and even then I think it might be wise to hire a driver. Whatever your reason for being in Panama, the Crowne Plaza will help you acheive your travel goals and leave a lasting impression. I definitely recommend staying at The Crowne Plaza, a disappointment doesn’t seem to be an option here. Cheers and enjoy your stay in Panama!
Dear Anji, thanks for your possitive comments about our facilities and services. We will share this one with all our collegues.
Thanks again and we hope to see you very soon
Juan Peralta R
Food & Beverage Manager
As Contributed On:
Calle Uruguay & Balboa Avenue, Panama City, Panama, 507-297-973200
Reviewed April 27, 2013
Hello Travel Bunnies!
Anji Ray here again with my final review on my most recent trip to Panama. My stay at Le Meridien was only for one night, but it is a night I will never forget. The sense of arrival is one that lingers with you from check-in to check out. Over the course of a week, I stayed in three different hotel/apartment accommodations according to budget levels. I started out at Le Meridien’s sister property The Crowne Plaza Hotel, then I checked into Le Meridien, and finally I ended my trip in the city of Colon.
Le Meridien gives you a sense of international luxury. I’ve uploaded an interactive video on my youtube channel for those of you who need a visual aid. (LOL). Located in the heart of Via Espana this hotel is in close proximity to the banking centers, nightlife, historical landmarks and a plethora of shopping.
Le Meridien is a hotel option to many international and local celebrities (Panamanian Hero Roberto Duran has often been seen at the hotel) and for those that want a different, but exceptional hotel experience.
High customer service seems to be the norm amongst the Bern Resort chain and is evident in everyone from the concierge to the front desk staff.
A cute welcoming touch was the delicious pastry that awaits you as you settle into your suite. I stayed on the 1st floor and didn’t think I would get much of a view, however, I was sadly mistaken. The view was gorgeous and I know that it just gets better the higher up that you go.
I did get a chance to look at the amenities and was sad that I wasn’t able to use them during my stay there, but I will next time! From the spa, fitness center and sparkling pool, the only thing that Le Meridien is missing is YOU!
Enjoy this quiet luxury and tell Leslie and Robert that Anji Ray sent you:)
Room Tip: I stayed on the first floor and had a beautiful view anything higher is better!
We appreciate all your comments and the time taken to evaluate our services and property.
Thank you for all your compliments and hope to have you back in a near future
best regards