What better way to kick-start the day in the busy entrepôt hub of Panama where commerce, shopping and travel converge than with a good night’s sleep, ample fitness and a healthy breakfast?

Look no further than The Westin Playa Bonita. Located on the edge of the Pacific Ocean in a jungle paradise, this luxury hotel has you covered.

I revived with morning walks on the beach, increased cardio at the 24/7 fitness center, swam laps in one of the four freshwater pools and finished the morning regimen with a hot and dry sauna at the Sensory Spa by Clarins, where spa guests can book the intense 75-minute Swedish massage, if inclined. I did.

For a clear head and sharp mind, I later made my way to the Westin Executive Club lounge for an informal continental breakfast. Ideal for business travelers interested in spending a subdued, quieter morning, this self-serve lounge, which morphs into an afternoon snack bar and a pre-dinner cocktail turf, offers the basics. The anchor buffet restaurant, Pacifica, on the main floor, offers another breakfast option. Guests can choose between indoor or outdoor covered terraced seating and enjoy a vast breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Panama has retail therapy covered. I used the complimentary hotel shuttle bus to visit the nearby Albrook Mall, known for its designer labels, costume jewelry and shoes at a fraction of the cost. I also signed up with Gamboa Tours at the hotel tour desk for eye-opening tours of Old City and the must-see Panama Canal.

When the tours were over, afternoons turned into more renewal time spent lounging at the pools and enjoying sweets at the hotel’s sleek pastry and ice cream parlor aptly dubbed Ice Cream & Sweets. After a necessary caffeine and cookie fix, I was off for another beach stroll, this time to inhale the warm sea breezes and see the mystical floating city as the illuminated ships glittered like jewels on the horizon.

I checked the time as speckled sunlight hit the horizon and decided, before hitting one of the à la carte restaurants, a beach cocktail would make the ultimate vacation at the splendid Playa Bonita.

The Westin Playa Bonita Panama

Km 6 Camino a Veracruz, Panama City
Panama
Tel +507 304-6600