Famous as the location of that clever canal, Panama is a fascinating destination on its own. See the luxurious side of the country with a stay at El Otro Lado, located waterside in the tropical forest of Portobelo. A member of Design Hotels, the small property is big on comfort: five bay view villas (one, two and three bedrooms) form a private retreat within a gorgeous UNESCO World Heritage site setting. What to do? Partake in an arts class and learn about painting and wood sculpting, hike in the rain forest, go bird watching, take off on a river or mangrove expedition, or stay close and enjoy paddle boarding, water skiing, inshore fishing and diving, or just wind down with a picnic on the beach.
The property works with the Portobelo Bay Foundation, a local rhythm school, and the Congo Arts Centre and Carpentry Workshop to create authentic guest experiences. There are plenty of options to simply relax, including indulgent spa services. Rates (per accommodation for two guests per night) through Nov. 30 begin at $490 for the Forest & Sea House and the Casa Grande. Higher rates apply to the Sun House and Spirit House. All rates include boat transfers to and from Portobelo and El Otro Lado, breakfast in the Gazebo Restaurant, plus complimentary WiFi.
Read This Next
Introducing
FX Excursions
FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.
#globility
Insta FeedeFlyer Reviews
Sep 23, 2026Review: Sage Lodge Resort & Spa
Set on more than 1,200 acres in Montana’s Paradise Valley, Sage Lodge sits just 30 minutes from Yellowstone National Park, with the Yellowstone River running for more than a mile along the property.
Sponsored Content
Get to Know TAP FORBIZ
Unlock flexible, refined business travel with TAP Air Portugal's program, TAP FORBIZ. Developed for small, medium and large Companies, with options for corporate events, TAP FORBIZ offers exclusive advantages adapted to each type of business. TAP FORBIZ offers solutions suited to each business: travel cost reduction, more flexibility, more benefits and more value. With TAP FORBIZ, businesses can centralize purchases, control the company budget and ensure greater cost predictability with exclusive discounts and benefits tailored to each company's profile. Each trip becomes a strategic decision to travel more and spend less.
Airlines
Sep 23, 2026American Airlines, Condor Airlines Announce New Interline Agreement
American Airlines and Condor Airlines expand their international partner network with a new interline agreement, providing travelers with a wide range of new connections. Passengers can expect connections to more than 150 cities through Condor’s trans-Atlantic gateways in major hubs like JFK, BOS and LAX.
eFlyer News
Sep 23, 2026Amex to Open First Centurion Lounge in Continental Europe at Amsterdam Schiphol
American Express officially became the first global credit card company to operate a lounge at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol. The brand’s Centurion Lounge opened at AMS Sept. 17, spanning nearly 6,000 square feet and offering a plethora of amenities.
Sponsored Content
Why Japan Is Best Explored by Sea with Princess
Japan is a destination that rewards repeat visits because no two regions — or seasons — feel quite the same. One moment, you’re wandering through centuries-old geisha districts in Kanazawa. The next, you’re watching neon reflections dance across Tokyo streets long after midnight.
eFlyer News
Sep 23, 2026Panamá Introduces No-Cost Tourist Insurance for International Travelers
Strengthening its appeal as more than a connection or stopover point, Panamá recently announced a series of new initiatives to encourage international travelers to stay longer and experience the destination in a more immersive way. Part of these initiatives includes no-cost tourist insurance for eligible international tourists, with coverage automatically available during the first 10 days of their stay. No additional payment or registration is required.
Destinations
Sep 21, 20266 Reasons to Put Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on Your Travel List
It’s time to start dreaming of your next trip. Here’s some destination inspiration for you. Take a visual journey through Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, with us.
Sponsored Content
GET TO KNOW TAP FORBIZ
Unlock flexible, refined business travel with TAP Air Portugal’s program, TAP FORBIZ. Developed for small, medium and large Companies, with options for corporate events, TAP FORBIZ offers exclusive advantages adapted to each type of business.
The Acclaimed Alajmo Brothers Make a Splash with Crystal Cruises
PHOTO: © CRYSTAL AND ALAJMO GROUP
ShareThis