Le Meridien Panama, Panama City [Master Thread]
#1
Original Poster
Join Date: May 2006
Location: LAX/NYC
Programs: SPG Plat, United 1K, Virgin Gold
Posts: 34
Le Meridien Panama, Panama City [Master Thread]
Does anyone know anything about this property? It says it is scheduled to open July 15th but it's not yet bookable. I have a trip to Panama in mid-August. I'm currently booked at the Four Points but I suspect this property will be superior (location at least looks great).
Is it normal for a hotel to not be bookable 1.5 months before opening? Or is the July 15th date likely a fantasy?
Thanks.
Is it normal for a hotel to not be bookable 1.5 months before opening? Or is the July 15th date likely a fantasy?
Thanks.
#3
Join Date: May 2009
Location: Toronto, Canada
Programs: SPG Platinum, Hyatt Diamond
Posts: 1
I recently stayed at this property the weekend of Sept. 5 and while they are open, they are definitely still in construction mode. The lounge, fitness centre, outdoor pool and spa were all still under construction. Also during my visit there was a power outage that lasted for several hours and water was also shut off for several hours. I would give it a couple more months until it is fully operational - although looks like it will be a very nice property once ready with great proximity to restaurants/bars around Calle Uruguay.
#4
Join Date: Jun 2005
Location: STL
Programs: AA PLT, *Wood PLT, HHonors Gold
Posts: 157
I was just done in PC last week, almost stayed at the Le Meridien, but when I called to inquire about the status of opening they told me it was still in soft-opening position. I would think that the web-site announcements would let people know that, especially with the rate they are requesting of $275-$300 per night.
I rented a condo just 2 blocks await, so strolled over, lobby looks really cool, and as previous poster said in a great location for Calle Uruguay shops/restaurants.
I rented a condo just 2 blocks await, so strolled over, lobby looks really cool, and as previous poster said in a great location for Calle Uruguay shops/restaurants.
#5
Company Representative - Starwood
Join Date: Apr 2005
Location: Singapore
Programs: SPG
Posts: 4,002
The first Le Méridien hotel in Central America
Dear members,
Do allow me to take this opportunity to share more news on this brand new property over here.
Set in the heart of Panama’s cosmopolitan capital city, Le Méridien Panama, owned by developers Bern Hotels & Resorts Panama, is a modern, contemporary building located on the edge of the Bay of Panama, boasting spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean and the Panama City skyline. Surrounded by the intimate cafes and chic galleries of Panama City’s vibrant Uruguay Street, Le Méridien Panama is within the city’s financial district and a short distance from Panama City’s major tourism attractions, such as the Panama Canal, considered one of the “Eight Wonders of the Modern World.”
“We take pride in this new hotel in Panama, as the property will be a key hotel for international travelers interested in exploring the modern and diversified culture of Panama,” said Osvaldo Librizzi, President of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Latin America. “The pipeline of Le Méridien hotels in Latin America has a focus on city centre hotels and resorts in leisure destinations to complement the brand’s footprint worldwide.”
“We are honored to open the first Le Méridien hotel in Central America and look forward to being part of the brand’s development into a contemporary lifestyle brand,” said Glen Champion, VP for Bern & Hotels and Resorts Panama.
Designed by renowned Panamanian architect Mallol Ignacio, Le Méridien Panama features a jaw-dropping double height entry with an overturned glass pyramid that reflects vibrant colors throughout the sleek black granite lobby. Offering 111 guestrooms, including 29 suites, the hotel also has 4,000 square feet of function space ideal for corporate meetings and events as well as intimate social affairs. In addition, Le Méridien Panama features a signature restaurant, Latitudes, by Panamanian Chef Anibal Chiari, a contemporary fusion concept of international cuisine that can seat 75 guests, including a communal table and private dining room. Latitudes also offers Le Méridien signature breakfast, which includes reinvented favourites with components developed by three-star Michelin chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten, and Coffee Culture, a global programme developed in partnership with illycaffč. The hotel also offers spa treatments in the Sensory Spa by Clarins with six treatment rooms and a fully-equipped fitness center and outdoor pool and terrace, overlooking the Bay of Panama.
[email protected]
Thyetus Lee | Online Forum Coordinator(AP)
Starwood Customer Contact Centre (AP) Pte Ltd
Do allow me to take this opportunity to share more news on this brand new property over here.
Set in the heart of Panama’s cosmopolitan capital city, Le Méridien Panama, owned by developers Bern Hotels & Resorts Panama, is a modern, contemporary building located on the edge of the Bay of Panama, boasting spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean and the Panama City skyline. Surrounded by the intimate cafes and chic galleries of Panama City’s vibrant Uruguay Street, Le Méridien Panama is within the city’s financial district and a short distance from Panama City’s major tourism attractions, such as the Panama Canal, considered one of the “Eight Wonders of the Modern World.”
“We take pride in this new hotel in Panama, as the property will be a key hotel for international travelers interested in exploring the modern and diversified culture of Panama,” said Osvaldo Librizzi, President of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Latin America. “The pipeline of Le Méridien hotels in Latin America has a focus on city centre hotels and resorts in leisure destinations to complement the brand’s footprint worldwide.”
“We are honored to open the first Le Méridien hotel in Central America and look forward to being part of the brand’s development into a contemporary lifestyle brand,” said Glen Champion, VP for Bern & Hotels and Resorts Panama.
Designed by renowned Panamanian architect Mallol Ignacio, Le Méridien Panama features a jaw-dropping double height entry with an overturned glass pyramid that reflects vibrant colors throughout the sleek black granite lobby. Offering 111 guestrooms, including 29 suites, the hotel also has 4,000 square feet of function space ideal for corporate meetings and events as well as intimate social affairs. In addition, Le Méridien Panama features a signature restaurant, Latitudes, by Panamanian Chef Anibal Chiari, a contemporary fusion concept of international cuisine that can seat 75 guests, including a communal table and private dining room. Latitudes also offers Le Méridien signature breakfast, which includes reinvented favourites with components developed by three-star Michelin chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten, and Coffee Culture, a global programme developed in partnership with illycaffč. The hotel also offers spa treatments in the Sensory Spa by Clarins with six treatment rooms and a fully-equipped fitness center and outdoor pool and terrace, overlooking the Bay of Panama.
[email protected]
Thyetus Lee | Online Forum Coordinator(AP)
Starwood Customer Contact Centre (AP) Pte Ltd
#7
Join Date: Apr 2001
Location: West Coast USA
Programs: UA GS/4 MM, AA Exec Plat, Lifetime Hilton D, Hyatt G, Marriott Titanium earned Ambassador
Posts: 7,553
Le Meridien Panama City, Panama
I think this is a new prop.. Anyone visited or is this a conversion from another chain? Any info appreciated. Thanks.
#9
Join Date: Apr 2001
Location: West Coast USA
Programs: UA GS/4 MM, AA Exec Plat, Lifetime Hilton D, Hyatt G, Marriott Titanium earned Ambassador
Posts: 7,553
Transport from PTY
Hello. Will be on property soon. Any recent info to be added please? Cab from PTY to Le? How much? Any information appreciated. Thanks.
#10
Join Date: Apr 2001
Location: West Coast USA
Programs: UA GS/4 MM, AA Exec Plat, Lifetime Hilton D, Hyatt G, Marriott Titanium earned Ambassador
Posts: 7,553
The Report.
Been awhile since I did a full blown one of these. Think it necessary given hits to this thread and lack of information on prop..
Preface: Panama has always been on my "B" list. After looking at all option from my home airport found it best to use CO points for F. So here I am.
Status: Plat
Rate: FWN
Transportation: I did some online research and found a local tour firm that sounded good. I am a express tourist on this so thought it best to start my tour upon arrival into PTY. Had the tour company pick me up, tour and then drop me off at the Le.
I will pay my guide $30 USD tomorrow to take me back to PTY.
Parking: n/a
Check-in: I knew before arrival that I was upgraded. Agent offered P amenity which I selected points.
Perks: Upgraded to Gold suite. Platinum and Diamond suites are available but accepted what I was given. Access to Lounge also of course. Keep in mind this hotel has only five floors of room which start at the bottom of the building. The first floor of rooms would be on maybe a true fifth floor from street. That being said if you want a ocean view noise will be a factor. I started on 2 and moved to 5. I can hear a steady rumble of trucks and buses below. Try and get something on 5. It will keep you from walking downstairs again. Even with the noise I would avoid the side suites and rear facing city view rooms. The ocean and "strand" or "bund" view is nice.
Lounge: This evening the Lounge had two hot items. Liquor is limited and beers both look to be comped. A number of cold items along with a plate of mini desserts. The Lounge has a outdoor wrap around balconey with seating looking to ocean. Very nice. The outdoor pool, Clarins spa and fitness facilities are also located on the same 6th floor. Social area.
Room: I have a full living room and bedroom with walk in closet and decent size bathroom.
Internet: Wifi and wired in room.
TV: Limited English channels.
Change: No need to change money here. Dollars are it. USD.
SIM: Unless extreme necessary I am using Skype phone 100%.
Gym: Did not take a look.
Spa: I did get a massage in the spa. Nice facilities. Very good massage with prices comparable to Honolulu bargains we find. But in a hotel setting.
Eating venues: Had buffet lunch at Canal. I was hungry so guide suggested taking lunch buffet at Canal. About $25 each. But this allowed me sit, enjoy the view and head outside when I wanted a pic. Also go to the top and get a full view of the lock system. That was the fourth floor. Food on second floor. By getting a pass and dining at restaurant you avoid entry fee per guide. No real savings but I got food.
Local markets: n/a
Local area: Panama City is a pretty compact area if you are trying to get a quick look in. Traffic can be a issue.
Nagatives: A see a couple items that need repair. But no biggie. My suite upgrade online said smoking. The entire hotel is supposed to be non-smoking per the sign in the lobby. There is a air freshener plugged into the wall.
Closing: I would stay here again without doubt. According to my guide maybe the number one or two hotel in PTY at this time. A nice place.
Preface: Panama has always been on my "B" list. After looking at all option from my home airport found it best to use CO points for F. So here I am.
Status: Plat
Rate: FWN
Transportation: I did some online research and found a local tour firm that sounded good. I am a express tourist on this so thought it best to start my tour upon arrival into PTY. Had the tour company pick me up, tour and then drop me off at the Le.
I will pay my guide $30 USD tomorrow to take me back to PTY.
Parking: n/a
Check-in: I knew before arrival that I was upgraded. Agent offered P amenity which I selected points.
Perks: Upgraded to Gold suite. Platinum and Diamond suites are available but accepted what I was given. Access to Lounge also of course. Keep in mind this hotel has only five floors of room which start at the bottom of the building. The first floor of rooms would be on maybe a true fifth floor from street. That being said if you want a ocean view noise will be a factor. I started on 2 and moved to 5. I can hear a steady rumble of trucks and buses below. Try and get something on 5. It will keep you from walking downstairs again. Even with the noise I would avoid the side suites and rear facing city view rooms. The ocean and "strand" or "bund" view is nice.
Lounge: This evening the Lounge had two hot items. Liquor is limited and beers both look to be comped. A number of cold items along with a plate of mini desserts. The Lounge has a outdoor wrap around balconey with seating looking to ocean. Very nice. The outdoor pool, Clarins spa and fitness facilities are also located on the same 6th floor. Social area.
Room: I have a full living room and bedroom with walk in closet and decent size bathroom.
Internet: Wifi and wired in room.
TV: Limited English channels.
Change: No need to change money here. Dollars are it. USD.
SIM: Unless extreme necessary I am using Skype phone 100%.
Gym: Did not take a look.
Spa: I did get a massage in the spa. Nice facilities. Very good massage with prices comparable to Honolulu bargains we find. But in a hotel setting.
Eating venues: Had buffet lunch at Canal. I was hungry so guide suggested taking lunch buffet at Canal. About $25 each. But this allowed me sit, enjoy the view and head outside when I wanted a pic. Also go to the top and get a full view of the lock system. That was the fourth floor. Food on second floor. By getting a pass and dining at restaurant you avoid entry fee per guide. No real savings but I got food.
Local markets: n/a
Local area: Panama City is a pretty compact area if you are trying to get a quick look in. Traffic can be a issue.
Nagatives: A see a couple items that need repair. But no biggie. My suite upgrade online said smoking. The entire hotel is supposed to be non-smoking per the sign in the lobby. There is a air freshener plugged into the wall.
Closing: I would stay here again without doubt. According to my guide maybe the number one or two hotel in PTY at this time. A nice place.
#11
Join Date: Jul 2004
Posts: 4,531
Agree with lengthy report, this is a solid property. Upgraded as plat, only issue was front desk didn't believe me when I explained wifi was free (policy was only 30 hours old). I visit PTY once a year and LM is much better than four points. Great bathroom, and location is good for those that might want to take in a jog. Pool is nothing special, but so what.
#12
Join Date: Apr 2001
Location: West Coast USA
Programs: UA GS/4 MM, AA Exec Plat, Lifetime Hilton D, Hyatt G, Marriott Titanium earned Ambassador
Posts: 7,553
Room service was very good and timely. Walls are pretty thin or the guy next door just has a loud voice. Had to keep the glass bathroom door closed. Internet is fast.
#13
Join Date: Oct 2001
Location: From: PWM
Programs: United GS, Fairmont Platinum,SPG LTPlat, Hilton Diamond, MarriottGold..like the rest of the world
Posts: 4,401
RTW -- thanks for this lengthy, helpful report. I may be there next Feb and this makes me feel a lot better about this property. ^
#14
Join Date: Apr 2001
Location: West Coast USA
Programs: UA GS/4 MM, AA Exec Plat, Lifetime Hilton D, Hyatt G, Marriott Titanium earned Ambassador
Posts: 7,553
You are welcome. Having a good start report is always so helpful. Level of comfort is very important.
Doors at this place also slam like the ones at Hyatt HNL. You would think in the modern age this would have been thought of already.
Doors at this place also slam like the ones at Hyatt HNL. You would think in the modern age this would have been thought of already.
#15
Join Date: Apr 2001
Location: West Coast USA
Programs: UA GS/4 MM, AA Exec Plat, Lifetime Hilton D, Hyatt G, Marriott Titanium earned Ambassador
Posts: 7,553
Check-out was fairly easy. I was charged for wired internet which was promptly removed when I brought it to their attention. I tried to pay in USD but that was like a act of you know what so put down my SPG Amex card.
PTY. I left the hotel a little under three hours from my flight. The guide wanted two 1/2 hours. Three hours is right. The check-in area is a zoo esp for American. I am on CO and the premium aka Business (no First) line was very very very slow. I was not given a US Customs form nor advised by the CO agent of a Lounge. He was pretty worthless. I found the CO/COPA President's Club near Gate 21. Pretty large but nothing at all to snack on. This part of CO I will not miss when they merge with UA. CO has nice Clubs that are pretty comfortable but they cede all the money to liqour which is comp versus having any food to snack on.
Regards from Panama
PTY. I left the hotel a little under three hours from my flight. The guide wanted two 1/2 hours. Three hours is right. The check-in area is a zoo esp for American. I am on CO and the premium aka Business (no First) line was very very very slow. I was not given a US Customs form nor advised by the CO agent of a Lounge. He was pretty worthless. I found the CO/COPA President's Club near Gate 21. Pretty large but nothing at all to snack on. This part of CO I will not miss when they merge with UA. CO has nice Clubs that are pretty comfortable but they cede all the money to liqour which is comp versus having any food to snack on.
Regards from Panama