Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo, Panama

Character and identity

Set on a peninsula in Panama City's Casco Viejo, this 159-room Legend property occupies the former Union Club of Panama, a 1908 social hub reborn in 2023 after a studs-out renovation. The Spanish-colonial facade gives way to interiors of mahogany panelling, wrought-iron balconies, glass chandeliers and a $2 million art collection, with staff in Panama hats setting the tone. Expect the largest pool in the quarter, a semi-subterranean Sofitel Spa with Kos Paris, Caleta restaurant from former Assaje chef Lorenzo Di Gravio, the Mayda Lobby Bar and a rooftop Ammi Skybar. Butler service runs throughout.

Who's it for

Bottom line

What sells this hotel is the building itself and the cultural framing around it: a genuinely restored 1908 landmark with cooking, pastry and butler service that match the architecture. Book a Magnifique-grade room or above for the sitting balcony and clawfoot tub, aim for the 87 percent of rooms with ocean views, and target rates from around $369 if you can catch them.