My wife and I just got back from a first trip to Panama. We stayed in two different apartments in Casa Bonita, (a long story, to be sure!) a beautiful high rise condo which shares facilities with a Westin and an Intercontinental at Playa Bonita. We were traveling with friends and we all enjoyed the many amenities available to guests, including use of the PoolClub, several swimming pools, the beach, two gyms, sauna, hot tub, etc., etc. The views from our private terrace of the Pacific and the ships exiting and waiting to enter the Canal were amazing. In fact, the views from each and every room were just as grand. We were on floors 13 and 19. The units were both well appointed and comfortable.
What made the stay even better was Melissa, the property manager. She was very easy to work with in arranging the rental and very attentive, available and accommodating when we arrived. Her husband, a personal trainer who does sessions in the 25th floor gym, was an absolute delight, quick to smile and very positive in a low-key way.
The bridge over the Canal into the city proper is a short drive from Playa Bonita. Except for rush hour, when you don't want to be going in or out of the city, the old city and the new first world waterfront are a fifteen to twenty minute drive or available by taxi if you don't want to rent a car.
We really enjoyed being out of the city for the peace and quiet and the amenities offered, yet were close enough to enjoy what the city had to offer. And you couldn't ask for better hosts than these property managers.