tmt

Looks like I'm headed for Panama for a few days of business in mid March and would like to spend a few days outside the city. I absolutely loved the Gamboa resorts website. I'm using my own money for this trip, so the thought of staying on those beautiful grounds for $125 night for the "villa room" is great, but will I be sorry not to spring for a room with a view? or go somewhere else?

Thanks. Taylor

JeanH

We only spent one night at Gamboa, had one of the rooms with a view. I thnk I would have been just as happy in a villa. It's a nice view, but not breathtaking. Spend the extra money on some of the great sightseeing in the area. Or fly to San Blas and hang out with the Kuna for a couple days. Awesome beaches, great snorkeling. Jean

TioGringo

If you have an activity that you really want to do, be sure to reserve early. Even if the resort isn't filled for the days you're planning to be there, one big cruise ship tour comes through and it can suddenly be VERY hard to get the trams or some of the other more popular activities (none of which are cheap, by the way).

Have fun!
Mark
www.tiogringo.com

ojoy

I think you'll love the Villas, although they are a bit of a walk to the main resort and pool/restaurants. But then you'll feel better about putting out money for other things.

If you do stay there, do take an early morning walk down to their tram station and hike along the trails off to the right along the river. There will be monkeys crashing through the trees overhead and all kinds of birds and other wildlife. The nighttime wildlife comes out right near the villas, moreso than at the hotel itself.

For some suggested things to see on your free time: Hire a taxi/guide for an afternoon, morning or day and tour Panama City, the Miraflores Locks is a great tour, stop at the craft center in Balboa behind the old YMCA, and take a drive out to the end of the Amador Causeway for a view of the Bridge of the Americas spanning the entrance to the Panama Canal on one side and a panoramic view of Panama City on the other. Take the Barro Colorado Island tour offered by the Smithsonian (although this is pretty much a full day event--you get back to Gamboa by around 3pm. This was one of our trip highlight. Otherwise, just lounge by the pool, enjoy the marina for lunch, take a few nearby hikes and just chill. It's beautiful there.

wapanda10

how many days you would stay in Gamboa?

ojoy

If you won't have time to tour Panama City, etc., during your business days, then probably 3-4 days, depending on how much touring you want to do and how much R&R. The resort is located about 30-40 minutes away from Panama City, depending on traffic.

tmt

Finally, tied down the dates.We will be in Gamboa for Easter weekend - Friday through Sunday nights. [We will be in Panama City for 3 nights beforehand. (I'm thinking of the Bristol Hotel - I like quaint v. American, but want the A/C to work in the 90 degrees.)] At the Gamboa, the only room available was the river view king room for $195 night with breakfast. I noticed that the website has the 2 bedroom suite for $225 for Sunday and Monday of the same week. Friday and Saturday was sold out of everything. So, I'm feeling fortunate that we got something. Monday & Tuesday we are figuring out soon. We return to the states on Wednesday morning.

Thanks so much for all your great advice. Taylor

cmcfong

Have a wonderful trip, Taylor. Panama is a gorgeous country. If you get some time you might want to drive to El Valle or Santa Clara. Also check out the excellent crafts sold in Balboa.
I stayed at Gamboa about three years ago and my room was lovely. The public spaces in the hotel are very nice. I found the food only so so. I understand the restaurant at Miraflores Locks is very good (also very popular, reserve ahead).