Hi,
I am looking for suggestions on where to stay outside of Panama City. In addition, I would appreciate some hotel recommendations which are reasonably priced. Which beaches are better, Pacific or Carribean side?

Thanks!!

I forgot to add to my previous post that we are looking for hotels with A/C.

What are your interests? You mention beaches - are you divers, snorkellers, neither? Are you looking to move around or stay in one place?

Hi Susan,
We like beaches and my husband likes to snorkel. We also like to move around and not stay too long in one place.

We are looking for nice hotels (with A/C) between the price range of $60/$70 but more than $110 per night.

Thanks for any help you can provide!

I haven't been to Panama yet, so others can probably give more knowledgeable input, but we're going in February, so I've been doing some reading.

We're dividing our 2 weeks between PC, San Blas (2 nights), Bocas del Toro (4 nights) and Boquete (4 nights). I'm hoping that we can do some good snorkeling in San Blas and Bocas. You might want to look at Tripadvisor - the Panama forum there is quite active, although one of the people who posts here also posts there. He might be able to give you more specific information.

I would say at least 4 nights in Bocas del Toro. Absolutely fantastic place even though beaches are not really big ones. But place has such a wonderful, relaxed atmosphere that I was sorry to leave after 5 days.

Take a boat to other islands if you stay in main one. Best beaches are on smaller islands. But also "star fish" beach on the main island is worth to check. At least I have never seen so big star fishes before, right there on the beach.

Thanks for the suggestion Tahvo!

SusanInToronto:

Please post a trip report when you return. We need more Panama info here on Fodor's.

Looking forward to hearing all about it!!

MY

Totally agree with Tahvo, but I would think San Blas could use more days as well. Nice areas you have chosen. Boquete is lovely also!

I'll be sure to post a trip report. Really looking forward to the trip - it's turning cold here, so February can't come soon enough.

Isn't it nice to have something to look forward to in the dead of winter! Enjoy!

Been 2x to Panama....both coasts.
Click on my name you'll get a bit of info.