We've booked a flight to Panama. It's not until next February, but I got to thinking about the fact that our flight doesn't arrive until 10:30 PM or so. We'll book a hotel in advance, but are we likely to have a problem finding an inexpensive hotel where we can check in that late? Or would we be better off just getting a place closer to the airport for the night, and then moving to something else the next day?

Thanks.

I would go ahead and book your choice of hotels. You should have no difficulty arranging transportation to your hotel. I got a very good rate for early Feb 2009 at Country Inn and Suites on Amador. Book on the internet to lock in the good rate...and be sure and spring for the extra $15 a night to get a Canal view. For my last night in Panama I booked a stay at La Estancia, $75 per night and they will arrange airport pickup for you.
It is not too early to book. Enjoy Panama.

Thanks for the reply. I just looked at the Country Inn & Suites on the web - according to their site, the room rates start at $130. I was actually hoping to find something for about 1/2 that price.

I've looked at La Estancia, and sent them an email earlier today. I'm not so worried about getting transportation to a hotel later at night, but I'm worried about smaller places where they may not have someone available later at night to check us in. So I've asked them if they accept later check ins.

They actually have a room for the nights that I'm looking at (if their availability calendar is up to date), so we'll see.

Thanks again for the reply.

I ended up calling La Estancia today. We decided to book our first 3 nights there and our last night. So we're all set!

I lived in Quarry Heights as a teenager and I can hardly wait to stay at La Estancia. It will really be like home! I should be back before you leave so I will post a trip report for you. TripAdvisor gives pretty high marks to La Estancia.
Buen viaje.

Thanks! I had read the good reports on Tripadvisor on La Estancia. It sounds like the kind of place we'll like.

La Estancia is in a great spot...great views from the top of the hill. PC is a very cool city, the whole Balboa area is so interesting.