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In the News from Panama

Hyatt Opens New Casco Viejo Hotel

Another major hotel company is expanding its presence in Panama. Hyatt has opened the swanky new Hotel La Compañía in the heart of Casco Viejo.,

Hyatt describes the hotel as the place, “where historical Casco Viejo architecture meets Panama’s modern luxury.” The building was originally built in 1688 as a Jesuit convent and now reflects French Colonial, Spanish Colonial, and Beaux-Arts periods through its architecture. The restoration process took seven years and included expert historians, craftsmen, and architects.

“Hotel La Compañía is a living museum where Panama’s rich history is celebrated through thought-provoking design, locally-inspired culinary experiences, and distinctive art,” Hyatt said in a release announcing the opening.

The hotel spans nearly one city block with four buildings, in addition to the ruins of a 300-year-old church that envelops a spacious courtyard with “lush gardens, alfresco dining, and exceptional settings for events of all kinds.” There are 88 guest rooms divided into three wings that all pay tribute to each of the cultural time periods that influence the property. All guest rooms have a balcony with views that overlook the hotel’s courtyard or the beautiful neighborhood of Casco Antiguo.

The La Compañía is the first Hyatt hotel in Central America in the chain’s “Unbound Collection.” Hyatt defines Unbound hotels as a “thoughtful curation of stories worth collecting.”  Each property provides “thought-provoking environments and experiences that inspire guests seeking elevated yet unscripted service when they travel.”

The new hotel is the latest in a series of new hotels to open taking full advantage of Panama’s heritage and culture. Earlier this year, we reported on Barcelona-based hotel chain Evenia’s plan to invest $20 million in Panama to open a new hotel in Panama City’s El Cangero district. The Gran Evenia Panama is the company’s first hotel in Panama.