Gay Panama Panama City City Guide

Referred to as Little Miami by some and the Dubai of Latin America by others, Panama City is hard to pin down, with its impressive ever-developing skyline, proximity to lush rainforest-covered islands and over 500 years of history as capital city to the nation of Panama. Much more than a cluster of sleek skyscrapers and pulsating nightlife, Panama City is a vibrant meeting point between East and West, currently experiencing rapid economic growth and burgeoning tourism thanks to its tropical beach retreats, canal cruises, and incredible wildlife. Panama City’s restaurants tend to be casual affairs, from diner to beachfront café to roadside fonda, and here you’ll catch fragrant blends of traditional Panamanian, Afro-Caribbean, indigenous and Spanish influences, incorporating the region’s tropical produce and heritage as a melting pot of cultures. While Catholic orthodoxy means that the city’s gay scene is kept largely underground and sexual orientation is not often flaunted, an integrated LGBT community can be found, particularly in expat hubs such as Bocas del Toro and Boquete. Wondering what to see and what to do in Panama City? Let our Panama city gay travel guide fill you in.

Where to stay in Panama City

Nestled in the heart of Panama City’s historic Casco Viejo district, the Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo offers a luxurious haven for discerning travellers. This architectural gem seamlessly blends French art de vivre with local Panamanian culture, boasting rooms with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the city skyline.

Just a stone’s throw away, the Hotel La Compania, part of The Unbound Collection by Hyatt, invites guests to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of Panama’s history. This meticulously restored 17th-century convent features three distinct wings, each reflecting a different era of the country’s past, complemented by a rooftop bar and pool that offer panoramic vistas of the old town.

For those seeking a more central location, the Bristol Panama stands as an oasis of sophistication in the heart of the financial district. This boutique property delights with its blend of Panamanian warmth and cosmopolitan elegance, featuring a world-class spa, a stylish rooftop pool, and the award-winning Salsipuedes restaurant, where guests can savour innovative Panamanian cuisine with a modern twist.