If you looked up any article about the most well-designed boutique hotel in Panama City, you will inevitably end up with the result of the American Trade Hotel. I know I did! I stayed here for three nights when I first got to Panama City out of the five nights I was there.  This is part of the Small Luxury Hotels Collection of the World and deservedly so – it’s so beautiful!

The American Trade Hotel also has an incredible history, as does the whole area of Casco Viejo. Not too long ago, this was a “no-go” zone with gangs and violence. In 1997, it became a UNESCO town and they cleared out the rif-raf. That meant smoking out this building because there were gang members squatting here. It was a tough time, but necessary for the growth of Panama City and to help with tourism.

They renovated the hotel, and many other buildings in Casco Viejo (still in progress) and it’s now the trendiest place in Panama City – and safe, to boot!

American Trade Hotel Review

American Trade Hotel Review

The entrance.

It’s in a perfect location in a main square in the middle of Casco Viejo. From here, you can easily walk anywhere or hail a taxi/Uber to the other parts of town.

American Trade Hotel Review

american trade hotel review

Yes, that’s Aesop!

The amenities here were wonderful and I won’t lie – a bottle of that lotion came with me on the rest of the trip! The room service menu was full of yummy affordable choices, some under $10. The shower was huge and I loved the design of the tiles. The bedroom was simple and sweet but felt very cozy and the windows actually opened up to an amazing view. I loved the painted wooden walls!

American Trade Hotel Review

American Trade Hotel Review

Breakfast was included, and so good!

There is a small breakfast menu to choose from that is included in the room rate. I tried the omelet and the pancakes. You also get all kinds of yummy things with it and coffee/tea. The dining area was the best – I loved the tropical boho style and couldn’t help but take a few photos in there!

If you want to book the American Trade Hotel, you can check prices and availability here. I suggest booking well-enough ahead in the peak season (October – February) as it is by far the most popular hotel in the city.