This Luxury Hotel Coming to Central America Is Located Within a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Nestled between the Caribbean Sea and Pacific Ocean, Panama has miles of pristine beaches as well as lush mountains (where the world's most expensive coffee is grown). The Central American country, known for the famous Panama Canal, is emerging as a leading luxury destination. And this fall, its capital will welcome another luxe property that will mark a legendary brand's North and Central American debut. We are talking about Sofitel Legend, which has chosen the historic district of Casco Viejo in Panama City for the setting of its next global address. The forthcoming Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo Panama, opening in fall 2022, will be the brand's sixth property, and the first in North and Central America.

Occupying the historic building of the former Club Union of Panama — once the most exclusive social club in Panama City frequented by Albert Einstein, Queen Elizabeth II, and Helen Keller — in a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo Panama will be a luxe waterfront oasis, blending French art de vivre with the destination's eclectic architecture and storied past.

The waterfront property will offer jaw-dropping ocean and city views and a mix of high-end facilities. The hotel will have 159 rooms and suites with sea views, five restaurants and bars, a Skybar and a lounge, an oceanfront pool, and nearly 10,000 square feet of event spaces. The project is helmed by one of the country's leading architects, Manuel Choy, who has kept many of the building's original French colonial features. The interior décor reflects the city's past and present by juxtaposing the work of modern Panamanian designers with French colonial accents such as marble checkerboard floors and wrought-iron balcony detailing with colorful contemporary furnishings inspired by the diverse flora and fauna found throughout Panama.

The property's food and beverage program will include the waterfront Ammi SkyBar that will offer 180-degree views of the city; Caleta, a Mediterranean brasserie that will serve the freshest seafood and locally sourced seasonal ingredients; and Mayda Lobby Bar & Plaza with classic cocktails and small bites inspired by Panama's history and culture. A gym, spa, and butler service round out the five-star amenities.

"We are privileged to introduce the exceptional Sofitel Legend brand to North and Central America in the vibrant and thriving destination of Panama City, within the historic and culturally significant district of Casco Viejo. A remarkable addition to our portfolio, Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo will be the brand's flagship in the region and will debut a distinctive luxury hotel offering in Panama," said Heather McCrory, Accor's CEO of North and Central America. "Inspired by the essence of the city, and where local culture is celebrated and infused with an authentic passion for French art de vivre, the hotel is poised to set a new standard of luxury hospitality in Panama."

Sofitel Legend comprises properties in landmark, culturally important buildings dating back centuries. This Panama hotel will join the exclusive roster of properties in Vietnam, the Netherlands, Egypt, Colombia, and China. Impeccable service, opulent décor, and unique culinary experiences immerse Sofitel Legend guests into the legacy of these hotels and the cities in which they are located.