Living outside time it is a privilege
el otro lado ...In the beginning, Paradise was found in the jungle
private retreat
El Otro Lado is a private reatreat, situated in a privileged refuge of Portobelo Bay, integrating design, culture nature and luxury in a unique manner to provide guests with authentic experiences that are selected and customized. Located just over an hour from Panama City, and next to the Portobelo National Park, El Otro Lado is the perfect venue to relax and disconnect while pondering the lush and youthful verdure.
With views of the sea, the five eclectic design houses integrate simple details with handcrafted traditions of Panama ‘s Atlantic coast. A veritable stream of memorable experiences, El Otro Lado takes you to a dream-lke place that is in harmony and balance, yet replete with life‘s modern conveniences.
360º of pure inspiration
Luxury is expressed in simple details, never as extravagant. • • • • • • • • • • • •
Spectacular location in the tropical rainforest, bordering Portobelo Bay, and next to the Portobelo National Park Integrated landscape design in an unspoiled expanse Infinity view swimming pool Eclectic design Indigenous decorative elements Gazebo: Restaurant / Bar / Salon Our food: International-Caribbean fusion Room Service Activities: fishing, diving, mangrove cruise, massage, etc. Secluded virgin beaches just a few minutes’ boat trip away Local integration: Portobelo Bay Foundation, Rhythm School, Carpentry Workshop, Congo Arts Centre El Otro Lado Music Channel by Radio Gladys Palmera
houses
forest house
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sea house
sun house
spirit house
5 individual houses: 8 uniques rooms Luxury design, local art, photography and contemporary scultures King-size beds with 100% Egyptian Percale cotton sheets by Rivolta Carmignani 42” LCD TV with satellite, CD, DVD WiFi Incluided Bose iPod SoundDock Ammenities by Penhaligon, Quercus Collection Mini-bar Electronic safe Bay-view wiriting desk
casa grande
forest house
Nestled between a relaxing waterfall and the rain forest, with terraces overlooking Portobelo Bay, the 65 m2 Forest House displays samples from local workshop artists, “molas� (decorative fabric art originals) created by Guna Indians and a quaint collection of Turkish caps.
Green is a nutirent color, proven effective against nervousness, insomnia and anxiety. Its effects can be compared to a tour of the wildest jungle. After breathing fresh air, the body is oxygenated and the feeling of physical fatigue gives way to a state of deep relaxation.
sea house
Light flows through its 65 m2 caribbean style. The Sea House projects a space that is as attractive as it is happy. Thanks to its exceptional location, one’s stay is converted into pure energy though the stimull that it receives from nature, and from its terraces overlooking the jungle and bay. The interior decor is highlighted by a collection of American masks made from recycled pastics, in a genuine representation of Arte Povera.
Blue relates man to the ocean. As a color, it represents introspection and spirituality. So refreshing is its impact, it is capable of lowering fevers. It is the color of pure crsytal clear water, reminding us that it tones the body and stimu- lates circulation.
sun house
At the edge of the rainforest, with exceptional views of the bay from its two terraces, this house of 95 m2, exclusive privacy and all the elements for maximum comfort is decorated with a collection of Congo headgear, with paintings by local artists of the Portobelo Workshop, and with evocative photographs of Sandra Eleta, one of Panama’s most recognized contemporary creators. The house also provides a kitchenette equipped to meet your needs.
Yellow is the color of silence. Yellow encourages self-esteem as silence carries a powerful ability of self-control. Its effects are felt mainly in the heart and mind. Yellow is the color of the sun and thus is the basis of vitality, dominant in people who are curious, imaginative and creative.
spirit house
Touching the sea, the Spirit House offers its occupants 215 m2, a separate parlor room, two suites, and terraces with superb views of the bay. The spacious accommodation is decorated with a unique style that is integrated with the paintings and sculptures by artists of the Portobelo Workshop, crafts by artisans of Embera and Guna tribes, con- temporary photography and works from European artists such as Juan de Mata. Kitchenette equipped.
Purple brings the stability of blue and the energy of red. As is Portobelo, the color purple benefits from its contradictory roots; the color is complex. Purple is best undestood as the color of harmony, by mixing red and blue, two primary colors of light. The effect allows the adaptation of a vibrant, active equilibrium, ideal for adventure.
casa grande
The Casa Grande of El Otro Lado is a good example of private-residence hotel achieved with a mix of contemporary design and local influences. The elegant geometry of the building, with its ample terraces facing the rooms, are an ideal setting that highlights the extraordinary view of the bay of Portobelo. With nearly 800 m2, the residence is arranged over two floors. Ground floor: includes a centrally air-conditioned living room, which may be easily prepared for private or business meetings, plus a bar and outdoor dining. The three suites, which are located on the second floor, each has its own identity and unique elements, surrounded by spacious terraces with exceptional views of the jungle and the bay.
casa grande
The initial idea of this construction endeavored to respect the privacy of the guests, so that despite the ample areas of space, the designers have incorporated nooks that add both warmth and privacy. Making it a unique and perfect placet to unwind in relaxing and beautiful surroundings.
Suite 2 2 adults and 2 children up to 14 years capacity. A 48 square meter room which includes: One king bed and two single beds in the half-attic above; a perfect miniature bedroom loft for children and teenagers. Decoration: Local art, wood and colonial hand crafted ceramic tiled floors that create the perfect atmosphere to disconnect and enjoy. This suiite is augmented by a spa- cious common terrace with exhilarating views of the jungle and the bay. Suite 3 2 adults and 2 children up to 14 years capacity. A 48 square meter room which includes: Two full beds (double/double) on the entrance floor and two single beds in the half-attic above; the perefect miniature bedroom loft for children and teenagers. Decoration: Colorful painted headboard and adornments of the Guna Yala indigenous regions. Paintings rendered by our own local artists of Taller de Portobelo, representing Congo Kings and other mythical characters. Suite 4 Capacity for 2 person. A 30 square meter room which includes: Two full beds (double/double). Decoration: Colonial style, combined with wood and handcrafted ceramic tiled floors, inluences of African culture. Waiting on the terrace, just outside your door, is a hammock and one of the most unforgettable views of Portobelo Bay.
gazebo
Restaurant, bar, game room, fun gathering place...
The Gazebo is the heart and hub of El Otro Lado, where anything can happen. Sip into a Passion fruit Mojito while sharing stories of the past with friends. Stimulate the intellect by reading from our ample library. Sample the flavors of the day’s catch, or listen with nostalgia to a vibrant selection of music chosen especially for El Otro Lado by Radio Gladys Palmera.
our food
Fusion cuisine is a delicious blend whose goal is to satisfy diverse palates by uniting native foods from Europe, America and the Orient. Caribbean fusion cuisine is the consequence of centuries of savory influences of the great colonial powers, which left their mark by folding their culinary customs into the rich variety of native Caribbean produce and condiments, to achive truly incredible flavors. The idea is to offer a journey through the texture and flavors of
the plates here at El Otro Lado. Experts counsel that the secreat to a gourment preparation is to achieve a balance of colors, quatities and quiality. The chefs of El Otro Lado, Juan RĂos and Mirna Chavarria work every day with this formula.
con sentimientos room Let go, surrounded by relaxing aromas and soothing music, with a restorative massage. Al- low us to treat your hands and feet, making your nails shine with a rich selection of nail pol- ishes and a sense of imaginative designs. Caribbean influences also make their presence known in our con sentimientos room, or room “with feelings�.
activities
Culture
Sea and Beach
Adventure
Guided Historical Walk Be guided through old-town Portobelo, declared a UN World Heritage Site, to the ruins of its famous colonial forts, the historic Customs House, the revered Black Christ Church and other sites. Congo Dance Upon request, El Otro Lado provides a typical Portobelanian activity: traditional dancing with rythmic Congo drums accompa- nied by a folkloric choir of chants and claps. Art Workshops Young artists of Portobelo work with you on a variety of craft options, in our studios..
Picnics, Swiming and Snorkeling
Cayuko - Kayaking Trip An intimate way to observe the local flora and other wildlife, kayak- ing in the river estuaries that feed Portobelo Bay provides a lasting memorable experience. El Otro Lado personnel will guide you through the remarkable mangrove swamps which are home to monkeys, sloths, herons, crocodriles, bats and others.
With our boats, the trip to the nearby beaches is fast and convenient. Once there, you will find an idyllic place, replete with white sands, surrounded by palm trees, and attended to by El Otro Lado personnel. Swim and snorkel in the crystal-clear waters, observing the fascinating species that can be seen in this underwater universe. Distances: La Huerta is 10 minutes away, Puerto Frances 20 minutes and Playa Blanca 30 minutes. Our boats are equipped with life jackets, dry towel and can provide three varieties of picnic options. Should you care to snorkel, select your equip- ment in our activities Kiosk, where we have a wide selection of snorkel equipment in most sizes. Professional scuba options are also available, with reservation made in advance.
Fishing
Sport fishing in Panama is known as first rate for both its variety and for its quality. Within a short distance of Portbelo, one may enjoy angling accompanied by ex- perienced El Otro Lado personnel who have been fishermen since birth in this locale, and know all the hot spots. Cast in the Carib- bean for tuna, boal, red snapper and grouper, or just relax and troll for Trail Walk in the rainforest snook, and freswater snapper in An El Otro Lado guide will lead you the rivers. on trails through the estate`s massive virgin outback, where you can appreciate the spectacular allure and inmense diversity of nature’s tropical rainforest, winding down the trek at the fascinating colonial ruins of historic Fort San Fernando.
come and discover
visit the reservoir and art workshoop dam At the highest point of the estate, and surrounded by tropical rain forest hills, is an isolated reservoir formed by a century old dam, where you can drift through on one of our two- man pedal boats absorbing the landscape or lush beauty. Adjacent to the dam, and ensconced in the woods, we have provided a terrace of tropical hardwood where you can sit and delight in a snack or lunch. Quite special and unique.
river excursion on The Faraona
Get ready to take an unimaginable journey down the river at sunset in our barge, the “Faraona”. You will enjoy nature in a setting like no other, while ElOtro Lado staff will accompany you, serving ceIf you want to give free rein to viche joined by Prosecco. In collaboration with The Portobelo Bay Foundation. El Otro Lado will organize an art workshop with a young local artist who will teach you to prepare a handicraft of wood, and paint it in Portobeleño expressions.
your creativity, learn something new, and create a unique piece that is 100% Portobelo, let us help. Besides, memories are experiences that you will keep forever.
Embera Tribe visit At the source of the Chagres, River, and in what is today the Chagres National Park, there are several settlements of the Embera Indian tribe. The Embera tribe have a rich history. Full of strong traditions. A great experiences!
regarding your destination
Portobelo, a protected natural deep-water harbor on Central America’s Caribbean coast through which passed the majority of the wealth that sailed to Euro- pe to sustain Spain and her colonies for over 150 years, was one of the Spanish Empire’s most important colo- nial ports in the Americas. In 1976, Portobelo National Park was declared and four years later, UNESCO recog- nized the ruins of the colonial military fortifications that protected Portobelo. together with the nearby Fort San Lorenzo, as a
World Heritage Site. Culture, heritage, sea and jungle, all serve to adorn the town and to endow its visitors with experiences that are unique to Portobelo.
come and discover a different world and a variety of nature and life
taste eol
taste eol
taste portobelo
taste portobelo
taste portobelo
taste portobelo
Design is the silent ambassador of our brand
~Paul Rand
Information and reservations: Tel. +507 202 01 11 info@elotrolado.com.pa skype: el_otro_lado facebook: www.facebook.com/El.Otro.Lado.Portobelo twitter: @EOL_Portobelo www.elotrolado.com.pa
Director: Ignacio Vega Marketing: Diosamary LorĂŠ