LR
Travel Report
Living the Ultimate High Life ©www.hardrockhotels.com
Hard Rock Panama Megapolis
I
t was my first stay in a Hard Rock brand property, and I assure you, it won't be my last! I was uber impressed with everything all the way down the line – from my super posh and spacious suite on the 44th floor with a spectacular panoramic view of the skylines and the sea, to the fact that they send you your own Fender electric guitar via room service to play during your stay (headphones and amp included,) VIP treatment was the norm. The service and the amenities were sublime at every turn, and there’s so much to do that seats you squarely in the lap of luxury, you need never leave the property if you don’t want to. Lounge by the rooftop infinity pool with hot tubs, get pampered to the max in the Rock Spa, dance in the trendy disco-style bar where visiting celebrities always drop in, or chill with the cool crowd up at the 66th floor indoor/ outdoor labyrinth of bars and dance spots on the roof: it’s a 24/7 party. Also attached to the hotel is one of the largest indoor shopping
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malls in the city, with a two-story casino, a massive grocery store, food courts, trendy dining and movie theatres as well. The dining in the hotel is also first rate – a choice of sumptuous buffets for all meals in their Bazaar room, or gourmet a la carte Asian or Italian in their upscale eateries Soy and Tauro. But my favorite haunt was Ciao for superb tapas and fabulous signature cocktails. It’s very close to the Stage Bar, where you can hear the musical acts without the crush of the crowd. Though many hotels have similar luxe amenities, it’s the rock star VIP vibe and decor here that really sets it apart. Mini-museums throughout of famous music legends – their clothes, instruments, even Bono’s Austin Mini car – take you backstage to the high life they live, and it's hard not to feel like you are also a celebrity due to the tremendous way the staff treats you. I loved it. Visit: www.hrhpanamamegapolis.com. SUSAN CAMPBELL @suectravel