This splendid small (by Panamanian standards) hotel named after the upscale city district in which it is located is perfectly situated close to the shore overlooking the Bay of Panama and the ocean. The signature Panama Canal is just to the west of Paitilla.

The building is undergoing ongoing renovation and refurbishment, but that said, the floors which are open to guests - most of the 18 levels - feature wonderfully spaceous, well equipped, modern rooms. Some offer magnificent waterfront views, especially from the upper floors; others overlook the burgeoning city skyline which, for first time visitors to Panama City, comes as a revelation.

Without doubt, the most memorable part of any stay at the Plaza Paitilla Inn is the ever cheerful, welcoming hospitality of the staff. Capably led by the egregiously outgoing Senor Valencia, the hotel manager, a big, bluff Panamanian hotelier with an always ready smile and a firm handshake, this would also include his senior staff. Senor Edwin, who wears many hats seems to be everywhere at all times ensuring all is running well; Nathalia who keeps an eagle eye on the cheerful, welcoming, efficient staff on the front desk (special mentions to Senor Davi and Kari- Isabelle); Maria who capably oversees the reservations of rooms throughout the hotel and of course Armaan, the grandson of the owners, who is involved in a wide range of varying responsibilities. Most importantly from a guest perspective, is the upgrading of the occasionally erratic, wobbly internet connections in the hotel rooms.

If I had one complaint during my extended stay at the Plaza Paitilla, it would be with this dated WiFi network. However, Armaan has made much progress in this area and promises more to come. Like all the other managers, he is committed to the comfort and speedy and efficient resolution of any guest issues.

The morning breakfast buffet is a highlight of any stay at the Plaza Paitilla Inn. It is marvellously well presented with a broad range of food choices to satisfy most tastes. Being a buffet, guests can fill up on as much as they want. Many do!

The dining room staff, overseen by the efficient Senor Edwin includes the cheerful, hard working Senor Ramon and his colleagues, Ana, Roy, Miracle, Madidi and a whole host of enthusiastic young servers for whom no request is too difficult. They are a wonderful team, and it shows in how smoothly the dining room operates, even in the busiest of times.

I did not visit the dining room at night but from comments by other guests, the level of satisfaction was high.

There is a fairly large swimming ool which can get a bit crowded during periods of high occupancy. Normally, this is not an issue. Comfy reclining chairs, mattresses and pool towels are provided on request by Senor Enrique who will also raise your umbrella, necessary when the hot Panamanian sun shines with full force.

The gym which is open to all boasts a good selection of high quality exercise equipment. In my experience over five months at the hotel, the facility was never crowded or difficult to use. A sauna is under construction and should be open soon.

In sum, this is a brilliant hotel, offering outstanding rooms and other facilities. It is staffed by warm, welcoming, efficient people who genuinely want to ensure that all their guests are well looked after. Highly recommended.

Allan H. Adams. Ottawa. Canada.