Looks like Panama City opportunities could use an update. So here is one.

Before I begin, readers be aware that I am not a true blue CH member in that I don't take pictures and don't attempt to extract every red peso from my companions.

Was in PC on February 10, 11 & 16. The last couple days of Carnival. The City was, by all accounts" dead, except for the last night. But, not so fast.

Seems like not much has changed since the 2011 trip reports on CH.

Veneto is the place to stay for "our preferred activities". The Marriott is much nicer, but has a strict no visitor policy. I was told that the Hard Rock looks the other way - but no evidence.

Veneto is run down, no doubt. My WM & I were given rooms on the recently refurbished 8th floor for $120 pn. They were functional KS/NS rooms. Fridge, good shower, erratic AC. Only real drawback is that one needs a room key to access from elevator. However, front desk will send up visitors, if they check in and are Okd with guest.

Casino is (again I'm told) largest in PC, although there are many. Only one crap table, except for my general luck, which was also crappy.

HOWEVER - the Casino (CH Link) fills up with "potential companions" starting about 7 pm. I saw over 60 there on a Saturday night. All shapes and sizes. All with the same mission - a trip upstairs. Believe me, there was plenty of choice, including some lookers. Scary ones too, of course. But more than a few 7-8s. Going rate - $100 for a 1-2 hour session. More for TLN; but, who needs? Besides, the travel time is an elevator ride.

We stopped by Habanos (CH Link) on Sunday evening (Carvnival week) and it was bizarrely empty. Did not go back; however, would be surprised if its really worth the inconvenience of leaving the Veneto.

Le Palace (CH Link) was closed on Sunday night; but, did confirm barfine is $200.

Visited Elite (CH Link) on Sunday. At least 25 ladies dressed in white (just like Palace, I presume). Barfine $165. Asked one how much she wanted additional, she said $500 but would discuss. I laughed heartily.

The ladies were quite fine. On average (as you would guess) a cut well above Veneto Casino. The play here is go one night and line up companions for next day lunch. It costs $30 to get in for unlimited Bacardi, vodka or beer.

I did sample massage from the yellow pages. $120 for all in. Pretty decent quality and no problem refusing, if one doesn't suit. They come in 15 minutes.

Best restaurant we found was Rosa Mexicano. Very good. Went twice. Great margys & guac. Very nice decor. Good place to dine with your Elite companions.

Pomodora a short walk from Veneto is good for breakfast. Steakhouse in Venetos is good but pricey.

All in, we were in PC for three nights before & after our fishing. It's a good city, IMHO. Lots of choice (90% Colombianas BTW). Reasonable rates and a super easy flight from MIA. Taxis are cheap too plus easy to negotiate.

I have been to CR, DR, Rio, BA, Tha, Sing, HK, COL & others - so you have a frame. I like PC as it plays now.

Kcirbu, thank you very much for the info. I'm scheduled to stop over in PC for a weekend on my way to Medellin. I have a room already booked in Veneto. Are the prices you listed US $? Was there anything to do in the city other then monger?

Compliments for a nice report with attention to detail. Many members don't realize the work and effort required [memory + writing skills + time] and often fail to say "good job".

Bluelight, Panama has a official currency, the Balboa, but I did work there for an extended period and rarely ever saw it. The unoffical currency is the US$ and it is truly the currency of commerce. The Balboa is/was pegged 1-to-1 to the US$ . . . so either way I believe all prices quoted are US$.

Kcirbu thanks for a good job. Is the Lebanese restaurant still operating across the street from the Marriott? I had a few meals there in the past . . . great scenery as I remember. Unfortunately, I was married at the time . . . oh so many lost opportunities.

Currencies in US $, but the same either way (1 to 1). Beirut still operating. Was mostly empty when we went past. Plus (despite recommendations) that type of food was not to our taste.

Sounds like a great place if you happen to be there on business and the company is paying as the rates posted are the most expensive in Latin America on average.

Excellent report!