I was in Panama today for work but also was lucky enough to take a two hour tour of the Panama Canal on the Caribbean side. Friday is the 100 year anniversary of the opening of the canal and I just couldn’t miss the opportunity to see one of the greatest man made creations of all time.
More to come on this fantastic experience in the next couple of days.
After a long day in Panama City and Colon it was time for a drink or two at happy hour. I usually stay in the Financial District of Panama City at the Marriott, however this trip I moved around the corner to the Royal Sonesta. This area of the city is great for walking to the various bars and restaurants lining the surrounding streets. Directly across from the Marriott is a Lebanese restaurant called Beirut that is famous with both locals and tourists alike. I have spent many a night there stuffing my face and focusing the beer goggles with Old Parr. While Beirut is a fantastic place to spend the evening, I prefer another Lebanese restaurant around the corner for happy hour, called Fenecia . This is where I nestled into a booth tonight and threw back a few local beers, ate some kibbe and smoked from the hookah. This was just what the doctored ordered to put a long day behind and prepare for an early morning again tomorrow.
About aromas and rum
The Captain is an American Airlines Ex Platinum, whose work as an Export Manger, takes him to places far and many times remote. From Guyana to Palestine to UAE to Trinidad and everywhere in between, he loves to dive head first into the local culture though food, music, politics and traditions. Boarding Area readers will be able to take the magical journey, along with the Captain, through his words and pictures on Points, Miles and Martinis.
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I’m glad you decided to try’s the Royal Sonesta. I had the pleasure of 10 days there in March. While they were still putting aspects of the hotel together, overall I was very impressed.
Beirut is unquestionably one of PAnama City’s best people watching spots. Good food and service plus the outside patio.
As to Fenicia I considervitbto be a major disappointment. Service is indifferent and the staff I found to be “gringo” unfriendly. The food was nothing special in any way. As to atmosphere I found it quite lacking any. Hardly a spot I’d ever consider going back to. I’d rather go to Jimmys where they do an amazing grilled octopus.
Rings
The Sonesta is moving along at a typical pace for Latin America. The casino now has slot machines and chairs but they are all still in the boxes.
I have to admit with Fenicia that the service can be hit or miss. I don’t ever eat dinner there but simply order a starter or two while I have a couple of drinks. My interaction with the servers is minimal but I have found you can make anyone friendly with a big Gringo smile. I had the Ahi Tuna last night and it was really good.
I have never been to Jimmy’s but will try to go there tonight. Thanks for the tip!