The Westin Playa Bonita Panama, the first Westin in the burgeoning destination, is set to be unveiled in October 2011. Currently under construction, the 100 million dollar cutting-edge beach hotel will offer the largest meeting and banquet space in the Republic of Panama and is being brought to life by Starwood Hotels and Resorts Worldwide, Inc. and Bern Hotels & Resorts.

Conceived as a contemporary luxury oasis, The Westin Playa Bonita Panama will break through traditional barriers of design to create an elementally infused structure reflecting its natural environment. Inspired by the destination’s combination of natural beauty and industrial innovation, guests will be transported to a spacious beachfront haven surrounded by lush greenery and nautical serenity. Complete with multiple chic and dramatic common areas, including staggering views of the Pacific Ocean through the lobby’s massive floor to ceiling windows, the beach hotel will feature six restaurants, four bars and an unprecedented 65,000 square feet of meeting and event spaces comprised of 22 multi-purpose spaces evoking an eclectic array of ambiances ranging from intimate decadence to modern minimalism.

“We believe the first Westin in the Republic of Panama is one of the most exciting new prospects the destination has seen in decades. Our goal is to create an exclusive lifestyle beach hotel that showcases the Republic of Panama’s natural beauty and redefines the nation’s travel industry,” said Herman Bern Jr., President of Bern Hotels and Resorts. “The beach hotel will cater to the luxurious demands of a diverse set of international consumers that visit the destination. With our premier location, accommodations and amenities, we will provide guests with an inimitable business or leisure experience.”

Conveniently situated within just a 20-minute drive from the metropolitan capital of Panama City, the beach hotel is also in close proximity to various attractions, historic landmarks and national parks. Accommodations include 611 guest rooms, including 64 spacious suites and three deluxe Royale suites, all with ocean or tropical rainforest views. Relaxation is guaranteed with Westin’s signature Heavenly Bed, a luxurious 10-layer comfort bed with plush bedding, and Heavenly Bath®, featuring a customizable showerhead. Rooms will also be equipped with an LCD TV, high-speed Internet access and ergonomic workspace to enhance guests’ stay.

Rounding out the complete lifestyle offerings, The Westin Playa Bonita Panama will boast an ultra chic, open-air VIP Lounge on the 19th floor. Featuring imaginative design and immaculate detail, the lounge will take full advantage of the high-rise building’s panoramic views that include the Pacific Ocean, endless rainforest and the Downtown area’s unmatched skyline.  

Six fine dining restaurants featuring a variety of haute cuisine sure to please any variety of palates and striking decor will also be unveiled in October. Oceanfront restaurants will include Oceanica, an international buffet; Cafe Pacifica, featuring Pacific Rim cuisine; Starfish Grill, a la carte seafood; Tierra y Fuego, fine Latin steak house; and Asiana offering a multitude of Asian fusion menu options.  On the beach, guests can enjoy Mediterranean tapas and wine at the Soleo restaurant or refreshing cocktails at the swim-up pool bar or beach bar.  In room dining is also available to guests 24-hours a day.

Additional facilities will include a Westin WORKOUT gym, three freshwater infinity edge pools, children’s pool, and Westin Kids Club.