Packed into a peninsula with views of Panama City’s skyscrapers across the bay, Casco Viejo feels far removed from the city centre. The old town has 17th-century churches, peaceful plazas and immaculately restored colonial buildings, one of which hosts the newly opened Tantalo Hotel. Each of the 13 suites has been designed by a local artist. The rooftop bar serves cocktails against a dazzling backdrop, while the Tantalo Kitchen has anything from coconut cashew chicken to Cuban-style pulled pork.