American Trade Hotel

Originally built to exchange American goods for rich locals and expats, the architecture still fuels this vibe of trade as it continues as a crossroads. Some of the decor pays homage to the years the building was run by gangsters until it was finally stormed by police and then restored as the grand hotel it is today.

The surrounding, vibrant neighborhood of Casco Viejo only furthers this energy as a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site—one of only 1031 in the world—serving to preserve the area’s rich cultural and historic diversity. A joint effort between the U.S.-based Ace Hotels with the local Conservatorio and L.A.’s Commune Design, the American Trade Hotel brings together Neoclassical architecture with Art Nouveau heritage.

The mansard roof is reminiscent of the stronghold of the French as they attempted to build the Canal in the late 19th century. The rooftop pool was inspired by travels from Marrakech, and the interior courtyards by long lunches in Colombian haciendas.

Relive the tropical colonial details in the delicate craftmanship of each room: high ceilings with Canal and plaza views, preserved tile from the original building, and hardwood flooring salvaged from underwater logs in the Panama Canal. Like a scene from Casablanca, this Panama City new hotel is stylish, romantic, elegant and spacious, and lives on as Panama’s first luxury high-rise.