It was a while ago we had some time off the boat so right in time for our arrival in Panama, I begun my search for something cozy, romantic with a classic touch to it. A place to relax but also to use as a stepping stone into the culture and history of Panama City. Knowing that Panama have had a vibrant and fascinating history touched by several nations and a multitude of people in different eras of its existence, I wanted us to stay in a place which reflected both that past as well as the present. Something that felt fresh and new, but which paid respect to the old world. Having studied the neighborhoods online, we figured the old town, Casco Antiguo, would be our best bet, and it didn't take much investigation to find the right place in just that area of the city.

This hotel was all I had envisioned and more. It's funny sometimes in life when you have something exactly so specific in mind and you then suddenly stumble upon just that mental vision. Disguised as a coincidence, yet you know it was nothing but meant to be. Las Clementinas has been voted #1 hotel in Panama by Tripadvisor's members, and Wallpaper magazine elected it one of the best business hotels in the world in 2011. Given Clementinas popularity and the fact that this elegant boutique hotel only has six suites, we also happened to have luck on our side when receiving the confirmation that they were happy to have us already later in the same week of my request.

Located in a newly restored 1930's building and sitting on top of the original city-wall built by the Spanish in the 1700's to defend the old town from attack, this hotel has a classic old charm and sophisticated character. The suites are light and spacious with two balconies facing different directions of old town. I've already mentioned the ever so atmospheric and bistro-like restaurant downstairs and I recommend you visiting it on your next Panama trip even if you might not be staying in the hotel itself. Excellent food, super attentive service, and it seem to be attracting both locals in the know and smart travelers alike. A great buzz in there on Friday and Saturday nights and the live band and singer that performed were of absolute top class.

I don't know what exactly we had hoped for before arriving to Panama, but so far this city and country has exceeded all expectations on every imaginable level. And this hotel certainly sets the standard. 

* Check out Las Clementinas website here.

* All jewelry from We Dream In Colour.

Lazy mornings - Snorkel right off the terrace - Burning skin and mesmerizing sunsets 

Healthy food homemade in elegant roomy kitchen - Wine, wine, wine

Reading books - Planning on next adventure

Two arm lengths long iguanas sunbathing on thatched roofs

Rum cocktails -  Brilliant views - Palm trees and coconuts - Fruit platter in mind blowing colors

and .... more long lazy mornings.

It's an understatement to say that we had an amazing time in the beautiful Karibuni villa, designed by Piet Boon - one of the Netherlands most interesting and best known interior designers. It is always a true pleasure to enter a room, home or a house where careful thoughts have been widely distributed on the total product, that there is a soul behind the sleek and polished surface. Piet Boon has designed twelve villas in various sizes here on Bonaire and many more houses and apartments worldwide. Our particular villa which is one of the larger ones on this island was probably a tad bit too big for just the two of us. But we still managed to make use of it the best we could, and changed bedrooms once, only to quickly return to the one which was located right next to the pool on the ground-floor - perfectly positioned in front of the early sunrise above that sparkling blue sea. Besides sailing on the open sea, I can't think of a better way to wind down and disconnect from it all than spending some slow time in such fine and peaceful environments.

Click here if you're interested in renting the same place, which would be an absolutely perfect vacation house for a group of good friends. Or here if you're curious about the other villas Piet Boon offers in Bonaire.

Many thanks to Piet Boon for being able to organize so efficiently and on such a short notice!