When I need a break from the constant socializing and college dorm vibe of hostels, I like to spend a couple of nights at a boutique, but budget-friendly small hotel or bed and breakfast. It’s a time to recharge and take advantage of a hot-water shower, slightly more luxurious surroundings, fluffy towels, comfortable bed and minibar.
When I visited Boquete, Panama, my refuge from hostel life was the top-rated Boquete Garden Inn. This small hotel, just a three-minute drive from town, is nestled in beautiful gardens and instantly instills a feeling of peace when you walk through the gate. Downtown Boquete can get loud at night, especially during the festival and parade season (November through March), so Boquete Garden Inn is perfectly situated — close enough to be convenient, but away from Boquete’s beeping horns, marching band practices and thumping reggaeton bass.
The highlight of the stay is Boquete Garden Inn’s breakfast.The food is good, but that’s not the star of the show: More than 90 species of birds have been spotted on the property over the years and, at breakfast, the staff put out fruit on nearby statues and the birds swoop and fight and feed, putting on a proper show. Birders need not ever leave the gardens. And the social hour offers the opportunity to meet other guests, enjoy a complimentary drink, chat with the owners and then take one’s leave.
The service is top notch. You get concierge-quality attention and assistance from the helpful and friendly guys at the front desk. Boquete has a lot to do if you know who to talk to. The staff members know the best guides, activities that don’t require guides (e.g. The Lost Waterfall hike) and where to eat, drink and rent a car (recommended for at least a couple of days in Boquete, as all the best stuff is up in the mountains).
Boquete Garden Inn
Av. Buenos Aires
Bajo Boquete, Panama
507 720 2376
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