Colón special Report–Hotel Costa Arriba

The new jewel of the Costa Arriba

Hotel Costa Arriba Island has just
five rooms, making it perfect
for quiet getaways.

Ernesto Marcel is putting the final touches on his new island oasis, The Hotel Costa Arriba – located on Panama’s “Upper Coast”, in the Colon province. The hotel is a one minute boat ride away from the mainland, surrounded by coral reefs and the Caribbean Sea. The facilities have a special personal touch that qualifies the five room facility as a boutique hotel, and is just three hours from Panama City.

“I included everything here that my girlfriend and I would want to have in a hotel where we would stay - and we travel a lot.” said Marcel, who proudly elaborated on the touches that are important to him, “The beds are so comfortable, with high threadcount sheets. I ordered all the channels on DirecTV. We want people to feel really comfortable here.” Everywhere guests turn on the island, they encounter carefully crafted details. This is the first hotel that Marcel has built and his largest business venture to date. Guests are lucky to find a hotel which offers everything that an owner would truly wish for himself.

Breathtaking views
from the pool deck.

The infinity pool, jacuzzi and sun deck sit above the sea and provide an excellent vantage point to pass the day and watch sunsets. The hotel’s five rooms are situated in the center of the island, between two large bohios. One of the bohios is open air and the other air-conditioned. Inside, one can appreciate the master craftsmanship that goes in to the construction of these tall thatched roofs.

Meals are skillfully prepared by Chef Fernando of Colombia, who worked in some fine establishments in New York, Miami and Los Angeles before relocating to Panama. His seafood creations alone are worth the trip.

Breathtaking views from the pool deck.

One of the first guests at the hotel was a Japanese sailor who saw the hotel from the sea. Upon entering the property, he complimented Marcel on his use of Feng Shui when designing and constructing the spaces. Marcel laughs, “I never consulted Feng Shui or anything like that, I just said build this here, build this there. But according to this guy, who took the measurements, we are in perfect flow.”

Chef Fernando poses with a guest.

The hotel has thus far been open to guests by referral only, and return business has been very promising. Their marketing campaign has just begun and all too soon, the five special rooms are sure to be booked, so be sure to call in advance for reservations.

Tours are available from the hotel to San Blas, just 30 minutes away by boat. Snorkeling and diving are available nearby and transport is available to sandy beaches in a nearby cove. The hotel is just beginning operations Call 6762-1286 or visit www.costaarribaisland.com
E-mail: jessicamayarj@hotmail.com