Decameron Resort in Panama

{mosgooglecenter}

(destinationpanama.wordpress.com) We live in Panama, work and play on a tropical island… so many people might think… why would we want to vacation at Decameron Resort Panama? Good question.

Since we had family coming on a one week Decameron package to visit from Canada with Westjet on a package, it seemed the simplest option, and offered us something different. We had stayed at the nearby Playa Blanca Resort with them a couple of years back which was a very nice time, a lovely medium sized all inclusive resort, but still we felt it lacked the Panama experience. It is so interesting for visitors to Panama Resorts to leave the grounds to see what the country has to offer. Unless of course the main intention is to completely relax sitting on the beach and at poolside.

From reports we had heard about Decameron, we did not have our hopes up. After an easy drive of about 1.5 hours from the city we arrived. On arrival directions were a little confusing, parking very limited, and check in, it was not up to international par. We were sent away from reception to a large hall with about one hundred other new guests, and a number system. Things started to look up. Although the system seemed antiquated in the beginning, it worked efficiently. At the table where we were checked in we asked about the number of rooms… over 1000 they told us. It is a huge resort catering to both the Latin and the North American markets. A management nightmare.

After struggling to find parking, we headed off to our room and were surprised to have a lovely, clean ocean view room (among some 999 others). Beds and pillows were comfortable, rooms had television, hot water, and were well maintained. My cousin mentioned his room was noisy, but ours was not. Our rate was good; we were fortunate because we received the weekday residents rate of $53 per person per night, all inclusive. That is a fair deal. At certain times of year the price can be lower.

We tried to book a restaurant for the first night but they were all full, so we ate at the buffet which was fine. Some of the offerings were great, some were mediocre. That is what we expected, so were not disappointed. In our 3 days we learned to head to the buffet early rather than late for fresh food and energetic service from the personnel. The open air evening restaurant was nice, service good, employees well trained.

Because this is green season, we think that the resort was not full. Given that, we never want to visit when it is full! Lots of guests, and plenty of action, if that is what you are looking for. Luckily the weather was lovely in the mornings and by mid afternoon it clouded over and rained heavily. It was time for a siesta!

Decameron has a beautiful enormous beach front property to share with the other 2000 or more people who may be there at the same time. I possibly seem a little sarcastic, but the truth is with the exception of the main activities pool, there was plenty of space and surprisingly well maintained. They must work all night to keep the resort and beaches clean.

Activities were fun, and the liquor was overflowing from every corner of the resort (about 11 bars), and there were an abundance of restaurants. They have a golf course nearby but we didn´t make it even to the driving range, we were so busy hanging out at the pool and beach!

Both my husband and I enjoyed massages. He in the spa and I on the beach. The masseuses were well trained and prices reasonable. ($30 for 30 minutes) We tried to book horseback riding but it seems necessary to reserve the day before.
 

Among the negatives were staff training in F&B seemed somewhat lacking, front desk service was mediocre, from time to time attitude could be improved. Still, our overall impression was good, and at times we were amazed how the resort can operate as well as it does considering the size. We will go back, and as soon as we arrive book everything for our stay so as not to be disappointed.

Our family stayed at Decameron in Fallaron for several days, then stopped in the city and later to our Cerrito Tropical Bed & Breakfast on Taboga Island. They had been to Isla Taboga before and really loved it; now they are planning a new vacation including time on Taboga and probably Isla Grande. The 2 oceans tour!
 

Now some people love the resort experience. I still have a bit of trouble with it even though I really had a chance to kick back. I love to get to know a country and enjoy the local experience. In any big resort that is difficult. If you do opt for any resort experience, try to get out to experience the beauty of Panama either on a tour, or by renting a car. Panama has so much to offer outside the walls of any of its resorts.
 

As a side note: one of our friends who were staying at Decameron from Canada… their son had an accident; the family was very happy with the way Decameron handled it and arranged to have the young man taken to the hospital where they were quite pleased with the doctor, the hospital and the price. From what they said, Decameron seems very well organized to handle mishaps.

For more information contact the Hotel Royal Decameron:
www.decameron.com
Panama City Office: 507-214-3535
Toll Free: 800-2111
Resort: 507-993-2255