This is a recently renovated building with nice amenities in a walkable neighborhood on the edge of the updated areas of Casco Viejo. The building is located 2 short blocks from Plaza Herrera, which is surrounded by restaurants and shops, and The American Trade Hotel. The immediate area is yet to be renovated, and you see and hear lots of local people and community life, which can be welcome and a little intimidating at the same time. There were a pair of community policemen at the corner who were very friendly and helpful.
The building sits above Aya La Vida restaurant, which is currently serving lunch and dinner. The staff in the restaurant is very attentive and welcoming - eventually they hope to serve breakfast too, but the Barrio across 12th street serves a nice desayuno, and there is a deli at the square with great coffee and light fare. There is also a grocery store, REY, on Avenida B so you can stock up your kitchen with everything you need if you want to eat in.
The rooftop pool and patio is the perfect way to see the city, the canal and Ancon Hill, while relaxing in cool comfort with fellow hotel guests. Every evening of our stay we joined other guests for a lovely happy hour, very friendly and congenial.
The apartment is sparsely furnished but comfortable beds and 2 baths is great. They need extra towels or at least pool towels, and more hooks/ racks in the bathrooms. Shower floors are slippery too! Floors were swept but not really clean. A great location!