Bahia Grand Panama Hotel in Panama City, owned by Ithaca Capital, will be relaunched as a JW Marriott property. While the hotel is currently operating independently, a new agreement reached last week sets Marriott International as the long-term manager of the property.
“We are thrilled that our hotel will operate as a JW Marriott and we believe that this partnership, together with a talented team and spectacular hotel amenities, will be a success. We look forward to welcoming new and returning guests to this iconic property,” said Orestes Fintiklis, managing partner at Ithaca Capital.
Located in the Punta Pacifica neighborhood, the hotel occupies a 932-foot tower near the city’s banking and entertainment districts. Its central location offers easy access to business centers and leisure options, while the property itself provides a calm, resort-like atmosphere. The hotel features three restaurants, a bar, an expansive pool deck, and conference facilities suited for events and meetings. Guestrooms are among the largest in Panama City, with many offering ocean views.
“Marriott International is proud to partner with Ithaca Capital for the re-launch of this iconic hotel in Panama City, a growing gateway city and a critical hub for Latin America. This hotel will represent the twelfth operating JW Marriott branded hotel in our region, catering to sophisticated travelers, seeking the world-class JW Treatment,” said Laurent de Kousemaeker, chief development officer for the Caribbean and Latin America region at Marriott International.
The rebranding aims to blend the building’s notable presence and spacious accommodations with JW Marriott’s signature service standards. With this transition, guests can expect elevated amenities and curated experiences designed for discerning travelers, including enhanced dining options and refined event spaces. The partnership also positions the hotel to attract both corporate and leisure travelers visiting Panama City for its growing economic and cultural significance.
As the hotel transitions into the JW Marriott portfolio, expectations include upgrades in service protocols and guest programming that align with the brand’s emphasis on thoughtful hospitality. Ithaca Capital and Marriott International have emphasized a collaborative approach to the relaunch, focusing on maintaining the property’s distinctive character while introducing the global brand’s quality standards.
For visitors, the hotel’s location in Punta Pacifica offers proximity to major financial institutions, upscale shopping, and dining districts, making it convenient for business travelers and tourists alike. The combination of large, well-appointed guest rooms, event facilities, and leisure amenities such as the pool deck provides a versatile option for various types of stays.
Details on the timeline for the formal rebrand and any planned property enhancements were not provided in the announcement. However, the partnership signals a commitment to bring JW Marriott’s premium hospitality offerings to Panama City and to expand the brand’s presence across the Caribbean and Latin America.