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Luna's Castle Hostel

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  • Calle 9na - San Felipe
     Panama City
    (507) 262-1540
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datravelers
First Reviewer
5 out of 5
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2
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3
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Editor Pick

A Backpacker's Mecca

  • March 22, 2009
  • Rated 4 of 5 by TravelingButler from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
A Backpacker's Mecca

Much more than just a hostel, Luna’s Castle is a nerve center for backpackers in Central America. Housed in a partially renovated mansion in Panama City’s "Casco Viejo" section of town, Luna’s Castle is nearly always full and full of energy. The location is unbeatable, and the staff are extremely knowledgeable. While staying there, expect spontaneous partying in the hostel’s ample common areas to proceed well past midnight. The fun frequently starts up early the next day at 8:00 AM, as early risers help themselves to a self-made all-you-can-eat pancake and banana breakfast.

The common areas have plenty of amenities to keep the Castle’s small army of guests busy – a ping pong table, four computers for personal use, a homemade theatre, and a fridge full of beer ($1/beer, based on the honor system).

There are a number of events that are occasionally organized by the staff, as well as postings about an array of travel options throughout Panama – for example sailing trips to San Blas and Colombia. While there, make sure to pursue their binder of local activities and information. It’s more timely and informative than anything you will find in any of the travel guides, and probably worth the price of admission ($12 for a dorm-style bed) itself.
I didn’t stay in the communal rooms, instead my girlfriend and I stayed in one of the private rooms. The room was small, tight, stuffy, and contained bunk bed comprised of one full and one twin-sized bed (no private bathroom and no hot water). But at $28 per night – in a city where finding value can be a daunting endeavor – the private room represents exceptional value, especially given Luna’s location in Casco Viejo.

Our sole complaint was the lack of communication about the scheduling of Luna’s private rooms. Despite given the impression that we could have a private room for two nights, after one night at Luna’s we were told that on our second night we had to give up the private room (but would be welcome in the dormitory). Incidentally, in our travels throughout the country, we bumped into another couple that had a similar experience regarding the private rooms at Luna’s. So keep this mind if having a private room is important to you and/or your traveling companion.

Aside from this minor issue, if you are looking to connect with other travelers in the Panama City area and enjoy a lively dorm-style environment, it doesn’t get any better than Luna’s Castle.

From journal Eight Days in Panama

Luna's Castle is My Ideal Hostel

  • April 7, 2008
  • Rated 5 of 5 by datravelers from palo alto, California
I’ve been traveling awhile, and it is rare that I get to a hostel that consistently surprises me. I found that place at Luna’s Castle. I was excited to stay there solely based on the fact that they were located in the old city. I then was greeted at the reception desk by a very welcoming woman who gave me that first impression that I love. That feeling like I was walking into my home. I was then taken up to my room, took off my bag, took a deep breath and walked to my window. I couldn’t believe the view. I’m talking a 4 star hotel view. I don’t think that all of the rooms have these views, but if you can get one, it is so worth it. Other things that stand out in my mind about Luna’s Castle are the pancake breakfast and the full size screen movie theater. It was amazing. Triple decker mattress padded seating, red satin fabric covers, and a full size 12 foot movie scene. I know I shouldn’t be talking about a movie theater given that we aren’t supposed to be inside during our travels, but it was a comfortable break from all the craziness. And besides, the staff definitely helped me pack my days with fun, off the beaten track activities. I could go on and on, but I think you should get my point by now. If you go to Panama City, stay at Luna’s Castle.
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