Islas Secas Resort

The Best New Hotels in the World: 2019 Hot List

"A private island resort is one thing. An entire archipelago in one of the most ruggedly beautiful, previously inaccessible parts of the world is a whole other level. Islas Secas, a retreat comprising nine guest cottages and 14 otherwise uninhabited islands in Panama’s Gulf of Chiriqui, is a rare example of the kind of hotel that offers a level of service and privacy that genuinely feels like a private home. As one of a maximum of 18 others, guests can spread out and feel they have the run of the place (and access to the cool, discreet, expert staff) without that awkward “we’re the only people here” feeling. It’s adventurous but not too rugged, eco-minded without being sanctimonious, and luxurious but neither precious nor overly fancy. Proof: The place runs entirely on solar energy, but the air conditioning works perfectly. Spend the day fishing or diving with sharks, then unwind after a fresh-caught dinner with a bottle of crisp, dry rosé while playing chess in a Hemingway-inspired lounge. The rooms and main pavilion were thoughtfully designed by Tom Scheerer, an architect who does low-key, old-school coastal elegance like no one else (he’s also behind the recent revamp of the Lyford Cay Club in the Bahamas). Wicker and rattan are well-deployed, fabrics are all crisp natural whites, sage greens and light blues, and everything is indoor-outdoor wherever possible: Each casita wall is constructed with louvered slats to let in the breeze, massive doors slide open and turn the whole room into the chicest screened-in porch ever. Even the shower can be had both ways, depending on which way you position the door. Panama has been emerging in Central America’s luxury tourism market for the past couple of years. Islas Secas marks its arrival. Doubles from $1015 per person, per night (3 night minimum, includes boat transfer, on-site activities, meals, and drinks)." - CNT Editors