Meeting Planners: Bring Your Group to Life in Casco Viejo

Curated Programs | VIP Hospitality | Trusted On-the-Ground Expertise

Meet James Patrick Rice

I bring over four decades of senior-level leadership in the hospitality industry, having served as Director of Catering & Special Events at Ritz-Carlton Rancho Mirage, Hyatt Regency Indian Wells, Maxim’s de Paris, and as Director of Operations at the Palm Springs Convention Center. I also held the Director of Catering role at the Dallas Convention Center, managing over 2 million square feet of event space.

In addition to being a longtime member of MPI, PCMA, ASAE, and NACE, I’ve had the privilege of working on their national conventions — giving me a unique insight into both sides of the planning process. For the past 15 years, I’ve consulted for luxury hotels across California and Hawaii, training catering and event professionals in best practices and group service excellence.

Since 2008, I’ve also been a resident of Casco Viejo, Panama — giving me intimate local knowledge, insider access, and strong relationships with venues, hotels, and cultural partners. I understand this market from the inside out, and I bring that depth of experience to your group.

Why Casco Viejo?

  • 6 luxury boutique hotels in a walkable, UNESCO-protected district
  • Curated rooftop venues and private courtyards
  • Sea-to-table dining and custom dine-around programs
  • Proximity to Tocumen International Airport (25 mins)
  • Ideal for incentives, board meetings, executive retreats

My Services to You

  • Hotel and venue recommendations tailored to group profile
  • Assistance with hotel blocks and negotiation strategies
  • Design and execution of offsite dining and excursions
  • Rooftop and historic venue site inspections
  • Introductions to vetted DMCs and ground operators
  • Itinerary consultation to align with your client’s goals

Let’s Talk About Your Program

I offer complimentary consultations for meeting professionals seeking expert local guidance and curated group solutions in Panama. info@CascoViejo360.com

Not the CVB—Just the Person You Need

With 40+ years in conventions and hotel events, I help planners navigate Panama’s venues, hotels, and logistics. Get in touch and let’s build your program.

Let’s Talk Panama Meetings →

Not a DMC—But I Know Exactly How They Work

With hands-on experience alongside destination management companies, I understand every element from airport arrival to farewell dinner. From managing VIP expectations to logistics, excursions, and timing, I know how to support planners and elevate what a DMC should deliver in Panama.

Let’s Talk your Panama Needs→