About CascoViejo360.com

A Curated Guide to Casco Viejo—Rooted in Legacy, Built with Vision

CascoViejo360.com isn’t just another travel website. It’s a handcrafted, high-integrity platform created by someone who’s spent a lifetime leading excellence in the world’s finest hospitality venues—from the grandest ballrooms to the most intimate fine dining rooms.

The founder, James Patrick Rice, has served as Director of Catering at legendary institutions including The Ritz-Carlton, Hyatt Regency Hotels, Maxine’s De Paris, the Palm Springs Convention Center, and the Dallas Convention Center. He has also owned and operated several restaurants, bringing deep, first-hand knowledge of what makes a venue truly unforgettable.

A Life Anchored in Hospitality—and Casco Viejo

In 2008, after four decades building iconic events, leading citywide conventions, and creating culinary experiences across the U.S. and Europe, James started to transition in to Casco Viejo. Captivated by its energy, heritage, and potential, he quickly became an advocate for preserving its soul while raising its global profile.

CascoViejo360.com is the result of that journey: a deeply personal, editorially curated platform designed to elevate Casco’s best places, people, and experiences. It blends local insight with international hospitality standards—and it’s built to last.

Our Mission

To grow Casco Viejo’s visibility without sacrificing its soul—by offering high-quality, editorial-style content that reflects the district’s unique blend of culture, history, and modern luxury.

What Sets Us Apart

  • Curated, not crowded. We don’t list everything—we highlight the truly exceptional.
  • Built on 40+ years of top-tier hospitality experience. We know quality when we see it.
  • Created by someone who’s lived both the guest side and the ownership side. From convention centers to luxury dining rooms, we understand what visitors value—and what it takes to deliver it.
  • A trusted guide for travelers, locals, and professionals. Whether you’re a visitor planning a boutique stay or a meeting planner scouting venues, this is your insider pass to Casco.
  • No ads. No noise. Just editorial integrity. Every inclusion is vetted, photographed, and written with care.

What You’ll Find on CascoViejo360.com

  • Hotel profiles and rooftop bar spotlights
  • Signature restaurant features and hidden gems
  • Curated “best of” lists for food, stays, and experiences
  • Cultural stories, photo essays, and historic deep-dives
  • A dedicated resource for planners of retreats, incentive trips, and executive events
  • Original content—not AI spam or scraped listings

Built for Retreats, Incentive Groups & Hospitality Pros

With decades of expertise in catering, conventions, citywide events, and restaurant ownership, James brings an unmatched level of insight for anyone organizing experiences in Panama. Whether you’re hosting a leadership retreat, executive offsite, or curated travel experience, CascoViejo360 is designed to guide and inspire your planning.

From James

“Casco Viejo isn’t just where I live—it’s a place I deeply believe in. I created this platform not as a job, but as a way to contribute to the growth and integrity of the community. I’ve worked with world-class venues around the world. This neighborhood is on that level—it just needed the right lens. CascoViejo360 is that lens.”

Let’s Connect

Based in: Casco Viejo, Panama
Email: info@CascoViejo360.com
Instagram: @CascoViejo360
Website: www.CascoViejo360.com

Meet James
James Patrick Rice, founder of CascoViejo360.com, former Director of Catering for Ritz-Carlton and Hyatt Hotels, photographed in Casco Viejo, Panama

LGBTQ+ Travel Tips

Casco is known for its inclusive nightlife. Discover our LGBTQ+ travel tips for safe, welcoming, and vibrant experiences.

Read Guide

Casco Viejo Restaurants

Your go-to guide for dining in Casco—from rooftop spots to hidden gems that celebrate Panama’s flavors and flair.

View Guide

Coffee Shops in Casco

From specialty espresso to quiet courtyards, find your perfect café moment in Casco’s rich coffee culture.

Find Cafés

Rooftop Bars at Night

Our latest blog takes you above the cobblestones—where rooftop cocktails meet city lights, music, and magic after dark.

Read the Blog