Hotels

Mendoza has some interesting new hotels on the horizon, including three new five-star hotels, which should give the grande dame, the Park Hyatt, a run for its money. Keep an eye out for the new Sheraton, Diplomático, and Caesar chains, scheduled to open in 2008. Also popular are "apart-hotels," or suite-hotels. More than 30 hostels also dot downtown Mendoza. I recommend spending a few nights in town, and then staying at a rural inn amid the vineyards, for a change of pace. More and more bodegas are opening up guesthouses, where relaxation and wine are the top draws. Prices quoted are for high season, which in Mendoza is January through March, July, and September through November. Hotel rates are often discounted 15% to 20% in the off season. Prices listed below do not include the 21% tax.