Holiday Inn Zócalo (Mexico City; www.hotelescortes.com): This unique Holiday Inn is one of the city's most charming hotels. Located next to the capital's historic central square, it's decorated in a colonial Mexican style with colorful art, antiques, and handicrafts.
Red Tree House (Mexico City; www.theredtreehouse.com): Mexico City is the second-largest city in the world, so it's easy to feel like a number whether you're in a restaurant, on the subway, or in a crowded hotel. Life at the Red Tree House features daily breakfasts in a light and airy kitchen and plenty of space to lounge in the courtyard and garden; the owners have created an atmosphere where every guest feels at home.
Hotel San Francisco Plaza (Guadalajara; www.sanfranciscohotel.com.mx): This two-story colonial-style hotel is a more agreeable place to stay than lodgings that cost twice the price, and it's every bit as comfortable. It's in the downtown area, near the main plaza and several good restaurants and nightspots.
Hotel Los Flamingos (Acapulco; www.hotellosflamingos.com): Once a private club for Hollywood's elite, this hotel will enchant you with its pervasive midcentury charm, funky profusion of hot pink, and breathtaking cliff-top views.
Paraíso Escondido (Puerto Escondido; www.hotelparaisoescondido.net): This eclectic inn is a great bargain, especially for the originality of the decor and the excellent service. It's a short walk to the beach and the action along Puerto's main drag.
Misión de los Arcos (Huatulco; www.misiondelosarcos.com): Just 1 block from the central plaza, this elegant hotel has an all-white facade and intriguing decorative touches that give it an inviting feel. There's shuttle service to the Huatulco beaches.
Las Golondrinas (Oaxaca; www.hotellasgolondrinas.com.mx): We receive more favorable letters about this hotel than about any other in the country. It's small, simple, and colorful, with homey touches of folk art and pathways lined with abundant foliage.
Casa Na-Bolom (San Cristóbal; tel. 967/678-1418): This beautiful colonial house was once the home and office of Frans and Trudy Blom, and a gathering place for anthropologists interested in the region's various ethnic groups. It is now a museum and library full of materials about the region and its indigenous peoples. Rooms have fireplaces and are decorated in local fashion.
Rey del Caribe Hotel (Cancún; www.reycaribe.com): An ecological oasis in downtown Cancún, this hotel has considered every detail to achieve an organic and environmentally friendly setting. Amid a tropical garden, it's a welcome respite from the party-hearty crowd, with sunny rooms, warm service, yoga and meditation classes, and healthful dining.
Cabo Inn (Cabo San Lucas; www.caboinnhotel.com): This former bordello is the area's best budget inn. Rooms are small but extra clean and invitingly decorated, amenities are generous, and the owner-managers are friendly and helpful. Ideally located, close to town and near the marina, the inn caters to sportfishers.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without
notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before
planning your trip.
