Guadalajara is one of Mexico's most sophisticated cities, reflected in its
hotel options, which include boutique properties that can satisfy a range
of clients, from businesspeople and culture-seekers to the LGBT market.
Following are five boutique hotels to recommend to clients exploring
Mexico's second-largest city. Note: While some of these accommodations are
located near Guadalajara's historic district - an area first-time visitors
won't want to miss - others are farther away.
Casa Alebrijes
Guadalajara is one of the most gay-friendly cities in Mexico - it's even
sometimes referred to as the "San Francisco of Mexico." Casa Alebrijes
caters to LGBT travelers and is convenient to the city's main gay nightlife
district, about a two-block walk away. Located in the city's historic
center, the nine-room hotel, which includes two suites, was formerly a
19th-century home and features attractive rates, especially for the smaller
rooms.
Clients can recharge and relax on the first-floor garden patio, which has a
fountain decorated with small succulents. Additionally, Casa Alebrijes'
owner is an enthusiastic host and can offer insider tips for gay travelers
visiting the city.
www.casaalebrijes.com
Casa Fayette
During a recent visit to Guadalajara, I stayed at Casa Fayette, considered
one of the hippest, most cutting-edge properties in the city. The 37-room
hotel is a Grupo Habita property and a member of Design Hotels, and it was
originally a 1940s art-deco mansion. Amenities include a restaurant, a
rooftop spa, a pool and a cafe. If you have clients who prefer minimalist,
modern design, then this is a good recommendation for them.
Another plus is Casa Fayette's location in the buzz-worthy Colonia
Lafayette district, which has the ambiance of a residential neighborhood
instead of a commercial area. Colonia Lafayette has great nightlife, art
galleries, restaurants, boutiques and cafes.
www.designhotels.com
Clarum 101
The nine-room Clarum 101 has a modern and contemporary veneer, as well as
an emphasis on service, and it's a good choice for business travelers
seeking a boutique property.
Chic amenities include a rooftop terrace bar and a stone garden, while
practical features range from free continental breakfast to express
check-in and checkout. Rooms include iPod docks, 32-inch LCD televisions
with DVD players and bathrooms with rainfall showers. Clarum 101, located
in Zapopan, also offers meetings services.
www.clarum101.com
La Mansion del Sol
La Mansion del Sol, also located in Zapopan, is recommended for those
looking for quiet colonial charm in a residential neighborhood with lots of
trees and parks. However, it's not a good choice if clients are coming to
Guadalajara to explore the historic center, since it's not within walking
distance.
The 22-room hotel sports traditional colonial Mexican design while
delivering all the standard comforts, including complimentary Wi-Fi access.
The hotel's on-site Los Colibries Restaurant serves traditional Mexican
fare, as well as international and American cuisine.
www.lamansiondelsol.com
Villa Ganz
Villa Ganz, like Casa Fayette, is located in the ultra-hip Colonia
Lafayette district and offers a luxury experience. Villa Ganz occupies a
restored villa dating back to the 1930s. The 10-suite, two-story hotel
names its guestrooms after characters associated with beloved Mexican
writer Juan Rulfo, a native of the region.
Nice touches include Wi-Fi access throughout the property, a full-service
business center, access to a gym one block away, continental breakfast and
house wine and appetizers served each evening.
www.en.villaganz.com
