The best accommodations Mexico

Budget & Tips

Accommodation is available on any budget in Mexico. The key is whether you prefer a private pool or a shared bathroom (on the landing)... Those on a smaller budget can opt for camping or a rudimentary beach hut. Hotels are classified from 1 to 5 stars, followed by Grand Tourism, Special Category and Boutique Hotel for luxury hotels. However, no organization controls the classification of establishments and, very often, the services of a 3-star hotel in Mexico are inferior to those of an establishment of the same category in France.

Credit cards are generally accepted, except in certain remote regions or seaside towns with a cash culture (this is the case, for example, in Puerto Escondido, in the state of Oaxaca, but things are gradually changing and credit cards are beginning to be accepted there). Please note that the use of a credit card sometimes entails additional charges of around 5%. Here are a few indications of the types of accommodation in Mexico and the rates charged:

Haciendas remain the most typical luxury accommodation in Mexico. The rooms, often few in number, nestle in an atmosphere steeped in history, especially when the furniture is original. Room rates often exceed US$150.

Economy-class hotels are often located in the city center or near tourist attractions. Comfort is basic, but sufficient for a few nights. Rooms range from US$20 to US$40. A room with a double bed is often cheaper than one with two single beds.

Motels, a North American heritage, are found on the roadsides on the outskirts of towns. It's best to bring cash, as they rarely accept credit cards. Room rates range from US$30 to US$60 per night. Beware, however, that many motels are veritable brothels, where discretion is de rigueur (cars hidden in a cubicle behind a curtain and direct access to the room). You can bring your partner, official or otherwise, and rooms can be rented by the hour. Keep your eyes peeled for clues that can't be mistaken!

Bed and breakfast. Sleeping in a local's home is not part of the country's habits and customs. The few establishments of this type are often run by foreigners. However, the accommodation offered by some country villages is very similar, in that it is built and maintained by the local community. In these cases, meals are concocted by the villagers themselves, allowing you to immerse yourself in the local culture.

Youth hostels. Known as hostels or hostals, these offer single rooms or dormitories (mixed or all-female), usually with shared bathroom facilities. Dormitory beds cost between US$10 and US$20. Guests generally have access to communal areas: kitchen, living room with TV and sometimes a landscaped garden. Comfort and cleanliness vary from one establishment to another. For many, hostels are also an opportunity to meet new people and party. Nights are short and noisy, especially in dormitories.

Camping takes place on beaches or in natural areas. For safety reasons, it's best to avoid unauthorized camping and stick to official campsites. A tent pitch costs between US$5 and US$15. In seaside towns, it is generally possible to ask a hotel for permission to camp on its beach or in its garden, for a few pesos. You can also rent a hammock and sleep under the stars. In any case, beware of bugs: spiders, scorpions, mosquitoes and ants. Always check your sleeping bag before going to bed to make sure no one has taken up residence there... The same goes for your shoes in the early hours of the morning. It's the kind of thing you'll regret forgetting to do!

To be booked

In high season, or if you're visiting Mexico during a crowded event (Spring Break in Cancún or Acapulco, Carnival in Veracruz, Holy Week, etc.), you'll need to book your accommodation well in advance.

What's very local

The little garbage can next to the toilet in your room is used to collect toilet paper, which must not end up in the bowl. The sewage system in Mexico is not as good as in Europe, and toilets can become blocked if you put paper in them. In luxury resorts and hotels, drains are often in better condition; however, the implicit rule throughout the country is to put used paper in the garbage can.

For food lovers

In todo incluido(all-inclusive) establishments, which are very common in seaside resorts, all meals are included in the package price. In youth hostels, breakfast is often included in the price and comes in the form of a light continental buffet, with fruit juice, toast and coffee. In slightly higher-end hotels, breakfast is more extensive and also includes a hot dish, often eggs or a salty Mexican specialty. The desayuno is often offered but is not always included in the price of the night.

Smokers

Smoking is prohibited indoors in Mexico's hotels, whether in rooms or common areas. In most cases, the ban also applies outdoors, in the gardens and by the pool. Some hotels still offer smoking rooms, but this is rare.