Mérida, Mexico, hotels

My wife, Kathryn, and I stayed in two wonderful hotels in Mérida, Mexico, in June ’10.

• La Mision de Fray Diego (St. 61 #524 between 64 & 66, Mérida, Yucatán, Mexico; phone +52 [999] 924 11 11 or, in the US, 866/639-2933), in Mérida’s historic center, is located a block from the main square and within walking distance of dancing, theaters, museums and shopping.

This is a 17th-century colonial home converted into an exquisite small hotel. The 17th-century iron-grilled entrance opens onto a bubbling fountain in a 19th-century courtyard. On one side is the cozy restaurant El Convento, offering fine Spanish food.

The hotel has 26 rooms (four from the original house and two suites) full of antiques plus a swimming pool and all the extras. Doubles $93 and master suite $140.

• Hostal del Peregrino (C. 51 No. 488 by 54 & 56, Mérida, Yucatán, Mexico; phone +52 999 924 3007 or, in the US, 888/988-2633), near the town’s historic center, was renovated from a ruined colonial house by two young, vibrant escapees from overcrowded Mexico City, Monica Tapia and Rosalva Cano. They and their friendly, helpful staff enliven any stay.

This is a clean, home-like, small hotel with a rooftop terrace bar above a courtyard. Off the courtyard are a finely decorated kitchen, where guests enjoy breakfast, and private rooms. Ours cost $50; dorm rooms go for less.

HARVEY HAGMAN
Ft. Myers, FL