Fodor's Expert Review Fiesta Americana Mérida
Paseo de Montejo 451, Mérida, Yucatán, 97000, Mexico
This popular choice, a branch of a dependable Mexican chain, attempts to evoke the grandeur of the mansions on Paseo de Montejo with colonial accents, plush armchairs, and gleaming marble. Above is a 300-foot-high stained-glass roof. The subdued rooms have extras like balconies, bathtubs, hair dryers, and coffeemakers, but be prepared to pay surcharges on Wi-Fi and bottled water. Some rooms face the street and have a little more noise, while others face a dull inner courtyard with the hotel pool, so be sure to specify which you'd prefer. Downstairs you'll find a mall with a number of stores selling crafts and clothes, a couple of restaurants (including a Chili's), souvenir shops, and myriad other stores and services—many rental car agencies have offices here. Occasionally there are events, including dinner shows and dances for children (inquire at the front desk).
PROS
- tasty breakfast buffet
- shopping downstairs
- comfortable beds
CONS
- a taxi ride from downtown
- some amenities cost extra
- lacks intimacy of other properties