Uncover the HIDDEN Gem: Hotel Santa Clara, San Cristóbal's BEST Kept Secret!
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because we're diving headfirst into the allegedly "BEST Kept Secret" of San Cristóbal: Hotel Santa Clara. And let me tell you, after my stay, I've got opinions. Buckle up, because this is gonna be a messy, honest, and hopefully, helpful review.
First things first: Accessibility – Can the Wheelchair Warriors Thrive Here?
Alright, deep breath. Accessibility is HUGE for me. The good news? Hotel Santa Clara tries. They say they have "Facilities for disabled guests". Now, I didn't roll in on wheels myself, but I gave it the ol' once-over. Elevator? Yep. Score one. Wheelchair access to the lobby and restaurant? Seems so. But things like "bathroom phone" and "additional toilet" are listed as availability, so if they have the right accommodation the hotel has to do a more clear indication about it. Definitely worth contacting them directly before booking if you need specific accommodations. I'd also grill them on Room accessibility: exterior corridor, is there enough room to maneuver? And the Bathroom access? Are the doors wide enough? You know the drill.
Cleanliness and Safety – Did I Catch Anything?
Okay, let's be real. With the current climate, cleanliness is KING. They were advertising "extensive cleaning" which I'm always skeptical of! But they seemed to be trying. The hand sanitizer stations were plentiful, and the staff definitely wore masks. They touted Anti-viral cleaning products, Rooms sanitized between stays, and Daily disinfection in common areas. I saw them wiping down surfaces regularly. Rooms Sanitized between stays is comforting. I'm not sure what they used, felt like it was cleaned, but there was no smell. Staff trained in safety protocol seems legit. Safe dining setup? Seemed safe, but I'll get to dining later… Hand sanitizers were everywhere, which is always a win!
The hotel is also equipped with CCTV in common areas and outside the property, which is a plus for security and added level of security. Fire extinguisher, front desk 24 hours, safety/security features, smoke alarms, were present and visible.
Internet – Wi-Fi Woes and Wonders?
Ah, the digital lifeline! Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! YES! And it actually worked most of the time. Not lightning fast, mind you. You're not downloading movies. But scrolling social media? Checking emails? Yep, pretty solid. They also gave you "Internet access – LAN" if you like that old-school vibe. There was, also, Wi-Fi in public areas… which was helpful to reach out for a taxi and for checking emails.
Things to Do, Ways to Relax – The Spa… or Not.
Okay, this is where things get interesting. They list a whole bunch of spa stuff: Body scrub, Body wrap, Foot bath, Massage, Sauna, Spa, Spa/sauna, Steamroom. Now, if all of these are readily accessible, then this place would be heavenly. As you can see, there is a lot of possibilities. I'm gonna be honest, I didn’t actually use the spa. But that's because I was too busy eating. However, I did see the Pool with view and the Swimming pool [outdoor] and they looked absolutely gorgeous. So, if you're into relaxation, this could be your jam. Fitness center on site, I’m guessing, as well.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking – The Food Fiascos and Wins!
RIGHT. This is where Hotel Santa Clara really shows its personality…and not always in the best way. The website lists a veritable FEAST of options: A la carte in restaurant, Asian breakfast, Asian cuisine in restaurant, Bar, Breakfast [buffet], Breakfast service, Buffet in restaurant, Coffee/tea in restaurant, Coffee shop, Desserts in restaurant, Happy hour, International cuisine in restaurant, Poolside bar, Restaurants, Room service [24-hour], Soup in restaurant, Western breakfast, Western cuisine in restaurant.
I went for breakfast. And the Western buffet… well, let's just say it was adequate. The coffee? Weak. The fruit? …a little past its prime. The buffet was a classic! So I got the experience! They had a lot of food! I am unsure of that it was the best! The A la carte in restaurant menu, it also was available. At least there was Coffee/tea in restaurant, and good coffee! and the Poolside bar looked fun. I would not try anything Asian cuisine in restaurant because I could not be too sure.
Services and Conveniences – The Good, The Bad, and The "Huh?"
Okay, the bread and butter of a hotel. They've got all the usual suspects: Air conditioning in public area, Air conditioning, Cash withdrawal, Concierge, Daily housekeeping, Doorman, Dry cleaning, Elevator, Facilities for disabled guests, Invoice provided, Laundry service, Luggage storage, Meeting/banquet facilities, On-site event hosting, Safety deposit boxes, Terrace.
The elevator worked! BIG win, especially for a place that claims to be accessible. The concierge was helpful. The daily housekeeping was thorough. The Luggage storage? Smooth as silk. Rooms sanitized between stays, I could tell. One of the coolest things: Airport transfer! They sent a car, which was really convenient, especially after a long flight.
For the Kids – Is This Family-Friendly?
They advertise "Babysitting service, Family/child friendly, Kids facilities, Kids meal" This is what you want if traveling with kids, so it is a Yes!
Available in All Rooms – the Nitty Gritty.
They've got a ton of amenities in the rooms: "Additional toilet, Air conditioning, Alarm clock, Bathrobes, Bathroom phone, Bathtub, Blackout curtains, Carpeting, Closet, Coffee/tea maker, Complimentary tea, Daily housekeeping, Desk, Extra long bed, Free bottled water, Hair dryer, High floor, In-room safe box, Interconnecting room(s) available, Internet access – LAN, Internet access – wireless, Ironing facilities, Laptop workspace, Linens, Mini bar, Mirror, Non-smoking, On-demand movies, Private bathroom, Reading light, Refrigerator, Safety/security feature, Satellite/cable channels, Scale, Seating area, Separate shower/bathtub, Shower, Slippers, Smoke detector, Socket near the bed, Sofa, Soundproofing, Telephone, Toiletries, Towels, Umbrella, Visual alarm, Wake-up service, Wi-Fi [free], Window that opens."
My room itself was… okay. It was reasonably clean, the bed was comfortable, and the blackout curtains were a lifesaver. The Wi-Fi [free] was a godsend, you're not in the room watching TV, so is nice to have. I liked having a Refrigerator. I liked having a Seating area, and even Slippers, and the complimentary tea. I did not try the On-demand movies. However, the Bathroom phone was a bit weird. Getting Around – Location, Location, Location!
Airport transfer was a breeze, which is awesome. The hotel's located… well, it's centrally located, which means you can walk to a lot of things. They also have Car park [free of charge], Taxi service, and Valet parking, so if you're driving, you're covered.
The Verdict: Is Hotel Santa Clara a "Hidden Gem?"
Okay, so is it the "BEST Kept Secret?" Not exactly. But is it a solid option in San Cristóbal? Absolutely. It's got its quirks, and not everything is perfect. The breakfast buffet could use a revamp. The spa? I can't vouch for it. But the location is great, the staff try to be helpful, and the Wi-Fi is decent. For the price. I would recommend it. I would definitely go back.
Here's the Deal: My Unofficial, Opinionated Offer to Get You Off Your Butt and Book!
"Ditch the Tourist Traps, Embrace the Real San Cristóbal! Book Hotel Santa Clara NOW and get:
- FREE Breakfast (even if it's not the world's best, it's FREE!)
- A 10% Discount Off an Adventure Tour
- Free Wi-Fi (to brag about your amazing trip!)
Why Hotel Santa Clara?
- Location, Location, Location: Right in the heart of the action!
- Comfy Beds and Relaxing Vibes: Unwind after a day of exploring!
- Friendly Faces (and a helpful concierge): Get insider tips and make your trip unforgettable.
Don't wait! This offer won't last forever. (Or maybe it will, but you should still book NOW!)
Click here to book your escape to Hotel Santa Clara – where the real San Cristóbal adventure begins!
[Link to Hotel Santa Clara Website]
P.S. If you see a slightly stressed-out, coffee-
Escape to Coastal Comfort: Leland's Best Holiday Inn Express!
Alright, buckle up, buttercups! My travel itinerary for Hotel Santa Clara in San Cristobal de las Casas, Mexico? More like a chaotic symphony of beauty, bewilderment, and the eternal quest for the perfect taco. Here goes… (and good luck keeping up, because I sure as hell didn't).
Day 1: Arrival & Ah, The Hotel… (Plus My Brain Explodes with Colonial Grandeur)
- Morning (approx. 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM): Landed in Tuxtla Gutiérrez! Okay, technically. I'm already running late. Got delayed because of a lady who forgot her passport in the airport. Seriously? Anyway, hustled to the hotel shuttle, which turned out to be driven by a man who clearly moonlights as a rally car driver. (My heart rate? Elevated.)
- Mid-morning (9:00 AM - 10:30 AM): Arrive at Hotel Santa Clara! And, OH. MY. GOD. This place is straight out of a fairytale. The courtyard is breathtaking, all arches and bougainvillea, and the smell of… something wonderful. Roses? Incense? I didn’t care. I was already halfway to a swooning fit. Check-in took a while (they were seriously understaffed - someone get these poor souls a margarita!), but eventually, I had a room.
- Quick Anecdote: Upon entering the room, I immediately dropped my backpack, fell onto the bed (which was comfier than my own home's bed), and let out a primal yell of pure, unadulterated happiness. Then I immediately started unpacking, only to find I'd forgotten my toothbrush. Ugh. The drama!
- Late Morning (10:30 AM - 12:00 PM): Exploration of the Hotel! Got lost (multiple times). But exploring! I found a tiny, hidden courtyard that was so peaceful I think I might have actually levitated for a moment. The artwork? Stunning. The colonial architecture? Intoxicating. Honestly, I spent way too long just wandering around, gawking. I mean, can you blame me?
- Lunch (12:00 PM - 1:30 PM): Hotel restaurant. Ordered the… let's just say it was NOT the best meal of my life. Slightly bland. Sigh. Lesson learned: venture out for the food.
- Afternoon (1:30 PM - 4:00 PM): Nap time. Necessity. Travel is exhausting when you're constantly trying to absorb beauty. Plus, the altitude was messing with me. I woke up feeling like I'd been hit by a truck but with a newfound appreciation for… well, my life.
- Late Afternoon (4:00 PM - 6:00 PM): Attempt to take a walk around San Cristobal. This is where things really started to go off the rails. Got lost (again), ended up in a market overflowing with… everything. Spices, textiles, chickens… the sensory overload was intense. I felt like I was in a Fellini film. And the smells! Amazing and overwhelming all at once.
- Quirky Observation: Saw a woman selling live chickens. One of the chickens was wearing a tiny, ridiculous hat. I almost died laughing. Almost.
- Evening (6:00 PM - 8:00 PM): Dinner. Found a local spot. Finally. That’s where things got interesting. They didn't speak much English and I don't speak much Spanish but somehow, we communicated. Lots of pointing. Lots of laughter. Ended up with the most amazing mole I've ever tasted. Bliss.
- Night (8:00 PM onward): Walk back to the hotel. Lost. Found my way back. collapsed into the ridiculously comfortable bed. Fell asleep smiling.
Day 2: Markets, Churches, and a Potential Existential Crisis (Possibly Involving Coffee)
- Morning (8:00 AM): Woke up with the sun streaming through the giant window in my room in Hotel Santa Clara. I have no idea how I slept, I feel like I was dreaming all night!
- Morning (9:00 AM - 11:00 AM): Back to the markets! This time, with a shopping plan. (Failed immediately.) Bought way too many woven scarves, a ceramic frog that whistles, and – gasp – a bottle of local coffee.
- Emotional Reaction: I genuinely almost cried at the beauty of the textiles. The colors, the patterns…it's like the souls of the artisans flow through the fabrics. This is one of the most beautiful cities I have ever seen.
- Mid-morning (11:00 AM - 12:30 PM): Church hopping. San Cristobal is overflowing with stunning churches. Visited the cathedral! It was grand. And I have to admit, I walked out feeling… deeply moved. Now, I'm not a religious person, but there's something about the history, the art, the… quiet. It was unexpectedly powerful.
- Lunch (12:30 PM - 2:00 PM): Found a tiny cafe, tucked away on a cobblestone street. They had amazing coffee. And, for the first time since landing in Mexico, I began to question my entire life's purpose. In a good way, I guess.
- Rambling: Is this what enlightenment feels like? Just… coffee? And beautiful churches? And the weight of centuries of history pressing down on you? Maybe I should move here. Or, maybe I'm just over caffeinated.
- Afternoon (2:00 PM - 4:00 PM): More wandering. (And yes, I got lost again.)
- Late Afternoon (4:00 PM - 5:00 PM): Back to the hotel.
- Evening (5:00 PM - 7:00 PM): Dinner. Finding a local restaurant.
- Night (7:00 PM Onward) Back the the hotel. Drinking Mexican Coke. Falling asleep early.
Day 3: Day trip and Departure (Goodbye, Beauty. Hello, Reality)
- Morning (8:00 AM): Woke up. Packed. Depressed.
- Mid-morning (9:00 AM - 1:00 PM): The only thing that saved me from total despair was a day trip to Sumidero Canyon. The drive was…long. The canyon itself? Jaw-dropping. Honestly, I think I screamed when I saw it. The scale of the place! The sheer cliffs! It’s like the earth decided to show off for a bit.
- Lunch (1:00 PM - 2:00 PM): Back in San Cristobal.
- Afternoon (2:00 PM - 4:00 PM): Last-minute souvenir shopping. Panicked.
- Late Afternoon (4:00 PM - 5:00 PM): Back the the hotel.
- Evening (5:00 PM - 7:00 PM): Farewell dinner. Ordered way too much food because I didn’t want to leave.
- Night (7:00 PM onward): Packed. Said goodbye to the hotel staff (who are basically saints). Tears. Departure at the crack of dawn.
Overall Impressions
- Hotel Santa Clara: Absolutely a dream! Stay there. Just…stay there.
- San Cristobal de las Casas: A feast for the senses, a balm for the soul, and a potential trigger for existential crises. Go. Now.
- Me: Slightly overwhelmed, deeply moved, and already planning a return trip. I am already saving up for my next trip.
¡Adiós, San Cristobal! You beautiful, messy, chaotic, captivating place. I'll be back. And next time, I'm bringing a bigger suitcase for all the ridiculous hats.
Grimsby Family Fun & Freeston House Contractor Getaways: Your Perfect UK Escape!
Okay, so... What *IS* This Thing Anyway? (And Why Should I Care?)
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