BY MARK CHESNUT
THE STYLE: A budget-priced property that adds extra amenities, some artistic flair and a great location, the Hotel Catedral opened in 2010 just a few short blocks from Puerto Vallarta’s iconic cathedral. Colorful murals and original artwork are among the highlights of the décor at the hotel (and nearly everything is for sale, in case you want to take anything home). Each room is named after a Mexican song (I stayed in a one-bedroom, apartment-like suite called “México Lindo y Querido”).
THE AMENITIES: Location, value and price are among the best selling points for this property. It may be economically priced, but you’ll get extras that other hotels don’t offer — for example, upon check-in, you’ll be handed a pillow menu and also a cheap-but-convenient cell phone to use during your stay (thus avoiding those horrible roaming charges if you just need to make local calls).
My one-bedroom suite was ample and practical; not luxurious, to be sure, but with great extras like a kitchen area with blender, coffee maker, sink, mini-refrigerator and two-burner stove (plus dishes and classes), as well as a dining area with flat-screen television and a bedroom with yet another TV, and air conditioning; both rooms also have ceiling fans.
All guests can make use of the free and reliable WiFi and also the pleasant central court and — more importantly for photo buffs — the rooftop deck, which has a decent view of the cathedral tower.
BEST FOR: Price-conscious travelers who want to be in the heart of Puerto Vallarta, particularly near the Malecón and the Cathedral, and want a few amenities they likely won’t get at other small hotels.
POSSIBLE TAGS: PV boutique, budget hotels, inns, lodging, accommodations, small hotels, downtown hotels.