During my most recent visit to Mexico City (one of my most favorite cities in the Americas), I was a guest at the St. Regis Mexico City, which enjoys a reputation as one of best hotels in Mexico‘s capital. Here is a summary of my experience.
THE STYLE: A true luxury travel icon in one of the world’s largest cities, the St. Regis Mexico City rises above the broad boulevard known as Paseo de la Reforma, overlooking a traffic circle graced with a statue dedicated to Diana La Cazadora (Diana the Huntress). Service and design are key elements at this Mexico City hotel, where the staff is attentive and the handsome style is a near-perfect combination of conservative and modern elements, with soothing tones and original artwork among the design accents. A guest book displayed under glass in the lobby is a testament to the St. Regis Mexico City’s upscale appeal; celebrities and dignitaries appear in the book — including, most recently, Daniel Craig and other cast members of the newest James Bond movie, which was filmed partly in Mexico City.
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I was cheerily greeted at the ground-level entrance, where the bellman asked my name, took my bags and made sure that the third-floor lobby reception desk had my name and information ready by the time we reached that floor for check in.
THE GUEST ROOM: After the very speedy and pleasant checkin, the bellman escorted me up to my room. A butler/mayordomo rang the doorbell and asked if I’d like to take a seat on the comfy couch while she explained the features of my room and the hotel.
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The guest rooms are decidedly high-tech, with a master remote control next to the bed for lighting and television, and my room also had TV built into the bathroom mirror. The bathroom also had separate shower and tub, and I especially liked the beautiful couch in my room, the extra-comfy bed and the amazing views (this hotel is, after all, set in one of the tallest buildings in Mexico City’s Reforma boulevard).
FEATURES: The St. Regis Mexico City is designed to be somewhat of an upscale, resort-like oasis in the heart of the bustling metropolis. I enjoyed spending time at the 15th floor indoor pool, which is blissful with spa-like music and inspiring views of Reforma and the mountains in the distance. Even the seating in the hot tubs is arranged strategically to allow guests to enjoy the view. I also had an especially soothing spa treatment in the attractive spa facility.
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Dining and entertaining can be an especially rewarding experience at the St. Regis Mexico City. Every morning I refueled at Diana restaurant (an attractive venue open for breakfast, lunch and dinner) on a continental breakfast that was much more than that, with eggs, tamales, and lots of tasty home-made breads. Outdoor terrace seating offers the option to enjoy the view and temperate climate even more. I also loved the signature home-made soda and avocado pizza at J&G Grill, a “smart casual” venue with stylish decor. At the King Cole Bar, you can sip this hotel’s version of the St. Regis signature cocktail, which is called the Sangrita María.
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BEST FOR: Business and leisure travelers looking for upscale accommodations in a great location, with lots of amenities, great style and attentive service. Members of Starwood Preferred Guest will find this is a noteworthy place to stay loyal to the brand as well.
RATES: About $239 and up.
INFO & RESERVATIONS: www.starwoodhotels.com