HOTEL CARIBE, Merida - Built in the Colegio San Idelfonso, a residential school from the 1700ís, this 52 room colonial style hotel is located near the heart of Merida. Step out the front door to Hidalgo Park, with its pleasant umbrella-shaded outdoor cafe. Step inside to a quiet open courtyard with garden fountain and pleasant indoor-outdoor restaurant. Modernized rooms have 2 double beds, private baths, and either air conditioning or ceiling fans. The rooftop pool has views of the main cathedral and other colonial buildings. The Zocalo (main square), market, and museums are only a few blocks away. See Solsierraís Self Drive Vacations . Rating: 3 1/2 star.

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HACIENDA CHICHEN, Chichen Itza - Conveniently located a 5 minute walk from the quiet back entrance to the vast archaeological site Chichen Itza, this 17th century renovated hacienda was originally built from stones removed from the Mayan structures. Later, it was operated as a cattle, then henequen (sisal) hacienda. In the early 20th century, the American Vice Consul lived there. Together with native Maya Indians, he discovered the human bones and artifacts in the Sacred Cenote (well). In 1923, the hacienda became headquarters for the Carnegie Institution Maya Archaeological Expedition. Guests today stay in the remodeled cabanas used by these scientists and relax around the pool and gardens planted by the vice consul and archaeologists. The 21 rustically charming cabanas have 2 double beds, private tiled baths, air conditioning, fans, servi-bars and verandahs. The on-site restaurant-bar will also serve pool-side or on the verandahs of the main building. See Solsierraís Self Drive Vacations . Rating: 4 star.

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HOTEL MAYALAND, Chichen Itza - Completed in 1930, the first of the spaciously elegant jungle style hotels, the 200 room hotel offers large rooms and Mayan style nas (spacious bungalows with thatched roofs) set in over 100 acres of high canopy tropical jungle and gardens. A 3 minute walk from the back entrance to the archaeological site, this resort is complete with 3 restaurants, 2 large pools, pool-side grill, shops and extensive gardens with raised stone paths for strolling. Large standard rooms have 2 double beds, terraces, large private baths, tropical hardwood furniture, ceiling fans, and air conditioning. Mayan bungalows have sitting areas, verandahs and are set in the gardens for privacy. Meals can be included. Solsierra offers this hotel with rental car (from Merida or Cancun) for convenience in exploring other nearby Mayan sites, colonial towns and cenotes. See Solsierraís Self Drive Vacations . Rating: 5 star.

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QUINTA LAS ACACIAS, Guanajuato - An elegant and refined 19th century residence, this 9 suite bed and breakfast mansion has been restored to "la Belle Špoque", a time when Mexico was ruled by France. The entire city of Guanajuato, founded in 1542, is heavily European-influenced and looks like an old town in Spain, Italy or France. The Quinta Las Acacias is decorated with antiques capturing the past, but the suites do have modern comforts: King or Queen beds, Satellite TV, robes and slippers, and hair dryers. Fresh flowers decorate every bedroom, the dining room, living room and library. Daily breakfast of home-made specialties is included. Gardens, a bar and open air Jacuzzi offer a welcome after exploring Guanajuatoís winding streets or attending one of the cities many performing or fine arts events. Rating: Special Category - Deluxe.

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LA PUERTECITA BOUTIQUE HOTEL, San Miguel de Allende - A short walk from the center of this historic silver town founded in 1542, guests at this former mayorís mansion enjoy several experiences: luxury rooms and suites (24 total); daytime outdoor activities such as mountain biking, golf and tennis; and a selection of art, ceramic, language, and cooking classes. There are also 2 heated swimming pools, outdoor Jacuzzi, spa, massage, and a fitness center. At 6500 ft. elevation and semi-tropical latitude, the weather is perfect year-round. After a day of shopping, art lessons, bicycling, or touring nearby colonial cities, return to the hotelís friendly staff, quiet gardens, fine dining, and luxurious accommodations. Rooms have a King bed or 2 queens and patios; suites, some with kitchenettes and private Jacuzzis, also have a double sofabed in a separate living room with fireplace, and garden baths. There is a gourmet restaurant, bar, billiard room, and music room/library. Rating: Special Category - Deluxe.

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