in search of darn good digs

We are on a mission to find the world’s best independently owned hotels for budget-minded travelers, and so far we have put together a pretty solid hotel list for Mexico – from the Yucatan to the Pacific coast, Mexico City to the Lake Chapala region.  We always seek out owners with unique visions as well as a sense of style and an eye for comfort.  These digs are places where you feel welcome, you feel happy, and you sure don’t want to leave. What’s more? Prices start at US$39 for a double room. Here is a taste of some of our Darn Good Digs in Mexico:

Hotel Cielo Rojo in San Francisco/San Pancho, Nayarit

Hotel Cielo Rojo is a simple, yet stylish hotel decorated in mellow Mexican colors and folk art lovingly collected by the owners on their world journeys. The hotel’s restaurant surely must rank among the best restaurants in the state of Nayarit. The chef uses organic, locally-sourced ingredients including fish caught that morning by village fisherman in small boats. What’s more, this eco-friendly hotel uses biodegradable detergents, makes their own natural hand soaps, and has an active recycling program. Rooms start at US$85.

Secret Garden Hotel in Tulum, Quintana Roo

Just a short walk from Tulum’s bus station and lively Avenida Tulum, the Secret Garden Hotel consists of nine cabanas surrounding a beautiful and peaceful garden decked out with hammocks and sofas. The hotel’s owner, Joshua, is wonderful, kind, and uber-generous with his heaping knowledge of all things Tulum.  Rooms start at US$40.

Villa La Bella on Isla Mujeres, Quintana Roo

Villa La Bella is a colorful six room bed and breakfast on the small island of Isla Mujeres, a short ferry ride and a world away from Cancun. The Villa offers a peaceful adults-only getaway with a low-key vibe away from the tourist crowds. Ashley and Curtis, the on-site owners, are gracious hosts, not too intrusive, but available for any questions about the island or your stay.  Rooms start at US$110.

Balamku Inn on the Beach in Mahahual, Quintana Roo

Balamku Inn on the Beach, an eco-friendly hotel on Mexico’s beautiful Costa Maya, has been nominated by the World Travel Awards as a Leading Green Hotel in Mexico and Central America two years in a row. Balamku is powered by solar and wind energy and its ten beachfront rooms are situated to maximize natural ventilation. The airy rooms are tastefully turned out with tile floors and colorful Mexican art.  Rooms start at US$75.

Adobe Walls Inn in Ajijic, Jalisco

Painstakingly restored by its new American owners, and only three blocks from Ajijic’s main plaza, Adobe Walls Inn is an atmospheric Spanish-style hacienda furnished throughout with Mexican antiques.  Rooms starting at US$55.

We have many more amazing small hotels, bed and breakfasts, and inns included in our Mexico Guide.  If you have any places to recommend from your travels in Mexico, please use our Nomination Form to let us know – we’re adding new hotels all the time based on your suggestions.

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