Lonely Planet Review

Right on the delightful Plaza Luis Cabrera, the Casa makes a tranquil base for visitors on an extended stay, offering 'suites' that are essentially studio apartments with kitchens. Though the building itself is no gem, guests generally appreciate the homey atmosphere and perky staff, as well as the charming neighbourhood.

With awesome tableaux of the plaza's grand fountains and varied vegetation, the front suites far outclass the interior 'junior suites' or the handful of diminutive standard rooms. Hammocks are strung on the balconies, providing a great spot to relax. But even if you don't get a front room, the interior patios, softened by cascades of bougainvillea, make good, placid settings for reading or chatting. Mexican-style breakfasts are served in the little ground-floor comedor, though you're likely to prefer the sidewalk cafes and bistros on the plaza and along Calle Orizaba. Suites are decorated 'rustico' style, with the usual swabbed-on bright oranges and deep blues, cheery bedspreads and the odd knickknack from Metepec or Puebla. Junior suites are actually more amply proportioned than the single-unit masters, with bedrooms separate from the front kitchen/lounge spaces and bigger bathrooms.