Marriott Tuxtla Gutierrez Hotel

Based in the heart of the colourful historic centre is the elegant Casa del Alma, a hotel that reflects the quintessential colonial mood of Chiapas. Combining history with modern luxuries, an array of comfortable suites surround a bright interior courtyard here.

State-of-the-art furnishings and a simple, contemporary decor dress the suites, with some featuring artwork and balconies that look out to the old town’s rooftops.

Dining is also taken care of at El Secreto where fusion dishes are created to echo the diverse flavours of Chiapas. Meanwhile, the spa and its sauna and Jacuzzi ensure you’ll be well pampered after a day of touring and exploring.

Just outside the town of San Cristobal and surrounded by the peaceful Chiapas mountains, this rustic inn enjoys fantastic views, the quiet of the countryside and heaps of local character.

There is a real sense of history at this centuries-old property, especially with the collection of sacral art which decorates both the rooms and common areas. The twelve guest suites, all with working fireplaces that give a real sense of cosiness, are also fitted with modern amenities such as TVs and internet connection.

The hotel has two excellent restaurants (quite rare for a hotel of this size); Agapandos, serving a fusion menu of Mediterranean dishes and local favourites, and La Terraza, offering barbecued meats and organic salads – grown on the property – in an outdoor setting.

This funky little boutique hotel is a little removed from the character of the city but has some very modern facilities, a good team of staff and a great restaurant headed by the celebrated Chef Ricardo Munoz Zurita.

The décor is design-led, minimal and vibrant, incorporating lots of light and natural materials. Its rooms are bright, spacious and contemporary with its sheep’s wool carpets made locally and many contrasting patterns being played out. Surrounded by gardens filled with nut trees and fountains, there’s a manicured tranquility to the hotel and at night, when the rooms and surround are all lit up, a stylish warmth also.

One a month there are live jazz music sessions in the bar and in-room spa treatments are offered.

A tribute to local Mexican artisanship, the indigenous spirit of the town and the warmth of the people here in San Cristobal, Posada Real de Chiapas may not be a super luxurious hotel but it’s one of the city’s best and it more than makes up for this in character and service.

Family-owned and very well-run by its staff who aim to make your stay as personal as possible, the Posada is located in the historic part of town, so right in the action, and being a converted mansion it provides you with a slice of heritage in your stay too. Spacious and simple rooms are centred around a lovely inner patio and courtyard. The use of locally-made textiles, hand-painted murals, sacro art, and regional sculptures throughout gives it a truly local flavor: not surprising given its support of women’s artisanal cooperatives in the area.

There is a superb roof top terrace giving you wonderful views over the town and surrounding hills. A candle-lit dinner, a filling breakfast or sundowner cocktail up here is a must.