Antigua Accommodates
Hotels, hotels, hotels. We know a lot of you out there are accommodation addicts, envying the large part of every planner’s job that involves checking out all the options for a home away from home. We do get to see some amazing places, but the majority of hotels err on the side of anonymous, big-brand chains; these are fine, but they’re not what we get excited about. We like the unusual offerings that speak of a place, reflect a culture and add a dose of character to a stay. A lodge with the owners present often excels service-wise too, so we look out for that when we can find it.
Guatemala’s cultural heartland of Antigua holds a few gems that have unique character all figured out. They are called posadas and they tend to be on the smaller, more intimate side, with heaps of charm. Here are a few of our favourites, all situated within a stone’s throw from the heart of the town.
The Panza Verde is an artfully decorated nine-room inn with one of the best restaurant options in town, where the tables surround a verdant courtyard. Grand archways and dark wood furnishings make this a warm and welcoming place to retire to at the end of your day.
Posada del Angel is a lovingly restored Spanish colonial casona. A strong sense of history is conjured by the Mayan textiles in the seven rooms and suites, and the courtyard has a small pool where you can cool down in the midday heat.
Last but not least, El Convento is a little larger than the others, with more extensive facilities and a great terrace from which to enjoy amazing views of the local volcano.
Antigua itself is a jewel; it moves at a slow pace with a friendly vibe, boasts cobblestone streets and colourful buildings. It’s a city in which you’ll find yourself wanting to stay longer than you planned, and that’s just fine considering all the fantastic hotel options.
Anton Lynch is our British man-about-Latin-America. And India. And Turkey. Ok he pretty much knows the whole world. And all the hotels in it. So give him a shout if you’re looking for some help.
