Fiesta Americana Merida

The massive lobby of the Fiesta Americana Merida leaves an impression. The huge open space is flanked by five floors of rooms, and surrounded by the interior hallways overlooking the elegantly tiled floor of the lobby below. In the center, a water fountain skirted by palm trees, lots of seating, and scattered potted plants anchors the expansive space. And a giant, stained-glass skylight illuminates it all from above. Gleaming, polished surfaces of marble floors and cream-colored walls are an elegant contrast to all of the lush plants strewn about -- be it dangling from planters along the hallways, sprouting from various vases and urns throughout the lobby, or lining staircases. The restaurants are similarly styled and also located in this huge, ground-floor, open-plan space; the elegant Los Almendros restaurant features a beautiful mural of local scenes adding a dose of tradition to the space, while the La Hach bar offers a casual, relaxed space with wooden floors, comfy couches, and armchairs as well as a pool table. This property draws a number of business travelers with its plethora of meeting rooms, though families with children are also catered to with spacious rooms and a kids' club.

This hotel is centrally situated at the intersection of the city’s main avenues, Paseo Montejo and Avenue Colon. There are several other hotels in the immediate area, as well as many shops, restaurants, and bars a short walk away. The prestigious Paseo Montejo, which was modeled after the Champs Elysees, is lined with shopping and dining options, as well as colonial-style mansions and museums. Most of the top sights are not within walking distance, however, but are a quick drive away, such as the Merida Cathedral, the MACAY Museum, and the Casa Montejo Museum -- all about a 10-minute drive. The Merida International Airport is about a 25-minute drive.

There are a variety of rooms and suites available that range in size, decor, and amenities. The spaces are elegant and tastefully decorated, if a bit bland, with contemporary decor in neutral shades. All rooms have flat-screen TVs, minibars, tea- and coffee-making facilities, work desks, radios, air-conditioning, and free Wi-Fi (though there are reports of spotty service). Fiesta Club Rooms and suites have added perks like the services of the Fiesta Club Lounge, which include welcome Champagne, exclusive concierge services, and continental breakfast. Suites offer more space and have living room areas, plus some have private terraces. The two-bedroom Presidential Suite is the largest space available and has a dining room and full kitchen. Bathrooms are fairly standard with walk-in rainfall showers and a range of toiletries provided, while many suites also have separate soaking tubs.

The hotel has several dining and drinking options: Los Almendros serves local, traditional foods from the Yucatan in an elegant space, Café Montejo has regional and international dishes, and Bar La Hach provides a casual spot to relax with a drink. Some room rates, such as the Fiesta Club Rooms, include continental breakfast. There’s a lovely outdoor pool surrounded by a sundeck lined with lounge chairs and umbrellas, as well as a fitness center. The hotel provides ample meeting and event space with 16 rooms available for a variety of functions. Children are catered to with a kids’ club. Wi-Fi and parking are free.