InterContinental Mendoza

InterContinental Mendoza makes a sleek first impression, with its wide-open glass-domed lobby. There’s a huge sense of space thanks to the high ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows, and the decor is neutral and stylish, with plush seating areas and a few carefully placed wine barrels to remind guests that they’re close to wine country. This is a well-regarded place to stay in Mendoza; it’s the choice of presidential delegations when they visit the city. However, guests familiar with the InterContinental brand will find that it’s not on par with its sister properties around the world, largely due to the hit-and-miss service and sub-standard food. With its location outside the city and comprehensive corporate features, the hotel is geared toward business travelers, though it’s also popular with families.

The hotel is on Route 7, the main highway into the center of Mendoza, next to Mendoza Plaza Shopping -- the city’s largest shopping mall -- and a casino. This is not the prettiest neighborhood, but it means easy access to the airport and the city. It’s around a seven-minute drive from the tourist sights like Plaza Independencia, home to the Museo Municipal Arte Moderno and the Teatro Independencia. Popular Parque General San Martin can be reached in around 15 minutes. Plan on 15 to 20 minutes to get to and from Governor Francisco Gabrielli International Airport.

Rooms and suites are spacious and light, with just enough detail to avoid being bland. There’s a stylish cream and white color palette, with smart features like a glass desk and dark wood furniture. As well as being practical for business guests, the rooms have comfy seating areas enhanced by feature lamps and paintings. Air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi come as standard. The minibar -- including sparkling wine -- costs extra. Bathrooms have walk-in rainfall showers and separate tubs, and a range of toiletries are provided. Room sizes start at 355 square feet (31 square meters). Upgrade to a suite for more space and mountain views.

The InterContinental is known for extensive business features. It reportedly has the largest ballroom in the city, which can accommodate 1,700 people seated and is regularly used for conferences and events. The 19 modern meeting rooms provide ample space for a range of gatherings as well. There’s plenty to make sure that business guests have a comfortable stay, too, like the large indoor heated pool with plenty of loungers, a modern gym with cardio equipment and free weights, and a spa with two saunas. The hotel has two restaurants: Olivas for buffet-style dining, and La Barrica for executive lunches, afternoon tea, and dinner. Buffet breakfast is served for a fee and unfortunately -- like most of the food here -- gets lackluster reviews from previous guests. El Patio is a sleek courtyard area that's ideal for alfresco dining and there’s a pool bar on a smart outdoor deck. Other features include a kids’ club and an art gallery with some quirky pieces. As you’d expect from a large corporate hotel, Wi-Fi is free throughout. There’s also plenty of on-site parking, offered at a fee.