JW Marriott Hotel Mexico City

Towering over nearby Chapultepec Park, this JW Marriott is among a handful of luxury, full-service hotels in Mexico City's tony Polanco neighborhood. It's a sophisticated, elegant spot for business travelers and well-heeled tourists, with interiors that are refined, if a bit sober. The style doesn't have much in the way of Mexican flavor, except for one wall in the lobby that displays an interesting collection of bowls. Even so, the hotel pleases on many levels, and has a level of polish not found in some of the other chain hotels that call central Mexico City home. The lobby is spacious and open, with multiple seating groups where guests can gather. Hallways to guest rooms have large windows with nice views of the city. In fact, views from throughout the hotel are spectacular, with the park visible from several areas of the hotel, and the city in others. Other hallways display colorful modern art. The hotel is a good choice for high-end travelers looking for an upscale hotel in a good location -- and who don't mind paying premium prices for it. 

This hotel is situated on one of the most exclusive and elegant streets of the city, Campos Eliseos (named after the Champs Elysees in Paris). It faces Chapultepec Park and is surrounded by upmarket gourmet and foodie restaurants, and other high-end hotels. A number of corporate offices are found in this area as well. Auditorio Nacional, is a block away and can be reached in 10 minutes on foot. Masaryk Avenue, which is lined with boutiques, is also about a 10-minute walk from the hotel, while the famed National Museum of Anthropology will take 15 minutes to reach on foot. Views from the hotel are spectacular, including Polanco, Paseo de la Reforma, and even Chapultepec Castle. The Auditorio Metro station can be reached in about five minutes on foot, and it's about a 30-minute journey to the Zocalo and Centro Historico. Budget up to an hour to reach Benito Juarez International Airport by taxi.

Modern rooms and suites are sophisticated and stylish, with high wooden headboards, plush patterned carpeting, trendy light fixtures, and granite-topped nightstands. Color palettes are understated earth tones, with taupe accent walls behind the beds. Large cabinets house flat-screen TVs and minibars. Additional amenities include free bottled water, air-conditioning, safes, and upholstered armchairs with ottomans. Unfortunately, internet access comes with a fee except in premium rooms (Executive Rooms and higher). Additionally, coffeemakers are missing as well. These rooms also have access to the Executive Lounge, which includes special perks (detailed below). Attractive bathrooms feature large marble countertops, walk-in tiled showers, and upscale toiletries. Robes, slippers, and hairdryers are provided. Suites add more space and sitting areas, some of which are separate from the bedrooms. Of course, it's worth requesting one of the rooms that have beautiful views of Chapultepec Park.

This hotel provides most features needed for a luxurious stay in Mexico City, including two well-liked restaurants. Xanat Bistro & Terraza is the place for Mexican classics made with fresh, local ingredients. The setting is modern and sophisticated, and alfresco dining is available on the patio as well. Brasserie Lipp is a casual space with Art Deco decor, and the menu features Alsatian dishes. Like Xanat, it serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. For breakfast, guests can choose between a full buffet or a continental option, both for a fee. The trendy lobby bar is a lively spot for cocktails and light fare, and room service is available around the clock. 

The rectangular outdoor pool on the seventh floor isn't particularly large, but it provides a refreshing dip on a hot day, and it's heated for cooler days. There's also a whirlpool, and black lounge chairs are lined up on the deck. Umbrellas aren't really necessary, as the nearby buildings block the sun much of the day. The fitness center has large windows that provide views and lots of natural light, along with cardio and weight training equipment and free weights, though it's quite small relative to the hotel's size. There's also a sauna and steam room, and spa services are available in two treatment rooms. 

Eight events spaces offer more than 9,000 square feet of meeting space, with the largest venue able to accommodate up to 400 people. Parking is available on-site for a fee. Wi-Fi is free in the lobby and upgraded guest rooms. Those staying in Executive Rooms (and higher) also get access to the Executive Lounge, for free happy hours, refreshments, and breakfasts.