HotelChatter

It's nearly impossible to take two steps without seeing an antique from the 1700s, a painting from the 1800s, or some impressive talavera tile work done just last year but looking like it's been there forever. "I got some of these things from a local museum that was going under," the owner Janice says. "Others I've bought in Guadalajara, or when a random person in a truck show up, having heard that I was in the market for Mexican antiques."

This boutique hotel is not for those who are looking for the familiar, however. Several times couples have left because their friends insisted on them staying here, but it was a bad match. One immediately moved to the local Sheraton and reportedly said, "Ah, this is more like it!"

For those who appreciate personal service and a sense of place, however, Hacienda San Angel can't be beat. There's the impressive view over the city's major church, with the bay beyond. There are the antiques in every room, the Bulgari toiletries, the cocktail hour with live musicians, the three swimming pools and hot tub, and the terrace restaurant with a panoramic view. And the place you'll be having breakfast? Any place you choose, actually. Just tell the staff where you want to be served.

Lastly, every room here is different. If you're feeling flush and want the best, we would recommend the Celestial Suite, with it's own terrace overlooking the city, or the San Miguel Suite, also with a terrace and at the highest point of the property. It's hard to go wrong with any of the rooms, however, and no matter what you can soak in the terrace hot tub, taking in a view of the church crown and belltower, surrounded by the twinkling lights of the city at night.

Video of Hacienda San Angel to come later today.

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