Review: Downtown Mexico

How did it strike you on arrival?
As I walked up the large stone stairway to the entrance of the 17th-century manor turned hotel, a huge mural caught my eye. Then I reached the modern-looking restaurant, juxtaposed with old-fashioned brick walls, and it became clear that Downtown was a design hotel through and through.

Nice. What’s the crowd like?
While I was staying, there was a party on the terrace filled with beautiful, trendy people.

The good stuff: Tell us about your room.
The 17 rooms are spacious, with tall ceilings and large windows. The original period features combine with modern furniture in a really thoughtful way. In some rooms, terra-cotta brickwork divides the bedroom from the bathroom in the trademark style of Habita hotels.

We’re craving some deep, restorative sleep. They got us?
Reading lights and chargers are within easy reach of the large bed.

How about the little things, like mini bar, or shower goodies. Any of that find its way into your suitcase?
I loved the C.O. Bigelow bath amenities and design magazines.

Please tell us the bathroom won’t let us down.
Earthy terra-cotta tones reminded me more of a beach resort than city hotel (in a good way). But the bathrooms are not that private, so take note before you share a room with that co-worker you barely know.

Maybe the most important topic of all: Wi-Fi. What’s the word?
Internet is free throughout the hotel.

Room service: Worth it?
Room service is available 24 hours a day, so feel free to roll in at 2 a.m. and order a bite to eat.

Anything stand out about other services and features? Whether it’s childcare, gyms, spas, even parking—whatever stuck with you.
You won’t soon forget swimming on the rooftop of a historic building in the center of Mexico City.

Bottom line: worth it, and why?
If architecture and design are your thing and you like the hustle and bustle of a central tourist zone, this hotel is certainly worth the money.