09/08/2026
The hotel matters. The room matters. While in Oaxaca, Mexico I stayed in 2 different hotels: One I'd stay at again; One I would not. Neither are 5* hotels, and I knew that going in. I don't need a 5* hotel. But there are a few things that are important to me. For those who have been asking -- here is my hotel comparison.
1) Ability to upgrade - I understand some hotel rooms are very small. I need space, and if I can upgrade to a larger room - that's a win. The hotel I chose I was able to pay for a Master Suite which offered me tons of space and a large bathroom. The hotel our group stayed in we weren't able to select our rooms, which is fine and expected on a group trip. But, if I had stayed there on my own - there are no upgraded rooms to choose from. All of the rooms are small. That isn't a deal breaker for everyone - and it's not always a deal breaker for me. But combined with other issues, it is something I consider.
2) Hot water - I didn't have hot water the entire 4 night stay at the group hotel. The water was "warm enough" for a shower....barely. I didn't freeze. But I didn't linger. Perhaps it was set this way on purpose to conserve water? The hotel I chose had very hot water, and even a fabulous tub where I could soak in it!
3) Security - this is a huge deal to me since I travel solo often. While I never felt unsafe anywhere in Oaxaca, I notice things many people don't (since I worked in safety for 10 years). The group hotel room had a STRANGE layout. Honestly, had I checked in outside of the group, I likely would have checked right out. Why? The bathroom had a window that faced the hallway. The window was textured/frosted heavily, so nobody could actually see me. Whether they could see my outline in the shower while walking down the hall is unknown because I didn't test it. BUT the top window (which I could reach) opened. It opened in or out -- and there was NO lock. Was it large enough for a person to fit through? Yes. A small person "could" fit (child most likely, but I have some very small friends I think would fit). Would it be difficult? Yes, it definitely would have been difficult. The window hinges in the middle. They would need someone to boost them up or use a ladder, and it would likely be an awkward fall inside -- but a person "could" fit. When I worked safety, it wasn't "is it likely to happen" but rather "could it happen." You prevent the "could." I do not understand why a simple lock wasn't placed on that window. I mean, would someone not try to get in, but do a peek-a-boo in the shower? It's just weird. This is the sole reason I'd never return. The hotel room I chose didn't have any weird quirks. I could securely lock myself in my room (with a deadbolt). No other windows that were not secure.
4) Windows - speaking of windows, the group hotel room I was assigned had NO windows to the outside. There was a window to the hallway -- and the window in the bathroom that always faced the hall. My room was not only dark, but not a great option for someone who is semi-claustrophobic. I don't know if all rooms were like this or not. But this is why it is super important to check things like that when you are booking a hotel. The hotel I chose had huge windows to the outside, with LOTS of light.
Now obviously, the group hotel has a smaller price point than the upgraded suite at the hotel I chose. So everything is a trade off. And there will always be some quirks you may not know in advance but you learn to roll with it (as long as it isn't dangerous). I am not naming the hotel I wouldn't return to because I don't put hotels on blast. I just won't recommend it to my clients. The hotel I chose and booked the upgraded suite is Hotel de la Parra. While I loved this hotel and upgraded room, it is NOT for everyone. If you would like to go to Oaxaca, let's chat! I would love to discuss hotels with you, their location, why it may or may not be a good fit for you.
Here is the video I took of the shower window.
