HACIENDA SANTA ROSA DE LIMA by IHG

The staff and service is exceptional, from a cold towelette and welcome drink on arrival to setting a small bonfire in front of our evening dining table for ambience. This was our second stay. The converted old hacienda is a delight. It is small and tranquil, located in a rather remote area in a small pueblo which is safe but doesn't have any activities. There are all two pools, a garden with a demonstration of Mayan indigenous medicinals and herbs (if you are lucky to be there at the right time), a spa (which I haven't used), a wonderful restaurant (dining on the veranda), and a library with books and games located in the 1909 administration building of the hacienda (which looks like a church). Exceptionally clean and staff is so attentive that the bottled water we had consumed upon arrival at 4pm was replaced by 6 pm while we were strolling the grounds. Rooms are comfortable and serene, but not lavishly appointed or modern, keeping with the atmosphere of the hacienda. Mattresses and pillows are very comfortable and with crisp, high-end sheets. Rooms have good A/C. We had a hiccup with our hot water and the management quickly attended to it. Can't wait to return to this special place.

This Hacienda was recommended by a good friend of mine in Merida. I stayed for 8 nights in the Casa Maya, right at the beginning of the Botanical Garden, close to the pool and the main building. It was fabulous—clean, lovely toiletries, a very power shower, and the most luxurious bed! I was welcomed to the Hacienda family immediately upon arrival by Lilia. Lilia, Maria, and Kimberly were always around at the main building for anything I needed—and I was always greeted with warm smiles by all. I am a vegetarian, and I have to say, the food was outstanding at the restaurant—fresh, local fruit, vegetables, and herbs from their garden. Daniel, Alexis, Mariano, and Fidel always made sure I had everything I needed for daily breakfasts and dinners and while at the pool as well. I had one spa treatment during my stay that was wonderful—a cranial massage from Guadalupe. The Hacienda also offers an array of tours (I did 3 that were free but made sure a tip was given). Hector did a great job taking me around the Hacienda and providing me with its history. Henry took me through the botanical garden and was fantastic at explaining the uses of the medicinal plants. He also took me to see Pedro, keeper of the melipona bees—they are so incredible! And the bird watching with Jose was outstanding!!! The rest of the staff—Anna, Irma, Manuel, Caesar—it was a true privilege to have received all the genuine caring from everyone there. What a wonderful experience I will never forget.

The staff, the grounds, the restaurant - everything was top tier. Would highly recommend!