Best hotels in Mexico

By Valaer Murray

updated 5:35 p.m. ET May 29, 2007

The back nine and a marina nearby to dock the yacht? Or outdoor yoga and a reiki rubdown at sunset? Mahogany and gilt, or clean whites and smooth stone? An enormous variety of sleeping arrangements can be found in Mexico’s most popular destinations, from smaller resorts whose personalized services tailor your stay, to the large beach clubs whose range of activities aim to please the whole party.

The 28 best hotels in Mexico run the gamut, but each of them would be a well-appointed place to call home, whether exploring a nature preserve on Isla Mujeres or the vibrant city of Guadalajara. Some are better for a couples’ romantic getaway (since there are no children allowed), and others have a whole menu of kids’ activities, clubs and baby-sitting services.

Many on our list are members of either Small Luxury Hotels of the World or the Boutique Hotels of Mexico. Two that represent the scope of luxury accommodations are the ultra-chic Deseo Hotel + Lounge in Playa del Carmen, whose DJ keeps the rooftop pool area jumping, and Villa Ganz in Guadalajara’s, a charming historical residence filled with antiques.

It takes a certain type of traveler to recognize the beauty of these smaller, specialized hotels. A stay at the Casa de los Sueños Resort & Spa Zenter may help to realign your chakra, essentially changing your perspective on vacations in Mexico. Alternatively, a couple of nights on the scene at Habita in the trendy Mexico City neighborhood of Polanco will make you feel at once hipper — perhaps not what you’d expect in a city often derided for its lack of refinement.

Other resorts present the option of a hideaway, appearing to be little villages dotted with deluxe cabanas and casitas. And the plethora of conveniences tempts travelers to stay on the property, relaxing at one of the many pools and eating at one of the on-site gourmet restaurants. With everything at their fingertips, guests at Cabo — Esperanza or Playa del Carmen — Shangri-La never have to step foot out of the vicinity until their departure date.

More from ForbesTraveler.com Click below for more slide shows Mexico's best beaches Top restaurants in Mexico Mexico's best cultural attractions Mexico's best shopping spots Mexico's hottest chillies

Plenty of our picks are recognizable names from high-end chains that promise a certain level of lavishness that travelers have come to depend on internationally. The Four Seasons, the W, One&Only Resorts and InterContinental all have outposts in Mexico that live up to the ultra-luxe standards those hotels have set elsewhere. Whatever your pleasure, you’re sure to find a hotel on the list that has the perfect combination of amenities, entertainment, exclusivity and comfort.

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