It seems we live in a world where hotels just seem to be forever outdoing each other. We always knew that 5-stars was the epitome of luxury. Until they developed a 6-star hotel. And then a 7-star hotel. Then they started building ice hotels, where you stay in what can only be described as igloos. And of course, my personal favourite accommodation evolution, eco-tents, or “glamping”; where environmentally sustainable resorts just seem to be getting better and better at making camping a deluxe experience.
So in the name of making their hotel stand out, gain publicity and attract the current wave of travellers seeking an exclusive experience on their Latin American holidays, several hotels have made our most extraordinary list. I’m not sure about you, but we love a hotel with a ‘story’, so they’ll be going on Places We Go’s list for a future series!
1. Rosas & Xocolate – Mérida, México
Calling all chocolaholics! With its very own chocolatier, a chocolate shop on site, rose and chocolate soaps in the bathrooms and spa treatments made from refined chocolate, this boutique hotel and spa in Yucatan is a true celebration of the good stuff. This Mayan-inspired mansion is also made for romance. With pops of pink, an outdoor tub for two in every room, and state of the art mod cons, Rosas & Xocolate is a true departure from everyday life, set right in the heart of cool, colonial Merida.
2. Alvear Palace Hotel – Buenos Aires, Argentina
Elegant, refined, luxurious…this is European charm at its best, right in the heart of one of Buenos Aires’ best neighbourhoods. Step into a world of crystal chandeliers, gold leaf décor, famous works of art and a style reminiscent of Louis XV and Louis XVI. The Alvear Palace was transformed in 1932 to accommodate the increasing wave of visitors from Europe and today is one of the Leading Hotels of the World, where you can enjoy Hermès bathroom amenities, butler service, and an exquisite afternoon tea in L’Orangerie.
3. Sofitel Santa Clara Cartagena – Cartagena, Colombia
This landmark hotel goes way back to 1621, when it was built as a convent in the heart of the old city. Now on UNESCO’s World Heritage List, the Sofitel Santa Clara Cartagena has been renovated to blend resplendent 17th century colonial architecture with the best in French luxury and charm. Sit back and enjoy the experience along with a history lesson or two, while staying at this hotel.
4. Ariau Amazon Towers – Iranduba, Brazil
Travelling to Brazil and keen to see the Amazon? Why not stay in the Amazon. This rainforest hotel is set within the Amazon treetops, with over 10km of canopy walkways connecting tree houses and suites, restaurants, tree top bars, treetop swimming pools and more, within the rainforest. At the Ariau Amazon Towers, your daily visitors will include monkeys, macaws, sloths and parrots, and jungle excursions and experiences are quite literally at your doorstep.
5. Palacio De Sal – Uyuni, Bolivia
This Latin American hotel takes their local materials very seriously, because perched on the edge of the Salar de Uyuni, the world’s largest salt flat, the Palacio De Sal is made entirely from salt. Built in 1988, this is the first hotel of its kind, and not only is the building made from salt, but also the floor, walls, furniture and sculptures. Sticking with the theme, the restaurant offers dishes based on raw salt, and guests can also enjoy, you guessed it, a saltwater swimming pool.
This blog was brought to you by our friends at trivago.com.au where you can check out these hotels and more for luxury Latin American holidays!
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