It may be a surprise to stumble upon a slice of Paris in the colonial city of San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, but you will not want to miss a stay at the elegant new L’Otel on Calle Relox #22, in the historic center of town.
Situated in an old Singer sewing machine building, the beautifully restored 10-room hotel, with an outdoor pool, is tucked away on the second floor and built above a unique concept downstairs: Doce 18, an enticing collective of open boutiques that feature work from talented young Mexican artists and designers like Pepe Soho, Carla Fernandez, Recreo, Armour Jewelry and Hilando Mexico, and traditional Mayan textiles embroidered with modern materials and designs, handmade in the Yucatan and commissioned by co-owner Sally Azar. Her husband, co-owner Roy Azar, was the architect and interior designer. “Our idea for the project was to create a destination with the best selection of art, fashion, design, gastronomy and hospitality in San Miguel de Allende,” he explains.
A hip food court features comfort-food purveyors Taco Lab and Birdie’s Burgers (local, grass-fed beef) and is anchored by Jacinto 1930, where talented Chef Mateo Salas helms one of the finest restaurants in town. Rooms are quiet and luxurious, some with outdoor bathtubs, in-room fireplaces, and glass panels that open to expose lush greenery. (There is a smaller, more intimate branch of L’Otel, with just four rooms, not far away.) A stay comes with a complimentary cocktail at the sleek bar and a delicious healthy breakfast, which you can choose to enjoy in the peace and beauty of your room. L-otelgroup.com
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