Best Western Hotel de Cortés (Mexico City; tel. 800/528-1234 in the U.S.): This historic building and former home of Augustinian friars offers exceptionally clean, comfortable, value-priced accommodations. It's on La Alameda park, near the Palace of Fine Arts and the Franz Mayer Museum.
Hotel Los Flamingos (Acapulco; tel. 744/482-0690): Once a private club for Hollywood's elite during the heyday of Acapulco, this hotel will enchant you with its pervasive midcentury charm, the funky profusion of hot pink, and absolutely breathtaking cliff-top views.
Hotel San Francisco Plaza (Guadalajara; tel. 33/3613-8954): This two-story colonial-style hotel is a more agreeable place to stay than lodgings charging twice as much, and it's every bit as comfortable. It's in the downtown area, near the main plaza and several good restaurants and nightspots.
Paraíso Escondido (Puerto Escondido; tel. 954/582-0444): This eclectic inn is a great bargain, especially for the originality of the decor and the excellent service. It's a short walk to both the beach and the action along Puerto's main street.
Misión de los Arcos (Huatulco; tel. 958/587-0165): Just 1 block from the central plaza, this hotel has a similar style to the elegant Quinta Real, at a fraction of the cost. An all-white facade and intriguing decorative touches give it an inviting feel. There's shuttle service to the Huatulco beaches.
Las Golondrinas (Oaxaca; tel. 951/514-3298): We receive more favorable letters about this hotel than about any other in the country. It's small, simple, and colorful, with homey touches of folk art and pathways lined with abundant foliage.
Rey del Caribe Hotel (Cancún; tel. 998/884-2028): An ecological oasis in downtown Cancún, this hotel has considered every detail to achieve the goal creating in an organic and environmentally friendly setting. Set in a tropical garden, the combination of sunny rooms, warm service, yoga and meditation classes, and healthful dining is a welcome respite to party-hearty Cancún.
Cabo Inn (Cabo San Lucas; tel. 624/143-3348): This former bordello is the area's best budget inn. Rooms are small but extra clean and invitingly decorated, amenities are generous, and the owner-managers are friendly and helpful. Ideally located, close to town and near the marina, the inn caters to sportfishers.