Mexico City Hotels

In late 2003, the W Mexico City opened to overwhelmingly rave reviews, living up to its billing as the choicest spot to stay in Mexico. This dramatic 26-story business hotel -- with an all-glass entrance -- is a sophisticated mixture of style, comfort, and technology. The entry encompasses a series of stepped lounge areas with koi ponds, and the trendy lobby-level Red Lounge leads to a VIP bar and an outdoor terrace bar. The rooms are striking, decorated with brilliant cherry-red walls, white featherbeds, terrazzo floors, and a spacious and comfortable work area. Bathrooms break with tradition by being located on the far end of the room and feature windows, walk-in showers, and a hanging hammock. Some rooms have a large circular tub with massage jets. There are also nine high-ceiling "loft" suites, with views of Chapultepec Park, green-glass showers, and plasma TVs mounted on the ceiling above the beds. Targeting business travelers, the W Mexico City also has nine high-tech conference rooms that seat up to 400, a complete business center, and specially equipped "cyber rooms" with printers, scanners, and fax. The hotel features its own excellent full-service spa plus a glass-enclosed health club. Dining is available at Solea, a chic seafood restaurant with a Mexican and Asian flare, with alfresco terrace dining available for breakfast or lunch.

Campos Eliseos 252 (corner of Andrés Bello), Col. Polanco, 11560 Mexico, D.F. tel. 888/625-5144 in the U.S., or 55/9138-1800. Fax 55/9138-1899. www.starwood.com/whotels. 237 units. $339 (£186) double; $439 (£241) and up suite. AE, MC, V. Valet parking $5. Metro: Polanco. Amenities: Restaurant; 4 bars; full-service spa; concierge; tour services; business center; room service; laundry service; dry cleaning; CD and DVD library. In room: A/C, 27-in. TV, Wi-Fi, minibar, coffeemaker, hair dryer, safe.

- Frommer's