Modern Meets Classic in OAXACA

Situated in the historic Oaxaca City in Mexico, Azul de Oaxaca is the perfect medley of old and new. This contemporary boutique hotel sits inside a beautifully preserved colonial shell and is only blocks away from the city’s downtown cathedral. The hotel is a gallery in its own right, displaying the magnificent art works of its collaborations with renowned Oaxacan artists and sculptors such as Francisco Toledo, Ruben Leyva, and Luis Zárate.

The focal point of the hotel is the communal patio, a Francisco Toledo-designed wall fountain with similarities to an ancient Aztec sundial. It exemplifies the tone of the hotel; tranquil sophistication with just the right touch of quirkiness.

Situated around the pebbled patio, walled with endangered cacti species, are Azul’s 21 individually designed and decorated rooms. The rooms are spacious, clean and all tastefully feature traditional Oaxacan elements. From hand-painted ceramic tiles to hand-carved five-foot wooden shutters, the attention to details make this boutique hotel feel welcoming.

   

You won’t have to go far for a delicious traditional Oaxacan meal of Mole (the complex sauce Oaxaca is known for) or a perfectly concocted drink set with panoramic views. Azul’s open-air courtyard dining and roof terrace bar are both local hotspots, yet the ambiance remains pleasantly low-key.

Azul is conveniently located in the heart of the old city, walking distance to the Santo Domingo cathedral, the Zocolo (main square), Mercado 20 de Noviembre (a great market that sells everything from leather shoes to pet goldfish), a plethora of delicious restaurants and cafes, as well as wonderfully curated boutiques. The multi-lingual staff is available 24 hours a day. They are always eager to assist with itineraries, restaurant suggestions, directions, and overall recommendations. Everyone encountered was warm, friendly, and knowledgeable on all fronts.

Azul de Oaxaca is a gem that makes for a cultural, memorable, and relaxing stay. It is suitable for all sorts, from families (hence the bikes readily available for a ride around the town or the courtyard) to business trips, to couples looking for a unique romantic hotel with contemporary flare. Rates start at US$140 per night. To book visit here.