Villa Las Mil Flores

The meals at Clio's were a real highlight for us. We tried several dishes during our Antigua visit, and the food was very good. The French-inspired menu looks huge at first, but many items are variations on one another. We also had cocktails at the bar, where the bartenders knew their stuff. Both the regular restaurant and outdoor patio had excellent service, just like the hotel. Our room was Lilies, the one regular room among the hotel's four rooms, and it was gorgeous. The classic architecture has been newly renovated with thoughtful luxury throughout, from the spa-like oversized shower to the quality linens. Even though the hotel is on a busy road, the soundproofing worked so well that we slept soundly. The suites each apparently have a private or semi-private courtyard pool, which left the main pool all to ourselves. Staff checked on us often and made every interaction a pleasure. Nothing we asked for seemed too small. Breakfast was included and delicious, served either in our room or in the front courtyard; we picked the courtyard. This place is worth a trip on its own.

We really appreciated the complimentary breakfast. The staff were excellent, and our room was both roomy and lovely.

I made this booking about five months ahead. A couple of weeks before the stay, the hotel sent a revised bill that was 300 percent higher, then charged me that amount without getting my permission. My original bill was $120 and suddenly it was over $600. I emailed and called to ask why, but nobody responded. I've been disputing the charge with my credit card company, and they keep charging me. If this carries on, I'll have to get a new card number. Buyer beware.

We stayed in Hortencias, a spacious, comfortable suite with a distinctive open-concept bathroom that was both innovative and easy to use. Its colonial decor suited Antigua beautifully. Villa Las Mil Flores has only four rooms at the moment and sits in a gorgeous spot close to everything in town. The service was attentive and impeccable throughout, and the food and drinks we had were delicious. We had such an incredible stay that we're already talking about coming back.