Hotel Utz Jay

Set in a garden on a side street off Calle Santander, it was calmer and quieter than similar places in Panajachel. The room was simple and very clean, and the price was really good. The docks, public beach, and plenty of restaurants, bars, and souvenir shops are all walkable. I booked through Cloudbeds and had no problem arranging a schedule change by email. I’d stay again.

The courtyard was a lovely place for our group to spend time together, and everyone on staff was so nice and friendly. Our room was clean too. We loved staying here and will definitely come back.

I had Room #8 on the second floor, looking over the garden. The bed was firm and comfortable, and purified water was available both in the room and at the front desk. There’s no AC, but they provided a portable fan and the room had plenty of open windows. Breakfast portions were hearty. On Saturday night, there was some noise from neighboring cats, dogs, and firecrackers. I was concerned by a few awkward and uncomfortable interactions with European guests on the first day, though the second day was fine. It’s a low frills hotel in a garden, within walking distance of Lake Atitlán and off the main thoroughfare. Each room has its own private balcony area, and the front office staff were professional.

The courtyard is a little paradise, full of fruit trees and lush growth. This colorful, quaint hotel is near the heart of Panajachel. The rooms are clean and a good size, though a bit old.