Hotel Universo Guadalajara

The location worked really well: the front desk staff were friendly, a 7-11 nearby is open 24/7, and the cathedral is about four blocks away. Taxis are available around the corner day and night, or you can call to have one come to the hotel. The window opened, the beds seemed clean enough and had no bugs, and the price was great. Still, finding underwear on the bathroom doorknob made me wonder how well the rooms were cleaned. The noise was awful. You can see through the vent in the door, so there’s practically no privacy. Someone looked through from the other side and we made eye contact. We heard full conversations in the hallway, and the cars were extremely loud. There’s no fan to help cover the noise, and there was no sleep at all. Would I stay again? Maybe, because the price was good, but I’m not sure it makes up for everything else.

The bed was comfortable, the water was hot, and the hotel is four blocks from the cathedral and Metro station. Registration on the third floor was easy. It’s an older building, though, and the old windows let in the sound of traffic. The bathroom smelled like either sewage or mold, and the vent in the main door meant very little privacy. I wouldn’t recommend the tub for anyone with a disability or an older person, since the step up is high and getting out is difficult. It could work for a night or two if you just need a place to sleep and shower, or you could ask for a newer room.

The Cathedral and Mercado are within walking distance, and the hotel is affordable. The staff were friendly, and the water pressure and temperature were surprisingly good for Mexico. But the online photos are misleading and look outdated. The neighborhood seemed a little sketchy, with abandoned-looking buildings and graffiti, and the room, especially the bathroom, smelled like sewage. The door also didn’t seem to close properly. I won’t stay here again.

Being able to check in about eight hours early at no extra cost was a big plus. They said they usually allow it when a room is available. The room was small but clean, and the restroom could use remodeling, though at this price I’m not complaining. There’s a dollar exchange store right next door, and the city center is about a five-minute walk away. Great, cheap place. I’ll stay here next time I’m in town.