Hotel Morales Inn

The usual night desk clerk while I was there was the hotel’s best feature. He was smart, capable, and honest. If everyone running a Mexican hotel were like him, touring Mexico would be a delight and hotels would live up to their claims. This old hotel sits in the heart of El Centro Mazatlán. The ceilings are incredibly high, and staying in my room felt like living in a tower. The ceiling fan had the power and sound of an airplane propeller, and the AC kept the room cool through the very hot days. There were enough electrical outlets, plus a desk and chair. The bathroom was an attached silo with a skylight. Helpful people.

Hotel Morales is a dump. The hallway floors have holes covered with plywood so people don’t fall through. There’s no toilet seat, the window is broken, and the walls are dirty. The towels are tags. The garage is a joke if you have anything larger than a bike. Don’t stay here if you have another choice.

I’d only recommend it for a short trip or quick vacation when being in the right area matters more than the look or amenities. Since it’s central, you can get around faster and deal with less traffic than in other areas. I know that sounds like a small thing, but it helps.

The room was tiny, like a cell, and really noisy. We booked online and were charged more than the rates posted at reception. It’s near the market, but the area isn’t nice.