Villa Santa Julia

A great find in Oaxaca City’s Reforma area. The room was modern, with a comfortable bed, and the pool area was nice. It felt very secure and was good value, with private secure parking and plenty of food options within walking distance.

Walking around this beautiful city was easy from the hotel’s location. The service from the staff was incredible, with fresh coffee in the mornings and a daily room clean, which was great. Big thanks to Manuel for all his help. Honestly, some of the kindest and most helpful staff I’ve come across.

I’d be very cautious about booking here directly. I found the property on Booking.com, then called and booked after being offered a slightly lower rate. When I asked to cancel in April, I was told by WhatsApp that it wouldn’t be a problem. Two months later there was still no refund, and my credit card company said no refund had even been attempted. At the end of June, the hotel told me it had denied the refund because the charge was valid. Only after I said I’d file a formal complaint with PROFECO did they try to issue one, five months after my cancellation request. By then, the original refund method was no longer available, so it could only be given as credit. I filed with PROFECO, but the hotel declined mediation and gave an explanation I found weak and inconsistent, saying it had attempted a refund while apparently blocking it. PROFECO closed the case because the hotel wouldn’t participate, not because the matter was resolved. The owner would benefit from studying proper Spanish to understand PROFECO’s final message, which makes that clear. I’ve since taken legal action through small claims court and am prepared to pursue further claims based on fraud and misrepresentation. I’ve documented everything and am compiling the extra costs involved. This doesn’t feel like a misunderstanding or a one-time mistake to me. I believe these were deliberate tactics, and that the business relies on customers giving up. I’m pursuing it because I find it hard to believe I’m the only person treated this way. I’ll take it as far as I have to, and I’m in no rush. The place presented itself as professional and law abiding, but my experience was months of frustration, misinformation, and obstruction. Be cautious: the friendly tone and slightly better rate weren’t worth the risk, and in this case felt like part of the setup.

A pleasant stay. The facilities are basic but comfortable, and it’s a reasonable walk to the city centre.