XTILU Hotel - Adults only

We were there for 11 nights, and it felt like home. The rooms were clean, breakfast was outstanding, and the main square and historic districts were an easy walk away. Isabella at the front desk deserves a special thanks for offering to show us some local sights on her day off. We'd definitely stay here again if we return to Oaxaca.

The staff made our first stop in Mexico especially memorable. They were so helpful and spoke English fluently. We arrived at 10 p.m. looking for food, and although Fernanda said everything nearby was closed, she ordered food for us on her own account so we wouldn't go hungry. Later, when I wanted to order portable oxygen from Amazon, Yulissa offered to use her Amazon Prime account so it would arrive faster. Frenanda and the chef were especially kind and attentive at breakfast, too. The hotel is close to the city center, about half a mile or an easy 12-minute walk from the Zócalo, but it was still wonderfully quiet. There's a peaceful courtyard where guests can relax or eat. Our room was spacious, with a king-size bed, dresser, wardrobe, and a large, comfortable bathroom. Breakfast each morning was a treat, with at least ten choices, tasty breads, and fresh fruit every day. If we come back to Oaxaca, XTILU will be our only choice for lodging.

Service and staff were truly exceptional, professional, and kind. They helped make up for some of the hotel's shortcomings, but the price still doesn't feel justified by the services and amenities. The room was very basic and lacked several essentials, including tissues, conditioner, and a kettle or coffee kit. It only came with one 300 ml bottle of water per day, and extra water was sold at an unreasonably high price. The restaurant also closes at 2 p.m., which is limiting, and the thin walls let in quite a bit of noise.

We spent six nights at XTILU over the Day of the Dead weekend, and the hotel was a great place to relax after exploring Oaxaca. The rooms were comfortable, quiet, spotless, and had just the right air conditioning. Breakfast was a highlight, with a changing selection of fresh breads, fruit salad, and delicious main dishes each morning. Service was professional and genuinely friendly throughout, and it was reassuring that reception was staffed 24 hours a day. We couldn't have asked for a better stay and would happily return.