Hotel Fontan Reforma

Open since 1961, this 12-story hotel is simple, but it differentiates itself with a bicycle theme and splashes of vibrant color throughout. The bike theme starts at the entrance, with a bicycle suspended beside the hotel sign -- an indicator of what's to come inside. The lobby is spacious and bright, with all sorts of bicycle parts used as art on the walls. Cushy teal and gray sofas provide places for guests to gather and hang out, and fuchsia upholstered benches add splashes of color. The lobby is fresh and chic, and renovated rooms are as well. But guests should be aware that renovations are moving through the hotel slowly, and some rooms and corners of the hotel are more tired. But both business travelers and tourists come here for the convenient location on Paseo de la Reforma and the affordable rates. 

This hotel has a prime spot on Paseo de la Reforma, one of Mexico City's main avenues, which can be noisy and is busy day and night. Many restaurants, shops, and attractions are found in the area, as are a number of businesses. The Museo Mural Diego Rivera is just a two-minute walk from the hotel, and the Church of San Hipolito is three minutes away on foot. It's only a 10-minute walk to the Palacio de Bellas Artes, which sits next to the lovely Alameda. The Hidalgo Metro station also is just a three-minute walk from the hotel for getting to sights farther afield. Zocalo, the city's main square, is about 10 minutes away by public transportation, or guests can walk there in about 20 minutes. The famed National Museum of Anthropology is about 35 minutes away by public transportation. Expect a 35- to 40-minute trip to reach Mexico City International Airport by car or public transportation, though make allowances for the city's often notorious traffic. 

Rooms and suites here are simple, but mostly modern and colorful. Guests should be aware that some are more contemporary than others, and are the more pleasant options (so check ahead). White or dark wood furniture has clean lines, and teal accent walls add interest in these rooms. Accent pillows, chair cushions, and bed runners in fuchsia or bright blue also spice things up a bit. Other rooms are done in basic dark wood furniture with pops of blue and white, and look a little more tired. Amenities in all rooms include flat-screen TVs, coffeemakers, air-conditioning, free bottled water, free Wi-Fi, and safes. Bathrooms feature tiled shower/tub combos, toiletries, and hairdryers, but fixtures are dated in some. Unfortunately, some also are showing maintenance issues such as mildew stains and dirty grout. Suites add more space, and include sitting areas. Some rooms have balconies, and many have great city views. Guests in Executive and Deluxe Rooms have access to the casual Executive Lounge, which includes free breakfast. Keep in mind that noise from nearby bars and traffic can be an issue in some rooms, particularly on lower floors.

Although this is a simple hotel, several notable features are offered. Guests can start their day with a breakfast buffet (fee) served in a bright, airy dining room on the 10th floor. Selections include breads, fruits, an omelet station, pancakes, and other hot-and-cold items. Floor-to-ceiling windows provide lots of natural light and views of the city. The restaurant also serves international fare for lunch and dinner, and there's a casual cafeteria with a bar. Higher-category bookings include access to the Executive Lounge for free breakfast. The rooftop terrace is a great place to hang out on lounge chairs and take in outstanding views of the city while getting fresh air. Dining tables and chairs also are available. The adjacent fitness center is small and not air-conditioned, but it offers a few cardio machines and one weight-trainer. There's also a billiards table. A business center provides three computers, though Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel. Guests can rent bicycles on-site, or those who bring their own can store them in their rooms. On-site parking is free.