Emporio Mazatlan

From the clean lines of the exterior to the minimal decor in the common areas, the aesthetic is crisp and modern throughout most of this hotel. It's a nice change of pace from the often dated interiors at mid-range hotels in Mazatlan. While it comes close to the “upscale chic” vibe of many Miami Beach hotels, it falls just short, in part due to rooms that are pleasant, but feel a bit hastily decorates. However, decor in the hotel's common areas is slick and polished, with lots of dark marble and rustic wood details. The atmosphere and clientele vary depending on the time of year. The summer heat and high humidity scare most Americans and Canadians away from June through August, but for domestic travelers, especially families, it's the perfect time to escape for school vacation. In high season, which begins in December and coincides with the North American winter, the hotel draws mostly couples.

The hotel is situated near a busy intersection in Mazatlan’s Zona Dorada (Golden Zone) District, within a five-minute walk of dozens of restaurants, shops, and services (including pharmacies, banks, and a large Mega supermarket). Guests looking to escape the zone’s tourist-heavy vibe will find the historic attractions, charming local restaurants, and additional beaches of Old Mazatlan about a 15-minute drive away.Mazatlan International Airport (MZT) is 40 minutes away by car. Several car rental agencies provide reasonably priced service in the airport terminal. The state of Sinaloa, of which Mazatlan is a part, continues to experience  drug crime, which sometimes turns violent, so it's best to stick with the area’s ubiquitous and inexpensive licensed taxi service when traveling to and from Mazatlan. 

Like the common areas, the 133 rooms at the Emporio Mazatlan are modern, yet they don't have quite the same polish of more upscale properties. Bright colors, like lime green accent walls and colorful soft furnishings, keep things bright alongside dark wood accents. However, everything from the wear on built-in bed frames to the faux-wood floors feel a little hastily put together, keeping this hotel in the three-pearl category. Still, they're a step up in style from what's found at many mid-range options in the area.Entry-level Standard Rooms are a bit larger than average, and Prestige Suites have larger bathrooms and dining nooks that include eat-in counters, mini-fridges, and a microwaves. Flagship Master Suites have separate living/dining rooms. All rooms include private balconies with water views, and have wide work desks with power strips that include standard and USB ports, plus flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi, which was fast and reliable on our visit. All rooms are air-conditioned, and two bottles of water are provided daily.Bathrooms have bold green wall tiles, wide glass shower doors, stand-up shower stalls, and brilliant lighting. Basic toiletries are provided.

The features here are all a step above the competition in this category, and give this hotel a whiff of South Beach atmosphere. Condimento -- the hotel's only restaurant -- is a mixed indoor and open-air space with lovely water views. Hardwood flooring, arched entryways, and white linen tablecloths all provide a whiff of sophistication. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served buffet style and a la carte with a typical mix of Western fare (burgers, steaks, and pasta dishes) and traditional Mexican entrees (molcajetes, fajitas, and fish pescadillas). The hotel’s spacious central terrace features two heated pools, two small hot tubs, and a mini-water park. Numerous lounge chairs, hammocks, and umbrellas provide ample, shaded seating. The children’s play area features a dedicated kiddy pool and a pirate-ship-style water feature with a slide and mock cannon. A shallow, adjacent pool offers an adult-centric space with a handful of permanent lounge chairs built into the pool. The small, nearby bar provides poolside drink service. The second-floor gym is small, but modern, and offers excellent water views.Beach erosion is an ongoing problem throughout Mazatlan and Emporio Mazatlan has been hit particularly hard. As of mid-2016, there was little usable sand on the property, and most of the beach was closed due to construction. Self-parking is available in an off-street lot staffed with 24-hour security. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout.