Casa Bonita Hotel Boutique and Spa

Around 20 minutes outside Oaxaca’s historic hub, this eclectic property sits just down a calm and unassuming residential street. A majestic Georgian-inspired dwelling (that’s in fact three residences joined together), Casa Bonita is housed behind black and gold-tipped wrought-iron fencing, perfectly manicured hedge gardens, and a medieval turret draped in Moulin Rouge-style, “Bar de la Musique” signage. 

Past a lilac and red-brick facade, interiors are done up in a fresh contemporary style with plenty of strong European accents. Mid-century and vintage themes make a bold pink, black, and white statement in the lobby bar and lounge, while the detached restaurant terrace pairs chandelier lighting with checkerboard floors and gold accents for a blingy alfresco retreat. It's a fun, exuberant look, though it may cross the line into garish at times.

The turret out front provides a somewhat regal access to Casa Bonita’s underground karaoke bar that attracts local celebrities and residents for its moody cabaret-like lounge and state-of-the-art karaoke set up. It’s an odd adjunct to a boutique establishment. Nevertheless, in keeping with the name, “Casa Bonita” (beautiful house), this place does feel like an exclusive private residence -- in fact it’s not unusual to be the only guests enjoying the pool, or dining in the restaurant, despite the exceptional food. Travelers who crave a relax and intimate stay, and don’t mind the trip into town, should be happy here. 

Located in the quiet residential area of San Felipe del Agua, Casa Bonita is around a 35-minute drive from the international airport, and a good 20-minute drive from the historical town center where Oaxaca’s colonial flavor is front and center, and most iconic sights are located. The Zocalo (the city’s main square), beautiful Baroque churches like Santo Domingo, and famous markets such as Benito Juarez and Mercado de Artesanias (the artisan market) are all located here -- but the hotel offers free daily transportation (on a fixed schedule) to and from the city. A small grocery store and a few local restaurants are within walking distance, and taxis can be arranged with reception.

Each of the five rooms at Casa Bonita vary in size, outlook, and decor to a degree, though all lean toward a contemporary look that's relatively subdued compared to public spaces. Suites blend neutral tones with rich red feature walls and upholstered leather headboards, white wood furniture, and crisp white bedding, offset with splashes of color in cushions and bed runners. Premium Rooms are slightly more subdued with neutral paint and olive green accents. Georgian windows add a European touch, and all rooms feature flat-screen TVs, minibars, and coffeemakers. Ranging from Premium to Master Suite Deluxe, rooms ascend in size and perks with the category, and bathrooms (dressed in beige marble or dated flowery tiling) come with hairdryers, plus a good selection of Molton Brown toiletries. Closets include safes, robes, irons and ironing boards, and blankets. Some guests complain about late night karaoke noise waking them, while others find rooms nothing but peaceful. 

Given the fact that Casa Bonita consists of just five rooms, it crams in a good number of features -- all delivered with style and panache. Nasah spa is a major highlight, offering an extensive range of beauty, hair, and hi-tech spa treatments in a slick indoor outdoor space. Another perk is the heated pool that neighbors a handful of sunbeds and an open-air bar serving snacks and drinks. A small but adequate fitness center rounds out the wellness offerings with a decent range of cardio- and weight-training equipment.

Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, Estrella de Mar offers an impressive dining experience, blending Mexican and international flavors with an emphasis on the freshest seafood. Drinks and cocktails are available in the Lobby Bar, and Bar de la Musique offers a full bar in a cabaret-like, underground lounge bar setting, devoted to karaoke -- great for amateur singers, but disappointing for anyone craving professional entertainment. For those looking to host their own events, an events room caters to around 70 people for social events and functions. Families can take advantage of loaner board games and Xbox consoles, and babysitting service is available at extra cost.

Airport transport can be arranged with reception for a fee, and free transport to and from downtown Oaxaca is on offer (on a schedule) throughout the day.