Amuleto

Amuleto eschews every element of design and architecture found in the cookie cutter resorts of the nearby town of Ixtapa -- one of the main destinations for travelers to this area. Instead, the decor blends Pacific coast style with tropical and Hemingway elements -- thatched roofs, chic wicker furnishings, lush landscaping, and all-natural materials like bamboo -- to provide a true sense of escape. Subtle stone accents throughout are a clever nod to the area’s ancient civilizations, and the stunning views of Zihuatanejo Bay from many vantages in the hotel kick up the romance factor several notches. As a tiny hotel, the restaurant and infinity pool terrace provide the only space for socializing on the property, but most guests are here to get away from it all anyway. However, the many variable couples-centric in-room amenities -- private plunge pools in some, outdoor showers, and all-day room service -- are designed to ensure that guests don't need to leave their rooms if they so choose. The vibe throughout the property is expectedly quiet, relaxed, and intimate.

Amuleto is situated on a quiet, residential street approximately 10 minutes from downtown Zihuatanejo by car. Its location on the southeastern edge of Zihuatanejo Bay ensures lovely views of both the water and the town. Unfortunately, few restaurants, shops, or attractions are within walking distance. The two closest beaches -- Playa Ropa and Playa Las Gatas -- are among the most beautiful in southern Mexico. However, both require at least a 20-minute walk down a steep hill. There are plenty of shops and restaurants in downtown Zihuatanejo, for anyone looking to stay busy. By car, the hotel is 30 minutes from Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo International Airport. As is typical of most area hotels, Amuleto does not facilitate airport transportation for guests. However, taxis are plentiful, prompt, and affordable throughout Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo. The government-mandated, zone-based rates are on par with comparable Mexican resort and tourist towns. For guests who don’t mind sharing transportation, the area’s ubiquitous private shuttle vans are the cheapest way to get around.

The Pacific-meets-Hemingway aesthetic found throughout the common areas is evident in each of the six uniquely designed guest rooms. The refined tropical theme is complemented by thatched roofs, hexagonal terra-cotta tiling, rattan furniture, and open-air architecture. A muted color scheme on the walls, furniture, and floors rounds out the cohesive decor in a way that’s reserved and relaxed.Amuleto offers only four room categories -- each with a unique decor and layout. Floor plans in all rooms are larger than comparable area hotels. The addition of a private outdoor terrace in each room adds substantial floor space to the already oversized rooms -- in some cases nearly doubling the overall size. Stunning views of Zihuatanejo Bay come standard. The Palapa Suite and Main Suite offer substantially larger floor plans and expansive terraces with private plunge pools. These upgraded suites also provide a separate sleeping area which can be either left open or individually closed off to air-conditioning. There are no TVs or alarm clocks in any room -- the hotel's intentionally omitted them to maintain the relaxed, away-from-it-all vibe. Every suite, however, is outfitted with every other essential high-end amenity including a minibar (stocked with juice, bottled water, and soft drinks), free Wi-Fi, and a king-size bed.Bathrooms are equally spacious and meticulously designed, with the same bespoke attention to detail as the rooms. Each features custom wicker light fixtures, gorgeous hand-painted vessel sinks, and stone shower stalls with rainfall showerheads. The Main Suite and Palapa Suite offer a larger, open-concept, outdoor “shower gardens.”

As a boutique property, Amuleto offers a pared-down list of amenities relative to the area’s sprawling mega-resorts. However, the gourmet open-air restaurant, lovely terrace, and stunning infinity pool -- all with sweeping bay views -- add a welcome up-market dash to a stay here.The property houses a single unnamed restaurant that serves a la carte breakfasts, lunches, and dinners in an open-air space and on an alfresco terrace. The decor is tropical, yet eclectic, with rattan furniture, a thatched roof, crisp white linen tablecloths, and a bright purple bar that all feel polished and funky. Breakfast includes a mix of continental fare (fresh squeezed juice, local fruit, and pastries), as well as hot dishes like omelets and huevos rancheros. Lunch and dinner are heavily influenced by Mexican flavors. Entrees are an equally eclectic mix of local seafood (grilled octopus, lobster risotto, and mahi-mahi) along with more traditional favorites with a gourmet twist (black fettuccine, duck magret, and porcini-goat cheese ravioli).Adjacent to the restaurant, the hillside infinity pool and outdoor terrace are the hotel’s most noteworthy amenities. The terrace affords panoramic views of the bay and downtown Zihuatanejo.  A handful of lounge chairs and umbrellas provide plenty of shade while the restaurant bar provides poolside drink and snack service throughout the day. The space is often vacant, however, as it seems few guests ever leave their in-room terraces (or private plunge pools in some cases).The hotels wellness amenities are limited. A small gym hosts a handful of cardio machines, a small set of free weights, and basic yoga equipment --.a surprising touch for such a small property. While there is no dedicated spa, in-room massage treatments are available with advance reservations.Parking is limited to a handful of off-street spots. However, with only a small number of guests on-property at any one time, this is rarely an issue. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel.