Quinta Real Oaxaca: Your Luxurious Oaxaca Escape Awaits!
Quinta Real Oaxaca: Oaxaca's Hidden Gem (Or Is It?) - A Brutally Honest Review for the Discerning Traveler
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because I just got back from Quinta Real Oaxaca, and I'm ready to spill all the beans (and maybe a little bit of the mezcal). This isn't your typical, sanitized hotel review. This is the real deal, from a traveler who's seen a few hotels in her time, and who's not afraid to tell it like it is.
First Impressions: Grand, Yes. Immediately Accessible? Uh…
Let's be clear: Quinta Real Oaxaca is stunning. Think colonial architecture, lush courtyards dripping with bougainvillea, and the kind of elegance that just whispers "luxury." The architecture is insane! But, and this is a big "but," accessibility? Well, let's just say it's not their forte. The hotel is built around a former convent, so expect cobblestone paths (painful for wheels), steps galore, and a general feeling that you’re navigating a historical maze. They do have elevators, and some rooms are more accessible than others (they do mention "Facilities for disabled guests"!), but if you're mobility-impaired, call ahead and be very specific about your needs. Don’t just assume!
Rooms: Swoon-Worthy… Mostly.
Okay, the rooms. Sigh. Available in all rooms: Air conditioning (praise the lord!), alarm clock (who even uses these anymore?), bathrobes (yes!), blackout curtains (essential for catching up on sleep), a coffee/tea maker (I'm a coffee addict, so double yes), a desk (for pretending you'll work), a mini bar (filled with temptations), an in-room safe box (for your valuable things), and Free Wi-Fi (hallelujah!). The Wi-Fi was strong and reliable, too. No buffering nightmares, which is a travel win of epic proportions. They also have Interconnecting room(s) available, which is great for families.
But! There's always a "but," right? My room, while gorgeous, had a slightly… funky smell. Like, not "bad," but definitely "old building" kind of funky. And the water pressure in the shower was… well, let's just say I've seen more forceful garden hoses. The Separate shower/bathtub was cool, but the shower itself felt a bit underwhelming. And the lighting! Dim and romantic is one thing, but sometimes I just wanted to see what I was doing!
Cleanliness & Safety: Pandemic-Proofed (Almost?)
Okay, the pandemic protocols. I’m a nervous nelly about this stuff, so I was really paying attention. Anti-viral cleaning products? Check. Rooms sanitized between stays? Check. Staff trained in safety protocol? Check. They definitely went the extra mile to make you feel safe, even though it felt a bit like walking through a hospital at times. Hand sanitizer was everywhere (thank goodness), and everyone was masked up. Physical distancing of at least 1 meter was, in theory, enforced, but sometimes the flow got a little chaotic. (Humans are bad at this, apparently.) They offered Room sanitization opt-out available, which is a nice touch if you're feeling more comfortable. They even have Sterilizing equipment!
The Daily disinfection in common areas was commendable, and the Safe dining setup at least felt safe. The Cashless payment service also helped me feel a bit less germ-conscious. However, I did notice the occasional unmasked staff member, and that made me shift my chair (socially distanced, of course!). And despite all the Hygiene certification, it was a little stressful at times, especially when dealing with the staff.
Dining, Drinking & Snacking: A Mixed Bag of Delights and Disappointments.
Let's talk food. Because, let's be honest, that's half the reason we travel, right?
- Restaurants: They have a few. Restaurants! One main restaurant, a Poolside bar, and a Coffee shop (essential!).
- Breakfast: Breakfast [buffet]? Yes! And a delicious one, at that! Plenty of fresh fruit, pastries, eggs made to order, and all the usual breakfast suspects. They also had a Buffet in restaurant, with dishes ready to serve. They really put on a spread. They also offered Breakfast in room and Breakfast takeaway service, for those lazy morning.
- Lunch/Dinner: The A la carte in restaurant was not the best. Don't get me wrong, the International cuisine in restaurant was decent, but the service was very slow. I'm not an impatient person, but waiting an hour for a soup is just not okay. There was a Western cuisine in restaurant, but I would have much preferred to try something more local. They do offer a Vegetarian restaurant, which I thought was nice.
- Drinks: Poolside bar was perfect! Enjoying the sun with a chilled drink. They do have Happy hour (score!), and the bar staff was incredibly friendly.
Side note: Getting a Bottle of water was a struggle. Always had to ask for it. And the pool bar? Overpriced.
Things To Do & Ways to Relax: Spa Time!
Alright, for me, the Spa was a highlight. I’m all about relaxation and self-care, and Quinta Real Oaxaca delivers on this front.
- Spa/sauna: YES! They have a Spa, a Sauna, and a Steamroom. The spa itself felt like a sanctuary.
- Massage: If there's one thing you should do at Quinta Real, it's get a massage. I opted for the body scrub and wrap combo. The therapist was amazing and knew exactly what she was doing.
- Pool with view: The Swimming pool [outdoor] is something else. Seriously, it’s gorgeous. And the view from the pool is just to die for.
Services & Conveniences: Hit or Miss.
- Concierge: Hit or miss. They were helpful with general questions, but when I asked about specific local recommendations, they seemed a bit… clueless.
- Daily housekeeping: Excellent. My room was always spotless.
- Dry cleaning & Laundry service: Both useful, but a little pricey.
For the Kids: Babysitting but not a Kids Club
I didn't travel with kids, but I noticed they offer Babysitting service. They seem to be Family/child friendly, but don't expect a dedicated kids club.
Getting Around: Smooth, mostly: The Car park [free of charge] was a huge plus. And though I didn't use the Airport transfer or Taxi service, it's good to know they're available.
Overall Vibe & Final Verdict: A Solid Choice, with a Few Caveats
Quinta Real Oaxaca is a beautiful hotel. It's elegant, stylish, and the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life. The architecture is stunning, the spa is phenomenal, and the location is excellent. However, it's not perfect. The accessibility could be better, the service can be a little uneven, and the food is not always on par with the price tag.
My honest rating: 4 out of 5 stars.
My Recommendation:
If you want to experience luxury in Oaxaca, the Quinta Real is a great choice. Just go in with realistic expectations. Do your research, and don't be afraid to ask questions. And if you're planning on spending a lot of time at the pool, or enjoying the spa, then book it!
Now, for the sales pitch (because you need one, right?).
Tired of the Same Old Hotels? Escape to Quinta Real Oaxaca - Where History Meets Modern Luxury!
Are you ready to:
- Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of colonial Oaxaca?
- Indulge in spa treatments that will melt your stress away?
- Sip cocktails by a pool with a view that will take your breath away?
Then Quinta Real Oaxaca is your perfect getaway!
Here's what makes Quinta Real Oaxaca the perfect escape:
- Stunning Colonial Architecture: Step back in time and experience the charm of a converted convent, with courtyards, elegant rooms, and unique features.
- Luxurious Comfort: Relax in spacious, well-appointed rooms with all the modern amenities, from free Wi-Fi to plush bathrobes.
- Unforgettable Spa Experiences: Treat yourself to a body scrub, wrap, or massage in our serene spa environment.
- Delicious Dining Options: Indulge in a wide range of cuisine, from international favorites to local specialties.
- Prime Location: Explore the vibrant city of Oaxaca, with its art, culture, and delicious cuisine, right at your doorstep.
But hurry, this offer won't last forever!
Book your luxurious escape to Quinta Real Oaxaca today and experience the magic for yourself!
[Link to Booking Website]
P.S. Don't forget to pack your walking shoes
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Okay, buckle up buttercups, because this isn't your grandma's perfectly-curated itinerary. We're going to Oaxaca, baby, Quinta Real, and we're embracing the glorious, chaotic mess that is life in travel form. Consider this less a schedule and more… a Choose Your Own Adventure, fueled by mezcal and questionable decisions.
Quinta Real Oaxaca: A Hot Mess Express (But the Good Kind)
Day 1: Arrival & Existential Dread (Mixed with Guacamole)
- Morning (or whenever the heck you get up after the flight): Touch down in Oaxaca. The airport is… fine. Not a spectacle, like, say, landing directly in a taco. Grab a taxi - haggle, because you can. I, admittedly, overpaid the first one. Chalk it up to jet lag and pure, unadulterated optimism. "Sure, 300 pesos sounds reasonable!" (Spoiler alert: it wasn't.)
- Afternoon: Arrive at Quinta Real. Oh. My. God. This place. Forget everything you thought you knew about hotels. Built around a former convent, think ancient courtyards, soaring arches, bougainvillea exploding everywhere. It’s a sensory overload in the best possible way. I immediately felt like I was living out a dream I didn't even know I had. Immediately check the price of a timeshare. Immediately decide I can't afford one. Immediate slight panic.
- Lunch: Forget the fancy hotel restaurant for now. Find a tiny little place a few blocks away – the kind with mismatched chairs and handwritten menus. Order the guacamole. Seriously, the guacamole. My first bite? Pure, unadulterated joy. Like, tears-in-my-eyes-this-is-what-life-is-about joy. This is Oaxaca, people! This is the good stuff.
- Afternoon/Evening: Wander the streets. Get lost. Embrace the chaos. Seriously. Don't rush it. The vibrant colors, the smells of spices, the music spilling out of everywhere - It's a symphony for your soul. And, inevitably, encounter a street vendor selling paletas (popsicles). The mango ones? Life-altering. Honestly, the best mango-flavored thing ever.
- Dinner: Okay, now hit the hotel restaurant. Order something ambitious. Something you’ve never heard of. Allow yourself to be surprised. (And maybe order a margarita. Or three.) Because you're in Oaxaca.
Day 2: Market Mayhem & Mezcal Mania
- Morning: Mercado 20 de Noviembre. Brace yourself. It's sensory overload x1000. A cacophony of sounds, smells, and sights. This is where the real Oaxaca lives. Stalls overflowing with chiles, moles, fresh produce, and meat sizzling on grills. Definitely buy something you don’t know what it is.
- Lunch (in the market, obviously): Find a spot in the "pasillo de humo" (smoky aisle). Order the tasajo. It's thin slices of grilled meat, smoky and delicious. Wash it down with a cold cerveza. You’ll feel like a local in about five minutes. Warning: You may never want to go back to a supermarket after this.
- Afternoon: Mezcal tasting. Okay, this is serious business. Go to a reputable palenque (mezcal distillery). Learn the process. Listen to the stories. And, most importantly, drink the mezcal. Start slow. Sip. Savor. Appreciate the complexities. This is more than just alcohol, it's history, and tradition, and, well, pure magic. The first shot I took went straight into my brain and started a rave. You have been warned.
- Optional (but highly recommended): Take a cooking class. Learn to make mole. Trust me on this. It seems intimidating, but with the right guidance, you can actually make this masterpiece. Plus, you get to eat your mistakes. (Delicious mistakes, mind you.)
- Late Night: More mezcal. Possibly a dance party. Possibly regretting dancing. Possibly eating tacos from a street vendor at 2 AM. The possibilities are endless… and messy.
Day 3: Monte Alban & Monumental Moments (And Maybe a Hangover)
- Morning: Okay, let's get cultured. Hire a driver (or take a taxi, but the driver's easier) to Monte Alban, the ancient Zapotec city. It's majestic. The views are breathtaking. The history is fascinating. (I may or may not have silently judged the tour guide's choice of shoes.)
- Lunch: Pack a picnic. Seriously. The food at Monte Alban will be… underwhelming. Find a shady spot, soak up the sun, and contemplate the mysteries of the universe (or just your hangover from last night).
- Afternoon: Back to Oaxaca city. Explore a church. Marvel at the architecture. Take a deep breath and simply be.
- Evening: Consider a rooftop bar. Watch the sunset. Reflect on your trip thus far. Realize you haven't done nearly enough, and you are going to have to come back soon for a week.
- Bonus Nightcap: Mezcal, again. Because, well, Oaxaca. And because tomorrow is the last day, and you need to make the most of it.
Day 4: Departure & Departure Feelings
- Morning: One last stroll through the streets. Buy all the souvenirs. The coffee. The chocolate. Some woven goods.
- Lunch: One more epic Oaxacan meal. Go big. Go bold. Order the tlayuda - it's like a giant, crispy tortilla pizza. Share it with a friend. Or don't. I won't judge.
- Afternoon: Say goodbye to Quinta Real (I guarantee, you’ll be sad to go).
- Travel to Airport: (Hopefully you leave some time for a flight, this is where it all goes wrong)
- Actual Flight Home: Contemplate your life decisions. Already be planning your return trip.
- Emotional Reaction: Happy, sad, slightly hungover, incredibly satisfied, and already feeling a pang of existential dread because you aren't in Oaxaca.
- Final Thoughts: Oaxaca is a place that gets under your skin. It's a place that challenges you, nourishes you, and leaves you wanting more. It's a glorious mess, and it's absolutely unforgettable. Go. Just go. And drink the mezcal.
Quinta Real Oaxaca: Your Oaxaca Oasis - Let's Get Real! (and Messy)
Okay, spill the beans – is Quinta Real Oaxaca *really* as gorgeous as the pictures? I mean, sometimes those things are heavily Photoshopped…
Alright, alright, let's talk truth serum. Yes. And no. The pictures? Stunning. The reality? Usually, yes. But… (there's always a but, right?) The *courtyards*? Breathtaking. Those archways? Instagrammable to the MAX. My first morning, I literally wandered around with my jaw on the floor. Seriously, I almost tripped over a stray pebble because I was too busy gawking! The way the sunlight filters through the bougainvillea… pure magic. I felt like a princess! (Okay, maybe a slightly clumsy, coffee-stained princess.)
What's the vibe? Is it super formal? Or can I, like, wear my comfy travel pants?
Okay, this is CRUCIAL. The vibe? Elegant, yes, but not stuffy. Think upscale bohemian. You can ABSOLUTELY wear your comfy travel pants, especially during the day. I saw everything from breezy linen dresses to… well, yes, comfy travel pants. (Guilty. My favorite pair made an appearance. Multiple appearances.) Dinner? Maybe step it up a notch. But you're not going to feel out of place rocking a nice blouse and some stylish sandals. They want you to relax and enjoy, not feel like you have to curtsy every five minutes. Unless that’s your thing, I guess. No judgment!
The rooms - worth the splurge? I'm on a budget, but Oaxaca...
This is the big one, isn't it? The rooms… look, I am a budget traveler at heart. I *agonized* over this. Honestly? Yes, if you can swing it. The standard rooms are lovely – I peeked! – but the suites… oh, the suites. Think giant, with beautiful, high ceilings. Mine had a balcony overlooking the courtyard and it was just… perfect. (Okay, it wasn’t perfect. There was that one morning when the air conditioning sputtered and died, but the staff fixed it in a flash. Minor inconvenience, major relaxation factor.) The beds? Heaven. Seriously, I haven’t slept that well since I was a baby (and probably still haven’t slept that well since the trip - post-vacation sleep is a cruel mistress). If you're on a REALLY tight budget, maybe the standard room is fine. But if you can… treat yourself. You’re worth it! Maybe skip the extra tequila shot one night. Sacrifice a little!
What's the food like? I'm dreaming of mole…
The food… okay, this is where I might get a little emotional. (I love food. Don’t judge.) The restaurant at Quinta Real is *chef’s kiss*. They do a fantastic job with regional cuisine. The mole? Unbelievable. I tried *every* mole dish I could find on the menu. No regrets. Absolutely. Zero. Regrets. The breakfast buffet is amazing – think fresh fruit, chilaquiles, and EVERYTHING. One slight, tiny, minor… *minor* complaint? Sometimes the service can be a tad… slow. Relaxed is a better word. Oaxacan relaxed. Embrace it! It’s Oaxaca! Just order another mezcal. Problem solved.
Any downsides? Spill the tea!
Alright, let's be honest:
- The price. Let's be real, it’s the priciest hotel in Oaxaca. Worth it? Yes. Budget friendly? No.
- The occasional hiccup. A/C troubles, slow service… it happens. It's not perfection, but that's part of the charm. Embrace it.
- The temptation to never leave. Seriously. Staying in the courtyard all day, sipping coffee, reading a book… it's dangerously easy to just… stay. And you might miss out on everything Oaxaca has to offer! (Though honestly, spending an entire day doing absolutely nothing in that courtyard is a perfectly acceptable vacation activity.)
Is it family-friendly? I'm bringing the whole crew…
Hmmm, family-friendly? I saw a few families, but I'd say it's more geared towards couples and solo travelers looking for peace and quiet. If you've got little ones who are prone to running around and screaming… maybe not the *best* fit. It's more of a quiet, reflective kind of place. (Unless you're me, and you accidentally let out a loud “OH MY GOD THIS IS AMAZING!” when you first saw the courtyard. Sorry, other guests!)
What's the best thing about the hotel, in *your* opinion?
The *ambiance*. Hands down. It's not just the architecture, it's the feeling. That blend of history, luxury, and laid-back charm. You step through the doors, and you feel this sense of calm wash over you. Like you can finally breathe. And the courtyard! The inner courtyard, framed by those gorgeous arches, is just *magical*. I swear, I found myself just staring at it, sometimes for ages. It’s a place to disconnect, relax, and just… *be*. (I actually took about a thousand photos of the courtyard and still feel like I didn’t capture its true beauty. It’s one of those things you just have to experience.) It felt like an oasis in the middle of a vibrant and energetic city. In my opinion, it's worth the price to just stay there and drink it all in.
Okay, you've convinced me! Any final tips?
Yes!
- Book in advance! Especially if you're going during peak season. Those suites disappear fast.
- Explore Oaxaca! The hotel is amazing, but don't miss the city. It's incredible! Walk around, get lost in the colorful streets, and eat ALL the food.
- Learn a few basic Spanish phrases. It'll enhance your experience and the staff will love you for it.
- Get a massage at the spa. Seriously, do it. It's heavenly.
- Embrace the pace. Things move a little slower in Oaxaca. Relax. Enjoy. You're on vacation!
- Most importantly: order the mole. Seriously. Life-changing. Okay, maybe not life-changing. But pretty darn close.
