The proximity of Hacienda Uxmal to one of Mexico's most important cultural sites means that it attracts many visitors effortlessly each year.

Even though the majority of guests spend most of their time exploring the ruins rather than inside the hotel, the Hacienda Uxmal still succeeds in making this a comfortable and attractive destination.

The restaurant serves good food, both local and international, and service is always with a smile. If you're lucky you can often hear the mariachis gently serenading diners and this gives the place a wonderful ambiance.

The rooms are arranged around an inner courtyard that's filled with tropical plants and singing birds; there are even rocking chairs dotted around so during the evening you can sit back, relax and enjoy the experience of staying in a real colonial Hacienda.

It is inevitable that a hotel so close to the ruins (it's opposite the entrance) will attract tour groups, and this is true of the Hacienda Uxmal, but somehow it doesn't seem to matter here. While the groups are out exploring during the heat of the day, it's great to laze around the refreshing pool, and then head out later on when the ruins are quieter and cooler.