San Blas, Where to Stay
Hotel Garza Canela:
(Formerly Las Brisas Resort). Paredes 106 Sur. Tel: (321) 501-12. I don't usually recommend the plushest joint in town, but this is an exception. A beautiful garden setting contains 42 rooms in several attractive buildings. Two swimming pools, satellite TV, and a wonderful restaurant makes this an easy choice. The rooms are air conditioned, large and comfortable. A Mexican family operation, the three sisters and a brother who are the operators are extremely helpful and gracious. The sister who runs the restaurant is a trained chef and the menu is very Continental. A double will run approximately $40.00 US.Suites San Blas:
Matanchen and Las Palmas. Tel: (321) 505-05. This three-story, apartment-style house seems a bit out of place, but it's OK. It has one- and two-bedroom suites, some with kitchens. All have balconies. The rooms are large, clean and have ceiling fans. The grounds are attractive and contain a swimming pool. This is a good place for an extended stay. In September the winter prices were listed at 130 pesos ( less than $19.00 US).Motel Posada del Rey:
Calle Campeche 10. Tel: (321) 501-23. This small, nine room hotel, built around a small pool, would not be my first choice but it seems acceptable. The manager, Camilio, speaks Spanish, English, and French...and is ready to please. He told me the owner is American and occasionally is in town. Doubles in winter are between $15.00- $19.00 depending on the room.Paraiso Miramar:
Twelve miles south of San Blas on Matanchen Bay. Tel: (321) 604-34. The only one of the recommended lodgings actually on the beach, this is a great little place. Besides the six-room hotel there are also a few apartments for rent in a separate building, as well as RV and camping accommodations. Lush, attractive grounds with swimming pool and restaurant. Everyone I talked to raved about their stay here. $15.00 US for double. The apartments can sleep six and run about $35.00 US.Eating: The restaurant at the Hotel Garza Canela is the best food in town. Other than that the restaurants near the town center are all pretty good. Try McDonald's (no, not that one!), Restaurant La Isla, La Familia, or anywhere you see the locals. The seafood is freshly caught and generally delicious.