Lodging Alternatives

Lodging Alternatives

Apartments & Villas

When shared by two couples, a spacious villa can save you a bundle on upscale lodging and on meals. Villas often come with stereo systems, DVD players, a pool, maid service, and air conditioning. Prices range from $100 to $1,000 per night, with 20% discounts off-season.

At Home Abroad 212/421-9165 www.athomeabroadinc.com. Cochran Real Estate 322/228-0419 in PV, 800/603-2959 in U.S. www.buyeragentmexico.com. Hideaways International 603/430-4433, 800/843-4433 in U.S. www.hideaways.com. Pacific Mexico Real Estate 329/298-1644 in Bucerías www.pacific mexicorealestate.com. Villas and Apartments Abroad 212/213-6435, 800/433-3020 in U.S. www.vaanyc.com. Villas International 415/499-9490, 800/221-2260 in U.S. www.villasintl.com.

Boutique Hotels

México Boutique Hotels (322/221-2277 or 01800/508-7923 in Mexico, 800/728-9098 in the U.S. or Canada www.mexicoboutiquehotels.com) is a private company that represents 45 intimate and unique properties—most with fewer than 50 rooms—selected for their setting, cuisine, service, and overall allure. Each is inspected annually.

Chain Hotels

Tried-and-true chains may have excellent rates, and can be good last-minute options.

Holiday Inn 800/465-4329 in U.S. www.holiday-inn.com. Inter-Continental 888/424-6835 in U.S. www.ichotelsgroup.com. Marriott 888/236-2427 www.marriott.com. Sheraton 800/325-3535 in U.S. www.starwood.com/sheraton. Westin 800/937-8461 www.starwoodhotels.com.