Fodor's Expert Review Posada Casa Sol

Hands-down the most elegant little posada in town, this quiet gem a short walk from the Plaza Bolívar is the best place to stay, whether you are coming to Mérida for two nights or two weeks. Behind the plain colonial facade lies an elegance rarely found in this country—yet. Kathrin Kocher, the owner, is definitely on the cutting edge. She has covered the multilevel space with simple tiles, lovely window coverings, sublime and understated colors, and tastefully edited local artwork and crafts. The beds are new and the sheets are of high quality. Views of the surrounding mountains are lovely from the rooms that have balconies. Sit by the open-air pond in the lobby, or grab a cushy, mod chair to read some magazines before you hit the town—or use this as your ultimate refuge during the hottest hours of the day. A small restaurant serves simple meals.