Mexico City stress rating?
 

One hears so many things--good/bad--about Mexico City, that I was wondering: how would some of you rate it compared to other big cities of the world as far as noise, pollution, crime fears, general stress..?

My husband and I backpacked through Africa, Asia, etc. in 1994 and spent plenty of time in ear-splitting places like Bangkok, etc. but now that we're taking our son, I have a different comfort quotient. After a week in Oaxaca, we'll have four days to spend in either Mexico City or somewhere close by like Cuernavaca. Though I'm drawn to the big city, I keep getting my eyebrows raised by the talk of Mexico City's problems. Is there a "respite" zone in MC, a place where we can de-stress, a great peaceful hotel (under $200 if possible), or should I bag it and just head to a sleepier town within close proximity? (My son is atypical for an 8 yr old in that he generally enjoys museums, by the way.) Any advice appreciated! Thanks.

We found the perfect respite zone in Mexico City - a gorgeous penthouse apartment in the Centro Historico between the zocalo and the alameda. It's more than $200, maybe $240, but has two bdrs and two baths and full kitchen -- along with floor to ceiling windows on one wall with fabulous views out over the city. Fee includes continental breakfast (fresh bread and fruit appear every day) and cleaning service -- not to mention attention from the charming and very knowledgeable owner who lives in the other gorgeous apt. next door. You can see pictures and more information on the vrbo.com and i-escape.com sites (Bolivar Suites in Mexico City). Super convenient for all major sites in the historic center. Around the corner from the House of Blue Tiles (Sanborns).

My mother-in-law often stays in the Maria Cristina when she's in Mexico City and she highly recommends it. She says it has a nice courtyard, which she says is rare in MC. I know you can find contact info and reviews for them at tripadvisor.com.

I'm so jealous that you stayed at that gorgeous-looking apartment! I tried to contact the owner, but never got a reply to my e-mail and I didn't find a phone number. It looks absolutely beautiful.

I personally think Mexico City is worth the trouble. The garden at the Maria Christina is nice, but the rooms, while OK, are pretty basic. We used Priceline on our last two visits--got the JW Marriott for $79 and the Maria Isabella for $80. The JW is an absolutely wonderful hotel, across the street from Chapultepac Park, in the Polanco neighborhood. Wonderful service, absolutely beautiful rooftop pool, and really nice rooms. We loved it! The Maria Isabella, while not as nice, was still very comfortable, and in a great location next to the US Embassy on Reforma.

The pollution was not bad, and the sight-seeing was as always wonderful. I don't find it particularly stressful, crowded or noisy.

Thanks, you helped me make my decision. Mexico City it is! :-)

Marilynl- sounds like you go to Mexico City frequently. If so, and especially if there are more than 2 of you - keep trying for Bolivar Suites -- it IS a gorgeous apartment. She's only had it available for about a year and, not surprisingly, its popularity is increasing.

Glover - thank you for your rave review of Bolivar Suites. And please let me know who you are so I can thank you personally.
Marilynl - sorry to hear that you never got an answer to your email. I ALWAYS answer inquiries, I really do, so I am sure I never received yours.
Please try again. [email protected]