Firstly, my reservation from an online service was nowhere to be found at the hotel on this holiday weekend. Luckily (I guess) they had a room. Upon a quick scan of the room, I found it in dingy, but acceptable order. When I checked the bathroom, I found no seat on the commode! When I brought this to their attention, I was asked if I would mind moving, as a couple of older ladies could not make it up the 5th floor, as the elevator only goes to the 3rd floor (I'm sure the ladies were thrilled with the bathroom situation.) The hotel was built in the late 1700s and probably renovated for the last time in the early 1800s. When I went to check out, I was presented with a bill for 500 pesos ($50US,) a bit steep for what I got, but tolerable. I was told that when I returned the next weekend, the stay would be cheaper. Upon my second checkout, they tried to charge me 600 pesos! I reminded the english speaking manager of his 'discount offer.' He did bring my bill down to 500 pesos. With so many other hotels in Veracruz, you should avoid this 'historic' hotel.

I went to this hotel after being shown rooms in the neighbouring Hotel Colonial: they showed me a "cheaper" back room: dark, smelly and without a window - dreadful, and they wanted about $40 for that (the front rooms had light, for about 550 pesos, but prices change in line with hotel "policies").

This place also has back rooms and more pricey front rooms. In a back room you can see some rotting cement walls. At the front you can view the cathedral, the Zocalo, people and palm trees, so take your pick. The hotel has clearly had better days. It has an old-world charm, but needs a face lift and basic repairs. The antique lift is worked by a young porter who seldom speaks; you have to ring the bell to be taken up in the contraption. My room was OK, the view was the best part, the air conditioning was faint, so I turned it on with a fan, the bathroom was old, but clean. The room seemed clean.

Stayed at the Imperial 5 nights. Hotel is old and dark. Needs major investment to restore it to grandeur. Air conditioner got progressively louder then became hot air pump only. Hot water was not available for the shower. Towels hard and sparingly available.

Complained to Manager on Day 3 as I had packed for early check-out. He gave me a room on a lower floor with remote for air conditioner and TV. Promised to reduce the rate by $20 USD per day for the first 3 days. Problem is, I prepaid through a third party reservation service. Bill was not reduced. I'll never stay at Hotel Imperial again. Also did not get messages from friends. Staff did not bother to relay messages. Only message I got was when I checked at check in.

Stayed here only because of convenience walking outside to Zocala. Went next door to make phone calls and use Internet at Hotel Colonial. Met a very friendly staff person their. She urged me to check back with her for room availability Busy Cinco De Mayo Holiday. Next time, I I'll stay in Boca Del Rio or maybe give the Hotel Colonial a try. 15 minute Cab ride is only $3.00 from Boca Del Rio.

We have stayed there twice, the first time we stayed there was in 1999, it was wonderful, very clean room, comfortable, clean carpet. In 2003 the place was a dive, the room stank, the carpet was filthy, and the pool was gross. It is in an excellent location, cloce to the malecon, and in los portales. There are much nicer hotels in this beautiful city for less money.