Although billed as in "el centro," Villa Las Margaritas is actually a little more than a mile from the center of Xalapa (where the Catedral and palacio de gobierno are located), up a very steep one-way street, filled with cars (and an abundance of taxis) racing downward toward "el centro." The neighborhood is eclectic, but safe. However, whatever Villa Las Margaritas lacks in location, it makes up for in charm and value.

This hotel has magnificent workmanship throughout, including spectacular inlaid tile mosaics and intricately-carved woodwork. The staff is extremely friendly and the place feels very intimate. The rooms are clean, but relatively sparse. The small restaurant in the lobby is open late into the evening and the food is good, at reasonable prices.

The rates for the Villa Las Margaritas are much lower than other hotels in Xalapa, both in "el centro" and in other areas, such as Caxa. By booking online, we paid less than half of what other downtown Xalapa hotels charged and, having looked at these hotels, we had superior accommodations.

Pros: Close to historic El Centro ($1.30 USD taxi ride, down a long hill) Nice accomodations, inexpensive, comfortable, Great restaurant with inexpensive dishes. Good Service from staff, very attentive on all accounts. Convenient safe free parking.

Cons: Just one. Bring Earplugs! Many rooms are right next to the coffee bar and expresso machine. All rooms have a thin window that opens to the patio/public restaurant area. One can hear the reception desk all night long. Luckily, I came prepared with my white noise machine and earplugs, had no problems.